Easy Southern Collard Greens

These easy Southern collard greens have all the savory flavor of traditional collard greens in a fraction of the time. Cooked with bacon, onion, and chicken stock, they’re tender, flavorful, and ready in about 45 minutes.

Growing up in a British household, collard greens simply weren’t something we ate. It wasn’t until I started dating my husband that I discovered them, and now they’re a regular part of our dinner table.

They’re one of my favorite side dishes to serve alongside pulled pork, smoked chicken, red beans and rice, or other Southern favorites. While traditional collard greens are often simmered for several hours with ham hocks, this quicker version fits much more easily into everyday life.

I love traditional collard greens, but as a busy mum, I don’t often have time for the long 2–3 hour cooking methods. This version gives me the flavor and comfort I’m looking for in about 45 minutes, making barbecue dinners much more realistic on a weeknight.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Ready in about 45 minutes
• A quicker alternative to traditional collard greens
• Made with simple, affordable ingredients
• High in fiber and packed with nutrients
• Perfect alongside barbecue and Southern comfort food
• Made in one pot for easy cleanup

Ingredients

• Collard greens — I buy the pre-shredded bags
• Bacon
• Onion
• Chicken stock
• Salt and black pepper
• Apple cider vinegar

Tools you’ll need

• Dutch oven or large lidded pot
• Spoon
• Tongs for serving

How to make easy southern collard greens

In a large Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it begins to crisp. Add the onion and cook until softened.

Add the collard greens a few handfuls at a time, stirring as they wilt down.

Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add additional stock if the greens begin to look dry.

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Variations

This same method also works well with turnip greens or mustard greens. The flavor will vary slightly, but the bacon, onion, and chicken stock provide a delicious base for almost any hearty cooking green.

What to serve with collard greens

I love serving these collard greens alongside traditional Southern dinners like:

• Pulled pork
• Smoked chicken
• Red beans and rice
• Smothered pork chops
• Chicken fried steak

I typically serve them alongside stovetop mac and cheese, baked beans, and cornbread for an easy “meat and three” dinner plate that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

How to store and reheat leftover collard greens

Store leftover Southern collard greens and some of the cooking liquid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Frequently asked questions

Do collard greens need to be soaked before cooking?

No. Simply wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Pre-shredded bagged collard greens are usually pre-washed, making prep even easier.

How do you take the bitterness out of collard greens?

Slow cooking helps mellow the flavor, and a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end balances any remaining bitterness.

Can I make collard greens without ham hocks?

Yes. Bacon adds plenty of smoky flavor, making this a quicker and more accessible alternative to traditional ham hock recipes.

How long should collard greens cook?

For tender collard greens without a long all-day simmer, cook them for about 35–40 minutes after adding the chicken stock. The greens should be soft and flavorful while still holding their shape.

Can I freeze cooked collard greens?

Yes. Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

SHARING IS CARING!