Meat|Poultry | Gluten Free Low Carb Keto High Protein

Chicken

Gallus gallus domesticus Allergen-Free
chicken

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (Animal product)
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Chicken (animal)

The Forktionary Angle

"The Blank Canvas: How Chicken Became the World's Most Adaptable Protein."

Definition

The most common type of poultry worldwide, cherished for its versatile lean meat and mild flavor, adaptable to countless culinary preparations.

Sensory Profile

TasteUmami, Mild, Savory
TextureTender, Fibrous (cooked)
AromaMild, Meaty, Cooked
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Consumption

Most consumed meat globally, surpassing pork and beef.

Internal Temperature

Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Protein Content

~25g protein per 100g cooked breast, low in fat.

Nutrition Facts

Per 112g (4 oz raw)
Calories165 kcal
Total Fat3.6 g
Saturated Fat1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol85 mg
Protein31 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium11 mg
Iron0.7 mg
Potassium256 mg

Chef’s Secret

Brining chicken, even for a short time, significantly improves its moisture and tenderness. Always let cooked chicken rest before carving to redistribute juices.

Substitutions

Best Match

Turkey

1:1

Closest poultry substitute in terms of texture and mild flavor, suitable for most dishes.

Pork Tenderloin

1:1

Lean cut of pork with a similar mild flavor and tender texture when cooked properly.

Tofu (firm/extra-firm)

1:1

Excellent plant-based option, absorbs flavors well, provides protein and texture.

White Fish (e.g., Cod, Tilapia)

1:1

Offers a lean protein with a mild flavor, but texture is flakier and cooking time varies.

Buying Guide

Choose chicken that is plump, pinkish, and free of strong odors. Opt for air-chilled chicken for better flavor and texture.

Flavor Pairings

Lemon Garlic Herbs (Rosemary Thyme) Vegetables Rice Pasta Curry Soy Sauce.

Recipes Using Chicken

Preparation Kid Friendly 15 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient

Leftover Lo Mein For Two

Transform leftover noodles and veggies into a delicious and satisfying Lo Mein in just 9 minutes! This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal. Say goodbye to food waste and hello to flavorful, budget-friendly fun!

See Complete Recipe
Chicken Meat Poultry Cuisine

5 Can Casserole

This comforting 5-Can Chicken Casserole recipe is a family favorite! A quick and easy weeknight meal, this recipe uses convenient canned ingredients for a delicious and satisfying casserole. Originally adapted from Recipezaar in 2005, this updated version offers options for customization, including adding frozen mixed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Get ready to enjoy this creamy, cheesy chicken bake in under 30 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Low Carb Time To Make Low Carb Poultry

African Chicken Peanut Butter Soup

Warm up on a chilly evening with this spicy and satisfying African Chicken Peanut Butter Soup! Creamy peanut butter, tender chicken, and vibrant spices create a flavor explosion in every spoonful. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
Easy Soups Stews Low In Something Low Saturated Fat

African Chicken Peanut Soup

Impress your guests with this quick and flavorful African Chicken Peanut Soup! A zesty blend of savory chicken, creamy peanut butter, and warming spices creates a vibrant dish ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. (Spice level: Medium-High)

See Complete Recipe
4 Hours Or Less Time To Make North American American

Anti Seafood Jambalaya

Craving the rich flavors of New Orleans jambalaya but not a fan of seafood? This recipe delivers an authentic Cajun experience without the shellfish! Enjoy succulent chicken and savory sausage simmered in a spicy tomato broth with fluffy rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.

See Complete Recipe
Main Dish Time To Make Holiday Event Equipment

Asian Chicken Or Turkey Crispy Lettuce Wraps

Craving a vibrant and flavorful meal? These Asian Chicken or Turkey Crispy Lettuce Wraps are bursting with deliciousness! Juicy ground chicken or turkey, mixed with savory teriyaki, peanut butter, and a hint of spice, is perfectly nestled in crisp lettuce cups. A quick and easy weeknight dinner, these wraps are also incredibly adaptable – leftover rice can be added to the filling for extra heartiness. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both satisfying and refreshing!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Chicken Poultry Meat

Asian Chicken Salad Wraps

These vibrant Asian Chicken Salad Wraps are guaranteed crowd-pleasers! Perfect for using up leftover grilled chicken, this recipe bursts with fresh flavors. The savory umami of fish sauce is beautifully balanced by bright mint, zesty lemon, and crunchy veggies. Get ready for a quick and easy weeknight meal that's both healthy and incredibly delicious! #chickensalad #asiancuisine #wraps #easyrecipe #leftoverrecipe #healthyrecipe

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Healthy 2 Pasta Time To Make

