15 recipes that will make you rethink what’s possible in the kitchen

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Chicken recipes don’t have to be ordinary or predictable. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or trying out new flavors, these recipes will change the way you think about cooking chicken. From bold spices to unique combinations, there’s something here that can surprise even the most experienced home cook. Get ready to rethink what’s possible with these creative and flavorful chicken dishes.

Roasted chicken and vegetables in a skillet on a cutting board.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This cilantro lime chicken and rice dish combines juicy, citrus-marinated chicken with fluffy rice for a flavorful meal. It’s ready in just 45 minutes and features chicken, fresh cilantro, and a touch of lime juice. The tangy lime complements the savory chicken, giving it a refreshing kick. With its balance of zest and heartiness, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

A serving of creamy balsamic chicken skillet next to a serving of green salad.
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This creamy balsamic chicken skillet is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs tender chicken with a smooth balsamic sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, the recipe includes ingredients like chicken, balsamic vinegar, and cream for a balanced mix of tangy and creamy flavors. The balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness that blends perfectly with the cream. It’s a quick, comforting meal with bold flavors that impress.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Grilled chicken breast served with a side of mixed greens on a plate.
Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled maple mustard chicken brings together sweet and savory with the perfect blend of maple syrup and mustard. This 35-minute recipe features marinated chicken with a tangy mustard sauce, balanced by the sweetness of maple syrup. The flavors are deep, yet simple, making the chicken juicy with a slight char from the grill. It’s an easy way to rethink classic grilled chicken.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Chicken Shawarma Plate

Chicken Shawarma Plate. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This chicken shawarma plate offers a delicious mix of Middle Eastern spices, paired with fluffy rice and fresh vegetables. In about an hour, marinated chicken, garlic, cumin, and paprika come together to create savory, spiced bites. The chicken is bold and juicy, making it perfect for a flavorful dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality meal. Every bite of this dish brings authentic Mediterranean flavors to your table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken pot pie with tarragon gravy is a hearty and comforting dish loaded with tender chicken, vegetables, and a fragrant gravy. In just over an hour, you’ll have a golden, flaky pie crust filled with a creamy mix of chicken, carrots, peas, and the herby taste of tarragon. The tarragon gravy adds a unique, aromatic flavor to the classic pot pie. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy evening.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

An overhead shot of a wooden serving bowl filled with salad next to cornbread on a cutting board.
Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Carolina BBQ chicken salad combines smoky, shredded BBQ chicken with crisp veggies and a tangy dressing. This 30-minute recipe includes ingredients like grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, and crunchy coleslaw mix for a balanced bite of textures and flavors. The sweet and tangy barbecue pairs well with the freshness of the veggies. It’s a light, refreshing option for lunch or dinner that’s full of Southern charm.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted chicken and vegetables in a skillet on a cutting board.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted chicken and vegetables is a one-pan meal that brings together seasoned chicken and hearty winter vegetables. In just over an hour, garlic, rosemary, and thyme flavor the roasted chicken and vegetables, creating a savory, herb-infused dish. The crispy, golden skin on the chicken pairs perfectly with the tender roasted veggies. It’s a simple, satisfying dinner option with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Chicken Marbella

Close up on ottolenghi chicken marbella on plate.
Chicken Marbella. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Chicken Marbella is a Mediterranean-inspired dish combining chicken with olives, capers, and prunes in a sweet and savory sauce. This dish, ready in about an hour, features the unique flavors of white wine, garlic, and herbs that perfectly complement the tender chicken. The contrast of the briny olives with the sweetness of prunes creates a layered, delicious experience. It’s a sophisticated twist on a simple chicken dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella

Air Fryer BBQ Wings

A pile of air fryer BBQ wings on a white platter.
Air Fryer BBQ Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air fryer BBQ wings deliver the crispy, smoky goodness of BBQ chicken wings without the mess of frying. Ready in just 30 minutes, these wings are coated in a sweet BBQ sauce and air-fried to crispy perfection. The air fryer gives the wings that signature crunch while keeping the inside juicy. It’s an easy and flavorful option for game days or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Wings

Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Hands holding paprika chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Sheet pan paprika chicken and veggies is a quick, all-in-one meal that combines seasoned chicken with roasted vegetables. This 40-minute recipe features paprika-seasoned chicken thighs alongside bell peppers, potatoes, and onions. The paprika adds a mild smokiness that enhances the flavor of the roasted veggies. It’s a simple, no-fuss dinner that brings vibrant flavors to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies

Chicken Chop Suey

Bowl of chicken chop suey with fork.
Chicken Chop Suey. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken chop suey is a stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory soy sauce-based blend. In just 25 minutes, ingredients like chicken, bell peppers, and bean sprouts come together for a fresh, crunchy bite. The sauce is light but flavorful, making the dish feel hearty yet refreshing. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks on a plate.
Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks are packed with bold flavors thanks to a citrus and garlic marinade. In 45 minutes, chicken drumsticks are infused with a zesty blend of lime, garlic, and cumin, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat. The marinade creates a crispy, caramelized crust when baked. These drumsticks are a great option for a family dinner with a flavorful twist.
Get the Recipe: Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken biryani is a fragrant and flavorful dish featuring spiced chicken layered with rice and cooked together for rich taste. In about an hour, ingredients like chicken, basmati rice, and a mix of spices like cumin and coriander create a dish that’s full of warmth and depth. The long-grain rice absorbs all the flavors, making each bite packed with aromatic goodness. It’s a satisfying meal that transports you to the heart of South Asian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Buttermilk chicken and potatoes on a plate.
Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

This oven-baked buttermilk chicken and potatoes recipe features marinated chicken and roasted potatoes for a comforting meal. In 60 minutes, the buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken, giving it a juicy texture, while the potatoes become crispy and golden. The combination of tangy buttermilk and savory roasted potatoes is delicious and simple. It’s an easy, wholesome dinner for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes

Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

Chicken skewers on skewers with lemon wedges.
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Grilled chicken kofta kebab is a flavorful Mediterranean dish made with ground chicken and a blend of spices. In just 30 minutes, cumin, coriander, and garlic flavor the ground chicken, which is grilled to perfection on skewers. The result is juicy, tender kebabs with a smoky, charred flavor. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a lighter take on traditional kebabs.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab

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