As the seasons change and spring arrives, it’s time to bring new flavors and excitement to your cooking repertoire. One of the most versatile and delicious proteins to incorporate into your meals is spring chicken, with its tender meat and rich flavor profile. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at a special occasion, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering spring chicken recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From classic roasted chicken dishes to innovative stir-fries and casseroles, these recipes will inspire your cooking and provide endless options for delicious meals. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to cook, these spring chicken recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Lemon Herb Roasted Spring Chicken
Brighten up your spring table with this flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken dish, infused with the warmth of herbs and the brightness of lemon. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole spring chicken
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Spring Chicken with Asparagus
A flavorful and light spring-inspired dish that combines tender chicken breast, aromatic garlic butter, and crisp asparagus. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
6. Roast asparagus in a separate pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
7. Remove chicken from the oven and top with remaining garlic butter mixture.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
9. Serve hot with roasted asparagus on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spring Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful risotto dish perfect for spring, combining the richness of chicken and mushrooms with the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken and garlic; cook until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add Arborio rice; stir to combine with the mushroom mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add white wine (if using); stir until absorbed.
6. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to the risotto and stir until absorbed. Repeat, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring between additions, until rice is creamy and cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Remove from heat; stir in butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Spring Chicken
This sweet and tangy glaze elevates the flavors of spring chicken to a new level, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless spring chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spring Chicken Piccata with Capers
This recipe showcases the flavors of spring with tender chicken breasts, crispy capers, and a tangy lemon-caper sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Dip floured chicken in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
6. Add garlic, capers, and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute.
7. Serve chicken breasts with the tangy caper sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Spring Chicken and Vegetables
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and easy-to-make one-pan recipe, perfect for a springtime meal.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchini to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spring Chicken Stir-Fry with Snap Peas
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and nutritious stir-fry that combines tender chicken, crunchy snap peas, and savory aromatics. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups snap peas, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and snap peas to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
5. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Baked Spring Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and crispy baked chicken thighs recipe, perfect for a springtime dinner or lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying succulent and crunchy chicken in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the chicken thighs with the mixed seasonings, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spring Chicken and Orzo Salad
Spring Chicken and Orzo Salad Recipe
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this refreshing salad featuring juicy chicken, orzo pasta, and a medley of seasonal vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup cooked orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together chicken breast, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
6. Slice the baked chicken into thin strips and add to the salad.
7. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and toss to combine.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary and Thyme Grilled Spring Chicken
Brighten up your spring menu with this flavorful and aromatic grilled chicken recipe. Fresh rosemary and thyme infuse the meat with a savory, herbaceous flavor that’s perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless spring chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Spring Chicken Pot Pie with Fresh Herbs
Spring Chicken Pot Pie with Fresh Herbs
As the seasons change, bring new life to your classic chicken pot pie recipe by incorporating fresh herbs and vibrant spring flavors. This delightful twist on a comfort food classic is sure to brighten up any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, and rosemary. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture.
5. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with the filling and top with the remaining pie crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spring Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Brighten up your table with these refreshing Spring Chicken Tacos, featuring tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy Avocado Salsa. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas (8-10)
– Avocado Salsa (recipe below)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook chicken breasts until cooked through.
2. Sauté bell peppers and cilantro in olive oil until tender.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing cooked chicken, adding sautéed veggies, and topping with Avocado Salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spring Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this hearty and flavorful soup, featuring tender chicken, nutty wild rice, and a hint of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice (such as brown, white, and wild)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or chives), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spring Chicken Skewers with Chimichurri
Spring Chicken Skewers with Chimichurri: A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional chicken skewers, perfect for spring gatherings and outdoor celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup chimichurri sauce (see below)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix chimichurri sauce ingredients in a bowl.
6. Serve grilled chicken skewers with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spring Chicken with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Spring Chicken with Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe
Spring has sprung, and so has the flavor! This recipe combines tender chicken breast with a bright and zesty lemon garlic sauce, perfect for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil and butter over the chicken, making sure each breast is coated.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spring Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the freshness of spring with the richness of chicken and spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg; mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the chicken-spinach mixture, then place in a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spring Chicken Fricassee with Peas and Carrots
Spring has sprung, and so have the flavors! This light and refreshing chicken fricassee is a perfect way to welcome the warmer months. With tender chicken, sweet peas, and crunchy carrots, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add peas and carrots. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Return chicken to skillet and pour in chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spring Chicken Casserole with Artichokes
A refreshing springtime casserole featuring tender chicken, artichoke hearts, and a hint of lemon, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, artichoke hearts, garlic, and thyme in olive oil until cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, cook the rice according to package instructions.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked chicken mixture, cooked rice, and chicken broth. Stir well.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spring into flavor with these delicious chicken recipes! From classic roasted chicken to stir-fries and casseroles, we’ve got you covered. Try Lemon Herb Roasted Spring Chicken for a bright and citrusy twist, or Garlic Butter Spring Chicken with Asparagus for a rich and savory take. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these 18 mouth-watering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From comforting pot pies to refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone in this collection of spring-inspired chicken dishes.