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Southern Recipes and Soul Food

Category: Recipe

Chicken Katsu (Japanese Style Fried Chicken)
Crispy Chicken Katsu Recipe: A Southern Take on a Japanese Favorite

If you’ve been looking for a way to shake up your usual chicken dinner, this Chicken Katsu recipe is just the thing.

Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, it’s a simple dish that brings a little international flair right to your Southern kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests at a casual get-together, Chicken Katsu is a winning choice.

What is Chicken Katsu?

Chicken Katsu is a popular Japanese dish made of breaded, pan-fried chicken cutlets.

The outside is beautifully crisp thanks to panko bread crumbs, while the inside stays juicy and tender.

Think of it like an elevated chicken cutlet with a satisfying crunch that everyone will love. And best of all?

It’s quick and easy — no complicated steps, no fancy tools. Just simple ingredients and good old-fashioned pan-frying.

Who is this recipe for?

This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks, parents feeding hungry kids, or anyone who wants a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also great for those who like to explore new flavors but appreciate recipes that feel familiar.

If you love crispy Southern-fried chicken, you’ll feel right at home making Chicken Katsu.

Hot Chicken Tenders

Chicken Nuggets

Country Fried Chicken

When and where to enjoy Chicken Katsu

Honestly, there’s never a wrong time for crispy chicken!

Serve it for a family dinner during the week, add it to your weekend lunch rotation, or even make it for casual entertaining.

It works well for indoor meals, backyard cookouts, or as a part of a game day spread.

You can even make it ahead and enjoy it for lunch the next day — just slice it and tuck it into a sandwich or over a salad.

Why you’ll love it

There are plenty of reasons to love Chicken Katsu. It’s affordable, cooks up fast, and delivers that irresistible crunch that feels like a treat every time.

Plus, you can pair it with just about anything — from a scoop of fluffy white rice to a simple Southern slaw.

If you’re feeling extra creative, drizzle a little tonkatsu sauce over the top or serve it alongside some spicy mayo for dipping.

How to serve it creatively
While Chicken Katsu is fantastic on its own, here are a few fun ways to enjoy it:
- Chicken Katsu Sandwich: Tuck slices into a soft bun with shredded lettuce and a drizzle of sauce.
- Southern Katsu Plate: Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a Southern-Japanese fusion.
- Rice Bowl: Lay crispy chicken over warm rice with steamed veggies and a splash of soy sauce.
- Salad Topper: Slice thinly and serve over a fresh garden salad with your favorite dressing.
- Party Bites: Cut into strips and serve with a variety of dipping sauces for an easy appetizer.
Chicken Katsu is proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated steps to create something crave-worthy.

Grab your frying pan and let’s get cooking — this dish might just become your new favorite way to enjoy chicken!

Chicken Katsu

Equipment:
- Frying pan
- Tongs
- Bowls/plates for breading station
- Prep: 5 min
- Cook: 10 min
- Total: 15 min
Ingredients:
- 1 skinless, boneless chicken breast, halved – pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
- salt and pepper to taste (about 1 tsp each)
- 1 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup oil for frying, or as needed (canola oil, vegetable oil or avocado oil)
Directions:

Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.

Place flour, beaten egg, and panko crumbs into separate shallow dishes.

Coat chicken breasts in flour.

Shake off any excess.

Dip into egg, and then press into panko crumbs until well coated on both sides.

Pan fry on medium heat until golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 4 min per side).

Note:

The length of time to cook the chicken may vary on the size of your cutlets. Chicken should reach an internal temp of at least 160 degrees.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Katsu

1. What is the difference between Chicken Katsu and fried chicken?
Chicken Katsu is a Japanese-style breaded chicken cutlet, typically coated in panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy texture. Unlike Southern fried chicken, which is often deep-fried with seasoned flour, Chicken Katsu uses a lighter coating and is usually pan-fried. It’s a bit thinner and cooks up quickly!

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and stay nice and juicy. Just make sure to flatten them out to an even thickness so they cook evenly.

