This Thanksgiving, why not make chicken the star and give turkey a rest? With bold flavors, rich seasonings, and a variety of textures, these chicken dishes bring fresh excitement to the holiday table. Each one stands out as a main event, offering everything you love about Thanksgiving, without the usual bird. Get ready for a feast that could make turkey feel like a thing of the past.
Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy
This Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy is a cozy, savory option that takes center stage, easily holding its own against traditional turkey. The tender chicken combined with hearty vegetables in a flaky crust creates a warm, filling main course. Tarragon brings a fresh note that makes this pie feel special for the holiday. With this on the table, turkey will seem like an afterthought for your Thanksgiving dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice makes a vibrant and unexpected Thanksgiving dish that feels festive and refreshing. With juicy chicken and tender rice enveloped in a creamy sauce, this dish is a breeze to prepare. Its bold, lively flavors bring new energy to the holiday meal, leaving turkey far behind. This one-pot wonder is sure to stand out as a holiday favorite, offering a fresh take on Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice
Chicken Shawarma Plate
The Chicken Shawarma Plate brings lively, spiced flavors that make Thanksgiving feel exciting and memorable. Paired with creamy hummus, garlicky toum, and served with homemade pita, this dish shakes up the usual holiday menu. It’s a vibrant option that stands out in a sea of traditional flavors, making turkey seem predictable. After serving this, your guests will remember Thanksgiving differently.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet
With Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet, you get a rich, flavorful main that feels effortlessly sophisticated. The caramelized onions and balsamic glaze infuse the chicken with a depth of flavor that’s perfect for a holiday meal. This one-pan dish is straightforward to prepare, which is ideal for hosts looking for ease without sacrificing taste. It’s a savory option that could make turkey a thing of the past.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet
Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken
Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken brings a mix of sweet and savory flavors that feel just right for Thanksgiving. The quick marinade and easy grilling method give this dish an appeal that rivals any traditional turkey. With its fall-inspired marinade, it fits the season perfectly while adding something different to the table. After trying this, turkey might just seem less exciting.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables offers a classic, comforting choice that’s perfect for Thanksgiving without needing a turkey centerpiece. Infused with garlic and herbs, this one-pan dish balances ease with holiday-worthy flavors. Seasonal vegetables bring a hearty touch, making it a well-rounded meal. This wholesome combination could easily make you question why turkey is the traditional choice.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Chicken Marbella
Chicken Marbella presents a bold, sweet, and tangy option that elevates Thanksgiving with flavors that make turkey feel ordinary. With prunes, olives, and capers, this dish surprises with a richness that stands out on the holiday table. It’s both flavorful and festive, creating an unforgettable dining experience. After tasting this, turkey won’t even cross your mind.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella
Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts
Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts offers a beautifully festive option for Thanksgiving, with vibrant flavors and textures that could make turkey seem plain. The tart pomegranate pairs wonderfully with rich walnuts and tender chicken, bringing a holiday feel to every bite. It’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for the occasion. After this, turkey might feel a bit too traditional.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies provides a simple but flavorful alternative that could make turkey a distant memory. The paprika seasoning adds a depth that’s complemented by the roasted vegetables, all on one easy sheet pan. This dish saves time while delivering holiday-worthy taste, making it perfect for a relaxed Thanksgiving. With this recipe, turkey may no longer hold its usual place on the table.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken
The Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken brings fresh, citrusy flavors that make it a lively alternative to turkey on Thanksgiving. Its quick cooking time and straightforward prep make it a great option for holiday hosts. With its bright, tangy taste, this chicken easily becomes the star of the meal. Turkey might just become a side note with this centerpiece on the table.
Get the Recipe: Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole is a creamy, irresistible option for Thanksgiving that’s full of rich flavors, making it hard to miss turkey. The addition of bacon, broccoli, and a touch of ranch seasoning make it a memorable and family-friendly choice. This casserole is as comforting as it is bold, giving you the holiday flavor fix you need. After one bite, turkey might not even be on your mind.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole
Stuffed Chicken Roll Ups
These Stuffed Chicken Roll Ups add cheesy, hearty goodness to the Thanksgiving table, bringing a flavorful alternative to traditional turkey. Filled with mozzarella and spinach, they’re a quick, crowd-pleasing choice with big flavor. With every bite, you’ll see why they’re an appealing replacement. After serving these roll-ups, you might start a new holiday tradition.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Roll Ups
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole combines the holiday flavor of stuffing with tender chicken, creating a Thanksgiving main that could easily replace turkey. This casserole has the comforting taste of the season without the fuss of cooking a whole bird. With its practical and satisfying blend, it’s hard to imagine needing turkey alongside. The holiday flavors in this dish may just make turkey unnecessary.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs bring the perfect mix of crispy bacon and juicy chicken, making them a bold and memorable option for Thanksgiving. The richness and texture offer something that traditional turkey doesn’t, and they’re a standout choice on any holiday table. Simple to make, this dish has the potential to win over even the most loyal turkey fans. Bacon-wrapped might just be your new holiday tradition.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs
Roast Chicken with Orange Butter
Roast Chicken with Orange Butter introduces a holiday-worthy main course with crispy skin and juicy, citrus-infused meat that feels festive and special. It’s a straightforward roast that brings an elegant touch to Thanksgiving without needing a turkey. The orange butter adds a brightness that’s hard to resist, making this dish shine. Once it’s served, turkey might just fade from memory.
Get the Recipe: Roast Chicken with Orange Butter