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A Southern Soul: Easy Recipes & Stressfree Entertaining Ideas

I’m Donya, the life behind A Southern Soul. I share recipes that are easy to make and full of flavor using simple ingredients. You'll find meal plans for family dinners along with inspiration for entertaining.

Featured Post

Southern Meal Planning—So Much Better Than Take-Out

Hey Reader! Having to switch back to work/school/reality mode after holiday season can feel like a massive effort. A couple weeks ago you were living off of Christmas cookies, gifted toffee, and leftover ham and now you have to cook and eat like a civilized person? I'm here to help with easy meals that you can throw in a crock pot or are easy to prep, will stay fresh for days, and reheat beautifully! Cook Once, Eat Well All Week Grilled Lemon Chicken This flavorful chicken can be used as a...

Big Pigs In A Blanket

Hello Reader! If you need one fun, easy-to-make, and gone-in-minutes snack… this is it: Big Pigs in a Blanket with puff pastry + smoked sausage. They’re flaky, warm, and a little “fancy” without being fussy—and every time I set out a tray, people go a little crazy for them (in the best way). Add a bowl of mustard for dippin,g and you’re set! Big Pigs In A Blanket Try This Recipe Pin for Later Need fast weeknight wins? I’m sharing my go-to 30-minute dinner ideas, a simple dinner formula, and...

Hey Reader! This buffalo chicken, y’all, it’s just way too easy, delicious, AND versatile. Pile it onto fresh buns with coleslaw, make flatbread pizzas, a melty game day dip, add it to salads or nachos, and it's incredible on a loaded baked potato! With just five ingredients and your slow cooker doing all the work, this recipe will make you look like a culinary rock star. 5-Ingredient Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Try This Recipe Pin for Later Ways to Use Buffalo Chicken Buffalo Chicken Flatbread...

Hey Reader! These recipes offer beyond-delicious ways to get more protein into your diet. From high-protein stew, to salmon dinners and easy chicken ideas, there's something for everyone. You simply can't go wrong with these scrumptious recipes that are full of protein and flavor. Easy, Filling, and Delish Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Simple to make, with a creamy, cheesy topping that gives juicy, tender chicken a flavor boost that’s hard to beat. Try This Recipe Pin for Later Pecan Crusted...

Hey Reader, This week we are making fall-off-the-bone tender crock pot lemon chicken, cheesy scalloped potatoes, green bean salad, and lemon pound cake for dessert. And The Weekend Spread, to help you relax with friends and family, featuring: maple cinnamon baked oatmeal, roasted cabbage soup with homemade beer bread, and whipped ranch dip! Get This Meal Plan! Pin for Later On the Menu: • Main: Crock Pot Lemon Chicken - Flavored with garlic, lemon, and thyme, this chicken is succulent, juicy,...

Skillet Chicken Spaghetti

Hello Reader! If you want a cozy dinner tonight but don’t want a project, make my Skillet Chicken Spaghetti. Tender chicken + spaghetti + a rich tomato sauce, all in one pan… finished with bubbly Parmesan under the broiler. Why it works One skillet = easy cleanup Quick sauce that tastes “slow-simmered” Cheesy broiler finish (the best part) Skillet Chicken Spaghetti (One-Pan, Cast Iron Dinner) Make This Recipe Pin for Later What to Serve With This For a weeknight meal, I keep things pretty...

Top recipes for 2025

Hello Reader! I love a new year—but not the kind that demands a full personality change by Monday. The fresh start I want is quieter than that: a kitchen that feels steady, meals that use what’s in season, and a rhythm that makes home feel warm and fits real life. So here’s what I’m focusing on right now: easy seasonal recipes, effortless hosting, and a routine with clear direction—the kind that supports your life instead of taking it over. Seasonal Cooking That Feels Easy (Not Fussy) One of...

Hey Reader! I am a big fan of the crockpot for a few reasons, but the main one is that it does all the work for me when I’m short on time. When the busyness of life keeps us running from one thing to another, I know I can count on my slow cooker to help me get a delicious dish on the table for my family. Slow and Steady Wins the Meal Crock Pot Chicken Thighs This chicken comes out tender, juicy, and ready for anything from meal prep bowls to a comforting Sunday supper. Try This Recipe Pin for...

Hey Reader! When you think of traditional Southern food, you probably think of fried chicken, cornbread, sausage gravy, and barbecue. However, these rich and indulgent dishes are traditionally enjoyed only on occasion. True Southern food is healthier than you might think. We love fresh, seasonal produce, lean meats, and beans—which are not only high in fiber and protein, they're also inexpensive and filling! If you've made a resolution to eat a little healthier this year, you don't have to...

Hey Reader! My recipe for Collard Greens is simple to make, big on flavor, and perfect for comfort food lovers! With smoky bacon drippings, a touch of sweetness, and just the right amount of spice, this easy Southern staple will become a side dish you’ll become obsessed with. Irresistible Collard Greens Try This Recipe Pin for Later What to Serve With Greens Oven Fried Chicken Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes Green Chili Cheese Cornbread Crock Pot Hawaiian Meatballs — great for parties or weeknight...