A classic chicken and biscuits recipe is truly heartwarming. It’s perfect for those cold evenings when you get together with loved ones. Everyone enjoys the smell of these homemade treats. It takes us back to simple, joyful family dinners.
Victoria, a cooking enthusiast, gave this recipe high praise. She loved the fluffy biscuits and the tasty stuffing, saying it doesn’t need extra sauce. The dish takes a little over an hour to make. It uses shredded chicken breasts and simple drop biscuits for a cozy, home-filled meal.
This dish serves 6 and has about 430 calories per serving. They also provide good amounts of carbs, protein, and fiber. It’s not only delicious but also good for you. You can mix it up by using different veggies or meats. This recipe makes sure every meal is a hit.
Key Takeaways
- A 5-star review from Victoria highlighting the recipeâs fluffy and buttery texture.
- The dish can be prepared in just over an hour.
- Features lean protein from shredded chicken breasts and easy drop biscuits.
- Serves 6, with a well-rounded nutritional profile.
- Offers versatility with options to use different vegetables and substitute turkey for chicken.
Introduction to the Classic Chicken and Biscuits Recipe
Southern chicken and biscuits are more than just a meal. They stand as a timeless treasure in the world of comfort food. Many love it for being both hearty and fulfilling. It merges the rich creamy chicken with the light, airy homemade biscuits. Every nibble embodies the essence of tradition and simplicity.
Why It’s a Comfort Food Favorite
This dish is adored for many reasons. Its blend of tender chicken and flaky biscuits offers a delightful mix. The creamy sauce adds a rich layer, making it feel like a culinary hug.
The Origins of Chicken and Biscuits
The origins of Southern chicken and biscuits are deeply tied to Southern cuisine. It was first created to feed large families in a smart way. This best chicken biscuit recipe shows the cleverness and resourcefulness of Southern cooks. It was traditionally made from scratch, using common ingredients. This made it a go-to for anyone wanting a taste of genuine heritage.
Over time, the recipe has evolved to meet the tastes of today. It now includes extra veggies, herbs, and various dairy in the sauce. But, its core as a wholesome meal for any time remains unchanged.
Ingredients for Chicken and Biscuits
Making a simple chicken biscuit recipe means picking key ingredients both delicious and easy to get. With these, you create a dish full of homey comfort.
Main Ingredients
- 2 (10.5 ounce) cans of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of milk, preferably 2% milk fat or higher
- 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12-ounce can of refrigerated biscuits (or two 6-ounce cans)
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 8 ounces of sliced baby bella (cremini) mushrooms
- 2 1/2 cups of milk
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme
Optional Ingredients
To make your flaky biscuit stand out more, think about these add-ins:
- Mushrooms: 8 ounces of sliced baby bella (cremini) mushrooms
- Rotisserie Seasoning: A mix of paprika, garlic, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper
- Diversity in Veggies: Go for a 16-ounce mix of carrots, peas, and green beans for ease
- Cheese Variety: Different or extra cheeses can really make the dish
When looking to create the best buttermilk biscuit, the flour and buttermilk are what matter. They make sure every piece is soft and light.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Cream of Chicken Soup | 2 (10.5 ounce) cans |
Milk | 1 cup (2% milk fat or higher) |
Cooked Chicken | 2 cups, shredded or diced |
Frozen Peas and Carrots | 1 cup |
Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
Refrigerated Biscuits | 12 ounces (or two 6-ounce cans) |
All-purpose Flour | 1/4 cup |
Sliced Baby Bella Mushrooms | 8 ounces |
Milk | 2 1/2 cups |
Fresh Thyme | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
Preparing the Chicken Filling
To make the best chicken biscuit, start with perfectly cooked chicken. You can boil, bake, or use an Instant Pot to cook the breasts. If you’re short on time, using precooked or store-bought rotisserie chicken is a good option.
