When I smell tender, juicy chicken, I think of my grandmother's cooking. I spent many weekends in her kitchen, where she turned simple ingredients into delicious meals. One recipe that brings back those memories is Mississippi Chicken.
This dish is savory, tangy, and comforting, made with just a few ingredients and ready in 3 easy steps. It's the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings and bring joy to your family, just like it does for mine
Table of contents
- Introduction to Southern-Style Mississippi Chicken
- Essential Ingredients for Mississippi Chicken Recipe
- Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
- Preparation and Cooking Time Overview
- Step-by-Step Mississippi Chicken Recipe
- Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot Methods
- Tips for Perfect Tender Chicken Results
- Sauce and Seasoning Variations
- Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
- Storage and Reheating Guidelines
- Nutritional Information and Diet Considerations
- Conclusion
Introduction to Southern-Style Mississippi Chicken
The southern cuisine of the United States is famous for its rich, flavorful dishes. These dishes show off the region’s unique culinary heritage. One such recipe is the Mississippi Chicken, a simple yet delicious slow-cooked dish from Mississippi.
Origins of Mississippi Chicken
The Mississippi Chicken recipe is a twist on the classic Mississippi Pot Roast. It became popular in the early 2000s. Robin Chapman, a Mississippi woman, created the original pot roast recipe. It had just five ingredients: chuck roast, au jus gravy mix, dry ranch seasoning mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The Mississippi Chicken recipe is special because of its tangy pepperoncini peppers, zesty ranch seasoning, and rich butter. These ingredients create a unique and satisfying taste. The slow-cooking process blends the flavors, making the dish tender and flavorful. It’s perfect for family-friendly meals and regional American recipes.
Popular Serving Suggestions
The Mississippi Chicken is versatile and popular in Southern cuisine. It can be served over mashed potatoes, rice, or as a sandwich filling. This allows for endless ways to enjoy this regional American recipe.
Essential Ingredients for Mississippi Chicken Recipe
To make a tasty spicy chicken marinade or buttermilk chicken dish, you need just a few things. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (1 ounce) package of dry ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup of sliced and drained pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup of the pepperoncini pepper juice
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup of water
Some recipes might add a packet of Au Jus gravy mix. You can also use more seasonings like paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. These add extra flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 2 pounds |
| Dry Ranch Dressing Mix | 1 (1 oz) package |
| Sliced and Drained Pepperoncini Peppers | 1 cup |
| Pepperoncini Pepper Juice | 1/4 cup |
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious spicy chicken marinade or buttermilk chicken dish. It will surely make your taste buds happy.
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make the delicious Mississippi chicken recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools and appliances. A 6-quart slow cooker is key for tender chicken. You can also use a Dutch oven or an Instant Pot if you don’t have a slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Specifications
A 6-quart slow cooker is the best size for this recipe. It fits the 2 pounds of chicken breasts perfectly. This size ensures the chicken cooks evenly and soaks up all the flavors.
Alternative Cooking Equipment
- Dutch oven: For stovetop or oven-based cooking, a 5- or 6-quart Dutch oven can be used instead of a slow cooker.
- Instant Pot: An electric pressure cooker, such as the Instant Pot, provides a quick and convenient alternative to the slow cooker method.
You’ll also need basic tools like measuring cups and spoons, a cutting board, and forks for shredding the chicken. With these tools, you can easily make delicious Mississippi chicken at home.
| Equipment | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Slow Cooker | 1 (6-quart) | Primary cooking vessel |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | 1 set | Accurately measure ingredients |
| Cutting Board | 1 | Prepare ingredients |
| Forks | 2 | Shred cooked chicken |
Preparation and Cooking Time Overview
The easy chicken dish called Mississippi Chicken is perfect for family-friendly meals. It’s quick to prepare, needing just 5 minutes to get started. The cooking time varies based on your chosen method.
Using a slow cooker, the chicken cooks on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours. It must reach 165°F. For Instant Pot fans, it cooks in 4-6 minutes, plus extra time for it to release naturally.
