Mom’s 31 Chicken Dishes That Have Everyone Racing Home For Dinner Like It’s A Holiday

There’s a special kind of magic that brings everyone together when the aroma of home-cooked meals fills the air, especially in the early darkness of winter evenings. This collection of 31 chicken dishes is like having a festive feast without needing an occasion to celebrate. It’s no surprise that these recipes have people rushing through snowy streets and icy sidewalks just to get a taste of dinner at home. Each dish offers something unique, creating moments that feel as warm and comforting as a holiday gathering around the dining table.

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simplicity meets flavor in this 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken recipe. It’s a time-saving solution for busy weeknights that doesn’t compromise on taste. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender and juicy chicken. This dish is perfect for those who want a hassle-free meal preparation. It’s an excellent option for meal prepping or feeding a hungry family with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Marry Me chicken soup on a wooden table.
Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Warm and comforting, Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup is a hearty meal in a bowl. This soup combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy broth that’s sure to please. It’s an ideal choice for chilly evenings or when you need a bit of comfort food. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and create a new, exciting meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Marry Me Chicken Soup

Chicken Bog

A black plate with a serving of Chicken Bog.
Chicken Bog. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Chicken Bog is a traditional Southern dish that’s both filling and flavorful. This one-pot meal combines chicken, rice, and sausage for a hearty and pleasurable dinner. The cooking method results in a unique texture that’s neither too dry nor too soupy. It’s an excellent option for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the week. The dish’s versatility allows for easy customization with various spices or vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bog

Chicken and Corn Chowder

A bowl of chicken and corn chowder sits on a tray.
Chicken and Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Creamy and comforting, Chicken and Corn Chowder is a crowd-pleasing soup. This dish combines the sweetness of corn with tender chicken in a rich, velvety base. It’s a filling meal that’s perfect for cooler days or when you need a bit of comfort. The chowder is easy to prepare and can be customized with additional vegetables or toppings. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover chicken or corn from previous meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Corn Chowder

Chicken Cacciatore

A white dish filled with pieces of Chicken Cacciatore in a red sauce, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Chicken Cacciatore is a classic Italian dish that’s full of flavor and aroma. This rustic meal features chicken cooked in a tomato-based sauce with herbs and vegetables. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender chicken and a rich sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy bold, Mediterranean flavors.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Homemade Chicken Broth

A jar of chicken broth on a wooden board.
Homemade Chicken Broth. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Versatile and nourishing, Homemade Chicken Broth is a kitchen staple. This broth serves as a flavorful base for soups, sauces, and other dishes. Making your own broth allows you to control the ingredients and reduce sodium content. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken bones and vegetable scraps. The resulting broth can be frozen for future use, making meal preparation more convenient.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chicken Broth

Vintage Chicken Divan

Two cast-iron skillets filled with creamy, baked casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs and garnished with fresh thyme sprigs, set on a wooden surface. A fork rests in one serving.
Vintage Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Nostalgia meets comfort in this Vintage Chicken Divan recipe. This casserole combines tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy sauce, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. It’s a filling one-dish meal that’s perfect for family dinners. The recipe is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and introduce vegetables to picky eaters.
Get the Recipe: Vintage Chicken Divan

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Three pieces of Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions on a white rectangular plate.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a quick and easy meal. The air fryer method reduces cooking time and oil usage while still achieving a crispy texture. The honey garlic glaze adds a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. This dish pairs well with various sides and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Kale and tortellini soup in a bowl on a wooden table.
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Hearty and nutritious, Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken is a complete meal in a bowl. This soup combines cheese-filled tortellini with tender chicken and nutrient-rich kale. The broth is flavorful and comforting, making it perfect for cooler days. It’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet. The soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock

Roasted chicken on a slate board with carving knife and fork.
Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock offers a unique and flavorful twist on traditional roasted chicken. The spatchcock method ensures even cooking and crispy skin all over. Smoking adds depth of flavor and keeps the meat juicy. This dish is perfect for outdoor gatherings or when you want to impress guests. The leftovers can be used in various dishes throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Chicken Spatchcock

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Two bowls of creamy chicken & wild rice soup on a wooden table.
Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Comforting and filling, Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup is a hearty meal in itself. The combination of tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and vegetables in a creamy broth is both pleasurable and nourishing. This soup is perfect for batch cooking and freezes well for future meals. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken and incorporate whole grains into your diet.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bursting with Mexican flavors, Chicken Tinga Tostadas offer a fun and interactive dining experience. The shredded chicken is cooked in a smoky chipotle sauce and served on crispy tostadas. Toppings can be customized to each person’s preference, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The chicken tinga can also be used in tacos, burritos, or salads for variety. This dish is a great way to introduce new flavors to your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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

Fusion cuisine at its best, Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas combine traditional Mexican flavors with a convenient format. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful al pastor seasoning, then grilled and stuffed into cheesy quesadillas. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. The quesadillas can be customized with various toppings and sauces. It’s a great way to use leftover grilled chicken and create a new, exciting meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A deconstructed version of the classic, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole offers all the flavors without the fuss. This casserole combines tender chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or ham.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

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.