3. What kind of oil is best for frying Chicken Katsu?
You want a neutral oil with a high smoke point. Vegetable oil, avocado oil, or canola oil all work well. Avoid strong-flavored oils like olive oil for this recipe.

4. Do I need a deep fryer to make Chicken Katsu?
Nope! A simple frying pan on your stovetop is all you need. Just heat enough oil to shallow fry, and you’re good to go.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to check with a meat thermometer — you want the internal temperature to reach at least 160°F. Also, the juices should run clear, and the breading should be golden and crispy.

6. Can I bake Chicken Katsu instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake it, but keep in mind the texture won’t be quite as crispy. To help with crispiness, spray the breaded chicken lightly with cooking oil and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

7. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Katsu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep it crispy!

8. Can I freeze Chicken Katsu?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked chicken on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed through and crispy again.

9. What are the best sauces to serve with Chicken Katsu?
Tonkatsu sauce is traditional and delicious. You can also try spicy mayo, sweet chili sauce, or even honey mustard for a Southern twist!

10. Can I make Chicken Katsu gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Many stores carry these options, so it’s an easy swap.
Chicken Katsu

Ingredients

1 skinless, boneless chicken breast, halved – pounded to 1/2 inch thickness

salt and pepper to taste (about 1 tsp each)

1 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 egg, beaten

1/4 cup panko bread crumbs

1 cup oil for frying, or as needed (canola oil, vegetable oil or avocado oil)

Instructions

Season chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
Place flour, beaten egg, and panko crumbs into separate shallow dishes.
Coat chicken breasts in flour.
shake off any excess.
dip into egg, and then press into panko crumbs until well coated on both sides.
Pan fry on medium heat until golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 4 min per side).
May 28, 2024
No Churn Dairy Free Strawberry Ice Cream
No Churn Dairy-Free Strawberry Ice Cream: A Sweet Treat for Every Occasion

When the southern heat creeps in, there’s nothing quite like a cold, creamy scoop of strawberry ice cream to cool you off.

But if you’re looking for a dairy-free option that doesn’t require a fancy ice cream maker, this No Churn Dairy-Free Strawberry Ice Cream is just what you need.

Simple, refreshing, and full of sweet strawberry flavor, it’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a homemade frozen treat without the fuss.

Who is this recipe for?

This one’s for everybody! Whether you’re dairy-free by choice or necessity, or you’re just craving an easy homemade dessert, this recipe is a winner.

It’s especially great for busy moms looking for a quick summer treat, anyone managing food sensitivities, or folks who love to make something from scratch without pulling out a bunch of equipment.

Kids love it too — and since it’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients, it feels good serving it up.

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What makes this ice cream special?

We’re talking no churn, no dairy, and no problem.

This strawberry ice cream is smooth, creamy, and full of real strawberry goodness, thanks to fresh berries and luscious coconut milk.

The sweetness is just right, and the hint of vanilla rounds it out for that old-fashioned ice cream parlor flavor, without stepping foot outside your kitchen.

Plus, you don’t need an ice cream machine — your blender and loaf pan do all the heavy lifting.

When should you make this recipe?

Anytime you want to celebrate the sweet side of life! This ice cream is perfect for warm-weather weekends, family cookouts, Fourth of July gatherings, or just a weekday pick-me-up.

It’s also a great make-ahead dessert — since it needs to freeze for several hours, you can prep it in the morning and have it ready by dinnertime.

It’s even lovely during the cooler months if you’re looking to brighten up your dessert table with a taste of summer.

Where does this recipe shine?

Serve it at your next backyard barbecue, family reunion, or summer picnic.

It’s the kind of treat that travels well in a cooler if you’re heading to the lake or enjoying a day at the beach.

You can even make it part of a special dessert bar at birthday parties or baby showers.

Set out bowls of toppings like dairy-free chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of dairy-free caramel for folks to customize their scoops.

Why you’ll love it

This recipe keeps things easy and stress-free, but still feels like a special indulgence.

There’s no need to run to the store for special equipment, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already.

It’s also a budget-friendly way to make a frozen dessert that fits a variety of dietary needs, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings of all kinds.

