Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 delicious and flavorful chicken recipes that are sure to spice up your mealtime routine. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, we’ve got a little something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and rich or bright and citrusy, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? These recipes are all surprisingly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started with our first 5 recipes: Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs, Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken, Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, and Spicy Sriracha Chicken Stir-Fry. Which one will you try first?
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the tenderness of baked chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, butter, and olive oil.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each thigh.
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 Mustard Grilled Chicken
Sweet and tangy, this Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a flavorful twist on classic grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
6. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish, this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
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 diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, and dried basil. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with creamy sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta and reserved pasta water with the chicken mixture. Toss until well combined.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Recipe
A classic roasted chicken recipe with a bright twist, this Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
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. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Chicken Stir-Fry
Sizzling hot and flavorful, this Spicy Sriracha Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In same pan, add garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in Sriracha sauce and mixed bell peppers. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until peppers are tender.
5. Add chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the spicy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken
Get ready to savor the tender, smoky flavor of slow-cooked chicken smothered in a rich BBQ sauce!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, onion, and garlic in a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent take on classic stuffed shells, featuring the rich flavors of chicken alfredo. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and jumbo shells for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large pasta shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, Alfredo sauce, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the chicken-Alfredo mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until shells are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders
A delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips (tenders)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 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 shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic curry dish. This recipe combines tender chicken, rich coconut milk, and a blend of warming spices for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the curry paste, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the coconut milk and browned chicken back into the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
A rich and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, this chicken and mushroom risotto is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic to skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. When risotto is cooked (about 20-25 minutes), stir in Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snack game with these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers that combine the flavors of buffalo chicken wings and roasted peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, buffalo wing sauce, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pan Garlic Rosemary Chicken
Savor the flavors of garlic, rosemary, and chicken in a single pan with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Stir in chopped rosemary and salt to taste.
7. Add the chicken back into the pan, along with any accumulated juices.
8. Cover the pan with a lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
10. Garnish with lemon slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Shawarma Wraps
A flavorful twist on traditional shawarma, this recipe combines juicy chicken with aromatic spices and crispy veggies, all wrapped up in a warm pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). 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 them in foil and heating on the grill or in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble wraps by spreading tahini sauce on each pita, then topping with grilled chicken, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks
A sweet and savory twist on traditional drumsticks, these baked teriyaki chicken drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser. With a sticky glaze and juicy meat, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and caramelized.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
A classic Italian dish that combines the richness of chicken with the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
7. Serve the chicken breasts with the lemon sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering Jerk Chicken paired with a sweet and tangy Mango Salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill or bake chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Fajita Quesadillas
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, these Chicken Fajita Quesadillas combine sautéed chicken and bell peppers with melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Place a portion of the chicken mixture onto half of each tortilla, then sprinkle with cheese.
5. Fold tortillas in half to enclose filling.
6. Cook quesadillas in skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and melted.
7. Serve hot with cilantro, sour cream, or salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside with the chicken.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the crushed crackers in the bottom.
6. Add the cooked chicken, broccoli, and soup mixture on top of the crackers.
7. Sprinkle with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
8. Top with the remaining crackers.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and easy-to-make Mediterranean Chicken Skewers, perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich
Crispy Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Get ready for a mouth-watering twist on the classic fried chicken sandwich! This recipe yields crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken breasts sandwiched between a soft bun and topped with your favorite condiments.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and your favorite condiments (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried chicken breasts on hamburger buns and adding your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 mouthwatering chicken recipes! From classic comfort food like Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs and Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, to international flavors like Thai Coconut Curry Chicken and Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or spicy, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
