When it comes to planning a meal, chicken is often a go-to protein for many of us. It’s versatile, easy to cook, and can be flavored in countless ways to suit any taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a special occasion, we’ve got you covered with these 20 flavorful chicken entree recipes.
From classic comfort foods like Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs and Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken, to international-inspired dishes like Thai Coconut Curry Chicken and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, so you can focus on enjoying your meal rather than stressing about cooking.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouthwatering chicken recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these 20 flavorful chicken entrees are sure to become new favorites.
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with these rich and flavorful garlic butter baked chicken thighs. This simple recipe yields tender, juicy chicken with a savory aroma that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 dried thyme until well combined.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken
A flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, lemon juice, garlic, and parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken
Elevate your meal game with this easy-to-make Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken recipe! This sweet and spicy dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Roasted Chicken with Vegetables
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this easy and flavorful one-pan roasted chicken recipe, featuring tender vegetables and a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of herbs and spices (e.g., thyme, rosemary, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices (if using).
5. Place the chicken in the skillet, breast side up. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
6. Remove from heat; let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a crowd or a cozy night in. This slow cooker pulled chicken is tender, juicy, and infused with the rich flavors of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun spice with the comfort of pasta, creating a mouth-numbingly spicy and satisfying dish. Perfect for those who like a little heat!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun spice blend
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, Cajun spice blend, and chicken breast. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and spicy Cajun chicken sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these sweet and savory grilled chicken skewers, infused with the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add chicken pieces, grated ginger, and garlic powder to the marinade. Mix well to coat.
4. Thread 4-5 pieces of chicken onto each skewer.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this classic Chicken Marsala with Mushrooms dish, featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy marsala wine sauce and savory mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup marsala wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts; cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add marsala wine and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve chicken breasts with mushroom sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Baked Ranch Chicken Tenders
This recipe yields crispy and flavorful chicken tenders infused with the creamy goodness of ranch seasoning. Perfect as a snack or main course, these baked chicken tenders are easy to make and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning mix
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together ranch seasoning mix and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic curry dish featuring tender chicken, a blend of spices, and a velvety coconut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb 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 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup curry paste (Thai red or green)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and add cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper; stir well.
5. Simmer curry uncovered for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Capers
This recipe brings together the flavors of chicken breast, capers, garlic, and lemon to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. With its bright acidity and savory notes, this Chicken Piccata is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and capers to skillet; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in lemon juice and return chicken to skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat with sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Lime Chicken
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with the brightness of lime juice and a hint of smokiness, all wrapped up in tender and juicy chicken breasts. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lime-chipotle mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast
Transform your ordinary chicken breasts into an extraordinary meal with this simple and flavorful recipe. The combination of tender chicken, creamy pesto, and melted mozzarella cheese will surely impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the pesto mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pesto filling.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. This recipe uses a sheet pan to cook chicken, peppers, and onions in one go, resulting in tender and juicy fajitas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place chicken, peppers, onions, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and chili powder on the sheet pan.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken and vegetables onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Lemon Chicken
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful Mediterranean Lemon Chicken dish! Marinated chicken breasts are infused with the zest of lemon and herbs, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering crispy parmesan crusted chicken recipe, featuring a crunchy exterior and juicy interior.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the garlic mixture, coating both sides evenly, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
5. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Get a delicious and comforting meal with minimal effort using your Instant Pot! This recipe combines juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and savory seasonings for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the chicken, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the chicken is browned.
3. Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 6-8 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic stuffed shells. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of chicken alfredo with the ease of a baked shell dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup alfredo sauce
– 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 well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are lightly browned and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Drumsticks Recipe
This sweet and tangy recipe is a perfect twist on classic chicken drumsticks. With the rich flavors of balsamic glaze, these drumsticks are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and olive oil.
3. Add garlic and thyme to the mixture; whisk until smooth.
4. Place chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and pour the glaze over them. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange drumsticks on the sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce
This classic Asian-inspired dish is a staple for good reason – the combination of succulent chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy peanut sauce is a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and peanut butter. Add water to thin the sauce if needed.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir in the peanut sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Elevate your chicken entree game with these 20 flavorful recipe ideas! From classic comfort food to international twists and quick weeknight meals, this collection has something for every occasion. Impress dinner guests with Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Thighs or Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken. Whip up a one-pan wonder with Roasted Chicken and Veggies or satisfy your cravings with Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg – discover more mouthwatering options in this ultimate chicken recipe roundup!
