45+ Irresistible Chicken Recipes to Welcome the New Year in Style

December 10, 2024Last Updated: December 10, 2024

15 minutes read

New Year’s celebrations are all about gathering with loved ones, reflecting on the past year, and welcoming new beginnings.

And what better way to commemorate the occasion than with delicious dishes that bring everyone together?

Chicken is a versatile protein that can adapt to any culinary style, making it the perfect centerpiece for your New Year’s menu.

From elegant herb-crusted chicken to crowd-pleasing wings and hearty casseroles, the possibilities are endless.

This collection of 45+ New Year’s chicken recipes offers something for every celebration, whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party or a laid-back family gathering.

These recipes are packed with bold flavors, easy-to-follow steps, and presentation-worthy results to make your holiday meal unforgettable.

45+ Irresistible Chicken Recipes to Welcome the New Year in Style

As you toast to new beginnings, let your New Year’s feast reflect the joy and hope of the occasion.

These 45+ chicken recipes are more than just dishes—they’re opportunities to create cherished memories with loved ones.

Whether you prefer spicy, savory, or comforting flavors, there’s a recipe here that will perfectly suit your celebration style.

With these creative chicken recipes, you’ll start the year off with full hearts and happy stomachs.

So preheat your oven, fire up the skillet, or get your slow cooker ready—it’s time to cook up something extraordinary for the New Year!

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring tender, juicy chicken bathed in a sticky honey garlic sauce. This dish is ideal for New Year’s celebrations, offering bold flavors with minimal effort. Pair it with roasted vegetables or rice for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients:

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the Glaze: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine and Bake: Return chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the glaze over each thigh. Transfer to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is bubbling.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

This Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe brings a festive flair to your table. The sticky, caramelized glaze pairs beautifully with tender chicken, making it a standout dish for any celebration. Its easy preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones while still impressing with a gourmet meal.

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts deliver a delightful crunch with a flavorful, cheesy coating. This recipe is perfect for New Year’s gatherings, offering a dish that’s simple to make yet elegant enough for special occasions. Serve with mashed potatoes or a light salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

3 tablespoons olive oil
Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls. Fill one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the eggs, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Work in batches if needed.
Serve: Let the chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken combines simplicity with sophistication, making it a hit for your New Year’s feast. The golden, crunchy coating and juicy interior create a perfect balance of texture and flavor, ensuring it’s a dish your guests will rave about.

Spicy Sriracha Lime Chicken Wings

Spicy Sriracha Lime Chicken Wings add a zesty kick to your New Year’s party menu. These wings are baked to crispy perfection and coated in a tangy, spicy sauce that packs a flavorful punch. They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for festive gatherings.

Ingredients:

2 pounds chicken wings

1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
3 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon melted butter
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Wings: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Toss them with baking powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bake: Arrange the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together Sriracha, honey, lime juice, and melted butter. Heat over low heat until well combined.

Coat the Wings: Toss the baked wings in the sauce until evenly coated.
Serve: Arrange on a platter and garnish with chopped cilantro.

These Spicy Sriracha Lime Chicken Wings are a bold and flavorful addition to your New Year’s spread. The combination of crispy wings and tangy sauce is irresistible, ensuring they’ll disappear fast. Perfect for snacking or as a centerpiece, they’ll add a fiery touch to your celebration.

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a classic, elegant dish that’s perfect for ringing in the New Year. With a golden, crispy skin and a tender, juicy interior, this recipe pairs the zesty brightness of lemon with the earthy flavors of fresh herbs. Serve it as a centerpiece for your holiday feast with roasted vegetables or a creamy potato dish.

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
2 lemons, halved

1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper inside and out.
Season and Stuff: Rub the chicken with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Stuff the cavity with the halved lemons.
Roast: Place the chicken in a roasting pan with the chicken broth at the bottom. Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with pan juices drizzled over the top.

This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken offers a comforting yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for the New Year. Its rich flavor and inviting aroma will have everyone gathered around the table, savoring the start of a fresh chapter.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a festive New Year’s party. The chicken is marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then grilled or broiled to perfection. Served on skewers, this recipe is a fun, interactive addition to any holiday spread.

Ingredients:

2 pounds chicken breast, cut into cubes
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions:

Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Reserve 1/4 cup for basting.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers.
Cook the Skewers: Grill or broil the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, and basting with the reserved marinade. Optionally, thicken the remaining marinade with cornstarch for a dipping sauce.
Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a crowd-pleaser, combining juicy chicken with the irresistible flavors of teriyaki. They’re easy to make and perfect for mingling guests, adding a touch of casual elegance to your New Year’s festivities.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Recipe Summary:

Buffalo Chicken Sliders bring a spicy kick to your New Year’s celebration. These mini sandwiches are loaded with shredded chicken coated in tangy buffalo sauce and topped with a creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing. Serve them for a casual yet satisfying party option.

Ingredients:

4 cups shredded cooked chicken

1/2 cup buffalo sauce
2 tablespoons butter, melted
12 slider buns

1/2 cup blue cheese or ranch dressing
1/2 cup shredded lettuce
1/4 cup sliced red onion (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and melted butter. Heat until warmed through.
Assemble the Sliders: Layer each slider bun with buffalo chicken, a drizzle of dressing, shredded lettuce, and sliced onion.
Serve: Secure each slider with a toothpick and serve warm.

