Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits

Highlighted under: Cozy Classics

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits, a dish that combines tender shredded chicken in a savory barbecue sauce served over creamy, cheesy grits.

Lara

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2025-12-24T21:55:27.500Z

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of smoky barbecue chicken and creamy grits is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich barbecue flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy grits
  • Comforting and filling, perfect for any meal
  • Easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option

A Comforting Classic

Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits is a delightful blend of southern comfort food that captures the essence of home cooking. The combination of tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich barbecue sauce served over a bed of creamy, cheesy grits is a match made in culinary heaven. This dish is not only satisfying but also brings warmth to your dining table, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

The creamy texture of the grits complements the bold flavors of the barbecue chicken, creating a dish that is both hearty and delicious. Each spoonful offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, ensuring that every bite is enjoyable. Whether you're a barbecue lover or a grits enthusiast, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits is its versatility. This dish can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, catering to any meal occasion. Imagine starting your day with a warm bowl of cheesy grits topped with savory barbecue chicken, or serving it as a comforting dinner option that will please everyone at the table. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.

Additionally, this recipe is a fantastic way to feed a crowd. Scaling up the ingredients is simple, making it a go-to option for potlucks, family reunions, or game day gatherings. The ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

Customizable and Fun

Another highlight of this recipe is its customizability. Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or tangy flavors. You can also add in your favorite toppings like sliced green onions, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a kick. The possibilities are endless!

For those looking to make this dish even heartier, consider adding vegetables such as sautéed bell peppers or corn into the mix. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a splash of color and flavor to your plate. Making this dish your own is part of the fun!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Grits

  • 1 cup grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste

Make sure to use quality barbecue sauce for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.

Remove from the skillet and shred using two forks.

Prepare the Barbecue Sauce

In the same skillet, add the shredded chicken and pour in the barbecue sauce. Stir and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Cook the Grits

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, stir in the cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and season with salt to taste.

Serve

To serve, spoon the cheesy grits into bowls and top with the shredded barbecue chicken. Enjoy!

This dish can be customized with your favorite barbecue sauce or toppings.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy texture. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights.

For longer storage, you can freeze the barbecue chicken separately from the grits. The chicken can be frozen for up to three months, while the grits are best enjoyed fresh. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken and reheat it before serving it over freshly made grits.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits, consider pairing it with a light side salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, providing a delightful contrast. Additionally, cornbread is a classic Southern side that goes beautifully with this recipe.

For beverages, sweet tea or lemonade adds a refreshing touch, while a light white wine can elevate the meal for a more sophisticated dining experience. These pairings will enhance your meal and make it memorable for you and your guests.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with jackfruit cooked in barbecue sauce.

→ Can I make the grits in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the grits ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some coleslaw.

Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits, a dish that combines tender shredded chicken in a savory barbecue sauce served over creamy, cheesy grits.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Lara

Recipe Type: Cozy Classics

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chicken

  1. 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1 cup barbecue sauce
  3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  4. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

For the Grits

  1. 1 cup grits
  2. 4 cups chicken broth
  3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  4. 1/2 cup heavy cream
  5. Salt to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and shred using two forks.

Step 02

In the same skillet, add the shredded chicken and pour in the barbecue sauce. Stir and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Step 03

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, stir in the cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and season with salt to taste.

Step 04

To serve, spoon the cheesy grits into bowls and top with the shredded barbecue chicken. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 30g