How To Cut a Whole Chicken in 6 Easy Steps
I almost never buy chicken in pieces. At the grocery store, I walk right past the trays containing chicken breasts and chicken thighs and look for the whole chickens. Sure, I love a good roasted or grilled whole chicken as much as anyone, but buying this way is also part of a larger strategy: I break the chickens down at home, trading a bit of my time for grocery budget savings.
When it comes to price, it’s a no-brainer to cut up a chicken myself. A Simple Truth organic whole chicken costs $2.99 per pound at my local store. If I buy the same brand as boneless skinless chicken breasts, I’ll shell out $6.99 per pound (or $5.99 for boneless thighs). So I buy three or four birds and make an afternoon of it, packaging several breasts, thighs, drumsticks and wings into individual bundles and freezing them for later.
As a bonus, saving the excess bones and wing tips allows me to make a “free” batch of chicken stock—and it always turns out more flavorful than the store-bought stuff.
How to Cut a Whole Chicken
I will admit that the process of cutting a whole chicken sounds intimidating. “You went to culinary school,” my friends say. “Of course you think it’s easy to break down chickens at home!” It’s true that I’ve processed hundreds of chickens in my career, but culinary school only gave me the confidence to get started. I promise that I was just as intimidated as anyone at the beginning!
The hardest part is getting comfortable with slicing around the bones. But any mistakes you make will barely be noticeable after the meat is cooked. Then, after practicing on a few chickens, you’ll find the entire process takes less than 5 minutes. These are the raw chicken mistakes you should definitely avoid when cooking, though.
Tools You’ll Need
You have two options for cutting a whole chicken: You can use a knife or shears. Shears are a great option for beginners. They remove the risk of accidentally cutting your hands as you maneuver around the chicken. You can use a regular set of kitchen shears, although you may want to use poultry shears instead. They’re spring-loaded to make it easier to get through the tough breastbone. Once you have them around, they’re handy for spatchcocking chicken and turkey, too.
If you’re going with the knife option, you’ll want one with a long, thin blade. A chef’s knife works in a pinch, but it’s too wide and can get in the way of the delicate cuts around the joints. If you don’t plan to process many chickens, start with an inexpensive boning knife, like this Mercer Culinary 6-inch curved boning knife. If you enjoy the process, you can always upgrade to a more expensive knife later, like this Wusthof 6-inch boning knife.
Directions
Step 1: Remove the wings and wing tips
With the chicken breast-side down on the cutting board, pull the wing tip away from the wing flat. Use your fingers to locate the joint and slice through it to remove the tip. Turn the chicken and repeat the process on the other side.
Pull the wing towards you and make a semi-circle cut around the back of the drumette. When the bone is exposed, pull the wing away from the body and pop the joint out of its socket. Cut through the joint to remove the wing, repeating the process on the other side.
If desired, slice through the joint that connects the flat and the drumette to separate the two pieces. Our chicken wing recipes are a great way to use these pieces.
Editor’s Tip: The wing tips don’t contain any meat, but don’t throw them away! They’re rich in collagen, the substance that gives body to stock and broth. Save them in the freezer (along with the rest of the chicken bones) until you have enough to make a batch of broth.
Step 2: Remove the legs
Turn the chicken over so it’s breast-side up on the cutting board. Slice the skin between the leg and breast, keeping the knife or shears as close to the leg as possible. Turn the chicken on its side and hold onto the leg with your free hand. Cut down towards the point where the leg meets the body, making a small semi-circle cut around the oyster until you reach the bone.
Put the knife down and grasp the chicken by its knee. Bend the knee and position the leg so it’s parallel to the spine. Then, pull it up and away from the body. You should hear a satisfying “crack” when the joint pops out of its socket. If you’re having trouble with this step, play around with the leg’s angle and try again.
Cut through the joint and give it a firm tug to pull the leg free from the body. You shouldn’t need to use your knife, but you can cut downwards along the backbone for assistance if you’re experiencing difficulties.