How to serve it (and have some fun with it!)

You can keep things classic and serve this ice cream in bowls or cones, but why stop there? Here are a few fun ways to enjoy it:
- Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches: Scoop some between two dairy-free sugar cookies for a homemade ice cream sandwich.
- Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae station with toppings like crushed nuts, fresh fruit, and dairy-free whipped cream.
- Fruity Float: Add a scoop to a glass of sparkling lemonade for a fruity, fizzy float.
- Ice Cream Pie: Press a dairy-free graham cracker crust into a pie pan, spread the softened ice cream inside, and freeze again for a simple ice cream pie.
No matter how you serve it, this No Churn Dairy-Free Strawberry Ice Cream brings a burst of berry flavor and creamy texture that’s hard to resist.

Go ahead and make a batch — your taste buds will thank you!

No Churn Dairy Free Strawberry Ice Cream
- Prep: 5 min
- Freeze: 6-8 hours
- Total: 6 hr 5 min
- Servings: 4-5
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (16 oz) strawberries
- 1 14 oz can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Directions:

Wash and hull strawberries.

Place strawberries, coconut milk, sugar and vanilla in a blender and puree until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.

Pour into loaf pan.

Freeze for at least 5 hours (for soft set) 6+ hours for a hard set.

If frozen over night let sit at room temperature before trying to scoop out.

Notes: You can use honey or agave to sweeten instead of granulated sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions about No Churn Dairy-Free Strawberry Ice Cream

1. Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?
Nope! That’s the beauty of this recipe — it’s completely no churn. All you need is a blender and a loaf pan. The blender does all the mixing, and the freezer does the rest of the work.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen strawberries work just fine. Just make sure they’re unsweetened, and you might want to let them thaw slightly for easier blending.

3. How long does the ice cream need to freeze?
For a soft-set texture, freeze for about 5 hours. For a firmer, scoopable ice cream, let it freeze for 6 to 8 hours, or even overnight. If it’s frozen solid, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

4. Can I swap the sugar for something else?
Definitely. You can use honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener, or your favorite sugar substitute to suit your dietary preferences.

5. Does the ice cream taste like coconut?
The coconut milk gives it a creamy texture, but the strawberry flavor really shines through. If you’re sensitive to coconut flavor, you’ll still likely enjoy this — the vanilla and berries balance it out nicely.

6. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. To prevent ice crystals, you can place a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing.

7. Can I add mix-ins to this ice cream?
Absolutely! Try folding in dairy-free chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or even chopped nuts before freezing for extra flavor and texture.

8. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, as long as you use a plant-based sweetener like sugar or agave (skip honey if you’re keeping it vegan), this recipe is completely vegan-friendly.

9. Can I use light coconut milk?
For best results, stick with full-fat coconut milk. It gives the ice cream that rich, creamy texture. Light coconut milk will make the ice cream more icy and less creamy.

10. What’s the best way to serve this ice cream for a party?
If you’re serving at a gathering, scoop the ice cream into individual cups ahead of time and freeze them until ready to serve. Or set up a DIY sundae bar with fun toppings so everyone can customize their treat!
No Churn Dairy Free Strawberry Ice Cream

Ingredients

1 pound (16 oz) strawberries

1 14 oz can full-fat coconut milk

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tbsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Wash and hull strawberries.
Place strawberries, coconut milk, sugar and vanilla in a blender and puree until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Pour into loaf pan.
Freeze for at least 5 hours (for soft set) 6+ hours for a hard set.
If frozen over night let sit at room temperature before trying to scoop out.
May 28, 2024
Mongolian Beef
Mongolian Beef

Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Measuring spoons
Prep: 7-10 mins

Cook time: 10 mins

Total: 20 mins

Yield: 3-4 servings

Ingredients:
- 2 New York Strip Steaks, sliced, thin
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Green onion to garnish
Instructions:

Slice the steak into strips.

Season meat with salt and pepper.

Add in the cornstarch and toss meat to fully coat.

Place 2 tsp of oil in a pan over medium high heat.

