Ep 6. Chicken and Biscuits

In season 20, episode 6 of America's Test Kitchen, the focus is on everyone's favorite comfort food: Chicken and Biscuits. The hosts start by making a classic version of the dish with tender, juicy chicken, creamy gravy, and flaky biscuits. But they don't stop there – they also experiment with some unexpected twists on this classic combination.

In the first test kitchen segment, the hosts explore the best way to cook the chicken for their chicken and biscuits recipe. They try a variety of methods, including pan-searing, oven-roasting, and poaching. After a taste test, they determine which method produces the most tender and flavorful chicken, and use that technique in their final recipe.

Next up, the hosts tackle the biscuits. They share their secrets for making perfectly flaky, buttery biscuits, from folding in the butter just right to using the right amount of liquid. They also experiment with adding different flavors to the biscuits, such as chives and Parmesan cheese, to see how it affects the overall dish.

In another segment, the hosts get creative with the gravy. They start with a classic roux-based gravy, but then add unexpected ingredients like bacon and mushrooms for extra flavor. They also test different thickening agents, such as cornstarch and flour, to see which one produces the best texture and taste.

Throughout the episode, the hosts share their tips and tricks for making the ultimate chicken and biscuits, from how to get the perfect sear on the chicken to how to keep the biscuits from getting too dense. They also answer viewer questions, such as how to make the dish ahead of time and what to do with leftovers.

Finally, the hosts bring all the elements together for a taste test. They invite a panel of food experts to sample their classic chicken and biscuits, as well as their experimental versions. The judges weigh in on each dish, providing feedback on everything from the chicken's seasoning to the biscuits' texture. In the end, the hosts have a clear winner – but it's up to viewers to decide which version of chicken and biscuits they prefer.

Overall, this episode of America's Test Kitchen is a must-watch for anyone who loves classic comfort food. The hosts' experiments with unexpected twists on chicken and biscuits are sure to inspire viewers to get creative in the kitchen. And their tried-and-true techniques for making perfect chicken, biscuits, and gravy are sure to become staples in any home cook's repertoire.