Repeat the process on the other side.
Step 3: Separate the thigh and drumstick
The thigh and drumstick can be cooked together (these chicken leg recipes are amazing) or you can separate the two pieces. To remove the drumstick, turn the leg skin-side down to get a better view. Locate the joint that connects the thigh and the drumstick, using your fingers and wiggling the drumstick back and forth to find it. Slice through the meat towards that joint, separating the two pieces. Then use the pieces in these chicken thigh recipes and drumstick recipes.
When I first learned how to cut up a whole chicken, this was the hardest part. There are some big bones here, and you can’t get a good view without slicing into the meat. It’s easy to miss the point where the two pieces connect. Don’t worry: You won’t be able to tell if you butchered it after the meat is cooked, so keep at it until you get it right.
Step 4: Remove the backbone
Turn the chicken upright, with the neck touching the cutting board. Holding the back, carefully cut down along the edge of the breastbone, cutting through the ribs. Depending on your skill level, you may find this part easier using shears. When you reach the neck area, repeat the process on the other side. Put the knife or shears down and pull the backbone away from the body to remove it. Save the bones for stock in the same bag that contains the wingtips.
Step 5: Remove the wishbone
I always take the time to do this step, but it’s optional. The chicken will cook just fine with the wishbone intact, but it’s easier to split the breasts or carve the cooked chicken if it’s removed. If you’re planning to take the breasts off the bone in the next step, you don’t need to remove the wishbone.
Position the chicken breast skin-side up with the neck facing towards you. Pull back the skin to expose the breast meat. Make a small slit into the meat as close to the neck as possible. You should be able to feel the wishbone with your knife. Follow along each side of the bone with your knife until you reach the point where it joins the shoulder. Cut around the bottom to release the bottom of the wishbone. Repeat the process on the other side.
Using your fingers, carefully pull the wishbone up to remove it from the neck. I often use a paper towel to get a better grip on the slippery bone. It’s a delicate bone, so it may snap in half as you remove it. Take care to remove any bone fragments if that happens.
Step 6: Split the breast or create boneless skinless chicken breasts
A chicken breast tastes great when it’s roasted whole on the bone, but you may choose to separate the breast into two pieces to make portioning easier later. It’s also easy to take the breast off the bone if you prefer boneless skinless chicken breasts—perfect for these easy chicken breast recipes.
To split the breast, place the chicken skin-side down on the cutting board. Run a sharp knife along the center of the breast to weaken the cartilage. Then, flip the chicken over and position your palms on each side. Press down firmly until you hear the breastbone crack. Make a long, even slice through the center of the breast to cut the skin. Use a pair of poultry shears to cut through the bone. You can also use a wide sturdy knife like a chef’s knife or cleaver, pressing down firmly until you punch through the breastbone.
To create boneless skinless chicken breasts, place each breast half skin-side down on the cutting board. Starting at the thickest end of the breast, run the tip of your knife under the breastbone to release it from the meat. Continue to follow the breastbone, pulling it back with your free hand. When you reach the rib cage, angle your knife slightly to get under the rib bones. To remove the skin, start at the skinny end of the chicken breast. Pull the skin towards the thick end, using your knife to loosen any clinging bits as you move along.
In the end, you should have ten pieces of chicken: two flats, two drumettes, two, thighs, two drumsticks and two breasts. Additionally, you’ll have two wing tips, a backbone and a wishbone which can be used to make chicken broth or stock.
Use your newfound skills to make these unique chicken recipes.
