Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits

Name: Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup grits; 4 cups water or chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

Savor the comforting blend of shredded barbecue chicken over creamy grits in this delightful dish.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T23:26:27.929Z

This dish combines the smoky flavors of barbecue chicken with the creamy texture of grits, creating a meal that is both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy barbecue chicken that is full of flavor
Creamy, rich grits complementing the chicken perfectly
Easy to make and great for meal prep

      

A Comforting Classic

Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits is a dish that brings the best of Southern comfort food right to your table. The combination of tender, juicy chicken coated in smoky barbecue sauce over a bed of creamy grits creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. This meal is not only satisfying but also evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of family gatherings and backyard barbecues.

The creamy grits serve as the perfect canvas for the robust barbecue chicken. Their smooth and rich consistency complements the chicken's flavor, making each bite an experience to savor. Whether you're serving it for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the great advantages of this recipe is its adaptability for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch of shredded barbecue chicken and grits, portion them out, and store them in the fridge or freezer. This way, you have a quick and delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it, saving you time and effort during busy weekdays.

To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to the grits to restore their creamy texture. This dish not only tastes fantastic but also makes your life easier, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.

Customization Options

One of the best parts about Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits is how easily you can customize it to suit your tastes. Consider adding your favorite spices or herbs to the chicken for an extra flavor boost. You can also experiment with different types of barbecue sauce, ranging from sweet to spicy, to find the perfect balance for your palate.

For the grits, feel free to mix in other ingredients like sautéed vegetables, crispy bacon, or different types of cheese. This flexibility allows you to create a dish that reflects your personal preferences and dietary needs, making it a family favorite that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Barbecue Chicken

2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Grits

1 cup grits
4 cups water or chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste

Adjust the seasonings to your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Barbecue Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for about 10 minutes, until heated through.

Cook the Grits

In a pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and stir occasionally. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, until thickened.

Add Cheese and Cream

Once the grits are cooked, stir in shredded cheese and heavy cream. Mix well until creamy and smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

In bowls, spoon the creamy grits and top with the shredded barbecue chicken. Enjoy your meal!

Feel free to garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro!

Tips for Perfect Grits

To achieve the perfect creamy grits, it's essential to stir them regularly while cooking. This helps prevent lumps and ensures an even texture. Use a whisk for best results, and don’t rush the cooking process; letting the grits cook slowly will enhance their creaminess.

Also, consider using chicken broth instead of water for cooking the grits. This small change will add an extra layer of flavor that complements the barbecue chicken beautifully. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go for the best outcome.

Serving Suggestions

Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits can be served as a main course, but they also make a fantastic side dish. Pair them with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. For added flair, top with green onions, cilantro, or a drizzle of extra barbecue sauce before serving.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving this dish as part of a buffet. Guests can customize their bowls with various toppings, turning it into an interactive dining experience that everyone will enjoy.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover Shredded Barbecue Chicken Grits, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for longer storage. When freezing, consider separating the chicken and grits to maintain their textures.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat the chicken and grits separately. Add a bit of water or broth to the grits while reheating to restore their creamy consistency, ensuring that your meal tastes just as good as when it was freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add some cayenne pepper to the grits or use a spicier barbecue sauce.

→ Can I make the grits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the grits in advance and reheat them with a little extra water or broth to loosen them up.

→ What kind of cheese is best for the grits?

Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack.