Are you a chicken lover looking for some inspiration to spice up your meal routine? Look no further! Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins out there, and when paired with the right flavors and ingredients, it can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious chicken recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From appetizers to main courses, and even some sweet treats (yes, you read that right!), these mouthwatering dishes will surely satisfy your cravings. And the best part? They’re all surprisingly easy to make, so you can impress your friends and family without breaking a sweat.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into our collection of flavorful chicken recipes and get cooking!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying tender and juicy baked chicken thighs smothered in garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Wings
Elevate your chicken wing game with this sweet and spicy glaze that combines the richness of honey with the boldness of sriracha sauce. Perfect for a party or a cozy night in, these glazed wings are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and garlic powder.
3. Add chicken wings to the glaze and toss until fully coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Treat your taste buds to a rich and satisfying pasta dish with this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, flavorful garlic, and aromatic herbs come together in a creamy sauce that coats perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz. penne pasta
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cooked chicken, basil, salt, and pepper. Combine with cooked pasta and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking with these refreshing and flavorful skewers, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. The tangy zing of lemon juice and the herbal brightness of parsley and thyme create a harmonious balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Spicy Korean Fried Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this addictive recipe for spicy fried chicken. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and exploding with spicy kick from gochujang sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup gochujang sauce (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together gochujang sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sugar.
4. Dip coated chicken pieces into the spicy sauce mixture, then place on a plate or tray.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Drain excess oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total (depending on the number of batches)
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields a crispy, flavorful crust and juicy interior.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
Transform your favorite barbecue flavors into tender, juicy pulled chicken sandwiches with minimal effort! This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the pulled chicken onto the buns and topping with coleslaw (if using).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
One-Pan Chicken and Veggie Bake
This recipe is perfect for a busy evening when you want to cook a delicious meal with minimal fuss. By using just one pan, you’ll save time on cleanup and still get to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large red potato, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs and spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the bell peppers, carrots, garlic, and potato to the pan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (if using).
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique twist on classic stuffed shells. Tender chicken and rich Alfredo sauce meet cooked pasta and melted mozzarella for a satisfying, comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and basil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the chicken-Alfredo mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the bold spices of Thai curry, all wrapped up in tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, curry paste, fish sauce, and sugar; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Chicken Breast
A classic comfort food with a twist! This recipe combines the flavors of crispy bacon and creamy stuffing with the tender juiciness of chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Wrap each stuffed breast with half a slice of bacon, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place the wrapped chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Experience the flavors of the Middle East with this classic street food dish. Juicy chicken, crispy pita, and creamy garlic sauce come together to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Garlic Sauce (see below)
– Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
Garlic Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating on the grill.
5. Assemble shawarma by placing chicken on pita, followed by a dollop of garlic sauce. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering recipe that combines spicy jerk chicken with sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the jerk mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve jerk chicken with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice for a satisfying meal. With this simple recipe, you can create a comforting and flavorful risotto in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add broth, wine (if using), and butter. Stir until the liquid is absorbed, then repeat for about 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Return chicken to skillet; stir to combine with risotto. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Get ready to level up your snack game with these spicy and savory Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers! Tender bell peppers filled with a creamy buffalo chicken mixture, topped with melted cheddar cheese – it’s a flavor combination that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cream cheese, Frank’s RedHot sauce, ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tikka Masala with Basmati Rice
A classic Indian-inspired dish that combines rich, creamy tomato sauce with tender chicken and fluffy basmati rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup basmati rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and mix until coated.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions.
6. In a large skillet, cook onions and garlic in butter until softened. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, and spices. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
7. Serve chicken over basmati rice with sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Greek Lemon Chicken and Potatoes
A classic Greek-inspired dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of chicken and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange potatoes in a single layer and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet with potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these crispy wraps packed with flavorful chicken, crunchy greens, and tangy Caesar dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing
– 2 large tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortilla wraps over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a few strips of chicken, some shredded lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese inside each wrap.
5. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Stuffed Avocados
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocados with the savory flavor of pesto chicken, creating a unique and mouthwatering appetizer or snack. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a bowl, mix together the diced chicken and pesto until well combined.
3. Spoon the chicken-pesto mixture into each avocado half.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( preparation only)
Chicken and Dumplings Soup
This classic soup recipe is a warm and cozy treat that’s perfect for any time of the year. Tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a rich broth make for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Stir into the soup and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering chicken recipes to suit every occasion! From classic comfort food to international flavors, these dishes are sure to please. Try Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs for a comforting dinner or Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Wings for a spicy snack. For a flavorful twist on pasta, go with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta or opt for a refreshing Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewer. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy or savory and satisfying, this collection has got you covered!