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Filipino Chicken Adobo
My mom always makes her saucy Chicken Adobo recipe when I come home to visit. I think it's even better the next day as leftovers —she says it's because of the vinegar. — Michael Moya, Taste of Home Senior Marketing Manager
Mexican Chicken Fajita Pizza
This Mexican chicken pizza has always been a hit with my kids and it’s such a great way to sneak in extra vegetables. —Carrie Shaub, Mount Joy, Pennsylvania
Chicken Cakes with Avocado Mango Sauce
These chicken cakes are a great appetizer for your next holiday party. Or serve them for dinner tonight with a side of rice and your favorite vegetable! —Rachael Nodes, La Barge, Wyoming
Buffalo Chicken Meat Loaf
Here's a great way to spice up a plain chicken meat loaf. It combines two of my favorite Sunday afternoon foods into one easy-to-make meal that's a huge hit with my family. —Holly Jones, Kennesaw, Georgia
Barbecued Chicken Salad Sandwiches
An impromptu picnic inspired this BBQ chicken salad sandwich. An instant summertime favorite, these dressed-up sandwiches have become a mainstay at our house. —Linda Orme, Battleground, Washington
Spanish-Style Paella
If you enjoy cooking ethnic foods, this Spanish paella recipe will be a favorite. It's brimming with generous chunks of sausage, shrimp and veggies.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Contest-Winning Hot Chicken Salad
After I tasted this hot chicken salad at a women's luncheon, I left with the recipe in hand. I was our city clerk for several years, and on election days I brought this to serve our poll workers for lunch. It got everyone's vote of approval! I've found it is also delicious stuffed in a tomato. —Ruth Glabe, Oronoco, Minnesota
Chicken Chiles Rellenos Alfredo
This recipe combines my daughter's love of chiles rellenos and my love of chicken Alfredo! To cut down on the spice level you could substitute Monterey Jack cheese for the pepper jack. —Jennifer Stowell, Smithville, Missouri
Buffalo Chicken Alfredo
My family loves this quick Buffalo chicken Alfredo! It became an instant favorite. I like to use Frank's cayenne pepper sauce, but if you like things on the milder side, just use a little less. —Lauren Wyler, Dripping Springs, Texas
Moroccan Chicken Thighs
My husband and I love Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food. This recipe is very flavorful, so it's quickly become one of our favorites. —Susan Mills, Three Rivers, California
Goat Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
This spinach-stuffed chicken breast recipe is special to me because it has so much flavor, yet not too many calories. I love Italian food, but most of the time it is too heavy. This is a healthy twist on an Italian dish! —Nicole Stevens, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Contest-Winning Greek Pasta Bake
I've taken this hot dish to potlucks and it's received rave reviews. There's never a morsel left. Best of all, it's a simple, healthy and hearty supper made with ingredients that are easy to find. —Anne Taglienti, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
Chicken and Egg Hash
This chicken and eggs recipe is one of my daughter's favorites. To reduce cooking time and clean out the fridge, dice up leftover potatoes and use pre-cooked meat. —Joyce Price, Whitefish, Ontario
Scalloped Chicken Casserole
This is a great catchall meal-in-one dish. Any meat can be used, and vegetables may be substituted based on what you have available.—Marion White, La Center, Washington
Slow-Cooker Country Captain Chicken
Legend has it that the recipe for country captain chicken was brought to Georgia in the early 1800s by a British sea captain. Although it's traditional to serve this over rice, it's also delicious with noodles or mashed potatoes. —Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
Cajun Chicken Lasagna
Destined to be a new favorite with all around the table, this zesty take on traditional Italian lasagna is a nod to the Gulf Coast. Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning if you like spicier fare. —Mary Lou Cook, Welches, Oregon
Savory Mustard Chicken and Stuffing Waffles
