20 Flavorful Poultry Recipes for Every Occasion

Photo of author
Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing quite like a delicious and satisfying poultry recipe to impress family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a quick weeknight meal, this versatile ingredient has got you covered. From classic roasted chicken to global-inspired stir-fries, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering poultry recipes that are sure to become new favorites.

In this collection, you’ll find a range of flavors and cooking methods to suit every taste and occasion. From comforting pasta dishes and savory soups to spicy wings and juicy burgers, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of chicken, turkey, and duck. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover your new go-to poultry recipe!

Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken

Moist and flavorful, this Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with thyme sprigs (optional) and season the outside with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top and under the skin.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until 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

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

This recipe is a perfect blend of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, elevating the classic grilled chicken experience.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 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 grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs: A Simple yet Flavorful Recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy and delicious recipe for crispy baked chicken thighs. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you’ll be enjoying juicy and flavorful chicken in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Honey Glazed Turkey Wings

Elevate your game-day gatherings with this sweet and spicy twist on traditional turkey wings! This easy-to-make recipe combines the richness of honey with a kick of heat from hot sauce, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 turkey wings
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 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, hot sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add turkey wings to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange the wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through and caramelized.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta

Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta recipe. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce come together for a comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and thyme; stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy mushroom mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders

Get ready to fire up your taste buds with these mouthwatering BBQ pulled chicken sliders! Tender, juicy chicken smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce and served on soft buns is the perfect combination for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place chicken breasts in the sauce mixture and coat evenly.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Shred chicken with two forks and stir in additional BBQ sauce if needed.
6. Assemble sliders by placing shredded chicken on buns, topping with coleslaw (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Herb-Crusted Roast Turkey

Elevate your holiday dinner with this flavorful and aromatic herb-crusted roast turkey recipe. The perfect blend of herbs and spices creates a deliciously moist and savory centerpiece for any celebration.

Ingredients:

– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for approximately 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Potatoes

A flavorful and effortless one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a burst of citrusy goodness.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the potatoes to the same skillet, cooking for 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet with the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Add a kick of Caribbean flavor to your meal with this easy-to-make Jamaican Jerk Chicken recipe. With the perfect blend of spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (see note)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the jerk mixture evenly over both breasts.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Note: Jerk seasoning can be found at most grocery stores or online. You can also make your own by mixing together ingredients like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and scotch bonnet peppers (optional).

Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a busy day. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of red wine (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken, onion, garlic, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a slow cooker.
2. Add the red wine (if using) and stir gently to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast

Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast recipe. Juicy chicken breast filled with creamy pesto and melted mozzarella cheese – a perfect combination for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto sauce and mozzarella cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the pesto-mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Orange Glazed Duck with Rosemary

A sweet and savory twist on a classic dish, this orange glazed duck is infused with the earthy flavor of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-5 lb) duck breast
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine orange marmalade, honey, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Place the duck breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze all over the duck, making sure to cover it evenly.
4. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the duck.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Elevate your pasta game with this creamy chicken and spinach stuffed shells recipe, featuring tender chicken, wilted spinach, and a rich ricotta cheese mixture.

Ingredients:

– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

This classic Thai dish is a flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that combines the richness of chicken with the pungency of basil, all wrapped up in a savory sauce. With this recipe, you’ll be able to create a delicious and quick meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked jasmine rice or noodles for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add remaining oil, bell peppers, and garlic to pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and basil leaves. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry until combined with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked jasmine rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoked Paprika Roasted Cornish Hens

Elevate your special occasion dinner with this flavorful and visually appealing dish. Smoked paprika adds a rich, savory depth to the roasted Cornish hens.

Ingredients:

– 4 Cornish hens (1-2 lbs each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Rub the mixture all over the hens, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the hens on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Peppers

This recipe combines the creamy goodness of Chicken Alfredo with the vibrant color and crunchy texture of bell peppers, making for a unique and delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken, garlic, and cook until browned.
4. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked fettuccine, then top with the Chicken Alfredo mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Maple Dijon Grilled Chicken

Elevate your grilled chicken game with this easy recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard. The result is a flavorful and juicy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Brush the maple-Dijon mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes

Turkey and Wild Rice Soup

This comforting soup is a perfect blend of savory turkey, nutty wild rice, and aromatic vegetables, all simmered together to create a cozy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chicken broth, wild rice, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Elevate your wrap game with this flavorful recipe that combines juicy chicken, crispy veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped up in a warm pita.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, pickled red onion, and sumac for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble wraps with sliced chicken, tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, pickled red onion, and sumac.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites

Elevate your snack game with these crispy, savory, and indulgent Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites! Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken pieces, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Wrap each chicken piece with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 mouth-watering poultry recipes, perfect for any occasion! From classic roasted chicken and turkey to international-inspired dishes like Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, this collection of recipes is sure to impress. With flavors ranging from spicy honey glazed to creamy mushroom pasta, these poultry dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Leave a Comment