Are you tired of the same old boring chicken recipes every week? Look no further! We’ve got a collection of 20 mouth-watering chicken recipes that are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. From classic comfort foods to international twists, we’ve got something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of chicken recipes, featuring dishes like Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs, Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken, and Spicy Coconut Curry Chicken. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy or light and zesty, our collection has got it covered.
In this article, we’ll share all 20 delicious recipes, along with step-by-step instructions and mouth-watering photos to inspire your next dinner party. So sit back, relax, and get ready to elevate your chicken game!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and butter with tender, juicy chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley until well combined.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the garlic butter mixture on each chicken thigh, spreading evenly to coat.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this tangy and savory chicken dish, featuring a rich lemon cream sauce and the perfect blend of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken breasts in a little oil until browned on both sides.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, lemon juice, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked chicken breasts to the saucepan and spoon some of the lemon cream sauce over each breast.
7. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your creamy lemon parmesan chicken with your favorite sides!
Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken
This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the spicy kick of sriracha sauce, creating a glaze that’s perfect for grilled or baked chicken. The result is a flavorful and sticky exterior with tender and juicy meat inside.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 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) or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Veggie Bake
A delicious and easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in under an hour! This one-pan recipe combines juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and flavorful seasonings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add the bell peppers, zucchini, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the chicken back into the pan with the vegetables and pour in the chicken broth.
6. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken breasts, BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in chicken broth, making sure the chicken is covered.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from slow cooker and shred with two forks.
5. Return shredded chicken to slow cooker and stir to coat with remaining sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Transform classic chicken alfredo into a satisfying pasta bake with this simple recipe. Rich and creamy, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
4. Add Alfredo sauce to the skillet with the chicken; stir until combined.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Coconut Curry Chicken
Savor the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this aromatic and spicy coconut curry chicken dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch option, this recipe combines juicy chicken, creamy coconut milk, and the warmth of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, and cardamom. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk, broth, and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory dish that combines tender chicken with earthy mushrooms, all tied together with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt. Pour the glaze over the chicken and mushrooms in the skillet.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole
This creamy, cheesy casserole is a twist on traditional enchiladas, with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 can (10 oz) of enchilada sauce
– 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of sour cream
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup of melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, enchilada sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Mix well.
3. In a separate dish, arrange 2-3 tortillas.
4. Pour half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
5. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese and some cilantro.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 for the second layer.
7. Top with remaining cheese and melted butter.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this easy-to-make sheet pan recipe that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
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 cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 fajita-sized flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the bowl; toss to coat.
4. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil; arrange the mixture in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas with your favorite toppings; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant and flavorful roasted chicken recipe, bursting with citrusy goodness and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, 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 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
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This Chinese-inspired dish is a classic combination of flavors and textures that can be prepared in no time. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp 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 pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the chicken to the pan, along with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields crispy, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 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. In a separate dish, whisk together olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the wet mixture, coating both sides evenly, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with grilled chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice – a perfect combination for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and garlic. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the chicken.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook Japanese-style short-grain rice according to package instructions.
5. Slice the grilled chicken into strips.
6. To assemble the bowl, place a scoop of rice at the bottom, followed by sliced chicken and drizzle with remaining teriyaki sauce.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Capers
Chicken Piccata with Capers is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the tender chicken breasts coated with breadcrumbs, lemon butter, and savory capers. This recipe serves 4.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and flour.
2. Dip the floured chicken in beaten eggs and then coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add garlic, lemon juice, and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Stir in capers and cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve chicken with sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional chicken skewers, these Mediterranean-inspired bites are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
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
– 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
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, bell peppers, and onion to the bowl; toss to coat.
4. Thread 4-5 pieces of the mixture onto each skewer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through, turning occasionally.
6. Serve hot with feta cheese crumbles on top (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Give your taste buds a thrill with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spiciness of buffalo chicken with the comfort of stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and shredded cheese.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines tender chicken and spinach with a rich tomato sauce, wrapped in jumbo pasta shells. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken with Potatoes
This hearty dish combines the smoky flavor of paprika with tender chicken and creamy potatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken on one half of the baking sheet, leaving space for the potatoes.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Quickly whip up a delicious and satisfying meal with this simple recipe for Easy Chicken Fried Rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a leftover meal, this dish combines cooked chicken, rice, and vegetables in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken, frozen vegetables, and soy sauce. Cook until the vegetables are thawed and heated through.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok and stir-fry until combined with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these 20 mouth-watering chicken recipes! From classic comfort food to international flavors, this collection has something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs or Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken for a rich and creamy twist. For a quick and easy meal, go for One-Pan Chicken and Veggie Bake or Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken. Or, spice up your dinner with Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken or Spicy Coconut Curry Chicken. Whatever your taste buds desire, you’ll find it in this diverse list of delicious chicken recipes perfect for weeknights.
