Tantalizing Chicken Recipes for Christmas

Christmas is a time for friends, family, celebration, and, of course, food! When it comes to festive feasts, one of the most popular main proteins is chicken. Fortunately, it is also one of the most versatile proteins and can be enjoyed in a number of ways. Whether you’re looking for a traditional family recipe, something warm and comforting, or something a bit bolder, we have you covered with these five delicious chicken recipes for Christmas.

Thyme Roasted Chicken and Potatoes

This classic one-pan dish is the perfect way to please the crowd. This hearty and simple main takes just minutes to prep and provides a great combination of flavors. Best of all, it features a simple yet effective dry rub made with thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and butter.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 large potatoes, cut into wedges
• 1/2 tablespoon thyme
• 1/2 tablespoon rosemary
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 (4-pound) whole chicken

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C).
2. Arrange potatoes on a large roasting pan.
3. In a small bowl combine thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and salt. Sprinkle over potatoes.
4. Pour melted butter over potatoes and toss to coat.
5. Pat dry the chicken and place on top of potatoes.
6. Roast for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Baked Chicken Stuffed with Figs and Fennel

This elegant yet simple dish is certain to be a show stopper at your Christmas dinner. The combination of sweet dried figs, aromatic fennel, and juicy pan-seared chicken makes for a festive twist on a standard recipe.

Ingredients:

• 3 ounces dried figs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 fennel bulb, shaved
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded a 1/4 inch thick
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a food processor, combine dried figs, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, shaved fennel, parsley, and honey.
3. Process on high speed until the mixture forms a paste-like texture.
4. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
6. Transfer chicken breasts to a baking dish and spread fig-fennel stuffing over each breast.
7. Bake for 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).

Chicken Divan with Lemon and Sage

This comforting casserole featuring chicken, broccoli, and a creamy sauce topped with crunchy breadcrumbs is an ideal option for a festive dinner. The addition of lemon, sage, and white wine adds a subtle yet flavorful touch.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon sage
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (176 degrees C).
2. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
3. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add flour and cook 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and whisk in heavy cream.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
6. Add lemon juice and sage, and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
7. Reduce heat to low and add cooked chicken, broccoli, and white wine. Stir until all ingredients are combined.
8. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
9. Top with panko-butter mixture and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Crispy Bacon and Green Apple Chicken

The combination of crispy bacon and tart green apples makes this dish an amazing choice for a Christmas dinner. This easy skillet recipe is sure to become one of your favorite poultry preparations.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices bacon, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin (1/4 inch)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4
  cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 green apples, cored, halved, and thinly sliced
• 1/4
  cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook bacon until crisp.
2. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels, reserve 2 tablespoons bacon drippings.
3. Return skillet to heat and add olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper and add to skillet.
4. Cook 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Dredge chicken in flour mixture. Add to skillet and cook 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
7. Add apples to skillet along with white wine and reserved bacon drippings. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until apples are just tender.
8. Add cooked bacon, butter, and parsley. Stir until combined.
9. Serve chicken and apples warm.

Apricot Glazed Chicken Breasts

The sweet and tangy glaze in this recipe is the perfect addition to the festive tastes of the season. You can enjoy the apricot glaze alone or serve it over a bed of spinach salad or quinoa.

Ingredients:

• 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup apric