Adding mustard to the chicken coating adds a tang that's amazing with the savory waffles and sweet maple syrup. —John Ginn, Carlisle, Pennsylvania
California Chicken Club Pizza
Inspired by the California Club pizza from California Pizza Kitchen, I decided to whip up my own version. It's loaded with tons of fresh veggies, so that means it has to be good for you, right? —Robert Pickart, Chicago, Illinois
Creole Skillet Dinner
While living in Canada, I sampled this colorful dish at a neighbor's. The following Christmas, I served it instead of my traditional turkey, and I received numerous compliments on it. I frequently substitute shrimp or sausage for the chicken ... or add all three. —Bonnie Brann, Pasco, Washington
Chicken Wings Fricassee
These old-fashioned sautéed chicken wings with flavorful gravy are equally impressive and inexpensive. They usually draw compliments—and second helpings.—Sundra Lewis, Bogalusa, Louisiana
Easy Chicken Pesto Stuffed Peppers
On busy weeknights, I don’t want to spend more than 30 minutes preparing dinner, nor do I want to wash a towering pile of dishes. This recipe delivers without having to sacrifice flavor! —Olivia Cruz, Greenville, South Carolina
Nacho Chicken
I have been serving this rich and zippy chicken casserole for years, and it's a favorite of my family and friends. It disappears quickly at bring-a-dish gatherings, too. —Thom Britton, Three Rivers, Michigan
Baked Nectarine Chicken Salad
This casserole is a fun twist on a classic. Folks love the crunchy chow mein noodles on top. I love that I can make it a day in advance and refrigerate until it's time to serve. Serve with hot bread or rolls. —Faye Robinson, Pensacola, Florida
Blueberry-Dijon Chicken
Blueberries and chicken may seem like a strange combination, but prepare to be pleasantly surprised. I add a sprinkling of minced fresh basil as the finishing touch. —Susan Marshall, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken
I love to experiment with food. We're able to buy sweet onions grown on Maui, so I stir-fry them with chicken and carrots for a tasty teriyaki meal. —Kelly Brenneman, Riverdale, California
Chicken Bulgur Skillet
This recipe was passed on to me by a friend. I've altered it slightly to suit our tastes. We like it with a fresh green salad. —Leann Hilmer, Sylvan Grove, Kansas
Pineapple-Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry
I found the original recipe on a can of pineapple slices in the 1980s. After making it for a number of years, I lightened up the ingredients and adapted it to a quick skillet meal. My family gave it a big thumbs-up, and we've enjoyed it this way ever since! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Barbecue Chicken Quesadillas
When my kids were small, I'd stuff leftover chicken into these oven-baked quesadillas. I often grab rotisserie chicken instead. —Pam Martin, Canandaigua, New York
Chicken-Stuffed Cubanelle Peppers
Here's a different take on traditional stuffed peppers. I substituted chicken for the beef and used Cubanelle peppers in place of the green peppers that are usually featured in such a dish. —Ron Burlingame, Canton, Ohio
Sassy Chicken & Peppers
This quick and healthy chicken and peppers recipe tastes like a naked taco and is bursting with fresh flavors. And it can all be prepared in the same pan for easy cleanup—it's a win-win! —Doris Heath, Franklin, North Carolina
Gulf Coast Jambalaya Rice
As the stew of the South, jambalaya is a definite staple. For ages, home cooks have been making their own tweaks on the traditional recipe. This rendition is my favorite. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida
Garlic Chicken with Herbs
Pan-roasting garlic cloves turns them into rich, creamy deliciousness. This chicken is fantastic with crusty Italian bread or mashed potatoes on the side. —Kathy Fleming, Lisle, Illinois
Apple Cider Chicken 'n' Dumplings
I came up with this recipe one fall when I had an abundance of apple cider. Adding some to a down-home classic was a delectable decision. —Margaret Sumner-Wichmann, Questa, New Mexico
Chicken Caesar Pizza
Dressed greens on top of warm pizza may sound a little strange but trust me, it's fantastic. —Tracy Youngman, Post Falls, Idaho
