• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Recipe Collections

38 Festive Chicken Dinners So Easy, You’ll Feel Like a Holiday Pro

Published: Nov 17, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Festive chicken dinners bring all the comfort and flavor you need to make your holiday meals extra special. These recipes are packed with bold flavors, warm spices, and that comforting touch that makes you feel right at home. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just your family, these dishes are the perfect way to bring some festive flair to the table without a ton of work. Each one has its own spin on classic chicken, turning it into something that feels fresh and exciting, while still being simple enough to pull off any night of the week.

Overhead image of slow cooker apricot chicken on a dish.
Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Chicken and Queso Rice Bake

Close-up image of Chicken and Queso Rice Bake garnished with fresh chopped parsley on a plate.
Chicken and Queso Rice Bake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This chicken and queso rice bake is a quick, cheesy dinner full of rich flavors that’s perfect for festive chicken dinners when you need a satisfying meal without a long prep time. With a creamy texture and savory taste, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings alike.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Queso Rice Bake

Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

A serving of Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan in a plate.
Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

This maple Dijon chicken sheet pan recipe combines a sweet, tangy glaze with crispy bacon and perfectly roasted veggies, making it a festive chicken dinner that’s both hearty and simple to prepare. With everything cooking on one pan, it’s a great choice for easy holiday meals that still deliver on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Maple Dijon Chicken Sheet Pan

Honey Garlic Chicken

Chicken and mango slices in a pan.
Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Food Fun & Faraway Places.

This one-pan honey garlic chicken with mango brings tropical flavors into an easy-to-make dish, perfect for festive chicken dinners that come together in under 30 minutes. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a family favorite ideal for both casual weeknights and special holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Chicken

Easy Chicken Pot Pie

Easy Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This classic chicken pot pie is all about hearty, comforting flavors with juicy chicken, mixed vegetables, and a flaky puff pastry crust, perfect for a festive chicken dinner with a homestyle feel. It’s easy enough for beginners and filling enough to satisfy everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Pot Pie

Apricot Chicken

Apricot Chicken. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Slow cooker apricot chicken combines sweet apricot preserves with savory spices, creating a hands-off dish that’s perfect for busy nights or festive chicken dinners. With minimal prep, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t require much attention in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Apricot Chicken

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Cheesy chicken stuffed eggplant on a baking sheet.
Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Stuffed eggplant with chicken and cheddar cheese makes a quick, satisfying 30-minute dinner, bringing new flavors and textures to any festive chicken dinner spread. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a delicious option for those looking for easy, unique holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Eggplant

Marry Me Chicken

A plate of marry me chicken over pasta.
Marry Me Chicken. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Marry Me Chicken is famous for its creamy, rich sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken, making it a memorable choice for any festive chicken dinner. This slow cooker recipe impresses with minimal effort, working well for both weeknights and holiday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken

Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice

Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker butter chicken with cauliflower rice is a favorite for its warm, inviting flavors, making it an easy addition to festive chicken dinners. This slow cooker dish combines convenience and rich taste for a meal that satisfies on busy holiday evenings.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole

Chicken alfredo broccoli bake cooking in dish on rack.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Chicken broccoli Alfredo casserole brings together tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce for a satisfying 30-minute meal that works beautifully for festive chicken dinners. With its quick prep and comfort food appeal, it’s perfect for cozy gatherings and family meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy garlic chicken offers a one-pan meal made in just 30 minutes, featuring chicken breast in a rich, Parmesan-garlic sauce, ideal for festive chicken dinners with minimal cleanup. This recipe showcases the elegance of simple flavors, making it a versatile option for holiday or casual dinners alike.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Sticky Thai Chicken

An image of four sticky Thai chicken on a pan.
Sticky Thai Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sticky Thai chicken thighs add bold, vibrant flavors to your festive chicken dinner lineup, with this 30-minute recipe bringing the essence of Thai-inspired takeout to your table. Quick and easy, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy unique, crowd-pleasing flavors without leaving home.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Thai Chicken

Gochujang Chicken

Chinese gochujang chicken in a skillet on a table with black kitchen towel wrapped around the handle.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Gochujang chicken thighs, marinated in a spicy-sweet sauce, bring bold flavors to your festive chicken dinners, with the marinade soaking perfectly into tender thighs. This quick, vibrant dish is a simple yet flavorful way to add something special to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Thai Chicken Curry Crock Pot

Thai chicken curry in a white bamboo bowl with a coconut and other fresh ingredients around it on a slate table.
Thai Chicken Curry Crock Pot. Photo credit: Food Fun & Faraway Places.