Inspired by a restaurant favorite, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup brings Italian flavors to your home kitchen. This soup combines tender chicken, vegetables, and pasta in a flavorful broth. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for cooler days or when you’re feeling under the weather. The soup can be made in large batches and frozen for future meals. It’s a great way to enjoy restaurant-quality food at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken Piccata

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

Light and lemony, Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian dish that’s quick to prepare. Thin chicken cutlets are cooked in a bright, tangy sauce made with lemon, capers, and white wine. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for entertaining. It pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables. The recipe can be easily adapted to accommodate different dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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.

A refreshing twist on traditional salads, Chinese Chicken Salad brings together East and West flavors. This dish combines crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and crunchy noodles for a variety of textures. The tangy dressing ties all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious blend. It’s a perfect choice for warm days when you want something light yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Comfort food at its finest, Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings recreates a beloved restaurant favorite. This hearty dish features tender chicken in a rich, creamy broth. Soft, pillowy dumplings soak up the flavorful sauce, making each bite memorable. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for cozy nights in.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

A stack of chicken and pineapple on a vertical skewer on a cutting board.
Smoked Chicken Al Pastor. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Chicken Al Pastor puts a unique spin on a classic Mexican dish. The smoking process infuses the chicken with deep, complex flavors. Pineapple and spices add a sweet and spicy kick to the tender meat. This dish is versatile and can be served in various ways, from tacos to rice bowls. It’s a great option for those who enjoy bold, smoky flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Al Pastor

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.

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken brings restaurant quality to your home kitchen. This dish features juicy chicken breasts topped with crispy bacon and melted cheese. A tangy honey mustard sauce adds a burst of flavor to every bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients in a delicious way. This recipe is perfect for when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is a flavorful dish that’s worth the wait. The slow roasting process allows the chicken to absorb all the spices and become incredibly tender. This method results in meat that practically falls off the bone. The Mexican-inspired seasonings give the dish a rich, complex flavor profile. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

A casserole dish of Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuit.
Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A unique twist on classic comfort food, Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits combines two favorite dishes. The creamy chicken filling is topped with flaky, buttery biscuits inspired by a popular restaurant chain. This dish offers a perfect balance of textures, from the tender chicken to the crispy biscuit topping. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both fulfilling and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

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.

Bring the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout home with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. This dish features tender chicken pieces stir-fried with vegetables and peanuts in a spicy sauce. The balance of heat, sweetness, and saltiness makes it a crowd-pleaser. It’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Serve it over rice for a complete and filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

A platter of Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Perfect for parties or as a unique appetizer, Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites pack a lot of flavors into small packages. The smoky chicken is wrapped in crispy tortillas, creating a lovely contrast of textures. These bites are easy to eat and can be customized with various toppings or dips. They’re a great way to introduce people to the flavors of smoked chicken in a fun, bite-sized form.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Two pieces of Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos served on a black slate plate.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Enjoy restaurant-quality tacos at home with Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos. These tacos feature seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy sauce. The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite exciting. They’re easy to assemble, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. These tacos allow you to control the ingredients while still enjoying the flavors you love.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Tacos

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Italian Chicken brings the rich flavors of Italy to your dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken with classic Italian herbs and spices. The result is a flavorful, aromatic meal that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s versatile enough to be served with pasta, rice, or vegetables. This recipe is a great way to add variety to your chicken dishes while keeping things simple and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

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.

A refreshing twist on a classic, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender chicken is complemented by the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts. This salad is versatile and can be served on its own, in sandwiches, or over greens. It’s a great option for meal prep or quick lunches. The combination of ingredients makes it both nutritious and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

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.

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The bright flavors of lemon and rosemary infuse the chicken as it roasts. This one-pan meal allows for easy preparation and cleanup. The chicken comes out juicy and tender, with crispy skin. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

A hand holding a spoonful of creamy chicken noodle soup with vegetables over a bowl, accompanied by slices of bread on a plate.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Nothing beats a bowl of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup for comfort and warmth. This version takes the classic soup to the next level with its rich, creamy broth. Tender chunks of chicken, soft noodles, and vegetables make it a complete meal in a bowl. It’s perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This soup is sure to become a family favorite that everyone will request again and again.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

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 offers a healthier take on the classic French dish. The air fryer creates a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Ham and melted cheese add flavor and richness to each bite. This method of cooking reduces the need for excess oil while still delivering great taste. It’s an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A takeout favorite made at home, Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile and filling meal. This dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables. The ingredients are stir-fried to perfection, creating a harmony of flavors and textures. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables. This recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

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