When it comes to cooking, chicken is a staple protein that’s both versatile and easy to work with. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there are countless ways to prepare this popular poultry. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.
From classic comfort food dishes like baked chicken parmesan and creamy tuscan chicken pasta, to international-inspired flavors like spicy korean fried chicken and thai coconut curry chicken, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or a little bit of both, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 20 delicious chicken recipes ideas for every occasion…
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce will become a new family favorite.
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 butter, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each thigh, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. This Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this rich and flavorful pasta dish! This creamy Tuscan chicken pasta is a perfect blend of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add peas and carrots; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and dried basil. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Korean Fried Chicken
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic fried chicken with this Spicy Korean Fried Chicken recipe! Crunchy, spicy, and addictive, this dish is perfect for a quick dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Gochujang sauce (store-bought or homemade) for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, ginger, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip chicken pieces into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated chicken pieces in hot oil (350°F) for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with Spicy Gochujang sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing twist on classic roasted chicken! A flavorful combination of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and savory spices will make this dish a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the lemon-herb mixture all over it, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
This classic Italian dish combines sautéed chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 1 minute.
4. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with other ingredients.
5. Gradually add broth, stirring constantly, and cook until absorbed, about 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this simple recipe that yields crispy and flavorful results!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a warm and creamy curry. The result is a deliciously aromatic dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Thai basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low; let curry simmer while cooking rice or noodles, about 10-15 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with cilantro and Thai basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken, making for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends!
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Meanwhile, cook chicken in a pan with olive oil until browned and cooked through.
4. Add BBQ sauce to the pan and stir to coat chicken evenly.
5. Split sweet potatoes open and top each with cooked chicken mixture, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with this creamy and satisfying recipe! Chicken Alfredo stuffed shells combine the best of both worlds, marrying tender chicken with rich Alfredo sauce and jumbo pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound 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
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-Alfredo mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is heated through and the shells are tender.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Fajitas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this easy-to-make One-Pan Chicken Fajitas recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This dish is a twist on traditional fajitas, cooking everything in one pan for a hands-off and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken and vegetable mixture onto tortillas.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Middle East with this mouthwatering recipe for Chicken Shawarma, paired with a tangy and aromatic Garlic Sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Garlic Sauce (recipe below)
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickled turnips, and sumac, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken strips to the marinade and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
6. Assemble shawarma by placing grilled chicken onto pita breads, then drizzle with Garlic Sauce.
Garlic Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including marinating time)
Baked Chicken Parmesan
Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
A classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy chicken with creamy melted mozzarella cheese and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle marinara sauce over the top of each chicken breast.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly among the four chicken breasts.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Chicken Tikka Masala
A popular Indian-inspired dish that’s sure to please! This recipe yields a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce with tender chicken, perfect for serving over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne (if using). Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Remove the chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the cooked chicken and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Elevate your snack game with this spicy and savory Buffalo Chicken Dip! A perfect combination of creamy cheese, tangy blue cheese crumbles, and the unmistakable zip of hot sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce
– 1 teaspoon blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
3. Stir in sour cream until smooth.
4. Add Buffalo Wing Sauce and mix well.
5. Fold in blue cheese crumbles.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or serving bowl.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned on top.
8. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be on the table in no time. With this recipe, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, broccoli, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a twist on traditional chicken tortilla soup, with the added convenience of being cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Add chicken, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, enchilada sauce, chicken broth, onion, garlic, tortilla strips, and cumin to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp Caesar dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the salad by placing chopped lettuce in a large bowl.
6. Add croutons and Parmesan cheese to the bowl.
7. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of the salad.
8. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a cozy evening, this chicken pot pie is filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce, topped with a flaky crust that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, garlic, and vegetables until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, broth, and cream; pour into the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Roll out one pie crust and fill with the chicken mixture; top with another pie crust and crimp edges.
5. Brush with beaten egg for golden brown finish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Skewers
Succulent chicken skewers infused with the bold flavors of Jamaican jerk seasoning, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or party appetizer. This recipe is sure to transport your taste buds to the island vibes of Jamaica!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 lime, juiced
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, olive oil, pineapple juice, and lime juice.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with chopped cilantro leaves on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Are you looking for delicious and varied chicken recipes? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering chicken recipe ideas, perfect for any occasion. From comforting classics like Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs and Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust to international flavors like Spicy Korean Fried Chicken and Thai Coconut Curry Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive party dish, these recipes are sure to please. Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these 20 scrumptious ideas!