13 Award-Winning Chicken Recipes

Winning first prize for food can be tough, but these chicken dishes have done it. Each recipe brings something special to the table, offering a fresh take on chicken that stands out. These aren’t ordinary recipes; they’re the best of the best. With a mix of classic and new ideas, these dishes turn chicken into a winning meal every time. Get a taste of why these dishes earned their awards.

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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

Crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this classic dish uses an air fryer to achieve perfect results. No mess and no fuss, just a quick way to enjoy something fancy at home. The flavors come together beautifully, making it a hit for any meal. Definitely a must-try if you like a mix of something crispy with a tender core. Despite its name, Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu is actually quite simple to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Tinga

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

Bold and spicy, this dish is all about bringing some heat to your table. Great for making tacos or serving over rice, it’s full of great flavor. Preparing Chicken Tinga takes little time and delivers big on satisfaction. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, you can’t go wrong. It’s a recipe sure to be on repeat.
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.

In this version, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts combines savory with sweet and crunch. Makes for a quick, delicious option for lunch or a light dinner. Perfect for packing in your lunchbox or serving at a casual gathering. The mix of textures and flavors keeps things interesting bite after bite. It’s a fresh take worth trying any day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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

Combining the beloved Caprese salad with grilled chicken gives you a sandwich that’s hard to beat. This option brings the best of both worlds to your plate without much effort. It’s great for a quick, gourmet-style lunch or dinner. With every bite of Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich, you’ll likely find new favorite layers of flavor. Makes any meal feel special.
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.

A restaurant favorite that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, Chicken Piccata balances tangy and savory flavors beautifully. Quick enough for a weekday meal but impressive enough for entertaining. You’ll love the simple sauce that coats every piece perfectly. Great served with pasta or steamed vegetables. A win for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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.

For a low-maintenance yet delicious meal, look no further than Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Everything cooks together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a perfect dish for busy nights when you want something quick yet rewarding. Mix it up with different vegetables for added variety. You’ll appreciate the simplicity and flavor balance.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary 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 Six.

Light yet filling, Chinese Chicken Salad mixes crunchy and fresh in every bite. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something healthy but still packed with flavor. Perfect for hot days or when you want a lighter meal. Add this to your menu for a refreshing change. Enjoy it as a side dish or a main course.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

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 Six.

Homestyle cooking at its best, Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins offers comfort in every spoonful. It’s hearty and fills you up in the most satisfying way. Perfect for cold days or when you need something wholesome. Just like at the restaurant, but without having to leave your house. An ideal choice for a family meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

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 Six.

Recreate your favorite takeout with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken for a fraction of the cost. It’s slightly spicy with a hint of sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser. Great for weeknight dinners when you’re craving something delicious. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal. Once you make this at home, it might become your go-to recipe.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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 Six.

Brings the restaurant experience to your home with Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. It’s rich and flavorful, delivering on all fronts. Perfect for weekend dinners or special occasions. Every bite feels indulgent without too much effort. You won’t even miss the trip to Outback Steakhouse.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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 Six.

When you need a hearty soup, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup hits the spot. It’s packed with flavor and feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for cold days or when you need some comfort food. Easy to make yet tastes like it simmered all day. Definitely something you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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

For a fun twist on quesadillas, try Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. They’re full of flavor and a great way to switch things up. Perfect for a quick dinner or a party snack. Easy to customize with your favorite fillings. You’ll find these hard to resist once you get a taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A classic dish with a rich and tangy sauce, Chicken Paprikash is comfort food at its best. Great for cold nights when you need something warm and filling. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Perfect with a side of noodles or rice. This is one you’ll want to keep in your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

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