Easter Dinner Made Easy: 11 Chicken Recipes Everyone Will Love is your go-to guide for a fresh and flavorful holiday feast that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. While ham often takes the spotlight, chicken is a versatile and crowd-pleasing alternative that can be just as festive—and often even easier to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a small family or hosting a larger gathering, these chicken recipes are sure to delight guests of all ages.
From golden-baked herb chicken to creamy skillet favorites and zesty citrus glazes, this collection covers a range of flavors to suit every palate. Chicken is the perfect blank canvas for seasonal ingredients like lemon, rosemary, honey, and spring vegetables, making it a natural fit for your Easter menu. These dishes are not only packed with flavor but also light enough to keep things fresh and spring-ready.
What makes these recipes truly special is their simplicity. Each one is designed with ease in mind, so you can spend less time stressing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of family and friends. With step-by-step instructions and approachable ingredients, you’ll be serving up impressive meals without breaking a sweat.
So if you’re looking to switch things up this Easter or simply want a delicious alternative to traditional ham, keep scrolling—you’re bound to find a new favorite in this flavorful roundup.
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Thighs
Honey mustard glazed chicken thighs bring a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors that make your taste buds dance. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great choice for an Easter dinner or any family gathering.
The glaze, made from honey, mustard, and a hint of garlic, caramelizes beautifully during cooking, creating a mouthwatering finish. Serve with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal that everyone will appreciate.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Set aside.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the skillet.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the chicken thighs over.
- Pour the honey mustard mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.
Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
These Mediterranean chicken skewers are a vibrant and flavorful addition to your Easter dinner. Marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, each bite is bursting with savory goodness. They are simple to prepare, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Pair these skewers with fresh vegetables such as bell peppers and onions, which not only add color but also enhance the dish’s flavor profile. Whether grilled or baked, these skewers offer a delightful taste of the Mediterranean that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper chunks, and onion wedges onto skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Feta
This stuffed chicken breast recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. With fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese wrapped inside juicy chicken, it makes for a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to impress guests at your Easter celebration.
The combination of cheese and spinach creates a creamy filling that complements the chicken perfectly. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making it a hit among kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so you can focus on enjoying time with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika for seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix the sautéed spinach with crumbled feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Take each chicken breast and make a pocket by slicing the side, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each pocket with the spinach and feta mixture, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
One-Pan Chicken and Vegetable Bake
This One-Pan Chicken and Vegetable Bake is all about simplicity and flavor. With juicy chicken paired with a medley of vibrant vegetables, it creates a delightful dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The best part? Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
The combination of roasted chicken and tender veggies results in a comforting meal that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s Easter or any day of the week, this recipe delivers on taste without requiring a lot of effort.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 cups of butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups of zucchini, sliced
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, zucchini, onion, and garlic.
- Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Place the whole chicken in the center of a large baking dish or roasting pan. Surround it with the seasoned vegetables.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the veggies are tender.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve the chicken with the roasted vegetables and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
BBQ Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
This BBQ chicken with pineapple salsa is a delightful dish that combines savory grilled chicken with a refreshing, fruity topping. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly balances the smoky flavor from the barbecue sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also brings a burst of vibrant colors and flavors to your Easter dinner table. The pineapple salsa adds a juicy crunch, enhancing the overall taste while keeping it light and enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs with the barbecue sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
- Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, mix the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and charred.
- Serve: Once the chicken is done, plate it and top with the pineapple salsa. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Coconut Curry Chicken
Coconut Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of tropical flavors right to your dinner table. This recipe features tender chicken marinated in a rich coconut milk curry sauce, brimming with spices that create a warm and comforting meal. The hint of sweetness from the coconut milk balances the savory spices, making it both satisfying and delicious.
What makes this dish even better is how simple it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a flavorful dinner that your family will enjoy. Serve it with rice or naan to soak up all the wonderful sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the sliced red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Cook for 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro alongside rice or naan.
Herb-Roasted Chicken with Garlic and Lemon
This herb-roasted chicken is a delightful dish that combines the bright flavors of lemon with the aromatic essence of fresh herbs and garlic. It’s not only tasty but also straightforward to prepare, making it a fantastic option for your Easter dinner.
The chicken turns out juicy and tender, infused with a savory blend of herbs. The crispy skin is golden and flavorful, offering a satisfying contrast to the moist meat. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin for extra flavor.
- Place the lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken.
- Place the chicken on a roasting pan and roast for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve!
Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata
Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata is a delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its vibrant flavors. The bright acidity of fresh lemon juice pairs beautifully with tender chicken, creating a dish that feels both comforting and refreshing. Plus, it’s straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for your Easter dinner or any weeknight meal.
This recipe showcases a creamy sauce enriched with garlic and capers, offering a savory contrast to the zesty lemon. It’s a dish that not only looks elegant on your table but also delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it over pasta or with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons capers
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and capers. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve the chicken drizzled with the creamy sauce, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside your choice of pasta or vegetables.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of zesty and savory flavors that make for an inviting dinner option. The juicy chicken thighs are bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, providing a refreshing taste that perfectly complements the tender meat.
This recipe is straightforward and perfect for any skill level, making it an ideal choice for your Easter dinner. With minimal prep time and an easy cooking process, you can focus more on enjoying time with your loved ones.
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down, and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
- Flip the thighs over and pour in the lemon juice and zest. Spoon some of the garlic butter over the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Buffalo Chicken Salad is a zesty and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a tangy buffalo sauce, making it a delightful choice for your Easter dinner. The crunch of fresh vegetables complements the spicy chicken, creating a perfect balance of flavors that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it a great option for busy hosts.
This salad is not only tasty but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite greens and toppings to fit your family’s preferences. Whether you serve it as a light main course or a side dish, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumbers, diced
- 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.
- Add the buffalo chicken on top of the salad base.
- Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles over the salad and drizzle with your choice of dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss everything together before serving.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and pasta baked to perfection. It’s an easy recipe that brings together flavors everyone loves, making it a great choice for your Easter dinner. This dish not only offers delicious taste but also a satisfying texture, with the pasta soaking in the creamy sauce and melding beautifully with the chicken.
Perfect for feeding a crowd, this recipe requires minimal prep time and uses ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. It’s an excellent way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley or chives. Serve warm and enjoy!
Conclusion
Planning your Easter dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. These 11 easy and delicious chicken recipes prove that a flavorful holiday meal can be both stress-free and satisfying. Whether you’re craving something creamy, baked, grilled, or infused with herbs and citrus, there’s a dish here that will fit perfectly into your celebration.
Chicken offers the flexibility to pair beautifully with all your favorite Easter sides, from roasted veggies and scalloped potatoes to fresh salads and homemade rolls. It’s comforting, familiar, and endlessly customizable—making it an ideal choice for creating a memorable meal.
Whichever recipe you decide to try, rest assured it’ll bring warmth, flavor, and a festive touch to your table. Here’s to a joyful Easter filled with good food, happy moments, and plenty of reasons to gather again.