Cooking the Chicken
This recipe needs about 2 pounds of raw, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. After cooking, youâll have around 4 cups of shredded chicken. Boil the chicken in seasoned water or bake until it’s 165°F inside. Then, shred it into small pieces and set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
To add a deep flavor, sauté your vegetables. You can use mushrooms, onions, and celery. Or swap mushrooms for more onions and celery for a different taste.
Heat oil in a skillet and cook the veggies until they’re soft and smell great. Mixing in some frozen veggies can make the process easier and the filling more flavorful.
Making the Creamy Sauce
A good creamy sauce ties everything together. Start by making a roux. Melt butter, then whisk in some flour to form a paste. Slowly add milk, stirring, until it thickens. For extra tastiness, include a splash of cream. This sauce will make your chicken and vegetables rich and delicious, just like home.
Here’s an overview of the nutrient content per serving:
Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Fiber | Sugar |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
430 | 50g | 25g | 14g | 6g | 56mg | 6g | 9g |
Making the Biscuits
Creating a great biscuit topping for our chicken and biscuits is key. We start by choosing the best flour. Then, we add buttermilk for the ideal texture and taste.
Choosing the Right Flour
The key to a flaky biscuit is in the flour selection. All-purpose flour works well. It gives the biscuit the right mix of firmness and softness. This choice sets the stage for biscuits that are both solid and crumble easily.
Buttermilk for the Perfect Tang
Buttermilk is vital in Southern biscuit cooking. Its slight sourness works with baking powder for light biscuits. It also gives the biscuits a tasty tang. For an authentic buttermilk biscuit, using this ingredient is a must.
Mixing and Shaping the Dough
When mixing biscuit dough, our aim is light and airy. But we must avoid overworking it. Too much mixing makes for heavy, rough biscuits. Shape the dough gently to keep it flaky. Then, roll it evenly and cut it into biscuits. This step ensures they bake the same.
Baking Tips for a Perfect Casserole
Achieving the perfect casserole needs careful temperature and timing management. Baking at the right temperature makes the meal cook evenly. It keeps the inside hot and bubbling. Use these tips for a spot-on outcome.
Temperature and Timing
First, preheat your oven to 425°F. Keep an eye on the casserole as it cooks; this usually takes 25-30 minutes. Wait until the filling bubbles and the biscuits turn a lovely, golden brown. This means the chicken inside is perfectly cooked and ready to eat.
Getting the Biscuits Golden-Brown
To get the biscuits just right, apply melted butter mixed with a dash of garlic powder on top before baking. Not only will this give them a pretty look, but it will also make your dish tastier. It boosts the overall enjoyment of this classic comfort food.
Chicken and Biscuits Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the classic chicken and biscuits is simple with these steps. You need to follow a sequence for the chicken part and the biscuits.
First, you’ll need about 2 pounds of raw chicken. You can use breasts or thighs. Cook this chicken until the thermometer reads 165°F. This will give you around 4 cups of cooked chicken.
The filling is creamy and includes onions, carrots, celery, and peas. They are sautéed in butter. For the filling, mix 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of half-and-half. You can use heavy cream or milk for a creamier taste.
When the chicken and vegetables are ready, put them in a casserole dish. Add sauce made of flour, salt, pepper, and more. This sauce is poured over the chicken mix. For a better taste, use cold buttermilk and cheddar in the biscuit dough. Place the biscuit mix in spoonfuls on top.
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Chicken | 2 lb (raw), 4 cups (cooked) |
Chicken broth | 2 cups |
Half-and-half | 1 cup |
Vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, peas) | Varied |
Butter | For sautéing |
Bisquick mix | According to package directions |
Cheddar cheese | Grated, for taste |
Parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper | To taste |
Then, bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Stop when the biscuits are golden and cooked inside. After baking, let it cool before serving.
Following this recipe, you get a homey meal. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. But donât freeze them as the sauce might not unfreeze well. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips for Using Frozen and Fresh Vegetables
The choice between frozen and fresh vegetables is important when you make chicken biscuits at home. It affects how long it takes and the taste. Knowing the good and bad of each helps in creating the best easy chicken biscuit recipe for you.
