southern style chicken biscuit recipe
The Best southern style chicken biscuit recipe
I’ve been making this Southern-style chicken biscuit recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl. There’s something about the flaky, buttery layers and the way the chicken melts into the warm, tender biscuits that just makes it feel like home. My kids—especially my little one who’s always picky—will eat this straight from the pan, and honestly, I don’t even have to tell them to try it. It’s that good. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to serve it at the holidays, for a simple Sunday dinner, or even just because you’re craving something comforting. The biscuits are light and airy, but still hearty enough to hold up to the juicy chicken, and the whole thing comes together so smoothly that it’s like a little celebration every time we make it.
What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can make it for a quick weeknight meal or a fancy dinner party—just swap out the seasoning for a little extra garlic or herbs if you’re feeling fancy, or keep it simple with just salt and pepper. My kids have grown up eating these, and now they’re the ones who’ll make the biscuits for their own families. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down, but it’s also one that’s always evolving with the people who make it. Plus, there’s something satisfying about the health benefits—it’s got lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the whole wheat flour (if you use it), and healthy fats that keep you full without feeling weighed down. It’s the kind of meal that’s easy on the wallet too, because you’re not spending a fortune on fancy ingredients, but still getting something that tastes like it did when your grandma made it. That’s the magic of this recipe.
Southern-Style Chicken & Biscuits
A classic Southern dish featuring flaky, buttery biscuits paired with savory chicken and creamy tomato-based sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
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2 Cut cold butter into small cubes and work it into the dry ingredients until pea-sized crumbs form.
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3 Mix in buttermilk and egg until a dough forms. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead lightly for 1 minute.
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4 Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut into 6 biscuits. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
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5 While biscuits bake, season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden.
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6 In a saucepan, heat tomato sauce, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
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7 After 15 minutes, reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake biscuits for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
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8 Serve chicken with biscuits and sauce on the side.
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🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Skillet
- Mixing spoon
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Southern-Style Chicken & Biscuits Works
This Southern-style chicken biscuit recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple yet packed with flavor—fluffy, buttery biscuits hold up perfectly to juicy shredded chicken and a touch of herbs, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a busy holiday gathering, these biscuits feel like a home-cooked comfort that brings people together without needing extra fuss. Plus, they’re quick to make and even quicker to disappear, so you won’t have to worry about leftovers.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern-Style Chicken & Biscuits
What is the key difference between Southern-style chicken biscuits and traditional biscuits?
Southern-style chicken biscuits are typically larger, softer, and fluffier than traditional biscuits, often incorporating a biscuit dough mixed with shredded chicken, onions, and seasonings. They are usually baked in a skillet or oven and served with gravy, while traditional biscuits are often used as a base for other dishes like breakfast sandwiches.
Why do some recipes call for buttermilk in Southern-style chicken biscuits?
Buttermilk is used in Southern-style chicken biscuits to add a tangy flavor and moisture. It helps create a tender and soft texture by breaking down the gluten in the flour, making the biscuits lighter and fluffier. The acidity in buttermilk also helps with browning and adds a subtle sour taste that complements the savory chicken.
How can I ensure my chicken biscuits come out perfectly fluffy without overmixing?
To achieve perfectly fluffy biscuits without overmixing, follow these steps: use a light hand when mixing the dough—just combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make the biscuits dense. Let the dough rest for about 30 minutes before rolling and cutting to allow the flour to hydrate properly. Also, use a well-chilled mixing bowl and utensils to keep the dough cool and prevent excessive gluten formation.
What are the best ingredients to use for the shredded chicken in Southern-style chicken biscuits?
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that have been poached, baked, or slow-cooked until fully tender. Shred the chicken finely to ensure it blends evenly into the biscuit dough. Avoid using pre-shredded chicken from a can, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. For extra flavor, you can add finely diced onions, celery, or a bit of green bell pepper to the shredded chicken mixture.
Can I make Southern-style chicken biscuits ahead of time and reheat them?
Yes, you can prepare the biscuit dough ahead of time, but it’s best to bake the biscuits fresh for the best texture. If you must make them in advance, store the unbaked dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat baked biscuits, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through. For extra crispiness, you can toast them in a skillet with a little butter or oil.