Spiedis
This is our favorite cookout dish, and it's very good served with a salad. This recipe originated here in my hometown in the 1930s. Our meat preference for speidis is venison, but we use chicken and beef when it's not available. —Gertrude Skinner, Binghamton, New York
Chicken-Pepper Alfredo
When I want a lighter dinner, I use lean turkey bacon in this recipe. It gives the pasta that richness you want without all the extra fat. —Courtney Harris, Denton, Texas
Curry Chicken and Rice
I updated this chicken and rice dish by adding veggies and cashews to give it fresh and crunchy appeal. The green chilies in the tomatoes give it just the right little kick, but if you really like spice, add fresh, diced jalapeño. —Denise Klibert, Shreveport, Louisiana
Balsamic Roasted Chicken Thighs with Root Vegetables
I will always remember the way my grandmother's house smelled when she made these balsamic chicken thighs every Sunday. Ever since she gave me the recipe, the heartwarming flavors always take me back to my childhood. — Erin Chilcoat, Central Islip, New York
Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breasts
In my first apartment, I started cooking chicken with feta and sundried tomatoes. Now I serve it with rice pilaf and a salad. —Amanda Rochette, Watertown, Massachusetts
Baked Chicken Chalupas
I wanted an easy alternative to deep-fried chalupas, so I bake them with filling on top. —Magdalena Flores, Abilene, Texas
Chili Chicken Strips
Instead of ordinary bread crumbs, seasoned crushed corn chips coat these slightly crunchy chicken fingers. If your family likes food with some heat, use the full 1-1/2 teaspoons of chili powder. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Cheesy Bow Tie Chicken
Here's a super-simple dish that tastes like it's straight from a nice Italian restaurant. Spinach-artichoke dip is usually available in supermarket delis. It comes frozen, too. Just make sure to thaw it according to the package directions before dinnertime. —Sally Sibthorpe, Shelby Township, Michigan
Chiles Rellenos Grilled Chicken Tacos
A local restaurant makes awesome charred tacos that are a lot like these. Their marinade recipe’s a secret, so I invented my own. Light the coals and have them anytime. —Denise Klibert, Shreveport, Louisiana
Chicken Alfredo with Grilled Apples
If you've never grilled apples before, here's your excuse to start. I created this Alfredo-style chicken for a party. By the number of recipe requests, I knew it was a hit. —Richard Robinson, Park Forest, Illinois
New England Bean & Bog Cassoulet
When I moved to New England, I embraced the local cuisine. My cassoulet with baked beans pays tribute to a French classic and to New England in one hearty, heartwarming dish. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut
Sweet Tea Barbecued Chicken
Marinades sometimes use coffee or espresso, and that inspired me to add tea to perk up a barbecue sauce.—Kelly Williams, Forked River, New Jersey
Chicken Quinoa Bowls with Balsamic Dressing
I love this recipe because its simplicity allows me to spend time with my family while not sacrificing taste or nutrition. Plus the fresh spring flavors really shine through! —Allyson Meyler, Greensboro, North Carolina
Grilled Lemon Chicken
My chicken gets its subtle pucker from lemonade concentrate. So simple, so sweet! —Linda Nilsen, Anoka, Minnesota
Chicken Artichoke Skillet
My fast chicken entree featuring artichokes and olives has real Greek flair. Seasoned with lemon juice and oregano, the stovetop chicken turns out moist and tender. —Carol Latimore, Arvada, Colorado
Chicken & Cheddar Biscuit Casserole
I always get rave reviews when I bring this casserole to my son's Cub Scouts meetings. It's the perfect comfort meal after a long day. —Sarah Phillips, East Lansing, Michigan
Chicken Butternut Chili
At our house, we just love a good comforting, hearty, tomato-based chili with bold flavors! This unique chili is loaded with veggies and flavor. You can also prepare the recipe in the slow cooker. Just add ingredients to the crock and cook over high heat for about 4 hours. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
