Fryin’ chicken is a way of life down here and it’s a tradition us Southerners take very seriously. That certainly is the case with my family. I remember standing in the doorway to my Grandmother Paul’s kitchen, taking in that sizzlin’ goodness from a safe distance. See, I knew not to get too close or I’d likely get stung by snapping grease. Plus, my grandmomma was moving so fast I was afraid I might get trampled on. She was an expert fryer. She swiftly dipped pieces of the freshest chicken into flour and egg mixtures without spilling a drop—a skill that only comes with years of practice. Then I’d listen as the legs, breasts and thighs sizzled and popped as she carefully slid them down into in the hot oil. Funny I could hear anything over the growlin’ in my stomach.

Sure, Grandmother Paul must’ve had chicken in her blood, but I’ve always believed that the real secret to great tasting chicken begins with how the chicken is raised. My new friends at Springer Mountain Farms understand this too. Their chickens are raised to be 100% natural, which means no growth hormones or antibiotics. Y’all, their chicken not only tastes good, but it’s also good for your body and your conscience. As someone who adores birds (I have 15 of my own), this is very important to me. Their chickens live the life of Riley—they’re fed with a vegetarian diet full of natural vitamins, minerals and, of course, fresh mountain water. They eat better than most people! And don’t just take my word for it; Springer Mountain Farms raises the only poultry that is American Humane Certified by the American Humane Society.

I instantly connected with the folks at Springer Mountain Farms. Like most people nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Northeast Georgia, they’re real salt of the earth with strong values, which includes a real interest in the environment and maintaining strong ties with the local farming community. See, this family-owned business has been makin’ a clean living raising chickens for over 40 years and really live by their motto: “Great care, great taste.” For all these reasons, I’m excited to partner with Springer Mountain Farms.

The first time I tasted their chicken in one of my recipes, I thought I’d died and gone to heaven. And I just know you’ll love it too, which is why I’m sharing some of my most favorite chicken recipes here. If you’re from the South, these mouthwaterin’ dishes will make you feel like you’ve come home to your momma’s house. If you’re not from ‘round here, you’ll see what you’ve been missing!

Southern Fried Chicken
Chicken Divan
Sweet Chicken Bacon Wraps
Chicken Georgia
Chicken and Dumplings

Y’all there are just so many delicious chicken dishes—many of which are probably down-home family recipes. And I’d love to hear about yours!

But listen, y’all, I really do encourage you to try Springer Mountain Farms chicken in your best recipe and taste the magic. Click HERE to find a retailer near you. You might not always believe your eyes, but the stomach never lies—especially a Southern one!