Once heated, add in garlic and minced ginger, sauté to toast for 1 min.

Add in soy sauce, water and brown sugar.

Bring to a boil then remove from heat, pour into a glass measuring cup.

Add another 2 tbsp oil to the pan.

Toss in the coated meat and sear on all side (about 5 mins total).

Once browned, add the sauce back in.

Once it comes to a boil, it will begin to thicken.

Cook for 2-3 mins until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Serve over steamed rice.
May 27, 2024
Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
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Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Equipment
- Slow cooker
Prep time: 5 min

Cook time: 2.5 hours on high

Total: 2.5-3 hours

Yield: 4-5 servings

Ingredients:
- 1 large chicken breast, cubed
- 5 medium sized gold potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¼ cup Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce (or make your own)
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (any kind)
Instructions:

Spray the inside of your crockpot with nonstick, olive oil, or a liner.

Wash the potatoes then cube and add to the slow cooker.

Drizzle olive oil on the potatoes.

Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning and paprika.

Toss to coat.

Cut the chicken into cubes and lay on top of the potatoes.

Season chicken with salt and pepper (and any other seasonings you’d like)

Top with garlic parmesan sauce.

Cook on HIGH for 2.5-3 hrs. (5.5-6 on low) or until potatoes are tender.

Stir everything well.

Top with shredded cheese and cover for 5-10 mins until melted!

Serve and enjoy!
May 27, 2024
Quick & Easy Cheese Danish
Easy Cheese Danish with Puff Pastry: A Southern Favorite for Busy Mornings

If you’re looking for a simple breakfast idea that feels a little special without taking all morning to pull together, this easy cheese Danish with puff pastry is a good one to keep in your back pocket.

It uses just a few ingredients, comes together quickly, and bakes in about 15 minutes.

Whether you’re hosting weekend guests, need a last-minute brunch idea, or just want something different to go with your coffee, this recipe delivers without the fuss.

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What Makes This Cheese Danish So Easy

This isn’t your typical scratch-made Danish that takes hours of kneading, rising, and folding.

Using store-bought puff pastry and no bake cheesecake filling saves a lot of time but still gives you that flaky, creamy result.

This shortcut version is easy to assemble and doesn’t require any fancy tools—just a knife or pizza cutter and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

When to Make This Simple Cheese Danish Recipe

This is one of those go-to breakfast or brunch recipes that works year-round. It’s perfect when you need something quick and homemade for:
- Holiday mornings like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas
- Weekend breakfast with the family
- Mother’s Day or Father’s Day brunch
- A sweet treat for a church gathering or potluck
- A quick make-ahead pastry to grab on busy weekdays
The prep time is less than 10 minutes, so it works even when you don’t have much time to spare.

Where to Serve These Easy Puff Pastry Cheese Danishes

These little squares of goodness work just as well on a breakfast tray at home as they do at a baby shower or brunch buffet.

They travel well once cooled, and you can stack them up on a plate for serving at a gathering or pack them into a box for a neighbor or friend.

If you’re heading to a morning meeting or dropping off something sweet at school, this is a no-mess option that’s still homemade.

Why This Cheese Danish Recipe Works for So Many Occasions

With only three main ingredients—puff pastry, no bake cheesecake filling, and optional fruit preserves—you can make these anytime with what you already have in the fridge.

They’re a great way to use up leftover preserves or fruit spreads. You can even change up the flavors depending on the season: blueberry or strawberry in the spring, apple butter or fig jam in the fall.

The flavor is classic, the texture is crisp and creamy, and the portion size makes it easy to serve a crowd. You can even double the batch if you’re expecting guests.

How to Customize This Easy Puff Pastry Cheese Danish

There’s plenty of room to make this recipe your own. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Add a spoonful of your favorite jam or preserves on top before baking for a fruit-filled Danish
- Drizzle with a powdered sugar glaze after baking for a more traditional bakery-style finish
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for a little extra warmth
- Try different fillings like lemon curd, Nutella, or sweetened ricotta
- Add fresh berries or sliced peaches after baking for a summer twist
You can also make these danishes smaller or larger depending on the occasion, and they still bake up beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips for Easy Puff Pastry Cheese Danishes

If you want to prep these the night before, you can cut and score the puff pastry, store it flat between parchment sheets, and add the filling right before baking.

