It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious and festive Christmas dinner? For many families, Christmas dinner means turkey, but why not shake things up this year with some mouth-watering Christmas chicken recipes instead? Whether you’re looking for a classic roasted chicken or something a little more adventurous like honey mustard skewers or peppermint crusted chicken, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of the most scrumptious and easy-to-make Christmas chicken recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family.
From garlic butter roast chicken to cranberry glazed holiday chicken, and from herb-stuffed Christmas chicken with gravy to balsamic rosemary Christmas chicken, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Christmas one to remember!
Garlic Butter Roast Christmas Chicken
Elevate your holiday feast with this simple yet impressive recipe for Garlic Butter Roast Christmas Chicken. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful butter, and aromatic garlic will be a hit at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the garlic butter mixture.
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: approximately 1 hour
Cranberry Glazed Holiday Chicken
This sweet and tangy glaze brings a delightful twist to traditional holiday chicken, perfect for your festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp orange marmalade
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cranberries, brown sugar, honey, orange marmalade, and mustard until smooth.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish. Brush the cranberry glaze evenly over both breasts.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, basting with pan juices every 15 minutes.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herb-Stuffed Christmas Chicken with Gravy
A classic holiday dish gets a flavorful boost with the addition of fresh herbs and savory gravy. This recipe makes for a impressive main course or special occasion meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the herb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with flour.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine chicken broth and heavy cream in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Serve the chicken breasts with the warm gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Rosemary Christmas Chicken
Elevate your holiday gathering with this flavorful and aromatic chicken dish, perfect for a Christmas feast or special occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze and rosemary to create a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Mustard Christmas Chicken Skewers
Get ready to impress your holiday guests with these sweet and tangy chicken skewers, perfect for a festive appetizer or main course. With the combination of honey, mustard, and aromatic spices, you’ll be serving up a truly merry meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until coated evenly.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Christmas Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry
Get into the holiday spirit with this scrumptious Christmas Chicken Pot Pie, wrapped in flaky puff pastry and filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
5. Spoon the chicken mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the pastry over the filling, trimming any excess edges.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Orange Christmas Chicken Thighs
Add a twist to your holiday dinner with these aromatic and flavorful chicken thighs infused with the warmth of spices and the brightness of orange. Perfect for a cozy winter night or a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 orange, peeled and juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush with the spice mixture.
4. Arrange chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush chicken with garlic, orange juice, and honey.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Christmas Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of chicken, wild rice, and festive spices to create a delicious and satisfying holiday dish. Perfect for serving at your Christmas gathering or enjoying as a family meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Combine cooked wild rice, peas and carrots, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
4. Add the cooked chicken mixture to the bowl and stir until combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the chicken-rice mixture and cream of chicken soup.
6. Top with shredded cheese and parsley.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pomegranate Glazed Christmas Chicken
Add a pop of color and flavor to your holiday table with this sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze on juicy chicken breasts. This recipe is perfect for a festive dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Brush the glaze all over the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Christmas Chicken with Chestnut Stuffing
This show-stopping main course combines the savory flavors of roasted chicken with the warmth and comfort of chestnut stuffing, perfect for your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cups cooked chestnuts
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Stuff the chicken cavity with the chestnut mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Truss the chicken and tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste with pan juices every 20 minutes to keep the chicken moist.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Maple Bacon Wrapped Christmas Chicken
Celebrate the holiday season with a sweet and savory twist on traditional roasted chicken. This show-stopping main course combines the flavors of maple syrup, crispy bacon, and tender poultry for an unforgettable feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut in half
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Wrap each piece of bacon around a chicken thigh, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Place the wrapped chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Christmas Chicken Alfredo with Spinach
Elevate your holiday dinner with this creamy, flavorful Christmas Chicken Alfredo with Spinach recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine pasta
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic powder (optional)
– Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta, spinach leaves, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Christmas Chicken Stew
Slow Cooker Christmas Chicken Stew
Get ready to cozy up with a hearty, comforting slow cooker stew that’s perfect for the holiday season!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, frozen mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, thyme, cumin, and chicken.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Christmas Chicken with Apple Cider Glaze
Elevate your holiday dinner with this sweet and savory Christmas chicken recipe. Tender and juicy, the chicken is smothered in a rich apple cider glaze that’s perfect for the winter season.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Brush the apple cider glaze over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Christmas Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
Celebrate the festive season with this hearty and flavorful risotto, packed with tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a hint of Christmas magic. This comforting dish is sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in cooked chicken and mushrooms.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppermint Crusted Christmas Chicken (Savory Twist)
This unique recipe combines the sweetness of peppermint with the savory flavor of chicken, creating a delightful twist on traditional holiday dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp peppermint extract
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sugar, peppermint extract, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the sugar mixture, coating evenly.
4. Roll the sugared chicken breasts in panko breadcrumbs to coat.
5. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the chicken breasts.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve: Serve warm, garnished with fresh mint leaves and your favorite holiday sides.
Christmas Chicken with Cranberry Quinoa Salad
Celebrate the festive season with this delightful combination of tender chicken, nutty quinoa, and sweet cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of honey.
3. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, cranberries, and chopped pecans.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat.
6. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the quinoa salad.
7. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
8. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Christmas Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce
Ring in the holiday season with this flavorful and festive dish that combines tender chicken, creamy green sauce, and crunchy tortillas. Perfect for a Christmas party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups mixed greens (cilantro, parsley, basil)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded Monterey Jack cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine mixed greens, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and cumin. Blend until smooth.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble enchiladas by spooning chicken onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Pour green sauce over the top of the enchiladas and sprinkle with cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Christmas Chicken and Sweet Potato Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for the holiday season, combining tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic.
3. Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
6. Add the chicken-sweet potato mixture, followed by the cheese-breadcrumb topping.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Christmas Chicken Stir-Fry with Holiday Veggies
Add a festive twist to your holiday meal with this flavorful and colorful stir-fry. This recipe combines the warmth of chicken, crispy veggies, and savory sauce, perfect for a Christmas dinner or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed holiday veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and green beans)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
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 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add remaining 1 tbsp oil, garlic, and holiday veggies. Cook until veggies are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to make this holiday season even more delicious! We’ve gathered 20 festive Christmas chicken recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. From classic roast chicken with garlic butter to sweet and savory dishes like honey mustard skewers and peppermint crusted chicken, there’s something for everyone on this list. Plus, discover new twists on traditional holiday favorites like chicken pot pie and casserole. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a quick and easy snack, these Christmas chicken recipes are sure to bring joy to your holiday table.
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