Buffalo Chicken Sliders are a spicy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for New Year’s celebrations. These handheld delights are easy to assemble and deliver a burst of flavor in every bite, making them a hit at any party.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a luxurious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, velvety sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe feels indulgent yet balanced, making it an ideal entrée for a festive New Year’s dinner. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Cook: Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan and serve hot.

Recipe Conclusion:

Creamy Tuscan Chicken brings elegance to your New Year’s celebration with its luxurious sauce and tender chicken. This dish is perfect for creating a warm, inviting atmosphere while delivering restaurant-quality flavors at home.

Sticky Orange Chicken Drumsticks

Sticky Orange Chicken Drumsticks are a sweet and tangy delight, perfect for a casual New Year’s gathering. These drumsticks are coated in a zesty orange glaze that caramelizes as it cooks, creating a sticky, finger-licking treat. Serve them as a main course or appetizer for a festive touch.

Ingredients:

2 pounds chicken drumsticks
1/3 cup orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic powder. Reserve 1/4 cup for glazing.
Marinate the Chicken: Toss drumsticks in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Bake the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange drumsticks on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Glaze and Garnish: During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the reserved marinade over the drumsticks. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Recipe Conclusion:

These Sticky Orange Chicken Drumsticks are a flavorful, crowd-pleasing option for your New Year’s menu. Their sweet and tangy glaze is perfect for creating a memorable dish that your guests will rave about.

Coconut Curry Chicken

Coconut Curry Chicken brings a touch of exotic flavor to your New Year’s celebration. This dish features tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced coconut milk sauce with hints of ginger and turmeric. It’s aromatic, hearty, and perfect for impressing guests with an international twist.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons coconut oil

1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger

1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the Chicken: Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in curry powder and turmeric.
Simmer the Curry: Add coconut milk, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir and bring to a simmer. Return chicken to the skillet and cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender. Stir in peas if using.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.

Coconut Curry Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings warmth and spice to your New Year’s feast. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors create a show-stopping centerpiece that’s both comforting and exotic.

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a rich, flavorful dish perfect for a cozy yet celebratory New Year’s dinner. The chicken is pan-seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a garlic-infused butter sauce that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is cooked through.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs are a simple yet decadent option for ringing in the New Year. The buttery garlic sauce and crispy chicken skin create a comforting, indulgent dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Breasts

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Breasts are a sweet and tangy delight, perfect for a festive New Year’s meal. The glaze caramelizes as it bakes, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush generously with the glaze. Reserve some for later.
Bake: Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe Conclusion:

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Breasts bring a beautiful balance of sweet and savory to your New Year’s table. The vibrant flavors and golden glaze make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups are a creamy, cheesy dish that combines the comfort of classic lasagna with the indulgence of Alfredo sauce. This recipe is a unique and elegant option for your New Year’s celebration, perfect for impressing family and friends.

Ingredients:

12 lasagna noodles, cooked
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Roll-Ups: Lay cooked lasagna noodles flat. Spread a layer of the chicken mixture on each noodle, then roll tightly.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1/2 cup of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the roll-ups seam-side down, cover with remaining Alfredo sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or more Parmesan cheese before serving.

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll-Ups are a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for celebrating the New Year. With layers of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese, these roll-ups will be the highlight of your holiday feast.

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Wings are a perfect appetizer for a New Year’s gathering. These wings are baked to perfection and coated in a sticky, spicy-sweet sauce that will keep your guests coming back for more. They’re easy to prepare and bursting with bold flavors.

Ingredients:

2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sriracha (or more for extra spice)
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

Prepare the Wings: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss chicken wings with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sriracha. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
Coat the Wings: Toss the baked wings in the sauce until well coated.
Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions, and serve hot.

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Wings are the ultimate finger food for your New Year’s party. They’re packed with flavor, easy to eat, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Herb-Crusted Chicken Breasts

Herb-Crusted Chicken Breasts are an elegant dish that’s perfect for a formal New Year’s dinner. Coated with a blend of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs, this dish delivers a crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup flour
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients: Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, thyme, and rosemary in a shallow dish. Place beaten eggs and flour in separate bowls.
Coat the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Serve: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Herb-Crusted Chicken Breasts are a sophisticated choice for New Year’s. The aromatic herbs and crispy coating create a flavorful dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that’s ideal for ringing in the New Year. The tender chicken and earthy mushrooms blend seamlessly with the creamy Arborio rice, creating a dish that’s hearty and elegant.

Ingredients:

1 pound chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup Arborio rice
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
4 cups chicken broth, warmed
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the diced chicken until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
Make the Risotto: Stir in Arborio rice and toast for 1-2 minutes. Add white wine and cook until evaporated. Gradually add chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently and allowing the liquid to absorb before adding more.
Combine and Serve: Once the rice is creamy and tender, stir in cooked chicken, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto is a comforting and luxurious dish that’s perfect for New Year’s. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout option for an unforgettable celebration.

These recipes offer a variety of flavors, textures, and cooking styles to help you create a memorable New Year’s menu. From casual to elegant, they’re guaranteed to make your celebration special!

Note: More recipes are coming soon!

December 10, 2024Last Updated: December 10, 2024

15 minutes read