Hosting a dinner party or planning a family reunion where chicken is on the menu? Chicken is versatile, affordable, and appeals to a wide variety of palates, making it an ideal choice for feeding a crowd. Here, we'll walk through 25 delicious chicken recipes tailored for large gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these recipes will ensure your event is a mouth-watering success.
Herb-Roasted Chicken
Roasting chicken is one of the most straightforward methods to serve a group. Here’s a simple yet elegant recipe:
- Whole chickens - 3 to 4, depending on group size
- Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage
- Lemon and garlic for stuffing
- Butter or olive oil for basting
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chickens inside and out with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the cavities with lemon halves, garlic cloves, and a mixture of fresh herbs.
- Brush the exterior with melted butter or olive oil.
- Roast in the oven, basting occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
🍗 Note: Consider using a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
Chicken Parmesan
If you’re looking for something a little more involved but still manageable for a crowd:
- Chicken breasts - 20 to 25, butterflied and pounded thin
- Marinara sauce - homemade or store-bought, 4 to 5 quarts
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
- Flour, eggs, and bread crumbs for breading
- Basil and oregano for seasoning
Instructions:
- Bread the chicken: dip in flour, then in beaten egg, then in seasoned bread crumbs.
- Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown.
- Layer the chicken in baking dishes, cover with marinara sauce, then top with cheese.
- Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Chicken
Perfect for setting and forgetting:
- Whole chickens or chicken thighs - as many as fit in your cooker
- Lemons - cut into wedges
- Garlic - whole cloves
- Fresh rosemary and thyme
- Chicken stock or broth
Instructions:
- Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Scatter lemon wedges, garlic, and herbs over the chicken.
- Pour in chicken stock to about half the level of the chicken.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Chicken and Veggie Stew
A hearty option that can feed a crowd:
- Chicken pieces, bone-in for more flavor
- Potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, and peas
- Stock or broth, enough to cover
- Herbs like bay leaves, thyme, parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the chicken in a pot or dutch oven.
- Add vegetables and cook briefly to soften.
- Add stock, herbs, and seasoning.
- Simmer until chicken is tender and vegetables are cooked.
🥣 Note: Ensure to use enough broth as it might reduce over cooking time; you don't want your stew to be too thick.
Chicken Enchiladas
For those looking for a vibrant Mexican dish:
- Shredded chicken - from rotisserie or boiled chicken
- Enchilada sauce - red or green
- Tortillas - flour or corn
- Cheese for filling and topping
- Optional toppings like sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
- Mix shredded chicken with some enchilada sauce and cheese.
- Roll up the mixture in tortillas, place in a baking dish.
- Pour remaining sauce over and top with cheese.
- Bake until bubbly.
Chicken Pot Pie
Comfort food at its finest:
- Chicken meat - cut or shredded
- Veggies like carrots, peas, corn
- Stock, milk, or cream for the filling
- Butter and flour for roux
- Puff pastry or homemade pie crust
Instructions:
- Make a roux with butter and flour, then slowly add in the stock to create a thick sauce.
- Add vegetables and chicken, season to taste.
- Top with pastry and bake until golden.
Oven-Fried Chicken
A healthier twist on a classic:
- Chicken pieces - skin on or off
- Flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs or panko
- Spices like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Oil spray
Instructions:
- Set up a breading station: flour, egg wash, breadcrumb mixture.
- Coat the chicken in that order, then place on a baking sheet.
- Spray lightly with oil and bake until crisp and cooked through.
Grilled BBQ Chicken
Simple, yet always a crowd pleaser:
- Chicken pieces - whole, halves, or quarters
- BBQ sauce - your favorite or homemade
- Spices for dry rub if desired
Instructions:
- Season chicken with a dry rub if using.
- Grill, turning occasionally, applying BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
In summary, the 25 chicken recipes outlined here offer a wide variety of tastes and preparation methods, making them suitable for any large group event. From the simplicity of herb-roasted chicken to the comforting chicken pot pie or the vibrant chicken enchiladas, these dishes will satisfy diverse palates. Each recipe includes step-by-step guidance to help you achieve the perfect balance of flavor and convenience, ensuring your next gathering is both memorable and delicious.
What are some tips for cooking chicken for a large crowd?
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Pre-cook portions of your dish that can be reheated, use multiple ovens or stovetops if possible, and ensure you have enough serving utensils. Also, consider recipes that can be prepped ahead of time to save on cooking day stress.
Can I make these recipes in advance?
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Yes, many of these recipes can be prepared ahead of time. Dishes like Chicken Enchiladas or Chicken Parmesan can be assembled and frozen, then baked off the day of the event.
How do I ensure my chicken is cooked evenly?
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Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat. Additionally, consider using uniform chicken pieces and maintain a consistent oven or grill temperature.
