Southern Style Chicken Crispy Delight for Dinner

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Southern Style Chicken Crispy is a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. This recipe features smoky, spice-marinated chicken paired with a crispy rice salad, providing a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The chicken is not only moist but also boasts a golden, crispy skin that is simply irresistible. If you’re looking for a comforting yet vibrant meal, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Style Chicken Crispy

This crispy Southern chicken recipe brings together a medley of flavors that are both comforting and exciting. Here are a few reasons why you’ll want to make this dish:

It’s packed with flavor from the smoked paprika and garlic powder.
The chicken is marinated for maximum tenderness and taste.
It features a unique combination of crispy rice and fresh vegetables.
Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
It’s gluten-free and accommodates various dietary needs.
Simple ingredients create a classic Southern fried chicken crispy experience.

Ingredients for Southern Style Chicken Crispy

Gather these items:

800 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1.5 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
0.25 tsp chilli flakes
1.5 tsp dried thyme
to taste sea salt and black pepper
2 cups precooked jasmine or white rice
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1.5 tsp maple syrup
4 cups coleslaw mix
1 cup cooked black beans
2 pcs Asian/Green Shallots, finely sliced
Lemon or lime wedges
0.5 cup Greek yoghurt
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp lime or lemon juice
pinch chilli flakes
0.5-1 tsp smoked paprika
0.25 tsp cumin

How to Make Southern Style Chicken Crispy Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chilli flakes, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Coat the chicken breasts completely in this blend for maximum flavor.
Step 2: If the chicken breasts are large, slice them in half to ensure even cooking. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle the spice marinade evenly.
Step 3: Cover the marinated chicken with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.
Step 5: Combine precooked rice with extra virgin olive oil, maple syrup, sea salt, pepper, and a pinch of chilli flakes. Toss to coat and spread in a thin layer on the baking paper.
Step 6: Bake the rice for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Step 7: Add marinated chicken to a different baking dish and place in the oven for another 18-20 minutes.
Step 8: Check the rice around the 10-minute mark and give it another toss if needed.
Step 9: Once cooked, cover the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes. Let the rice cool completely.
Step 10: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, water, lime or lemon juice, chilli flakes, smoked paprika, and cumin until smooth.
Step 11: In a large bowl, toss together coleslaw mix, black beans, and shallots. Pour the dressing over and mix until well coated.
Step 12: Finally, add sliced chicken and crispy rice to the salad, season to taste, and serve with lemon or lime wedges.

Pro Tips for the Best Southern Style Chicken Crispy

Keep these in mind:

Let the chicken marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
Use high-quality chicken for better taste and texture.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking.

Best Ways to Serve Southern Style Chicken Crispy

Pair this dish with:

Classic Southern sides like cornbread or collard greens.
Extra crispy fried potatoes for a hearty meal.
A fresh garden salad for a light addition.

How to Store and Reheat Southern Style Chicken Crispy

Once cooked, cover the chicken and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Style Chicken Crispy

What’s the secret to perfect Southern Style Chicken Crispy?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken well for flavor and moisture, ensuring it is baked at the right temperature for a crispy exterior. Following Southern-style chicken fry techniques also contributes to achieving that crunchiness.

Can I make Southern Style Chicken Crispy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and marinate it a day in advance. Just bake it fresh before serving for the best taste and texture. This is a great tip if you’re wondering how to make Southern crispy chicken for a gathering.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Style Chicken Crispy?

To avoid soggy chicken, ensure it’s thoroughly coated in the spice blend and properly baked. Monitor the cooking time closely and always allow it to rest after cooking for the juices to redistribute.

Variations of Southern Style Chicken Crispy You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with:

Adding different spices like cayenne for extra heat.
Using various types of rice for a unique texture.
Incorporating seasonal vegetables into the salad for variety.