Chicken Grits Recipe: Creamy Southern Comfort Food

I’m sharing my secret to making creamy Southern comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite. This chicken grits recipe serves 4-6 people and is perfect for a cozy dinner.

The combination of tender chicken, rich grits, and a creamy sauce creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be enjoying this comfort food classic in no time.

Ingredients for Chicken Grits

Simple, comforting ingredients come together for a creamy Southern classic that serves 4.

The grits matter here. Stone-ground gives that perfect texture—Bob’s Red Mill is a solid choice. Most grocery stores carry it, or you can grab it at Whole Foods. For the chicken, boneless breasts work best—just cut them into even bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. I usually buy chicken from Costco when I’m doing a big batch.

No heavy cream? Half-and-half is a decent substitute, though it’s not as rich. For an extra kick, add a splash of hot sauce (I like Frank’s RedHot). The cheddar can be sharp or mild—sharp gives more depth. If you’re out of cheddar, Gruyère or Parmesan works in a pinch. Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color on top.

This dish reheats beautifully—keeps for 3-4 days in the fridge. Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up again. I portion mine into containers so lunches are sorted for the week.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Grits

Here’s the method that delivers rich, comforting chicken grits with perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics

Start by dicing the 1 whole Onion and mincing the 3 cloves Garlic Cloves. I like to have these ready before I start cooking the chicken. Cut the 1.5 lb Chicken Breast into bite-sized pieces and season with 1 tsp Paprika, 1 tsp Salt, and 0.5 tsp Black Pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.

Heat 2 tbsp of the 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and foams, add the chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Make the Grits

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tbsp of Unsalted Butter. Once melted, add the diced Onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s translucent. Add the minced Garlic Cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

In a separate pot, bring the 4 cups Chicken Broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the 1 cup Stone-Ground Grits. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes until the grits are creamy and tender. If the grits become too thick, you can add a splash more Chicken Broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 3: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Once the grits are cooked, stir in the 1 cup Heavy Cream and 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be creamy and well combined.

Add the cooked chicken back into the grits mixture and stir to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional Salt and Black Pepper if needed. Transfer the chicken grits to serving bowls and garnish with 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the comforting, creamy goodness.

Perfect Pairings for chicken grits

Side Dish Suggestions

A simple green salad with light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken grits. I like to use arugula or mixed greens with a basic olive oil and lemon juice dressing. For something more substantial, garlic bread or crusty French bread works beautifully for sopping up the creamy sauce.

Beverage Pairings

Sweet tea is a classic Southern pairing that complements the dish’s comforting nature. For something different, a mimosa or Bloody Mary adds a brunch vibe. If you prefer coffee, a strong French press or espresso cuts through the richness nicely. In warmer weather, fresh-squeezed orange juice provides a bright, citrusy contrast.

Wine Options

A dry Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the creamy grits without overpowering them. For those who prefer red, a light Pinot Noir works well, especially if you’ve added some spice to your chicken. The crisp acidity helps balance the dish’s richness. 🍷

Additional Touches

For extra flavor, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped scallions on top before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish if it feels too heavy. If you’re feeling fancy, add some crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch that elevates the entire meal.

Regional Twists

To give your chicken grits a Lowcountry flair, add some sauteed shrimp or Andouille sausage to the mix. For a Charleston-style version, incorporate some smoked paprika into the chicken seasoning. These regional touches add depth while maintaining the comforting essence of the dish. 🌶️