13 Ways To Turn Innocent Chicken Into Culinary Contraband

Let’s be real, chicken is often seen as the easy option, the no-surprises kind of meat. But here’s a thought: what if an innocent chicken can turn into a culinary contraband? It’s about getting bold with spices, trying out different cooking times, and maybe even borrowing ideas from cuisines around the globe. Look through this list and put chicken into a whole new light!

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turn your chicken into an explosion of bold, Mexican flavors without leaving your kitchen. That’s exactly what Chicken Tinga delivers with its spicy, smoky sauce that blankets shredded chicken, perfect for tacos or tostadas. It’s a surefire way to take your palate on an adventure. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to put together for something so packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Level up your chicken game with a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts combines the creamy texture of dressing with the crunch of walnuts and the sweet tang of cranberries, making it a hit for any occasion. This dish proves that chicken salad can be anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Stir up some excitement with Chicken Stir Fry, a vibrant and colorful dish that brings the zing of Asian cuisine right to your plate. This recipe is all about fresh veggies and tender chicken tossed in a rich, savory sauce. It’s a quick and healthy way to brighten up your dinner rotation. It’s also versatile enough to accommodate whatever you have in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich is where Italian inspiration meets the comfort of a classic sandwich. Juicy grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes come together between slices of crusty bread. It’s a gourmet take on a familiar favorite. This recipe is proof that a few high-quality ingredients can upgrade a simple sandwich into a masterpiece.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re in the mood for something lemony and caper-filled, Chicken Piccata is your go-to. This dish balances the acidity of lemon and the briny capers perfectly, creating a sauce that’s intensely flavorful yet incredibly light. It’s a classic Italian recipe that turns ordinary chicken into a tangy treat. Ideal for impressing guests or just treating yourself.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Get a taste of Southern comfort with Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. This recipe brings the homestyle goodness of tender chicken and soft, pillowy dumplings right to your table. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, offering coziness and flavor with every spoonful. Perfect for when you’re craving that Cracker Barrel charm.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A proof of the power of simplicity in cooking is Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. With just a handful of ingredients, including fragrant rosemary and tangty lemon, this one-pan wonder creates a meal that’s bursting with flavor. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to clean up. A stress-free way to serve a delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Spicy, sweet, and utterly addictive, Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken brings the thrill of your favorite fast-food dish to your own kitchen. This recipe is all about that perfect balance of heat and sweetness, with a generous dose of peanuts for crunch. It’s a game-changer for weeknights when you’re craving something with a bit of a kick.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

The perfect blend of crunchy, savory, and sweet elements, coming together in a salad that’s far from boring is Chinese Chicken Salad. Loaded with tender chicken and a tangy dressing, it’s a refreshing take on your average salad. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, promising to liven up any meal with its vibrant flavors.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

For a taste of the Outback’s most cherished dish at home, try Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. It’s a cheesy, mushroom-filled treat that captures the essence of the restaurant favorite. With a generous amount of honey mustard, this recipe is comfort food at its best. It’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to wow anyone at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu takes a classic and makes it not just easier, but also healthier. This dish involves chicken, ham and cheese, then achieving that perfect crispy coating with the magic of the air fryer. It’s a gourmet meal without the fuss, proving that elegant dining can be achieved in the comfort of your home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re craving a Mexican-inspired feast that’s a bit off the beaten path, Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas are your answer. These quesadillas have marinated chicken with just the right amount of smokiness and spices. They’re a mouthwatering twist on two classics, proving that sometimes, fusion is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Experience the ultimate comfort with Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. This recipe brings the warmth and richness of Sicilian flavors to your kitchen, featuring a hearty broth filled with tender chicken and vegetables. It’s like each spoonful takes you to a Sicilian grandmother’s kitchen. It’s truly a soul-soothing soup.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

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