Thai chicken curry in the slow cooker offers a comforting, bold dish that’s perfect for any festive chicken dinner, bringing rich, satisfying flavors with minimal effort. This dish lets you enjoy the warmth of Thai spices in an easy, family-friendly recipe that’s ready whenever you are.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry Crock Pot

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken thighs in tomato sauce on a large white plate.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Slow-cooked chicken thighs in a veggie-packed tomato sauce make for a hearty, easy festive chicken dinner that’s sure to please the whole family. Serve over pasta for a complete meal that saves you time without sacrificing taste, making it an ideal weeknight or holiday option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Easy Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Easy chicken and dumplings is a family favorite with adaptable ingredients, making it a versatile choice for festive chicken dinners that everyone will enjoy. This comforting dish combines your favorite soup base with chicken and vegetables for a warm, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Sheet Pan Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary

Sheet Pan Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sheet pan chicken with lemon, garlic, and rosemary combines fresh flavors in a simple, easy-to-clean dish that fits perfectly into your festive chicken dinner lineup. With only one pan required, it’s a quick and flavorful option that makes holiday dinners a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary

Lemon Butter Chicken

Lemon Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Lemon butter chicken brightens up any festive chicken dinner with its fresh flavors and straightforward recipe, offering a quick solution for those busy nights. It’s the perfect choice for a simple yet flavorful meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste or quality.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Chicken

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce is a one-pan, 30-minute dish with deep, comforting flavors, making it an excellent addition to any festive chicken dinner. This meal brings hearty ingredients together quickly, perfect for weeknights or holiday gatherings where ease is a priority.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Air fryer chicken leg quarters on a plate with broccoli and purple sweet potato fries.
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Air fryer chicken leg quarters cook up in just 25 minutes with crispy skin and tender meat, making them a fast, flavorful choice for festive chicken dinners. This easy recipe is ideal when you need a satisfying, no-fuss dinner that still brings flavor to the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Thai Chicken Curry

Low angle shot of a blue and white striped bowl filled with Thai chicken curry.
Thai Chicken Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Thai chicken curry uses pantry-friendly ingredients for a flavorful dish that’s perfect for festive chicken dinners. Whether prepared on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot, this curry offers a homemade taste that’s quick and satisfying, perfect for special occasions or weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry

Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken

Roasted chicken thighs with butternut squash, cauliflower, and rice on a plate.
Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Sheet pan chicken thighs in a maple curry sauce bring together roasted vegetables and a sweet, spiced glaze, creating an easy, balanced festive chicken dinner. With minimal effort, this one-pan recipe helps you enjoy a full, flavorful meal that’s both quick and impressive.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Maple Curry Chicken

Chicken Divan

A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin.
Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Divan combines tender chicken and broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, making it an easy, comforting option for festive chicken dinners. This low-prep dish delivers rich flavors with minimal effort, perfect for holiday meals or weeknight gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

Pecan Crusted Chicken

Pecan crusted chicken cut into slices on a plate with honey dijon sauce and green beans.
Pecan Crusted Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pecan-crusted chicken with honey Dijon yogurt sauce offers a crisp texture with a hint of sweetness, ideal for festive chicken dinners that need both simplicity and flavor. Easy to prepare, it’s a great way to serve something special without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Crusted Chicken

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Closeup overhead shot of 3 crispy chicken thighs in a black cast iron skillet.
Cast Iron Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Cast iron chicken thighs develop a crisp exterior with juicy meat in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick and flavorful festive chicken dinner. This easy recipe brings out the natural taste of the chicken, making it a go-to for weeknight or holiday meals when time is limited.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken

A roasted chicken in a cast iron skillet.
Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Whole roasted lemon pepper chicken combines juicy meat with a bright, peppery kick, a simple yet flavorful choice for festive chicken dinners. Ready in about an hour with minimal hands-on work, it’s a holiday meal that delivers big taste without complicated steps.
Get the Recipe: Whole Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Korma

Low angle shot of bowls of chicken korma.
Instant Pot Chicken Korma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot chicken korma offers a spicy, rich curry that’s easy to make and perfect for festive chicken dinners when you’re craving something comforting. With quick prep and bold flavors, it’s a great way to enjoy restaurant-style curry at home.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Korma