Pros and Cons of Frozen Vegetables
Frozen vegetables are a quick choice for a simple chicken biscuit recipe. They are quick-frozen when ripe, keeping most of their vitamins. Plus, they can stay good in the freezer for a while. This helps reduce waste.
Can you guess the downside? Frozen veggies might add too much water when you cook them. This extra water could make your dish less flavorful. But, their convenience makes them a top pick for many.
Incorporating Fresh Vegetables
Fresh veggies in your chicken biscuits can take it up a notch in flavor and texture. They bring a fresh crunch and a strong flavor that frozen ones won’t match. Adding onions, carrots, and celery can make your recipe richer.
Fresh vegetables do take more time to prepare. You have to wash, peel, and chop them. Yes, it’s more work, but the fresh taste and texture boost are worth it, especially for special times or meals with your family.
Using both frozen and fresh veggies wisely in your chicken biscuit recipe is key. It makes your dish convenient yet full of flavor. Knowing when to use each makes your easy chicken biscuit recipe stand out and loved by all.
Nutrition Information for Chicken and Biscuits
This recipe offers a tasty dish packed with nutrition. Mixing lean chicken and veggies makes a filling meal. You get the best of both taste and health.
Caloric Breakdown
Most of the calories in chicken and biscuits come from protein and carbs. The fat content is low, thanks to the lean chicken. This makes it a healthier choice.
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories from Fat | 30% |
Total Fat | 15g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Cholesterol | 90mg |
Sodium | 800mg |
Carbohydrates | 45g |
Net Carbs | 40g |
Fiber | 5g |
Protein | 30g |
Vitamin A | 20% DV |
Vitamin C | 15% DV |
Calcium | 10% DV |
Iron | 15% DV |
Health Benefits of Ingredients
The recipe for chicken biscuits is more than a simple meal. It’s full of nutrients for your health. Lean chicken gives you top-notch protein for muscles and general body health. The veggies add important vitamins and minerals like A, C, and Iron.
Using nonfat milk and whole-grain flour makes it even healthier. This adds important calcium and fiber to your diet. The balanced fat and low sodium and cholesterol levels mean it’s good for many diets. Chicken and biscuits in the right portions can enhance your eating plan.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing and reheating leftovers right can make your homemade chicken biscuits taste great again. When saving your easy chicken biscuit recipe, use these tips to keep them yummy.
Refrigeration Tips
To store them short-term, put your homemade chicken biscuits in airtight containers. A tight seal prevents them from drying out and losing taste. They’ll stay tasty in the fridge for about five days.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, wrap each biscuit in plastic wrap, then foil, and put them in the freezer. This stops freezer burn and locks in flavor for a month. Thawing your chicken biscuit recipe in the fridge is the first step to reheat them.
- Wrap biscuits in foil and place them in a 350°F oven for 6 to 8 minutes.
- Uncover the tops and crisp for another 4 to 6 minutes.
- Cut the biscuits in half, toast them, and top with butter and jam.
- Grind up old biscuits to make crumbs for dishes like meatloaf or Southern panzanella.
- Cube and bake biscuits at 350°F to turn them into croutons.
Meal Prep Tips for Chicken and Biscuits
Prepping ahead can make your Southern chicken and biscuits experience smoother. By following some key tips, you can have a tasty meal ready quickly. This way, you’ll save a lot of time.
Preparing the Filling Ahead of Time
The filling is perfect for making ahead. You can chill or freeze it. Doing this saves time and keeps the flavors fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for 3 months. To use it, just thaw in the fridge or with the microwave.
Making the Biscuit Dough in Advance
Dough for your chicken and biscuits can also be made early. It can stay in the fridge for a day. Then, roll it out, cut it, and place the biscuits over your meal. This method keeps your biscuits soft and tasty.
Using these tips, you’ll easily cook up this favorite dish on busy days.
Variations and Substitutions
A chicken and biscuits recipe is highly versatile. You can adjust it for various dietary needs. Let’s explore some favorite twists:
Making It Vegetarian
If you prefer not to eat meat, you can turn this dish into a vegetarian masterpiece. Instead of chicken, use hearty veggies or legumes. Great choices include sweet potatoes, mushrooms, chickpeas, or any fresh vegetables you like. This change keeps the meal delicious and true to the essence of the best chicken biscuit recipe.
Using Turkey Instead of Chicken
After the holidays, you might have some leftover turkey. Why not use it to change up your meal? This swap not only cuts food waste but also adds a special flavor. With a turkey twist, your chicken and biscuits recipe will feel festive. The turkey can be cooked and shredded similar to chicken. It fits perfectly in this dish, still offering the warmth and satisfaction of the original best chicken biscuit recipe.
What to Serve with Chicken and Biscuits
Enjoying a chicken and biscuits recipe is more fun with the right sides and drinks. They turn your meal into a great experience. They balance the main meal’s heartiness and add flavor variety.
Side Dishes and Beverages
A green salad pairs perfectly with the chicken and biscuits recipe. It offers a cool contrast to the rich main course. This salad includes greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette that refreshes your mouth. Roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts enhance the meal’s earthy flavors.
Start with a light soup like tomato bisque or vegetable broth. It gets you ready for the main course. Include a starchy side, like mashed potatoes or cornbread, for extra flavor and a hint of the South.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glBgbGj0JhI
Choosing the right drinks is also key. Iced tea or lemonade are traditional choices that refresh. But, if you prefer something stronger, a glass of red wine works well. It makes the meal’s flavors even better.
Hereâs a quick rundown on good side options:
Side Dish | Description |
---|---|
Green Salad | Crisp and refreshing, balances the richness. |
Roasted Vegetables | Earthy flavors that add nutritional value. |
Light Soup | A mild start that preps the palate. |
Mashed Potatoes | Classic, hearty side with Southern roots. |
With these well-considered sides, any chicken and biscuits recipe becomes a complete meal. Your family and friends are sure to enjoy this spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make a perfect easy chicken biscuit, you need a keen eye. It’s vital to handle the chicken right and mix the biscuit dough carefully. This ensures your dish tastes great and has the perfect texture.
Overcooking the Chicken
Cooking chicken too much is a big blunder. It can make the chicken dry and hard, which is not what you want. To keep your chicken juicy, pay attention to time and temperature. This way, it will be just right with the sauce and biscuits.
Undermixing the Biscuit Dough
Not blending the biscuit dough well is a key mistake. For a flaky biscuit, you must mix just the right amount. Too much mixing can make the biscuits tough. Using proper folding and not handling it too much keeps them flaky.
Properly chilled butter is essential for biscuits; if butter is not cold when blending with the flour, it can result in dense, gummy texture.
For superior biscuits, try these handy hints:
- Choose soft red winter wheat flour for the best results.
- Grating frozen butter makes it blend better and makes the dough smoother.
- Fold the dough just five times for those flaky layers.
- Chill the butter and flour mix for at least 10 minutes before baking.
- When cutting the biscuits, don’t twist the cutter, just press straight down.
By following this advice, you’ll steer clear of common missteps. This will make your easy chicken biscuit recipe outshine the rest, both in taste and comfort.
Equipment Youâll Need
For the perfect chicken biscuit recipe, you need the right tools. They make sure your food looks and tastes just right. The equipment you use is key to cooking great comfort food.
Best Type of Baking Dish
Youâll want a strong, heat-spreading baking dish. A 3-quart casserole or a cast iron skillet works best. They help cook everything evenly. This way, your sauce and biscuits turn out just the way you want them.
Tools for Easy Preparation
Cooking can be easier with some must-have tools:
- Stand mixer: Great for quickly shredding 4 cups of cooked chicken.
- Food processor: It helps to mix biscuit dough well. Use it for 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, œ cup cold butter, and Ÿ cup milk.
- Dutch oven: Important for boiling 2 pounds of chicken until 165°F inside.
- Whisk: You need this for a butter and flour sauce that’s nice and smooth.
