Fiery tailgating recipe: A game day take on a down-home favorite

This weekend’s football game between UGA and the University of South Carolina is sure to get heated. Not only is it usually one of the hottest games of the season, but the rivalry is also a fiery one.

The proximity of the two SEC Conference schools — and the typical strength of both teams — only add to the clash. USC’s mascot Cocky, a jersey-wearing fighting rooster, or Gamecock, is often an easy target for Georgia fans looking to poke some fun at the school’s nickname, “The Cocks.” Why not use this overdressed chicken to keep your tailgate and the rivalry extra spicy?

For your tailgate this weekend, try a twist on a popular, down-home favorite, known as Hot Chicken. Believed to have been cooked up in southern eateries since the 1970’s, this version of fried chicken is a must-try.

What makes this chicken so different from your average fried version? Most people say it’s the spicy paste rubbed into the meat before it’s fried. One of the main components of this paste is Cayenne Pepper, which lends a distinct taste that can be found in most versions, as does the side of pickle relish that often accompanies the meal.

For tailgating at this weekend’s Georgia/South Carolina match-up, try this twist on the classic Hot Chicken Dip. While inviting opposing team fans to your tailgate is encouraged (something about keeping your enemies closer), it’s best not to let them get too comfortable — this dip is pretty spicy! The shopping list comes in right under $20 (with a Kroger Plus Card) and makes 8 cups of dip — just enough to share with those Gamecocks you befriend before the game — if you want…

Shopping List:
1. Kroger Savory rotisserie chicken – yields about four cups of shredded chicken
2. Two packages (8oz) of Kroger Brand cream cheese
3. 3/4 cup Frank’s® RedHot® Cayenne Pepper Sauce
4. One cup Kroger Brand Ranch Dressing
5. One cup Kroger Brand shredded Taco & Nacho cheese
6. One bag of LAY’S® Dill Pickle Flavored Potato Chips
7. One bag of Ritz® Toasted Chips Original

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Pull white and dark meat from rotisserie chicken.

Combine chicken, cream cheese, hot sauce, ranch, and cheese in a large bowl.

Spoon mixture into a two-quart baking dish.

Bake 35 minutes or until dip is heated all the way through.

Garnish with a layer of crushed LAY’S® Dill Pickle Flavored Potato Chips.

Serve with Ritz® Toasted Chips Original

For easy transport to the game, try a Pyrex® 11-Cup Storage Dish. You can use this dish in the oven, pop on the matching lid, and keep your dip warm on the way to Athens!