My chicken bundles are simple, clean and comforting. Serve them with wild rice and green beans for one of our favorite meals. —Jim Knepper, Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania
Tangerine Chicken Tagine
My family and friends love foods from around the world, especially Moroccan entrees, so I created this flavorful dish. Cooking it in the slow cooker keeps each morsel moist and rich in flavor. —Brenda Watts, Gaffney, South Carolina
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells
When chicken Parmesan meets stuffed shells, it's love at first bite. The texture of the chicken holds up in the deliciously creamy and cheesy mixture. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
Tex-Mex Chicken Strips
I was looking for a way to amp up the flavor of regular chicken strips so I crushed up some leftover corn chips to create a crispy, flavorful coating. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida
Swiss Mushroom Chicken
This entree is easy to prepare but looks and tastes special enough for company and special-occasion suppers. Everyone enjoys the golden chicken breasts topped with ham, melted Swiss cheese and fresh mushrooms.—Jan Baxter, Humarock, Massachusetts
Soupy Chicken Noodle Supper
At least once a week my six-year-old son, also known as Doctor John, hands me a “prescription” for chicken noodle soup. Needless to say, I'm always happy to fill it. —Heidi Hall, North St. Paul, Minnesota
2-for-1 Chicken Tetrazzini
A good friend shared a version of this recipe with me 35 years ago. I pay it forward by bringing the second casserole to friends when they are unable to cook. —Helen McPhee, Savoy, Illinois
Flavorful Chicken Fajitas
This chicken fajitas recipe is definitely on my weeknight dinner rotation. The marinated chicken in these popular wraps is mouthwatering. The fajitas go together in a snap and always get raves! —Julie Sterchi, Campbellsville, Kentucky
Chicken Neapolitan
I often prepare a weeks worth of recipes on the weekend and freeze them so I can quickly have dinner ready for our hungry teenage boys after one of their many sports activities. Served over noodles, this moist chicken with a flavorful sauce is a favorite.—Joan Williams, Baltimore, Maryland
Spicy Roasted Sausage, Potatoes and Peppers
I love to share my cooking, and this hearty meal-in-one has gotten a savory reputation around town. People have actually approached me in public to ask for the recipe. —Laurie Sledge, Brandon, Mississippi
African Chicken & Sweet Potatoes
I came up with this African chicken thigh recipe when I combined some of my favorite ingredients: sweet potatoes, chicken and peanut butter. Add mango chutney and tomatoes and you've got a fantastic busy-week recipe. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut
Sheet-Pan Chicken Parmesan
Saucy chicken, melty mozzarella and crisp-tender broccoli—all in one pan. What could be better? —Becky Hardin, St. Peters, Missouri
Barbecued Picnic Chicken
I like to serve this savory chicken at family picnics. Cooked on a covered grill, the poultry stays so tender and juicy. Everyone loves the zesty, slightly sweet homemade barbecue sauce—and it's so easy to make. —Priscilla Weaver, Hagerstown, Maryland
Pan-Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
This one-dish roast chicken with vegetables tastes as if it took hours of hands-on time to put together, but the simple ingredients can be prepped in mere minutes. The rosemary gives it a rich flavor, and the meat juices cook the veggies to perfection. It’s unbelievably easy! —Sherri Melotik, Oak Creek, Wisconsin
Honey-Glazed Chicken Kabobs
This is one of my husband’s favorite meals. I serve it with rice pilaf, salad and grilled garlic bread. —Tracey Miller, Aiken, South Carolina
Tropical Island Chicken
The marinade makes a savory statement in this all-time-favorite chicken recipe that I served at our son's pirate-themed birthday party. It smelled so good on the grill that guests could hardly wait to try a piece! —Sharon Hanson, Franklin, Tennessee
Can-Can Chicken
