Spicy Oven-Fried Chicken with Cheese Grits and Chorizo Reduction

Ingredients and Weight:

• Chicken Breasts: 8 pieces (about 2 pounds)
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Cheddar Cheese Grits: 1 box (9.7 oz)
• Chorizo Sausage: 1 link (about 4 oz)
• Butter: 3 tablespoons
• Milk: 1 cup
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 45 minutes
• Total: 75 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Dredge chicken breasts in the mixture.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare the cheese grits by combining the grits with butter and milk according to package directions. Set aside.
4. Slice the chorizo sausage into small pieces and fry in a small pan until cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool.
5. In a baking dish, place the chicken breasts and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the chicken is baking, reduce the chorizo pieces in a saucepan with a little water until it forms a thin sauce.
7. When the chicken is done, serve with cheese grits and chorizo reduction on top.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (based on 8 total servings)
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 32g

Dish Characteristics:

• Spicy and flavorful chicken with a creamy cheese grits base and a rich chorizo reduction sauce.
• The combination of spicy chicken and creamy cheese grits provides a unique and satisfying dining experience.

User Comments:

1. "The combination of flavors was outstanding! The spiciness of the chicken paired with the creamy cheese grits was delicious."
2. "The chorizo reduction sauce was an excellent addition, gave the dish a rich and savory flavor."
3. "I loved the crispy texture of the chicken paired with the smooth cheese grits."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure safety.
• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your desired spice level.
• Use fresh ingredients for best results, especially the cheese grits as they can vary in flavor and texture.