16 Best Southern Chicken And Rice Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 11, 2024
When it comes to Southern comfort food, nothing beats a hearty and flavorful chicken and rice dish. This classic dish has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations, and for good reason. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and rich, savory flavors make it the ultimate comfort food. So, if you're looking for the best Southern chicken and rice recipe, look no further. In this article, we'll share our favorite recipe and tips for making the perfect chicken and rice that will have your taste buds singing.
Main Ingredients: Bone In Chicken Thighs, Water, Bacon, Sausage, Chicken
Southern Chicken Pileau, also known as "perloo," is a staple in Southern cuisine. This dish is made by cooking chicken, rice, and a variety of seasonings and vegetables all in one pot. The result is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for feeding a large group. It's a great dish to make for a family gathering or a potluck dinner.
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Southern Chicken and Rice Dish
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Onion, Garlic Clove, Spring Onions, Red
Another classic Southern dish, chicken and rice is a simple but delicious combination. This dish is all about the flavors of the South, with ingredients like onion, bell pepper, and celery, also known as the "Holy Trinity" of Southern cooking. The chicken and vegetables are cooked together with rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Stewed chicken is a popular dish in the South, made by cooking chicken in a flavorful broth until it is tender and falls off the bone. This dish is often served with rice or mashed potatoes, and the rich broth is perfect for dipping biscuits or cornbread. Stewed chicken is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of seasonings and vegetables, making it a favorite in many Southern households.
Smothered chicken is a classic Southern comfort food, made by cooking chicken in a rich gravy until it is tender and full of flavor. This dish is often served with rice or mashed potatoes, and the creamy gravy is perfect for smothering over biscuits or cornbread. The key to a good smothered chicken is to cook it low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a delicious and comforting meal.
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Southern Chicken and Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Chicken Tenderloins, Olive Oil, Toasted Sesame Oil
For a lighter take on the classic chicken and rice dish, try a Southern chicken and rice salad. This dish combines cooked chicken, rice, and a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs for a refreshing and healthy meal. It's a great option for a summer picnic or a quick and easy lunch. The flavors of the South shine through in this dish, with the addition of ingredients like bacon, pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
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Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Celery, White Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Bell
Jambalaya is a popular Cajun dish that has become a staple in Southern cuisine. This one-pot meal is made with a variety of meats, including chicken, sausage, and shrimp, along with vegetables, rice, and plenty of spices. The result is a flavorful and spicy dish that is perfect for a crowd. Jambalaya is a great dish to make for a party or a game day gathering, and it's sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Chicken and dumplings is a classic Southern dish that is loved by many. This dish is made by cooking chicken and vegetables in a rich broth and then topping it with fluffy dumplings made from flour, baking powder, and milk. The result is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for a cold winter's day or anytime you need a little Southern comfort.
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Chicken Bog | A Traditional South Carolina Dish
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Smoked Sausage, Butter, Garlic, Medium
Chicken bog is a traditional dish from South Carolina that is similar to a jambalaya. This dish is made by cooking chicken, rice, and sausage together in a pot, along with onions, peppers, and seasonings. The result is a flavorful and hearty meal that is often served at community events and family gatherings in the South. Don't let the name fool you, this dish is a true Southern favorite.
No list of Southern chicken recipes would be complete without the classic fried chicken. This dish is made by coating chicken pieces in a seasoned flour mixture and then frying them until they are golden and crispy. Fried chicken is a staple in Southern cooking and is often served with sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, and mac and cheese. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to satisfy any craving for Southern comfort food.
While the classic fried chicken is always a hit, there are many variations of this dish that are popular in the South. From spicy hot chicken to honey mustard chicken, there is no shortage of delicious and unique ways to enjoy this Southern favorite. Serve it up with your choice of sides and some sweet tea, and you have a perfect Southern meal.
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Gumbo
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Butter, Onions, Chopped Celery, Bell Pepper
Gumbo is a hearty and flavorful stew that is a staple in Louisiana and other parts of the South. This dish is made with a variety of meats, including chicken, sausage, and seafood, along with vegetables and a thick broth made from a roux. It's a great dish to make for a special occasion or anytime you want to impress your guests with your cooking skills. Serve it with a side of rice and some crusty French bread for a truly Southern experience.
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The Best Southern Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Rice, Peas, Bacon Fat, Tomato, Green Onions, Shredded
Hoppin' John is a traditional Southern dish that is often served on New Year's Day for good luck. This dish is made with black-eyed peas, rice, and a variety of seasonings and spices, along with your choice of meat, such as chicken or ham. It's a simple but flavorful dish that is perfect for celebrating and starting the new year off on the right foot.
Chicken salad is a classic dish that is loved by many in the South. This dish is made by combining cooked chicken with mayonnaise, celery, onions, and seasonings, creating a creamy and delicious salad. It's a great option for a quick and easy lunch or a light dinner. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or between two slices of bread for a classic chicken salad sandwich.