For oven lovers, baking at 425°F for 25-30 minutes works well. No matter the method, the total time ranges from 1 hour and 10 minutes to 6 hours and 5 minutes.
| Cooking Method | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slow Cooker (Low) | 5 mins | 6 hours | 6 hours 5 mins |
| Slow Cooker (High) | 5 mins | 4 hours | 4 hours 5 mins |
| Instant Pot | 5 mins | 4-6 mins + Natural Release | 1 hour 10 mins |
| Oven-Baked | 5 mins | 25-30 mins | 30-35 mins |
Choosing any method, Mississippi Chicken is a crowd-pleaser for family-friendly meals. Its tasty flavors and tender chicken make it ideal for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Step-by-Step Mississippi Chicken Recipe
Making a tasty mississippi chicken recipe is simple. Just a few steps and you’ll have a dish ready for any event. Let’s get started.
Preparing the Chicken
Begin by putting the chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Season them well with Au Jus Gravy mix and Ranch seasoning. This mix gives the chicken a rich, southern flavor.
Adding Seasonings and Peppers
Then, add spices like black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder to the slow cooker. For more flavor, add minced garlic and chopped onion. Place sliced pepperoncini peppers and their juice around the chicken.
Cooking Process
- Put thin slices of butter on top of the chicken to keep it moist.
- Add a small amount of water to the slow cooker, just enough to cover the bottom.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the mississippi chicken recipe on low for 6 hours or on high for 4 hours. Wait until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before shredding it with two forks.
Follow this easy guide to make a delicious mississippi chicken recipe. It’s great for sandwiches, baked potatoes, salads, or any dish you like. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot Methods
Preparing the tasty easy chicken dish called Mississippi Chicken can be done in two ways. You can use a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. Both methods make the chicken tender and flavorful, but they have different cooking times and techniques.
The slow cooker method cooks the chicken on low heat for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking lets the flavors blend perfectly, making the dish very tasty. On the other hand, the Instant Pot cooks the chicken quickly. It takes 4 minutes for fresh chicken and 6 minutes for frozen, with a 10-minute natural pressure release.
The slow cooker takes longer, but the Instant Pot is faster, perfect for busy days. Both ways, you get a juicy easy chicken dish. It’s great over rice, mashed potatoes, or on sandwiches.
“The Instant Pot’s high-pressure cooking method cuts the overall cooking time for this comfort food recipes dish significantly, making it a great option for those with limited time.”
Choosing the slow cooker or Instant Pot, you’ll get delicious results. This lets you enjoy the easy chicken dish with little effort.
Tips for Perfect Tender Chicken Results
Creating a delicious fried chicken recipe or a tasty chicken dinner is all about the tender texture. Follow these easy tips to make your Mississippi Chicken tender and juicy every time.
Temperature Guidelines
To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, keep an eye on the internal temperature. It’s ready when it hits 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is key to check if it’s done without overcooking, which can make it dry and tough.
Shredding Techniques
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before shredding. This helps the juices spread evenly, making it tender.
- For easy shredding, use two forks to pull the chicken apart in opposite directions. Or, use a hand mixer to shred it quickly in the slow cooker.
By following these tips, you’ll get tender, flavorful fried chicken or chicken dinners. Your family and friends will love it.
“The secret to perfectly tender chicken is all in the details. Pay attention to the internal temperature and let the meat rest before shredding for the best possible results.”
Sauce and Seasoning Variations
Creating a tasty spicy chicken marinade for your southern cuisine dish is fun. The classic Mississippi Chicken recipe is loved by many. But, you can try different sauces and seasonings to make it your own.
Try making your own au jus mix instead of buying it. Mix 2 tablespoons of granulated onion and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This makes a rich, thick sauce that goes great with the chicken.
For a richer sauce, add a block of cream cheese to the chicken. Mix it well until the cheese is fully mixed in. This makes the sauce creamy and smooth, making your dish even more special.
Want to change the heat level? Use more or less pepperoncini peppers. If you like it milder, use banana peppers instead.
| Variation | Ingredients | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Homemade Au Jus | 2 tbsp granulated onion, 2 tbsp cornstarch | Savory, thick sauce |
| Creamy Sauce | Block of cream cheese | Luxurious, velvety texture |
| Spice Adjustment | Pepperoncini or banana peppers | Adjust spice level to preference |
These small changes can make your spicy chicken marinade and southern cuisine dish even better. They let you make it just right for everyone. So, go ahead and experiment to find the perfect flavor for you!