Here's a tasty take on the popular beer-can chicken. Once the bird is on the grill, the work's basically done. And cleanup is a cinch—a must for a guy like me. —Steve Bath, Lincoln, Nebraska
Bacon-Chicken Club Pizza
A chicken club pizza topped with lettuce, tomatoes and dressing? You’re in for a treat! Vegetables give the cheesy crust a cool crunch. —Debbie Reid, Clearwater, Florida
Chicken Stir-Fry with Noodles
Stir-fry noodles on a cooking show caught my eye. I ran with the idea and loaded it with veggies. Now it’s our favorite hurry-up meal. —Beverly Norris, Evanston, Wyoming
Tart Cranberry Chicken
My husband loves chicken when it’s nice and moist, as in this autumn recipe. I serve it over hot rice with a salad and warm rolls. The ruby red sauce has a wonderful sweet-tart flavor. —Dorothy Bateman, Carver, Massachusetts
Chicken Fajitas for Two
This is the best fajita recipe I've ever tried. It sounds complicated, but it really isn't. The servings are hearty, but this dish is so good that my husband and I never have a problem finishing it! —Kathleen Smith, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Breaded Ranch Chicken
A crunchy coating of cornflakes and Parmesan cheese adds delectable flavor to this zesty ranch chicken. The golden, crispy chicken is a mainstay dish I can always count on. —Launa Shoemaker, Landrum, South Carolina
Hearty Jambalaya
Mel Miller of Perkins, Oklahoma shares this meaty and satisfying jambalaya.
Lemon and Rosemary Chicken
This baked rosemary chicken with a tangy lemon sauce is my husband's favorite, and my sister always wants it for her birthday dinner. —Laurel Dalzell, Manteca, California
Spicy Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This is one of my go-to meals when I want a fun dinner. I love the spicy Asian flavors against the cool lettuce and the added crunch of peanuts and water chestnuts. —Brittany Allyn, Nashville, Tennessee
Broccoli-Cauliflower Chicken Casserole
A chicken, broccoli and rice casserole is one of our favorite comfort foods. I make my easy variation in the slow cooker. You can easily substitute whatever cheese you prefer. I sometimes use dairy-free cheese to create a more paleo-friendly dinner. The dish is also delicious sprinkled with a simple bread crumb topping. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Bavarian Apple-Sausage Hash
This awesome recipe reflects my German roots. In the cooler months, nothing is as comforting as a hearty hash. Serve this versatile recipe as a side dish at a holiday meal or as a brunch entree over cheddar grits or topped with a fried egg. —Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, CO
Chicken & Wild Rice Strudels
I wanted the buttery crunch of layered pastry without the sweet filling of strudel. Using rotisserie chicken from the store, I found my savory answer. —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Black Bean Chicken with Rice
This spicy family favorite calls for just a few basic ingredients, so it’s quick and easy to stir up in your skillet on a weeknight. —Molly Newman, Portland, Oregon
Chicken Zucchini Casserole
A co-worker shared this chicken zucchini casserole recipe that was originally her grandmother's. When I make it, I use pre-cooked chicken from the grocery store and fresh zucchini my neighbor gives me from his garden. —Bev Dutro, Dayton, Ohio
Creamy Curried Chicken
This is a big hit in our house. My young son and daughter gobble it up. With its irresistible blend of curry and sweet coconut milk, it’ll become a favorite with your family, too. —Tracy Simiele, Chardon, Oh
Roasted Chicken Thighs with Peppers & Potatoes
My family loves this dish! There's nothing better than oven baked boneless chicken thighs for dinner. It looks and tastes like you fussed, but it is really simple to make. These roasted chicken thighs use healthy olive oil and fresh herbs from my garden. —Pattie Prescott, Manchester, New Hampshire
Fig-Glazed Chicken with White Beans
Sauteed shallots, fig jam, rosemary, lemon and sherry vinegar make a delightful sauce for both the chicken and the beans. My husband couldn’t believe how well the white beans absorbed the flavor, making this a grand slam. Matchstick carrots can be added to the bean mixture for extra color, flavor and crunch. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois