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Southern Jambalaya with Chicken and Sausages
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Andouille, Shrimps, Green Bell
This flavorful jambalaya recipe is made with chicken, sausage, and plenty of spices and seasonings. The key to a good jambalaya is to let the flavors develop slowly, so be patient and let it simmer on the stove for a while before serving. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner at home.
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Healthy Slow Cooker Gumbo
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Kielbasa Sausage, Boneless, Skinless
For a healthier take on the classic gumbo, try making it in the slow cooker. This dish is made with chicken, sausage, and plenty of vegetables, all cooked together in a flavorful broth. It's a great option for a busy weeknight dinner, as you can just set it and forget it until it's ready to serve. Serve it with a side of rice and some crusty bread for a filling and nutritious meal.
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Classic Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Butter, Chicken Breast, Andouille Sausage, Yellow
This classic jambalaya recipe is a must-try for any fan of Southern cuisine. Made with chicken, sausage, and shrimp, along with rice, vegetables, and a variety of spices, this dish is a flavorful and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. It's a great option for a potluck or a game day party, as it can easily feed a crowd.
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Southern New Year's Day dinner skillet
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Small Onion, Garlic, Red Pepper Flakes, Collard
Another traditional Southern dish for New Year's Day, this skillet dinner combines black-eyed peas, rice, and a variety of meats, including chicken, sausage, and bacon. It's a hearty and delicious meal that is said to bring good luck for the new year. Serve it up with some collard greens and cornbread for a truly Southern feast.
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Southern Smothered Chicken with Rice
Main Ingredients: Chicken Tenders, Seasoned Flour, Buttermilk, Green Bell
This smothered chicken recipe is made with tender and juicy chicken thighs, cooked in a delicious gravy with onions, peppers, and mushrooms. The key to this dish is to let the chicken simmer in the gravy for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and comforting meal. Serve it over a bed of rice for a satisfying and flavorful dinner.
Cornbread dressing, also known as "stuffing," is a classic side dish in Southern cuisine. This dish is made with crumbled cornbread, onions, celery, and seasonings, and baked until golden and crispy. It's a must-have at any Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner in the South. Serve it alongside your favorite roasted chicken or turkey for a delicious and traditional Southern meal.
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Cajun Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onions, Green Bell Pepper, Red Bell Pepper
For a spicier take on the classic jambalaya, try making a Cajun version. This dish is made with chicken, sausage, and shrimp, along with plenty of Cajun seasonings and spices. The result is a flavorful and spicy dish that is sure to please any Cajun food lover. Serve it with rice and some crusty French bread for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Southern Chicken Pileau
Main Ingredients: Bone In Chicken Thighs, Water, Bacon, Sausage, Chicken
Southern chicken pileau, also known as chicken pilau, is a classic southern dish that combines chicken, rice, and a variety of spices for a flavorful and hearty meal. This dish has been a staple in many southern households for generations, and for good reason. The tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and blend of seasonings create a dish that is sure to please any crowd.
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Southern Chicken and Rice Dish
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast, Onion, Garlic Clove, Spring Onions, Red
A simple yet delicious southern chicken and rice dish is a go-to comfort meal for many families. This dish usually consists of chicken thighs or breasts, rice, and a flavorful broth. It's a dish that can easily be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
If you're looking for a hearty and comforting meal, look no further than southern stewed chicken. This dish is made by slow-cooking chicken with a variety of vegetables and spices, resulting in a flavorful and tender chicken dish that is perfect for chilly nights.
Southern smothered chicken is a dish that is packed with flavor and is sure to satisfy any craving. This dish typically consists of chicken smothered in a rich and creamy gravy, making it the ultimate comfort food. It's a perfect dish to serve over rice or with your favorite southern sides.
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Southern Chicken and Rice Salad
Main Ingredients: Chicken Tenderloins, Olive Oil, Toasted Sesame Oil
For a lighter take on a traditional southern dish, try out a chicken and rice salad. This dish combines cooked chicken, rice, and a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs for a refreshing and healthy meal. It's a great option for lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.
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Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Celery, White Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Bell
Jambalaya is a classic southern dish that originated in Louisiana. This one-pot meal is a combination of rice, meat, and vegetables, all cooked together in a flavorful broth. The result is a dish that is full of bold flavors and is sure to impress.
Southern chicken and dumplings is a dish that is loved by many for its comforting and satisfying qualities. This dish typically consists of pieces of chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings cooked in a rich and creamy broth. It's the ultimate comfort food for a cold winter night.
No list of southern chicken recipes would be complete without classic southern fried chicken. This dish is a staple in southern cuisine and is loved for its crispy and flavorful coating. It's a dish that is perfect for any occasion and is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
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Chicken Bog | A Traditional South Carolina Dish
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Rice, Smoked Sausage, Butter, Garlic, Medium
Chicken bog is a traditional South Carolina dish that is a unique blend of chicken, rice, and sausage. This dish has a long history in southern cuisine and is often served at community gatherings and family events. It's a dish that is full of flavor and is sure to become a family favorite.
Southern fried chicken is a dish that has been enjoyed for generations in the south. This dish is typically made by coating pieces of chicken in a seasoned flour mixture and then frying until crispy and golden brown. It's a dish that is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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Gumbo
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Butter, Onions, Chopped Celery, Bell Pepper
Gumbo is a classic southern dish that is full of bold and complex flavors. This dish typically consists of a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices, all cooked together in a rich and flavorful broth. Gumbo is often served over rice and is a staple in Louisiana cuisine.
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The Best Southern Hoppin' John
Main Ingredients: Rice, Peas, Bacon Fat, Tomato, Green Onions, Shredded
Southern Hoppin' John is a dish that is traditionally served on New Year's Day in the south. This dish consists of black-eyed peas, rice, and a variety of spices, all cooked together for a flavorful and hearty meal. It's said that eating this dish on New Year's Day brings good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
Southern chicken salad is a refreshing and delicious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or a summer picnic. This dish typically consists of cooked chicken, mayonnaise, and a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. It can be served on its own or on a bed of lettuce for a more substantial meal.
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Southern Jambalaya with Chicken and Sausages
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Thighs, Andouille, Shrimps, Green Bell
Southern jambalaya with chicken and sausages is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. This dish is a spin on the classic jambalaya and is made by combining chicken, sausages, and a variety of vegetables and spices for a delicious one-pot meal.
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Healthy Slow Cooker Gumbo
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Kielbasa Sausage, Boneless, Skinless
If you're looking for a healthier take on a classic southern dish, try out a slow cooker gumbo recipe. This dish is made by slow-cooking a variety of vegetables, chicken, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious meal. It's a great option for busy weeknights when you want a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Classic Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Butter, Chicken Breast, Andouille Sausage, Yellow
A classic jambalaya recipe is a must-try for any lover of southern cuisine. This dish is made by combining rice, meat, and vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth. It's a dish that is perfect for any occasion and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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Southern New Year's Day dinner skillet
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Small Onion, Garlic, Red Pepper Flakes, Collard
If you're looking for a quick and easy southern meal, try out a New Year's Day dinner skillet. This dish typically combines black-eyed peas, rice, and a variety of vegetables and meats for a flavorful and hearty meal. It's a great way to use up any leftover ingredients and is said to bring good luck for the year ahead.
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Southern Smothered Chicken with Rice
Main Ingredients: Chicken Tenders, Seasoned Flour, Buttermilk, Green Bell
Southern smothered chicken with rice is a dish that is full of flavor and is sure to please any crowd. This dish typically consists of chicken smothered in a rich and creamy gravy, served over a bed of fluffy white rice. It's a perfect comfort meal for any occasion.
Southern cornbread dressing is a staple at many southern holiday dinners. This dish combines crumbled cornbread, vegetables, and spices for a delicious and hearty side dish. It's a dish that is sure to become a family favorite and is perfect for any special occasion.
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Cajun Jambalaya
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onions, Green Bell Pepper, Red Bell Pepper
Cajun jambalaya is a spicy and flavorful twist on the classic southern dish. This dish typically consists of rice, meats, and vegetables, all cooked together with Cajun seasonings for a bold and satisfying meal. It's a dish that is sure to please any spice-lover and is a great option for feeding a crowd.
Making the Perfect Chicken and Rice
Choose the Right Chicken
The key to a delicious chicken and rice dish is using high-quality chicken. We recommend using bone-in chicken thighs for the most flavorful results. The dark meat of the thighs adds depth of flavor and stays tender during the cooking process. If you prefer white meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Seasoning is Key
To achieve that classic Southern flavor, you'll want to season your chicken with a blend of featured keywords: cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. This combination adds a perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and garlic flavor to the dish. Don't be afraid to be generous with the seasoning, as it will infuse the chicken and rice with flavor.
Sauté Before Simmering
For the most flavorful results, we recommend sautéing the chicken and related main keyword: onion and bell peppers before adding them to the rice. This step not only adds more depth of flavor, but it also helps to brown and caramelize the chicken for a more visually appealing dish.
Use the Right Rice
When it comes to the rice, long-grain white rice is the best choice. It cooks evenly and stays fluffy, making it the perfect pairing for the tender chicken. Be sure to rinse the rice before adding it to the dish to remove any excess starch.
Don't Forget the Broth
For the best flavor, we recommend using chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice. The broth adds an extra layer of richness to the dish and helps to infuse the rice with flavor.
Add Some Spice
For an extra kick of flavor, we like to add related main keyword: cayenne pepper to our chicken and rice. This adds a subtle heat that balances out the other flavors in the dish. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
The Final Touch
Once the rice and chicken are cooked, it's time to add the finishing touch – fresh herbs. We like to add a handful of related main keyword: parsley or cilantro to brighten up the dish and add a pop of color. This step is optional, but highly recommended for a burst of freshness.
Now that you have all the tips for making the perfect Southern chicken and rice, it's time to get cooking! Follow these steps and you'll have a delicious and comforting dish that will become a family favorite in no time.
In Conclusion
With this recipe and tips, you can make the best Southern chicken and rice dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make it your own. Grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a taste of the South!
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