14 Quick and Delicious Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

Cooking chicken can be so much fun and there are endless ways to do it. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy, or you want to impress your friends with a fancy dish, chicken is a great go-to. It’s versatile, delicious, and with the right recipe, you can create some amazing meals. From grilling to roasting, and everything in between, let’s dive into the 14 best ways to cook chicken that will have you coming back for more. These methods will make you love cooking chicken even more!

Grilled Chicken

Grilling chicken is a flavorful method that creates a smoky, slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy. To prepare, marinate 1 pound of chicken breasts or thighs in a mixture of 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Grill over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Grilling adds a distinct flavor and texture that pairs well with a variety of sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. The key is to preheat the grill and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices.

Baked Chicken

Baking chicken is an easy, hands-off method that results in a tender and flavorful dish. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Season 1 pound of chicken thighs or breasts with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baking ensures even cooking and helps retain the moisture of the chicken. If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent over-browning. This method is perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Pan-Seared Chicken

Pan-searing chicken delivers a crispy golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy. Season 1 pound of chicken breasts with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until fully cooked. The searing process locks in the juices and enhances the flavor, making it perfect for boneless cuts like breasts or thighs. For a quick sauce, deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth after cooking the chicken, scraping up the browned bits for added flavor. Serve with sautéed greens or rice for a complete meal.

Poached Chicken

Poaching is a gentle method that keeps chicken moist and flavorful. In a large pot, combine 4 cups water or chicken broth, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 bay leaf, 1 garlic clove, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. Add 1 pound of boneless chicken breasts and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Poaching is ideal for making chicken that can be shredded and used in salads, sandwiches, or soups. Let the chicken cool in the liquid to retain moisture and flavor. This method produces soft, juicy chicken without the risk of drying out.

Slow-Cooked Chicken

Slow cooking allows chicken to become incredibly tender and flavorful over several hours. Place 1 pound of chicken thighs or breasts in a slow cooker with 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and shreddable. This method is perfect for preparing meals ahead of time and requires minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors, making it perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or served over rice. Resist the urge to lift the lid frequently to keep the heat in.

Roasted Chicken

Roasting a whole chicken delivers juicy meat and crispy skin, making it a classic dish. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Season a 4-5 pound whole chicken with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Roast the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan for 1-1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part reaches 165°F. Basting the chicken with its own juices throughout the roasting process enhances the flavor and keeps the meat moist. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to lock in the juices.

Stir-Fried Chicken

Stir-frying is a quick and versatile method for cooking chicken that pairs well with vegetables and sauces. Slice 1 pound of chicken breasts into thin strips and season with 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch for extra crispiness. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a hot wok or skillet, then add the chicken and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Stir-frying requires constant movement to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out. Pair with rice or noodles and a tangy sauce like teriyaki or hoisin for a complete meal.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a crowd-pleasing comfort food with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. To prepare, coat 1 pound of chicken drumsticks or thighs in seasoned flour (1 cup flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika) and dip in buttermilk before frying in hot oil (350°F) for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. The key to great fried chicken is maintaining a consistent oil temperature and allowing the chicken to drain on a wire rack to keep it crispy. Double-coat the chicken for extra crunch and serve with sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw.

Sous Vide Chicken

Sous vide is a precise cooking method that results in perfectly cooked, juicy chicken. Season 1 pound of boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like rosemary. Vacuum-seal the chicken in a bag and cook in a sous vide water bath set at 145°F for 1.5 hours. After cooking, quickly sear the chicken in a hot skillet with 1 tablespoon butter for 1-2 minutes per side to develop a crispy exterior. Sous vide guarantees even cooking and retains the chicken’s moisture, making it tender and flavorful. Use this method for restaurant-quality results every time.

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is a comforting, warming dish perfect for using leftover chicken. In a large pot, combine 1 pound of shredded chicken with 6 cups chicken broth, 1 diced onion, 2 sliced carrots, 2 sliced celery stalks, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Chicken soup is versatile and can be customized with noodles, rice, or additional vegetables. The gentle simmering method creates a flavorful broth while keeping the chicken tender. Serve with crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Chicken Skewers

Chicken skewers are perfect for grilling or broiling, offering a fun and flavorful way to cook chicken. Cut 1 pound of chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and marinate in a mixture of 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon oregano. Thread the chicken onto skewers, alternating with vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Grill or broil for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through. The skewers offer a balance of juicy chicken and caramelized vegetables, making them great for serving at barbecues or as an appetizer.

Air Fried Chicken

Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying, resulting in crispy chicken without excessive oil. Season 1 pound of chicken wings or drumsticks with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crisping. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, creating a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a guilt-free indulgence.

Beer Can Chicken

Beer can chicken is a fun way to infuse your roast chicken with moisture and flavor. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Season a 4-5 pound whole chicken with a dry rub of 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon salt. Insert an open can of beer into the cavity of the chicken and stand it upright on the grill. Roast for 1.5-2 hours until the chicken is cooked through, with crispy skin and moist, flavorful meat. The beer steams the chicken from the inside, ensuring it remains juicy while the grill crisps the exterior.

Smoked Chicken

Smoking chicken adds a deep, rich flavor that enhances its natural taste. Prepare a smoker or grill for indirect heat and add wood chips like hickory or applewood. Season 1 pound of chicken thighs with a rub of 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon brown sugar. Smoke the chicken at 225°F for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The slow smoking process infuses the chicken with a robust smoky flavor that pairs well with barbecue sauces or served simply with roasted vegetables. Experiment with different wood varieties for unique flavors.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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