Grilled Mississippi Chicken

This Grilled Mississippi Chicken recipe makes the most flavorful and juicy grilled chicken ever! With just 5-ingredients, achieve the same tangy, savory flavors in a Mississippi pot roast but infused into delicious grilled chicken!

Do you love the tangy, succulent and savory flavors of a melt-in-your mouth Mississippi pot roast? Same! But I’m not always in the mood for beef -so today, I’m sharing how to make grilled chicken loaded with that same incredible flavor.

Why does pepperoncini marinade work so well?

Pepperoncini’s are mild, slightly sweet, and tangy peppers. They are great in marinades for dishes like Mississippi pot roast and grilled chicken because their acidity tenderizes the meat, allowing it to absorb flavors better. This makes the meat tastier and more tender, with a unique tangy and spicy kick. For this recipe you’ll use both the peppers themselves AND the juice they come in for the best flavor.

📝 Ingredients & Substitions

To make Mississippi grilled chicken inspired by traditional Mississippi pot roast ingredients you’ll need:

• Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless) – You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
• Ranch Dressing (or dried ranch seasoning) – adds zesty flavor.
• Au Jus Seasoning Packet – adds flavor forward, rich, savory taste. For paleo or Whole30 option, use plain coconut aminos.
• Pepperoncini Peppers and Juice (from jar) – adds tang and texture.

📖 How to Make Mississippi Chicken on the Grill

Follow these easy-to-follow steps to make Mississippi chicken on the grill.

1️⃣ Prep chicken breast: With a sharp knife, trim any excess fat from the chicken. Filet or pound out into 1/2″ thickness.

2️⃣ Make the Mississippi chicken marinade: In a large resealable bag, add chicken, ranch dressing, au jus packet, pepperoncini peppers and the juice. Toss around in the bag to coat and then marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours).

3️⃣ Let chicken sit at room temperature: Before grilling, let the marinated chicken sit out at room temperature to take some of the chill off and promote even cooking.

4️⃣ Preheat gas grill: Meanwhile, preheat grill between 350 and 400 degrees. While the grill preheats, let the bag of chicken rest at room temperature.

5️⃣ Grill chicken: With tongs, remove marinated chicken from the bag, shake off an excess and transfer directly to preheated grill. Grill for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

6️⃣ Let chicken rest and serve: Remove chicken from heat and transfer to a cutting board. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing (or serving whole) and serving. Enjoy.

🔥Oven Baked Mississippi Chicken

No grill! No problem! Bake marinated Missisippi chicken in the oven easily.

1. Place a few pepperoncini peppers around the chicken and pour some of the pepperoncini juice over the top.
2. Dot the chicken with slices of butter.
3. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to brown the top slightly.
5. Let it rest before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

👩🏻‍🍳 Chef’s Tips

• Be sure to cut chicken into equal sizes and shapes or pound the breasts out to a 1/2″ thickness.
• You should definitely let the chicken marinate for at least a half hour. For the best flavor, marinate chicken overnight.

🍽️ What goes good with Mississippi Chicken?

This grilled chicken is a flavorful main protein. It is delicious served as a grilled chicken sandwich, in a wrap, over a salad or with the following healthy sides:

• Sous Vide Mashed Potatoes
• Sauteed Mushrooms & Peas
• Instant Pot Collard Greens with Black-eyed Peas
• Cucumber Dill Salad
• Easy Grilled Zucchini
  Grilled Potato Salad

🍎 Paleo & Whole30 Mississippi Chicken

With these simple swaps, this Mississippi chicken can be made paleo and Whole30 compliant.

• Coconut Aminos 🔀 instead of au jus seasoning packet.
• Pepperoncini Peppers – Double check the ingredients and be sure to use a brand that is compliant.
• Ranch Dressing 🔀 Make homemade ranch seasoning mix or use your favorite store-bought Whole30 approved dressing or seasoning packet.

♻️ Storing & Freezing

Storing: Let chicken cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

Freezing Marinated Chicken: To freeze marinated chicken, add prepped chicken and remaining ingredients to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Press out as much air as possible, seal and gently toss the bag around to coat the chicken in marinade. Store in freezer for 6 to 8 weeks. Thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours before grilling or baking.

❔FAQ