“Sizzlin’ Southern Grill Dinner”

“Sizzlin’ Southern Grill Dinner”

Find a delicious and easy-to-make copycat Southern Grill Dinner recipe that captures the flavors of a Friday-night tailgate or secret restaurant hack.

🕒 Prep - 15 minutes, Cook - 30 minutes, Total - 45 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6
🔥 Difficulty: Easy
🌎 Cuisine: Southern American

Allergens

Dairy, Gluten (in mac & cheese)

Ingredients

  • 6 large bone
  • in, skin
  • on chicken thighs
  • 2 cups barbecue sauce (store
  • bought or homemade)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 cups cooked macaroni noodles
  • 4 cups chopped collard greens
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F).
  2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Grill the chicken thighs for 5 minutes per side or until cooked through. Brush generously with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. Remove from the grill and let rest.
  4. In a large pot, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped collard greens and cook for 10 12 minutes until tender.
  5. In a separate pot, mix cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese over low heat until fully combined and smooth. Stir in cooked macaroni noodles to create creamy mac & cheese.
  6. To plate, place a bed of creamy mac & cheese on each of 6 plates, top with a grilled chicken thigh, and serve alongside the collard greens.

Chef’s Insight

The combination of flavors and textures in this Southern Grill Dinner will transport you to a tailgate party or backyard BBQ, bringing joyful memories to life with each bite.

Notes

The barbecue sauce can be homemade or store-bought, depending on your preference.

Cultural or Historical Background

Barbecue culture is deeply rooted in the American South, where grilling and smoking techniques are passed down through generations. This dish pays homage to that rich tradition while adding a modern twist.