Southern-inspired bento box with fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens

This Simply Southern Bento Box takes inspiration from traditional Southern cuisine and combines classic comfort foods into a delicious and convenient meal. It features crispy fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and flavorful collard greens. The bento box format allows for easy portion control and a fun way to enjoy a taste of the South.

Ingredients

• 4 pieces of chicken (legs or breasts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chopped collard greens
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to make the breading for the chicken.
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, then coat it with the seasoned flour mixture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
4. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in the milk. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
7. In another skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the skillet.
8. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
9. Stir in the chopped collard greens, chicken broth, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the greens are tender.
10. To assemble the bento box, divide the fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens into separate compartments. Sprinkle the cooked bacon on top of the greens for added flavor and crunch.
11. Serve the Simply Southern Bento Box warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!

Interesting Facts