Get ready to spice up your kitchen with these 18 mouth-watering Southern chicken recipes that add a crispy twist! From classic comfort food to bold and adventurous flavors, this list has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for finger-lickin’ good fried chicken or hearty gumbo, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of spicy Southern chicken, where the combination of rich, creamy sauces, crunchy coatings, and bold spices will leave your taste buds doing the Texas two-step. From buttermilk to bourbon, honey to hot sauce, these recipes are sure to bring a little bit of southern charm to your dinner table.
So grab your apron, preheat that skillet, and get ready to kick things up a notch with these 18 spicy Southern chicken recipes!
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
This Southern-style staple is a crowd-pleaser, with crispy fried exterior and juicy, tangy interior. This simple recipe yields a mouthwatering result that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add chicken pieces and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Remove chicken from buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge in flour mixture (see below) until coated.
4. Fry chicken in hot oil (about 350°F/175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Nashville Hot Chicken
Get ready for a spicy kick with this authentic Nashville-style hot chicken recipe. This classic Southern dish is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packs a flavorful punch from its signature hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, 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 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce (see below)
Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce:
– 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry coated chicken in hot oil until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
4. In a separate saucepan, combine Nashville Hot Chicken Sauce ingredients.
5. Simmer sauce over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Toss fried chicken in the simmered sauce.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Cajun Blackened Chicken
Add a spicy kick to your dinner with this classic Cajun blackened chicken recipe. This bold and flavorful dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup butter
– 2 cloves fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or blackening pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season chicken breasts with the spice mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Add butter to the preheated skillet and swirl to melt.
5. Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Southern Fried Chicken and Waffles
This beloved Southern dish combines crispy fried chicken with a fluffy waffle, drizzled with maple syrup and butter. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Waffle batter (homemade or store-bought)
– Maple syrup and butter for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown (about 8-10 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
6. Cook waffles according to package instructions or your own recipe.
7. Serve fried chicken with a warm waffle and drizzle with maple syrup and butter.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken
This sweet and spicy chicken recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of honey balanced by the heat of chili flakes. It’s an easy and impressive dish that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chili flakes
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe yields a flavorful and tender chicken, surrounded by soft and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the garlic, chicken broth, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and water until smooth. Drop by spoonfuls into the pot.
4. Simmer dumplings for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creole Chicken Gumbo
Experience the rich flavors of Louisiana with this classic Creole Chicken Gumbo recipe, a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a dark roux-based broth with a medley of vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp filé powder (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked long-grain rice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, broth, water, and filé powder (if using); stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smothered Chicken with Gravy
A comforting classic, smothered chicken with gravy is a hearty dish that’s sure to please. Tender chicken breasts are cooked in a rich and flavorful sauce, perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4 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
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Melt butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Remove from heat and add chicken broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, and Dijon mustard. Cover with a lid or foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, smothered in the rich gravy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan-Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this simple and satisfying recipe, featuring a crunchy pecan crust that adds depth and texture to tender chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together chopped pecans, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bourbon Glazed Chicken
Rich and flavorful, this Bourbon Glazed Chicken recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with family and friends. The combination of sweet and tangy bourbon glaze with crispy chicken is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the bourbon glaze evenly over each chicken breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern BBQ Chicken
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of the South with this classic BBQ chicken recipe. Tender and juicy chicken smothered in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup wood chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or smoker to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the BBQ mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
5. Grill or smoke chicken for 10-12 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Chicken Biscuit Sliders
Elevate your lunch game with these bite-sized chicken biscuit sliders, packed with juicy chicken, flaky biscuits, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, pickles, and/or your favorite sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and beaten egg; mix until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into squares, about 3-4 inches per side.
7. Place a chicken patty (cooked according to your preference) in the center of each biscuit square.
8. Top with shredded cheese and optional toppings (if using).
9. Fold the biscuit square over the filling to form a triangle or pocket; press edges together to seal.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Pepper Jelly Chicken
Add a kick to your meal with this sweet and spicy hot pepper jelly chicken recipe. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup hot pepper jelly
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together hot pepper jelly and garlic powder.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornmeal-Crusted Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tender game with this simple recipe that combines the crunch of cornmeal with the juiciness of chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated tenders for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total.
Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
This hearty one-pot dish combines the flavors of Louisiana with tender chicken, spicy sausage, and aromatic rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
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
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Tea Brined Chicken
Sweet Tea Brined Chicken: A Southern Twist on Classic Grilled Chicken
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of sweet tea with the tender juiciness of chicken, resulting in a mouthwatering main course that’s perfect for backyard gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup sweet tea (brewed and cooled)
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 2 tbsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large container, combine sweet tea, kosher salt, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add the chicken to the brine, making sure it’s fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from brine, pat dry with paper towels.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens Stuffed Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of tender chicken with the nutty taste of collard greens and crispy breadcrumbs, making for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, sauté the collard greens with garlic until wilted.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the collard green mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Fried Steak-Style Chicken
Take your favorite chicken dish to the next level with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of crispy fried chicken and tender steak. Perfect for a comforting meal or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side or until cooked through and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your life with these mouth-watering Southern chicken recipes! From classic fried chicken to bold and spicy twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try Buttermilk Fried Chicken or Nashville Hot Chicken for a crispy kick. Go Cajun-style with Blackened Chicken or try Smothered Chicken with Gravy for comfort food at its finest. Sweet tea brining and collard greens stuffing add unexpected flavors, while bourbon glazing and pecan-crusting give dishes an added crunch. Whatever your taste buds desire, these Southern chicken recipes are sure to satisfy!
Leave a Reply