Chicken is a staple in many Southern households, and when it’s done right, it can be truly divine. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Southern chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort foods like fried chicken and chicken pot pie, to spicy Cajun-inspired dishes and sweet treats like honey glazed fried chicken, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal, these Southern chicken recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your apron, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the world of delicious Southern cooking!
Southern Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Marinade
A classic Southern recipe gets a tangy twist with this buttermilk marinade. Tender, juicy chicken smothered in crispy, golden-brown breading is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken
Get ready to spice up your grilling game with this flavorful Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken recipe! This bold and aromatic dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the Cajun spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Serve: With your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or crispy coleslaw.
Classic Chicken and Dumplings
Classic Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
This comforting dish is a staple of American comfort food. With tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, it’s the perfect remedy for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together flour, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop small balls of dough into the pot with the chicken mixture.
6. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Southern Style Chicken Pot Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that combines tender chicken, flaky crust, and a rich filling, this Southern Style Chicken Pot Pie is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables, flour, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with chicken mixture and top with remaining crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Glazed Fried Chicken
Sweet and crispy, this honey glazed fried chicken recipe is a twist on the classic Southern dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. While chicken is frying, mix honey and 1 tablespoon water in a small bowl.
7. Brush the honey glaze over the fried chicken during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken
Get ready for a flavorful explosion with this spicy twist on classic hot chicken!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1/4 cup Nashville Hot Chicken seasoning (or homemade blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and Nashville Hot Chicken seasoning until well combined.
2. Add chicken to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp the skin.
7. Drizzle with hot sauce (optional) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Creole Chicken Jambalaya
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this classic Creole dish! This hearty jambalaya is packed with flavorful chicken, sausage, and rice, all cooked together in a rich tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
• 2 cups uncooked white rice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Baked Chicken with Gravy
This classic recipe combines tender baked chicken with a rich, savory gravy, perfect for serving with mashed potatoes, rice, or biscuits. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for gravy)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; dot with melted butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While chicken is baking, combine chicken broth and milk in a saucepan; whisk to remove lumps.
7. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
8. Stir in additional flour to thicken if needed.
Smoky BBQ Chicken Wings
Get ready to fire up your taste buds with these tender and flavorful Smoky BBQ Chicken Wings!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Smoky BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the wings from the oven and brush with the Smoky BBQ sauce.
7. Return the wings to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup
Savor the sweet and savory union of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles, elevated by a drizzle of pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Waffle batter (homemade or store-bought)
– Maple syrup
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip chicken pieces into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Cook waffles according to package instructions or recipe.
6. Drizzle warm maple syrup over the fried chicken and waffles.
Cooking Time:
– Chicken frying time: 5-7 minutes
– Waffle cooking time: varies depending on recipe or package instructions
Southern Chicken and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the comfort of chicken, cornbread, and creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy night in with family and friends. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, combine milk, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked chicken, corn kernels, and cheddar cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir to combine.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Spread cornbread mix evenly across the bottom.
6. Pour the chicken mixture over the cornbread layer.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herb Roasted Chicken with Collard Greens
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the savory goodness of roasted chicken with the nutritional benefits of collard greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. While the chicken is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add the chopped collard greens to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Serve the roasted chicken with the collard greens.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern Chicken Gumbo
A classic Southern staple, this hearty gumbo combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and rich spices to create a comforting one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, tomatoes, broth, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and filé powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pecan Crusted Chicken with Peach Glaze
Pecan Crusted Chicken with Peach Glaze
A sweet and savory twist on classic chicken, this recipe combines the crunch of pecans with the juicy sweetness of peaches. Perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup peach jam
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together pecan halves and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, combine peach jam, honey, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Brush glaze over the baked chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Style Chicken Salad
A classic Southern favorite, this chicken salad recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy celery, and tangy mayonnaise with a hint of southern charm.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken, celery, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
Cooking Time:
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Chill Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Southern Style Chicken Salad!
Chicken Biscuit Sandwiches with Pimento Cheese
Satisfy your cravings with these indulgent chicken biscuit sandwiches, filled with creamy pimento cheese and crispy fried chicken. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups biscuit mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup pimento cheese spread
– 4 biscuits, split
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge chicken in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured chicken in buttermilk, then coat with biscuit mix.
5. Fry coated chicken in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Assemble sandwiches by spreading pimento cheese on a split biscuit, topping with fried chicken, and adding lettuce and tomato if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern Chicken and Rice Pilaf
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of chicken, the creaminess of rice, and the warmth of Southern spices. This hearty pilaf is perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Add the chicken broth and water to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the pilaf and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Okra Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors, with the added crunch of okra pods. Serve it over rice or with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup okra pods, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions, garlic, okra, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot over rice or with bread.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Fried Chicken Livers
Get ready to experience the rich flavors of the South with this simple and mouth-watering recipe for Southern Fried Chicken Livers. Tender, juicy livers coated in a crispy, spicy breading are sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each liver piece into the buttermilk, then roll in the flour mixture to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry livers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Tea Brined Fried Chicken
Sweet Tea Brined Fried Chicken: A Southern Twist on a Classic Recipe
This recipe combines the comfort of fried chicken with the warmth of sweet tea, resulting in a tender and juicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup sweet tea (brewed strong)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, sweet tea, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the brine and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the brine and dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, including brining time.
Summary
Get ready to taste the best of Southern comfort food with these 20 flavorful chicken recipes! From classic dishes like Chicken and Dumplings and Southern Style Chicken Pot Pie, to spicy twists like Nashville Hot Chicken and Spicy Chicken and Okra Stew. Enjoy finger-lickin’ good Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Marinade or try something new like Pecan Crusted Chicken with Peach Glaze. With a variety of cooking methods and flavors, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering Southern chicken recipes.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
