Oh, let me tell you about the joy of a classic soul food dinner plate! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, bringing together the rich traditions of Southern cooking that have been passed down through generations. I love how every component – from crispy fried chicken to savory collard greens – tells a story of comfort and community. Sharing these dishes with family and friends is what it’s all about. The smells wafting from the kitchen, the laughter around the table, and the satisfaction of indulging in hearty, flavorful food make every meal a delightful celebration of culture and togetherness. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like it!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create your classic soul food dinner plates. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering that authentic Southern flavor, so let’s dive in!
- Fried chicken – 4 pieces, seasoned and fried to golden perfection
- Collard greens – 1 pound, fresh and tender for that earthy taste
- Macaroni and cheese – 2 cups, creamy and cheesy for ultimate comfort
- Cornbread – 1 loaf, fluffy and slightly sweet to soak up all the deliciousness
- Black-eyed peas – 1 can, seasoned and heated for a hearty side
How to Prepare Classic Soul Food Dinner Plates
Now, let’s get into the fun part—preparing your classic soul food dinner plates! Each step is a part of creating this beautiful meal that warms the heart and soul. Follow along, and soon you’ll be savoring the flavors of the South!
Frying the Chicken
First things first, let’s fry that chicken! Heat up a large skillet with about an inch of oil over medium-high heat. You want that oil nice and hot, around 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Trust me, the smell will have everyone in the kitchen! Once done, place the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Yum!
Cooking Collard Greens
While the chicken is frying, let’s get those collard greens cooking! In a large pot, add about 4 cups of water and a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, toss in the collard greens and let them simmer for at least 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens! Feel free to add a splash of vinegar or a bit of sugar to balance the flavors. You want them tender and bursting with that Southern goodness.
Preparing Macaroni and Cheese
Next up, macaroni and cheese—because what’s a soul food plate without it? Start by boiling about 8 ounces of elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain it, and in the same pot, mix in your favorite cheese sauce (homemade or store-bought). I like to add a little extra cheese for creaminess! Stir until the pasta is completely coated and gooey. You’ll want to taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed—cheesy perfection!
Baking Cornbread
Now let’s get that cornbread ready! Preheat your oven according to the package directions, usually around 400°F (200°C). Mix the cornbread batter as instructed, and pour it into a greased baking dish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s golden on top and a toothpick comes out clean. The smell of baking cornbread is just heavenly, and it’ll perfectly complement your meal!
Heating Black-Eyed Peas
For the black-eyed peas, it’s super simple! Just open the can and drain them. Then, in a small saucepan, heat them on the stovetop over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You can add a little seasoning or even some chopped onion for extra flavor. These little guys are packed with goodness and make a great addition to your plate!
Serving the Dinner Plate
Finally, it’s time to plate everything up! Start with a generous piece of fried chicken, then add a scoop of collard greens, a big spoonful of macaroni and cheese, and a slice of cornbread. Don’t forget those black-eyed peas on the side! You can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a bit of hot sauce if you like a kick. Gather your family around the table, and get ready to dig in! Every bite is a taste of tradition and love.
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional info for these classic soul food dinner plates! Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on the ingredients we’re using. It’s always good to be mindful of what’s going into our bodies while still enjoying every bite of this delicious meal!
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 800
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 30g
So, whether you’re enjoying this meal for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner, know that it’s packed with flavor and heartiness! Balance it with some fresh veggies or a light salad if you’re looking to keep things a bit lighter. Happy eating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With all the components coming together in about an hour and a half, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table without spending all day in the kitchen!
- Traditional Flavors: This recipe is a celebration of classic Southern cooking, bringing those cherished flavors and aromas right to your home.
- Comfort Food Appeal: Each bite is like a warm embrace, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. It hits that spot for soul-soothing satisfaction.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a soul food dinner plate! It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for any occasion.
- Versatile Sides: Feel free to mix and match with your favorite Southern sides, adding your twist to this classic meal!
- Leftover Potential: The flavors only get better the next day, so you can enjoy this hearty meal again for lunch or dinner.
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your classic soul food dinner plates turn out absolutely perfect! These little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.
- Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! Seasoning is key in Southern cooking, so feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of cayenne for a kick. Your palate is the best guide!
- Fry Chicken in Batches: If you’re making more than four pieces of chicken, fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps them cook evenly and get that crispy skin we all love!
- Simmer Collard Greens Longer: For richer flavors, let your collard greens simmer a bit longer than 30 minutes if you have the time. The longer they cook, the more tender and flavorful they become.
- Macaroni and Cheese Creaminess: If you want even creamier mac and cheese, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when mixing in the cheese sauce. It makes the dish ultra-smooth and decadent!
- Check Cornbread Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cornbread around the 20-minute mark. You want it golden brown, but no one likes dry cornbread!
- Save Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover fried chicken, it’s fantastic for sandwiches or salads the next day! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Presentation Matters: When plating, don’t be afraid to get creative! A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the look and flavor of your dinner plate.
With these tips, you’re well on your way to serving up a plate of soul food that’s not only delicious but also made with love. Enjoy the process and the smiles around your table!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or want to mix things up a bit, here are some fun variations to put your own spin on these classic soul food dinner plates. The beauty of soul food is its adaptability, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
- Different Proteins: Switch out the fried chicken for some crispy fried catfish or even a succulent pork chop. You could also try grilled chicken for a lighter option that still packs a flavor punch!
- Vegetarian Delight: For a meatless version, consider using sautéed mushrooms or a hearty veggie burger in place of the chicken. You can also load up on more sides, like roasted sweet potatoes or a flavorful quinoa salad.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some spicy sausage to your collard greens or toss in some jalapeños to your macaroni and cheese. It’ll give your plate that extra zing!
- Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to incorporate seasonal vegetables into your meal. Think sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a delightful crunch alongside the traditional sides.
- Cheesy Macaroni: Experiment with different cheese blends for your macaroni and cheese! Try a mix of cheddar, gouda, and pepper jack for a rich and cheesy flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.
- Herbed Cornbread: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to your cornbread for an aromatic twist! It’s a simple change that elevates this classic side to new heights.
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to play around with flavors and ingredients to create a soul food dinner plate that’s uniquely yours. After all, cooking is all about joy and creativity!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve created this amazing classic soul food dinner plate, and now you have some leftovers? Don’t fret! Storing and reheating them correctly will keep those delicious flavors intact. Here’s how to do it!
First off, let your food cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation in your containers, which can make everything a bit soggy. Once cooled, transfer your leftovers into airtight containers. I like to separate each component if I can—this way, the cornbread won’t get mushy and the collard greens stay vibrant!
For the best taste, try to eat your leftovers within 3-4 days. Just label your containers with the date so you know when they’re due for a delicious reheat!
When it’s time to enjoy those tasty leftovers, there are a few reheating techniques that work beautifully:
- Fried Chicken: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This will help keep the skin crispy! You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option.
- Collard Greens: Heat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Reheat in the microwave, but add a tablespoon of milk to keep it creamy. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Cornbread: You can microwave slices for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to warm them up nicely.
- Black-Eyed Peas: Simply heat them in a small pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed up. You can add a bit of seasoning if they need a flavor boost!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your soul food dinner plates multiple times without losing that comforting goodness. Dig in and savor every moment!
Print
Classic Soul Food Dinner Plates: 5 Hearty Comfort Meals
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying and boiling
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic soul food dinner plate featuring traditional Southern dishes.
Ingredients
- Fried chicken – 4 pieces
- Collard greens – 1 pound
- Macaroni and cheese – 2 cups
- Cornbread – 1 loaf
- Black-eyed peas – 1 can
Instructions
- Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cook the collard greens in a pot with water and seasoning.
- Prepare macaroni and cheese by boiling pasta and mixing with cheese sauce.
- Bake cornbread according to package instructions.
- Heat black-eyed peas on the stovetop.
- Serve all dishes on a plate and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Cook collard greens for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
- Use leftover chicken for sandwiches.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 800
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: soul food, Southern cooking, dinner plates, classic recipes