Apple-Mustard Chicken Tenders
My husband says this dish is sweet and a little bit sassy, just like me. I like to use Granny Smith apples for a bit of tartness. Winesaps are great for this dish, too. —Linda Cifuentes, Mahomet, Illinois
Saucy Garlic Chicken
Roasted garlic lends a rich flavor to this appetizing chicken entree, and it complements the spinach nicely. Ideal for entertaining, the recipe can be assembled in advance and popped in the oven when guests arrive. —Joanna Johnson, Flower Mound, Texas
Chicken Broccoli Shells
This cheesy entree is a make-ahead dream. Just assemble it ahead of time and put it in the oven when company arrives. I round out the meal with a tossed salad and warm bread. —Karen Jagger, Columbia City, Indiana
Contest-Winning Chicken Wild Rice Casserole
While this special chicken and wild rice casserole is perfect for a company dinner, it's so good that I often make it for everyday family meals. We think it is very nice served with some crusty rolls or French bread. —Elizabeth Tokariuk, Lethbridge, Alberta
Tex-Mex Chicken with Black Beans & Rice
I came up with this recipe for my sister who just got her first slow cooker and cooks mostly by throwing canned goods into a pot. It’s a delicious go-to recipe for busy days. —Elizabeth Dumont, Boulder, Colorado
Chicken Potpie Casserole
I always have leftover chicken broth on hand and use it for many things, including this comforting family favorite. You can bake your own biscuits as I do or buy them at the store. I like to bake extra biscuits to eat with butter and jam. —Liliane Jahnke, Cypress, Texas
Simple Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe is so quick and easy, and I always receive a ton of compliments. It quickly becomes a favorite of friends whenever I share the recipe. Modify the spiciness with the intensity of the salsa and the green chilis to suit your taste. —Kristi Black, Harrison Township, Michigan
Delicious Oven Barbecued Chicken
A friend made this saucy chicken for us when we had our first child. I pared down the recipe to make it lower in fat and calories. Now it's a family favorite, and even the kids ask for this baked bbq chicken breast. —Marge Wagner, Roselle, Illinois
Chicken Aloha
This chicken is a welcome way to cook a quick, delicious meal. —Beth Corbin, Sarasota, Florida
Kung Pao Wings
Served as an entree over hot cooked rice, these delicious drummettes have plenty of personality—with sweet red pepper for color, red pepper flakes for zip and peanuts for crunch. These kung pao chicken wings are quick and easy to fix, too. -Kathleen Evans, Lacey, Washington
Peppery Chicken with Potatoes
We like this recipe because while we go to church on Sundays the chicken cooks and is ready for us when we get home.—Lori Draves, Highland, Wisconsin
Honey-Roasted Chicken & Root Vegetables
When my whole family comes over for dinner, I make a big platter of roast chicken with sweet potatoes, carrots and fennel. My dad leads the fan club. —Kelly Ferguson, Conshohocken, Pennsylvania
Paprika Chicken Stroganoff
Stroganoff is such a comfort food. While traditionally a beef dish, it can easily be adapted for other proteins, and it is just as delicious. With this creamy chicken stroganoff, I get to enjoy all the lovely sauciness with the benefits of the lighter white meat. —Leo Lo, Norfolk, Virginia
Orange-Spiced Chicken
Five ingredients are all you’ll need for this fast and extremely flavorful marinade. With one taste, it’ll become your most-requested chicken recipe! —Debra Stevens, Lutz, Florida
Teriyaki Pineapple Drumsticks
We have a large family and throw big parties, so I look for ways to free my husband from the grill. Roasted drumsticks keep everyone happy. —Erica Allen, Tuckerton, New Jersey
Matt's Jerk Chicken
Get ready for a trip to the Islands. You may think jerk chicken is complicated, but really, all it takes is time. Throw on some tunes, grab an icy drink and prepare to be transported. Have a smoker? You can smoke the chicken first and finish it on the grill. —Jenn Hall, Collingswood, New Jersey
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