- Box grater: Itâs great for finely shredding cheddar cheese you add to the biscuit mix.
- Oven thermometer: It makes sure your oven is at the right temperature for golden, perfect biscuits.
Equipment | Purpose |
---|---|
Stand Mixer | Shredding chicken |
Food Processor | Making dough |
Dutch Oven | Boiling chicken |
Whisk | Making a roux |
Box Grater | Shredding cheese |
Oven Thermometer | Checking oven heat |
These tools make cooking simpler and improve your chicken biscuit recipe. They turn your hard work into a delicious meal the whole family will love.
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Share Your Recipe Experience
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Conclusion
This classic chicken and biscuits recipe showcases why we love homemade meals. It features a creamy chicken filling and flaky biscuits. The best part? You can make it in under 40 minutes and freeze it for six months. This makes it easy, without losing its great taste.
Each serving has 657 calories, 29g of protein, and 3g of fiber. It’s satisfying, yet healthy. You can also add your favorite veggies, like green beans or peas. Plus, you can use the extra chicken for more dishes, cutting down on waste.
This recipe was updated in February 2023 from its first version in May 2015. It’s the best chicken biscuit recipe you’ll ever try. It’s designed for sharing with those you love. This meal means comfort and joy, bite after bite.
FAQ
What makes chicken and biscuits a comfort food favorite?
Chicken and biscuits give you a taste of nostalgia. They mix creamy flavors with a crispy texture. This makes them a favorite comfort food that feels like home.
What are the origins of chicken and biscuits?
In the Southern United States, chicken and biscuits became a family favorite. It’s known for its tender chicken and soft, flaky biscuits. This hearty meal was perfect for feeding big families.
What are the main ingredients needed for chicken and biscuits?
To make chicken and biscuits, you’ll need chicken breasts and veggies. You also need milk, flour, and fresh thyme for the sauce. For the biscuits, use the right flour and buttermilk. This gives them a flaky texture.
Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen veggies to make this recipe easier. They keep the nutrition high without a lot of prep work.
How do I achieve the perfect flaky biscuit?
Use the right flour and buttermilk for your biscuits. All-purpose flour gives them structure. Buttermilk makes them light and airy. Mix the dough gently and shape it carefully.
How should I cook the chicken for the filling?
You can cook the chicken by boiling, baking, or using an Instant Pot. These methods cook the chicken just right. It will be juicy when you add it to the filling.
What is the best way to bake the casserole?
Make sure your oven is at the right temperature. Bake until the chicken and biscuits are golden. This makes a perfect, satisfying dish.
What are some optional ingredients I can add to enhance the dish?
To make the dish richer, add mushrooms, cheese, and herbs. This lets you customize the recipe to your liking.
How can I store and reheat leftovers?
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in airtight containers in the fridge. You can also freeze the dish for later. Thaw in the fridge and reheat to enjoy again.
Are there any nutritional benefits to chicken and biscuits?
This meal is packed with protein and fiber. Using healthy ingredients like nonfat milk and whole-grain flour makes it even better for you.
What equipment do I need to make chicken and biscuits?
You’ll need a good baking dish and tools like a whisk and a box grater. An oven thermometer helps with accurate cooking too.
Can I prepare any components of the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling and the biscuit dough ahead. This saves time when you’re ready to cook. Just chill them until you’re set to bake.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making this recipe?
Don’t overcook the chicken; it might get dry. And make sure to mix the biscuit dough enough. This helps it bake evenly and be flaky.
How can I vary the chicken and biscuits recipe to suit different dietary preferences?
To make it vegetarian, use more vegetables or legumes. You can also switch chicken for turkey. This adds a tasty twist to the dish.
What are some good side dishes and beverages to serve with chicken and biscuits?
Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup. Iced tea, lemonade, or red wine goes well with the meal too.
How can I join the community of cooks who enjoy this recipe?
Share your own recipe twists and try others’ variations. Leaving reviews helps everyone enjoy this comfort food more. It’s all about enhancing the love for classic cooking.