They’re best served warm the day of, but they’ll still taste great cooled and can be stored in the fridge for a day or two.

Great for Beginners and Busy Cooks Alike

If you’re new to baking or just short on time, this cheese Danish recipe with puff pastry is a solid one to start with.

There’s no yeast to worry about, no complicated steps, and cleanup is minimal. It’s a good way to impress without overthinking it.

Whether you’re making breakfast for your family, bringing something to a brunch, or just want a quick pastry to enjoy with your morning coffee, this southern-style cheese Danish keeps things easy and tasty.

Quick & Easy Cheese Danish

Equipment:
- 2 Parchment lined sheet pans
- Knife or Pizza Cutter
- Prep: 5-7 min
- Bake: 15 mins
- Total: 20 min
- Yield: 9 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 package puff pastry dough
- 2 cup no bake cheesecake
- 1 cup fruit preserves, optional
Directions:

Preheat oven to 375.

Carefully roll out the puff pastry dough.

Cut horizontally in thirds.

Cut vertically in thirds.

Score a square in the dough about ¼ in from the outside. Do not cut all the way through.

Use a fork and poke holes in the dough inside the scored area.

Add a heaping spoonful or two of the no bake cheesecake.

Spread inside of the scored square.

Add preserves (optional).

Brush with egg wash (optional) if you prefer a more golden crust.

Bake for 15 mins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Puff Pastry Cheese Danish

Can I make cheese Danish with puff pastry ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the puff pastry and filling the night before. Keep the puff pastry cut and scored, then store flat between parchment sheets in the fridge. Add the filling just before baking for the best texture.

What kind of cheese is used in an easy cheese Danish recipe?
This recipe uses a no bake cheesecake filling, which is typically made with cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla. It’s smooth, sweet, and creamy—perfect for danishes.

Can I use crescent roll dough instead of puff pastry for cheese Danish?
Yes, you can substitute crescent roll dough if that’s what you have on hand. The texture will be slightly different—less flaky than puff pastry—but it will still taste great and bake up nicely.

How do I keep my puff pastry cheese Danish from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy bottoms, be sure to poke holes in the center of the puff pastry square with a fork before adding the filling. This helps steam escape during baking. Baking directly on parchment paper also helps with crispness.

What fruit preserves go best with cheese Danish made from puff pastry?
Strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, and apricot preserves all work well. Choose your favorite or use what you have on hand. You can also skip the fruit for a classic cheese danish flavor.

How long does puff pastry cheese Danish last?
These danishes are best enjoyed the day they’re made, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them back up.

Can I freeze cheese Danish made with puff pastry?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Let them cool completely, wrap in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Do I need to use egg wash on puff pastry cheese Danish?
Egg wash is optional, but it gives the edges of the pastry a golden, glossy finish. If you skip it, your Danish will still bake just fine—just with a lighter color.

What’s the best way to serve a homemade puff pastry cheese Danish?
Serve warm with a cup of coffee, tea, or as part of a brunch spread. They also make a great sweet option for baby showers, holiday breakfasts, or a treat for guests.

Can I use flavored cream cheese in this cheese Danish recipe?
Yes, flavored cream cheese like strawberry or honey walnut can be used to add variety to the Danish. Just make sure it’s spreadable and not too thick.
Cheese Danish

Ingredients

1 package puff pastry dough

2 cup no bake cheesecake

1 cup fruit preserves, optional

Instructions

Carefully roll out the puff pastry dough.
Cut horizontally in thirds.
Cut vertically in thirds.
Score a square in the dough about ¼ in from the outside.
Do not cut all the way through.
Use a fork and poke holes in the dough inside the scored area.
Add a heaping spoonful or two of the no bake cheesecake.
Spread inside of the scored square.
Add preserves (optional).
Brush with egg wash (optional) if you prefer a more golden crust.
Bake for 15 mins.
May 27, 2024