Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy fried chicken, the savory aroma wafting through the air, while the buttery cornbread melts in your mouth. Each soul food dinner plate is a celebration of flavors and textures that warm the heart and soul, making every bite an experience to savor.
Growing up, Sunday dinners were filled with laughter and love as my family gathered around a table overflowing with collard greens and creamy macaroni and cheese. These soul food dinner plates aren’t just meals; they are cherished memories waiting to be created, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive occasions that call for comfort and joy.
Why Does Everyone Love soul food dinner plates?
Irresistible flavors come alive in every bite of this classic soul food dinner. The crispy fried chicken, marinated in buttermilk and seasoned to perfection, offers a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with buttery macaroni and cheese. Nutritious collard greens, sautéed with garlic and a hint of spice, provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the meal. Plus, the sweet cornbread adds that perfect touch of comfort, making this dish a crowd favorite for gatherings or cozy family dinners. With just 30 minutes of prep and 90 minutes of cook time, you’ll find this recipe not only delicious but also remarkably easy to whip up!
soul food dinner plates Ingredients
For the Fried Chicken
- 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – Perfectly juicy and flavorful, these thighs will be the star of your soul food dinner plates.
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating) – Tenderizes the chicken and adds a creamy richness to the flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating) – Creates a crispy, golden-brown crust that everyone loves.
- 2 teaspoons paprika (for seasoning) – Adds a beautiful color and subtle smokiness to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of garlic goodness.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Provides a savory depth that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the delicious flavors in your fried chicken.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a little kick to balance the richness of the dish.
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying) – Ensures even cooking and that perfect, crispy exterior.
For the Collard Greens
- 1 bunch collard greens (washed and chopped) – A nutritious and hearty green that pairs beautifully with fried chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sauté the greens while adding healthy fats and flavor.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Infuses the greens with savory depth while keeping them moist during cooking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic flavor that elevates the dish to new heights.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their collards!
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances flavors and enhances the taste of the collard greens.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – A touch of spice that complements the earthiness of the greens.
For the Cornbread
- 1 cup cornmeal – The key ingredient for a deliciously sweet and crumbly cornbread texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Helps give structure to your cornbread, making it light yet hearty.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder – Works as a leavening agent to help your cornbread rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing flavors throughout this comforting side dish.
- 1 cup milk – Keeps your cornbread moist and tender for a delightful bite every time.
- 1 large egg – Binds ingredients together while adding richness to your cornbread.
- 1/4 cup honey (or sugar) – Sweetens your cornbread naturally, balancing its savory notes perfectly.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted) – Adds moisture and richness, making each piece irresistible.
For the Macaroni and Cheese
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni – A classic choice for mac and cheese, providing that comforting shape everyone loves.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully to create a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s hard to resist!
- 1/2 cup milk – Ensures your mac and cheese stays creamy without being too thick or heavy.
- 1/4 cup butter (melted) – Enriches flavor while helping to create an ultra-creamy texture in your dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all flavors within this indulgent comfort food staple.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds just enough spice to elevate this classic dish without overpowering it.
How to Make soul food dinner plates
1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour. This step ensures that your chicken thighs become juicy and tender, absorbing all those wonderful flavors from the buttermilk.
2. Mix the flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This seasoned coating will give your fried chicken that crispy, flavorful crust we all adore.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. You’ll want it hot enough for frying—about 350°F (175°C)—to achieve that golden brown perfection.
4. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. Flip halfway to ensure even cooking and a delightful crunch on both sides.
5. Sauté garlic in olive oil in a pot over medium heat until fragrant. In just a minute or two, this will set the stage for sweetly aromatic collard greens.
6. Add collard greens, chicken broth, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally to help them wilt down beautifully.
7. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the cornbread batter. The warm oven will be perfect for achieving that lovely rise and golden crust.
8. Combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. This will form the dry base of your cornbread which is essential for that classic texture.
9. Whisk together milk, egg, honey (or sugar), and melted butter in another bowl until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and sweetness to your cornbread.
10. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; avoid overmixing for tender cornbread! Then transfer it to a greased baking dish.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top—a perfect complement to your soul food dinner plates!
12. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain well once tender but slightly firm (al dente). This ensures that it holds up during baking without becoming mushy.
13. Mix cooked macaroni with cheddar cheese, milk, melted butter, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until evenly coated with cheesy goodness—this is comfort food at its finest!
14. Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top—this mac ‘n’ cheese is sure to impress!
15. Serve everything warm on plates alongside each other; this hearty meal will fill your home with love and warmth as you gather around the table!
Optional: Garnish collard greens with lemon wedges for a fresh pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Perfectly Tender Chicken: Marinate in buttermilk for at least 1 hour to ensure the chicken stays juicy and flavorful, which is essential for soul food dinner plates.
- Crispy Coating: Use a mix of flour and seasonings, then shake off excess before frying. This prevents clumping and ensures an even, crispy crust.
- Oil Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding chicken. If it’s too cool, the coating may become soggy instead of crispy.
- Sauté Garlic Wisely: Don’t overcook the garlic in collard greens; sauté until fragrant to avoid bitterness that can ruin the dish’s rich flavor.
- Moisture Control: For cornbread, avoid overmixing after combining wet and dry ingredients; this keeps it light and fluffy, preventing a dense texture.
- Cheesy Goodness: When making macaroni and cheese, use freshly grated cheese for better melting properties compared to pre-shredded options.
How to Store and Freeze soul food dinner plates
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, ensuring chicken remains crispy.
- Freezer: Freeze fried chicken separately from sides for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in foil or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and preserve flavor.
- Collard Greens: Keep collard greens in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 6 months; just cool them first before packing.
- Cornbread & Macaroni and Cheese: Both can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped portions for up to 2 months, reheating until warm before serving with your soul food dinner plates.
soul food dinner plates Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this comforting classic and bring out flavors that your family will adore!
- Spicy Buttermilk: Add 1 tablespoon of hot sauce to the buttermilk for a fiery kick. This adds a zesty depth to the chicken, making each bite more exciting.
- Herb-Infused Flour: Mix in 1 tablespoon of dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour coating. This twist not only enhances flavor but also adds an aromatic touch to your chicken.
- Sweet & Savory: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the buttermilk marinade. This creates a delightful sweet crust on your fried chicken that balances beautifully with savory spices.
- Crispy Cornmeal Coating: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cornmeal for added crunch. The cornmeal gives an extra texture that complements the juicy chicken perfectly.
- Garlic Lovers Delight: Increase garlic powder to 2 teaspoons and add fresh minced garlic to the buttermilk. This elevates the flavor profile, giving your fried chicken an irresistible garlicky essence.
- Smoky Paprika: Swap regular paprika for smoked paprika to introduce a rich, smoky flavor. This variation brings warmth and depth, making your dish even more comforting.
- Baked Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the marinated chicken instead of frying it. Coat it lightly with oil and bake at 400°F until crispy—this is a fantastic way to enjoy all those flavors without frying!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for the coating. This keeps your fried chicken deliciously crispy while accommodating dietary needs.
Make Ahead Options
This soul food dinner plates recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the comforting flavors of fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, and macaroni and cheese throughout the week. You can marinate the chicken thighs in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance to enhance tenderness and flavor. The collard greens can be prepped by washing and chopping them a day ahead; just sauté with garlic, broth, and seasonings when you’re ready to serve. For the cornbread, you can mix the dry ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Finally, prepare the macaroni and cheese by cooking the elbow pasta ahead of time; just combine it with cheese and bake when you’re ready for that gooey goodness. When it’s time to enjoy your soul food dinner plates, simply fry the chicken fresh and reheat everything for a warm, delightful feast that brings your loved ones together!
soul food dinner plates Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for frying?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for frying because they remain moist and flavorful. The skin crisps up beautifully, providing that delightful contrast to the juicy meat inside. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them.
How long should I marinate the chicken in buttermilk?
For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate your chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, though longer (up to overnight) is even better. This process helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with moisture and flavor.
Can I make collard greens ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare collard greens a day in advance. Simply cook them as directed, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
How do I store leftover cornbread?
To keep your cornbread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight before reheating!
Is it possible to freeze macaroni and cheese?
Yes! Macaroni and cheese freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What can I serve with my soul food dinner plates?
This hearty meal is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your soul food dinner plates by adding a refreshing side salad or some hot sauce for those who like a kick. Don’t forget a sweet tea or lemonade to wash it all down!
Soul Food Dinner Plates
Ingredients
Method
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
- In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Dredge marinated chicken in the flour mixture and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add collard greens, chicken broth, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, honey, and melted butter.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients and pour into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
- In a bowl, mix cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly.