Asian Summer Pasta Salad

Escape the heat with this vibrant and refreshing Asian Summer Pasta Salad! This easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or supper, ready in under 30 minutes. Customize it with grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or succulent shrimp for a heartier meal. The perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors will leave you wanting more! #asiansalad #pastasalad #summersalad #easyrecipe #quickrecipe #lunchideas #dinnerideas

See Complete Recipe
Course Course Time To Make Chicken

Asian Style Ground Chicken And Noodles

This vibrant Asian-inspired noodle dish is ready in under 40 minutes! Tender ground chicken (or turkey!) is stir-fried with colorful veggies and tossed in a savory, tangy sauce. A quick and easy weeknight meal the whole family will love. Adapted from Ilanna Simon's "125 Best Ground Meat Recipes."

See Complete Recipe
Low In Something North American One Dish Meal Creole

Authentic Chicken And Andouille Sausage Gumbo

A taste of New Orleans! This authentic Chicken and Andouille Sausage Gumbo recipe is a culinary journey back to the heart of the city. Experience the rich flavors and comforting warmth of a true New Orleans classic, passed down through generations. This isn't just gumbo; it's a piece of history, simmered to perfection.

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Kid Friendly 4 Hours Or Less Time To Make

Baby Food Chicken

This isn't your grandma's baby food! This recipe, inspired by a parent's love, transforms simple chicken into a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for your little one's palate. Starting with a mild base, you'll gradually introduce exciting flavors like garlic, onion, parsley, herbs, ginger, and even a touch of cayenne and cumin as your baby grows. Perfect for introducing new tastes and textures, this recipe is also a quick and easy weeknight meal for the whole family! Prep time includes baking the chicken. Serves 1 (easily doubled or tripled).

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Course

Baked Chicken Chow Mein

This easy one-pan casserole is a delicious way to use up leftover chicken (or skip it entirely – it's still amazing!). Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe utilizes quick-cooking minute rice for a creamy, flavorful baked chow mein. Get ready for a crunchy celery surprise and a comforting dish the whole family will love! Prep time excludes chicken cooking time.

See Complete Recipe
Potluck To Go Occasion Savory

Baked Chicken With Honey And Pecans

This recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors! Imagine juicy, tender chicken coated in a crunchy pecan-honey glaze – a taste sensation that's almost like a praline-inspired dinner. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep work. The honey-pecan topping adds the perfect touch of sweetness without being overly sugary, creating a balanced and unforgettable dish. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Low Cholesterol Pasta Healthy 2 Casseroles

Baked Pasta With Mushroom Chicken Cream Sauce

Indulge in this creamy, dreamy baked pasta casserole! Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta are enveloped in a rich, homemade cream sauce, then baked to golden perfection. This comforting classic, adapted from a Woman's Day magazine recipe, is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a taste of pure culinary bliss!

See Complete Recipe
Course Winter Main Ingredient Poultry

Basil Roasted Chicken With Garlic Sauce

Indulge in this irresistible Basil Roasted Chicken recipe! Aromatic basil infuses the succulent chicken, while a luscious garlic sauce, crafted from 30 roasted garlic cloves and pan juices, elevates this dish to pure perfection. Prepare for an unforgettable culinary experience – this recipe is guaranteed to be a showstopper! Warning: May cause extreme deliciousness and the need for a food coma.

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Condiments Etc Dietary Easy

Beer Brined Chicken

Unleash the bold flavors of Scotland with this incredible Beer Brined Chicken recipe! Marinated in a rich Scottish Wee Heavy ale, this juicy chicken is bursting with depth and complexity. This recipe focuses on the perfect brine – the method your chicken needs before grilling, baking, frying, or any cooking method you prefer. We recommend grilling for that smoky char, but the possibilities are endless! Prepare for unbelievably tender and flavorful chicken, guaranteed to impress.

See Complete Recipe
Vegetables Mexican Vegetables Food Processor Blender

Cream Of Poblano Soup

Escape to Old Mexico with this creamy and flavorful Poblano Pepper Soup! This rich and satisfying recipe, originally from Cavanaugh's Restaurant in Webster, Texas (featured in a 1995 newspaper food section), showcases the mild heat and deliciousness of poblano peppers. A comforting classic, perfect for a chilly evening or a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.

See Complete Recipe
Poultry Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Meat

Stove Top Chicken Or Turkey Casserole

Comfort food at its finest! This easy Stove Top Chicken or Turkey Casserole recipe is ready in under an hour. A creamy, savory blend of chicken or turkey, perfectly seasoned stuffing, and a delightful topping, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Get ready to impress your family with minimal effort!

See Complete Recipe