Winner Winner Chicken Dinner Recipes

Directions to Follow

Marinate the Chicken: Rinse and pat the drumsticks dry. In a large bowl, marinate them in buttermilk, Chef Bae seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. For the best flavor, let them sit for at least one hour or overnight if you can.
Prepare the Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pan to 350°F while you prepare the coating.
Dredge the Chicken: In a separate bowl, combine flour and cornstarch. Dredge the marinated drumsticks in this mixture, pressing the flour into the chicken well to ensure a thick coating.
Fry the Drumsticks: Carefully fry the chicken, cooking in batches for 12–15 minutes. Turn them until golden brown and cooked through. After frying, let them drain on a rack or paper towels to keep them crispy.
Make the Mashed Potatoes: Boil peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash until smooth. Stir in warm milk, sour cream, and Chef Bae seasoning, and finish with chopped parsley for a creamy but not wet consistency.
Prepare the Buttery Corn: In a skillet, heat the corn and add butter along with Chef Bae seasoning. Toss until well-coated and cook just until the corn is tender and vibrant.
Bake the Cornbread: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease your baking dish, whisk together the dry ingredients, and then combine with whisked wet ingredients. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and set, allowing to cool slightly before slicing.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Now that your Winner Winner Chicken Dinner is ready, it’s time to serve! I suggest plating the crispy chicken drumsticks next to a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes. Add a side of buttery corn for a pop of color and flavor, and finish the plate with a warm slice of cornbread. Garnish with fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), make sure to store them correctly. Allow the chicken to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and cornbread—just ensure they are wrapped properly to avoid freezer burn. Reheat the chicken in an oven for best results, while the mashed potatoes can simply be reheated in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk.

Extra Advice for Success

Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least four hours, or ideally overnight.
Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature; if the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Whisking Cornbread: Don’t overmix the cornbread batter; just combine until you don’t see dry flour for the best texture.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with this dish. You could swap the standard corn for sautéed bell peppers for a slightly different twist or even add cheese to the cornbread for added flavor. For those who enjoy a kick, a pinch of cayenne can add a spicy touch to the seasoning blend.

FAQs

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The prep time is about 15-20 minutes, plus marinating time. Aim to marinate your chicken at least one hour ahead.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work perfectly, just adjust cooking times slightly as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.

How do I store and reheat leftovers safely?

Store leftover chicken and sides in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot, ensuring the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Embrace this Winner Winner Chicken Dinner recipe for your next family gathering or weeknight treat. You’ll not only enjoy a feast for the senses, but you’ll also create lasting memories around the dinner table.