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
The Mississippi Chicken is a comfort food that goes well with many sides. You can pick classic or modern options. This dish is great for making a meal that everyone will enjoy.
Traditional Pairings
For a Southern-style meal, try mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or egg noodles with the chicken. These sides let the chicken’s flavor stand out. Add green beans, asparagus, or a salad for a complete meal.
Modern Twists
Want to make your Mississippi Chicken different? Wrap it in tortillas or lettuce for tacos or burritos. You can also put it on baked potatoes or cauliflower rice for a healthier choice. Or, make a sandwich or wrap with your favorite toppings.
| Side Dish | Serving Suggestions | Nutritional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the flavorful juices of the Mississippi Chicken. | Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. |
| Steamed Rice | Fluffy, steamed rice provides a neutral base to complement the bold flavors of the chicken. | Rice is a gluten-free, low-fat carbohydrate that can be part of a balanced, family-friendly meal. |
| Egg Noodles | Tender egg noodles are a classic pairing, absorbing the rich, savory sauce. | Egg noodles offer a source of protein and complex carbohydrates to fuel the body. |
| Green Beans | Steamed, roasted, or sautéed green beans provide a crunchy, fresh contrast. | Green beans are low in calories, high in fiber, and a good source of vitamins and minerals. |
| Cornbread | Sweet and savory cornbread complements the flavors of the Mississippi Chicken. | Cornbread is a source of complex carbohydrates and can be a comforting, family-friendly side dish. |
Choose any side dishes you like, but aim for a balanced meal. The Mississippi Chicken is the star, and the right sides will make it even better.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
After enjoying the tasty easy chicken dish called Mississippi Chicken, you’ll want to keep it fresh. Here are some easy tips to make sure your leftovers stay delicious. This way, you can enjoy this chicken dinner idea for days.
To store leftover Mississippi Chicken, put it in an airtight container. Then, refrigerate it for 3-4 days. If you need to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add some broth or water to keep the chicken moist and tender.
You can reheat the Mississippi Chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop. It’s also great to reheat it in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Stir it a few times until it’s warm and ready to eat.
For an easy meal prep, you can freeze the Mississippi Chicken before cooking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, follow the original cooking steps when you’re ready to enjoy this tasty easy chicken dish.
“The best part about this chicken dinner idea is that it’s so versatile. You can enjoy it on its own, over rice or mashed potatoes, or even shredded on top of a salad. The possibilities are endless!”
Nutritional Information and Diet Considerations
The mississippi chicken recipe is a classic comfort food. It has about 503 calories, 20g of fat, 6g of carbs, and 72g of protein per serving. This is based on a recipe that serves four.
This dish is great for those on low-carb or keto diets because it’s low in carbs. But, it has a lot of sodium from the seasoning packets. If you’re watching your salt, use low-sodium options or make your own seasoning.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 503 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Protein | 72g |
| Sodium | 2813mg |
To make the mississippi chicken recipe healthier, try these changes:
- Use low-sodium or homemade seasoning blends to reduce sodium.
- Serve the chicken with leafy greens or cauliflower rice for fewer carbs.
- Add roasted veggies or a fresh salad to make the meal more balanced and nutritious.
Whether you’re on a diet or just want a tasty, healthy meal, the mississippi chicken recipe can be adjusted to meet your needs.
Conclusion
The Mississippi chicken recipe is a true gem of Southern cuisine. It offers a delightful blend of flavors and simplicity. This makes it a favorite in many households.
Whether you choose the classic slow cooker method or the convenience of the oven, this dish is sure to please. It delivers tender, juicy chicken that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes or a variety of modern accompaniments. Its adaptability to different cooking techniques and the ability to cater to diverse dietary preferences make it a versatile choice for any occasion.
From the easy-to-follow preparation steps to the mouthwatering end result, this southern-style chicken dish is a true crowd-pleaser. By mastering the balance of seasonings and incorporating personal touches, you can create a Mississippi chicken recipe that suits your unique tastes and preferences. This ensures that this becomes a cherished staple in your recipe collection.
So, whether you're in the mood for a comforting home-cooked meal or are looking to impress your guests with a delectable Southern-inspired dish, the Mississippi chicken recipe is the perfect choice. Dive in and savor the flavors of this easy-to-make, yet incredibly satisfying culinary delight.