Chicken Stew

Chicken Stew. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Slow cooker chicken stew brings together chicken, garlic, vegetables, and a creamy sauce for a comforting festive chicken dinner that’s easy to prepare. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal, perfect for colder weather or any cozy holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew

Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken

Asian glazed chicken in a skillet with lemon slices.
Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Honey garlic sriracha skillet chicken brings sweet and spicy flavors to juicy chicken, offering an easy, one-pan festive chicken dinner with minimal cleanup. This quick recipe delivers bold flavors, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Sriracha Skillet Chicken

Italian Chicken Cutlets

Breaded italian chicken cutlets on a black plate with sliced lemon.
Italian Chicken Cutlets. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Italian chicken cutlets are quick to make, crispy, and full of flavor, giving you a simple yet satisfying option for festive chicken dinners that outshine typical takeout. This versatile recipe works well for casual family meals or special holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Cutlets

Chicken Marsala

Roasted chicken with mushrooms and potatoes in a cast iron skillet.
Chicken Marsala. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Chicken Marsala combines tender chicken and mushrooms in a savory wine sauce, making it a great choice for festive chicken dinners with a classic twist. With simple steps, this recipe brings warmth and depth to any dinner table, perfect for fall and winter evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marsala

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy spinach chicken bake combines tender chicken, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella in a hearty dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Ideal for festive chicken dinners, this recipe keeps prep simple while offering comforting flavors.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Honey Lemon Pepper Thighs with parsley on a white plate.
Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

Honey lemon pepper chicken thighs offer a balanced mix of sweet, tangy, and mild spice, making them a moist, flavorful choice for any festive chicken dinner. These thighs stay juicy throughout cooking, adding a satisfying main course to holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Spinach stuffed chicken breast makes a straightforward yet visually appealing meal for festive chicken dinners, with a creamy spinach filling adding flavor to each bite. This simple recipe is approachable for beginners, delivering both taste and style.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Chicken Saag (Chicken Saagwala)

Chicken Saag (Chicken Saagwala). Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chicken saag brings together tender chicken and a rich spinach sauce, perfect for festive chicken dinners that embrace vibrant, bold flavors. This easy curry is a great introduction to Indian-inspired dishes without complex steps.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Saag (Chicken Saagwala)

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon chicken features seasoned chicken, fresh spinach, and crumbled bacon in a one-pan meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for festive chicken dinners. This dish provides rich flavors and an effortless presentation, ideal for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes

Crispy, brown-skinned chicken roasted with shallots and radishes on a sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

Sheet pan chicken thighs with roasted radishes offer a high-heat roast that keeps the chicken juicy, perfect for festive chicken dinners that highlight seasonal ingredients. The roasted radishes complement the chicken’s richness, proving thighs are ideal for both quick and flavorful meals.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Roasted Radishes

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Creamy Tuscan chicken orzo delivers juicy chicken in a rich sauce of cream, broth, and white wine, perfect for festive chicken dinners that feel like a special treat. This easy recipe tastes like a restaurant meal, making it ideal for cozy gatherings and holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Black plate of chicken with asparagus.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Garlic butter chicken bites with asparagus make for a quick and easy festive chicken dinner that’s both light and satisfying. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a solid choice for any night when time is tight but flavor is a must.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

More Recipe Collections

  • An overhead shot of Scalloped Potatoes and Ham.
    Remember when everyone ate these? 21 foods kids today won’t try
  • An overview of five tofu lettuce wraps on a white plate.
    30 vibrant garden-to-table meals that taste like spring
  • A close up image of freshly baked Cinnamon Rolls in a pan.
    24 crowd-favorite cinnamon rolls perfect for Easter breakfast
  • A slice of Strawberry Poke Cake on a plate with fresh strawberries in the background.
    27 strawberry desserts that make spring taste amazing

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

More about me →

Popular

  • Front view image of canadian hot turkey sandwich in a white plate garnished with green peas.
    Remember these 19 retro dishes from Grandma’s kitchen? you should
  • St. Patrick’s Cookies and Buttercream Dip dunked.
    28 St. Patrick’s Day desserts that go beyond shamrock shakes
  • A plate of zucchini noodles with creamy avocado sauce, fresh tomatoes on top and a fork.
    27 Easter sides perfect for warm spring afternoons
  • Veggie pinwheels in a plate.
    Spring picnic made easy: 21 foods that travel smoother than your kids

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC