Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken Recipe

The Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken Recipe is a delightful dish that brings home the flavors of the South right to your dinner table. With its savory spice blend, tender chicken, and the tangy kick from pepperoncini, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Picture perfectly baked chicken that practically falls off the bone while being soaked in just the right amount of zesty goodness.

What is Mississippi Chicken?

Mississippi chicken is a flavorful Southern dish known for its simplicity and extraordinary taste. Typically made with chicken thighs or breasts, it features a few key ingredients that enhance its flavor without overwhelming your taste buds. This dish is celebrated for its gooey yet deliciously tangy sauce that comes from combining butter and pepperoncini peppers.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Easy Preparation: Whipping this meal up takes just a few minutes of your time.
  • Rich Flavor: A zesty blend of spices and ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste.
  • Minimal Cleanup: With just one baking dish, you won’t find yourself with a mountain of dishes to wash.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for gatherings or family dinners, and everyone will love it.

Ingredients for Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken Recipe

  • Chicken:
    • 4 Bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on for extra flavor and moisture)
    • 4 Chicken breasts (to serve more people)
  • Seasonings:
    • 1 packet ranch seasoning (provides a creamy base)
    • 1 packet Au Jus mix (adds rich flavor)
  • Other Essentials:
  • 1/2 cup butter (for that delicious richness)
  • 1 jar pepperoncini peppers (about 4-6 whole peppers, depending on your spice level)
  • Optional Add-ins:
    • Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for garnish
    • Cooked rice or mashed potatoes (to serve alongside the chicken)
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How to Make Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create a memorable meal:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F. Getting this right ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
  2. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Pat the chicken dry using paper towels.
    • Place them in a greased baking dish, making sure not to overcrowd them.
  3. Season the Chicken:
  • Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over the chicken.
  • Follow with the Au Jus mix, ensuring all pieces are coated well.
  1. Add Butter and Peppers:
    • Slice the butter into smaller pieces and scatter them over the chicken.
    • Pour about half the jar of pepperoncini peppers over everything. Feel free to add some of the pepper juice for an extra kick!
  2. Bake the Chicken:
    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-60 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  3. Let it Rest: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
  1. Serve:
    • Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color.
    • Serve it on a bed of rice or alongside some creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips for the Best Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better your chicken and spices, the tastier your dish will be.
  • Adjust Spice Level: If you like things spicier, add more pepperoncini or a splash of hot sauce!
  • Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken in the ranch seasoning overnight. You’ll love the extra depth of flavor.

How to Serve Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken

This dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider these popular options:

  • Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even a herbed rice pilaf.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can soak up the flavorful sauce.
  • Salads: A light green salad is perfect to balance out the richness of the chicken.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or asparagus work beautifully alongside this entrée.
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Storage Tips for Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container. Here’s how:

  • Refrigeration: Keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to separate the chicken and sauce for better freezing.

To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use a microwave if you’re short on time.

Variations of Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken

Feel free to play around with this recipe. Here are some fun ideas:

  • One-Pot Meal: Add in some chopped potatoes or carrots to the same baking dish for a complete dinner in one pot.
  • Different Proteins: Use pork chops or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Spicy Twist: Use jalapeños instead of pepperoncini for a spicier take.

Nutritional Benefits of Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken

This dish is not just delicious but can also fit into a balanced diet:

  • Protein-Packed: Chicken provides high-quality protein essential for body repair and muscle building.
  • Low Carb: If you skip the rice and potatoes, this recipe is low in carbs, making it great for low-carb diets.
  • Versatile to Customize: Adjust portion sizes and sides to suit your nutritional preferences.

The Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken Recipe shines with its simple yet fantastic flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special family dinner. By following this easy recipe, you will create a dish packed with flavor that everyone will remember. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare for a home-cooked meal that brings the warmth of Southern cooking right to your kitchen. Happy cooking!

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