10 Delicious Chicken Recipes Perfect for Football Game Day

Football season and great food go hand in hand, and what better way to celebrate the game than with delicious chicken recipes? From crispy wings to hearty chicken dips, these recipes are perfect for feeding friends and family while cheering on your favorite team. Get ready to whip up some crowd-pleasers that will have everyone coming back for more!

Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Buffalo Chicken Nachos are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. They combine crispy tortilla chips with spicy buffalo chicken, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. The flavors are bold and satisfying, making them the perfect dish to share while cheering for your team.

This recipe is super simple to whip up and can be tailored to your taste. Whether you want to add extra heat with jalapeños or cool it down with sour cream, these nachos deliver a crowd-pleasing punch for any game day feast.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 8 cups tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced green onions
• 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until well coated.
3. Spread half of the tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with half of the buffalo chicken, followed by half of the cheddar cheese.
4. Add the remaining chips, chicken, and cheese on top.
5. Bake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and top with diced green onions, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy baked chicken tenders are a fantastic option for game day or any casual get-together. With a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, these tenders are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. They’re super simple to prepare, making them perfect for anyone looking to whip up some football chicken recipes without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe combines classic flavors with a delightful crunch, ensuring that each bite is packed with taste. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and you have a winning dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Set up a breading station: place the flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and combine breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to adhere the crumbs.
4. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and spray them lightly with cooking spray for extra crunch.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Wings

Spicy Buffalo chicken wings are a classic go-to for game days and gatherings. They’re tangy, spicy, and bursting with flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser for any football event. Whether you’re enjoying a casual night in or hosting a big game watch party, these wings are sure to satisfy your cravings.

This recipe is simple enough for anyone to create, even if you’re not a seasoned cook. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of succulent, spicy wings that pair perfectly with a side of celery and your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Celery sticks (for serving)
• Your choice of dipping sauce (like ranch or blue cheese)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
4. While the wings bake, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the hot sauce, vinegar, and garlic powder until well combined. Remove from heat.
5. Once the wings are done, toss them in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce.

Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Skewers

Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Skewers are a perfect treat for game day! These skewers pack a sweet and smoky punch that will delight your taste buds. They’re simple to make, making them an ideal choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.

The combination of honey and BBQ sauce creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. These skewers are juicy, tender, and full of flavor, making them an excellent addition to your collection of football chicken recipes that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup honey
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Prep the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Skewers with extra BBQ sauce on the side!

Chicken Parmesan Sliders

Chicken Parmesan Sliders are the perfect game day treat. Packed with juicy chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty marinara, these sliders are as delicious as they are easy to make. They come together quickly, making them a fantastic addition to any football gathering.

The combination of crispy chicken and melted cheese, topped with a tangy sauce, creates a flavor explosion in every bite. These sliders are sure to be a hit with your friends and family, especially when served hot and fresh!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into thin fillets
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 8 slider buns
• 8 slices mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken fillets with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dip each piece into the beaten egg, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble the Sliders: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On each slider bun, spread a spoonful of marinara sauce, place a fried chicken fillet, and top with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Close the buns.
4. Bake: Place assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven, drizzle with extra marinara if desired, and serve hot!

BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fun and delicious way to enjoy two favorites in one bite. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese creates a burst of flavors perfect for game day or any casual gathering. It’s simple to whip up, making it an excellent choice for a quick meal or a tasty snack while you watch your favorite football game.

This pizza is customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings, whether it’s red onions, cilantro, or even a sprinkle of jalapeños for a kick. Everyone will love the smoky flavor of the BBQ sauce paired with the juicy chicken, making this a hit at any football party!

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pizza crust
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet.
3. Brush the crust lightly with olive oil for added flavor.
4. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with half of the BBQ sauce. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the crust.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and then scatter the red onion slices on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
7. Once baked, drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the pizza and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before slicing.

Loaded Chicken Quesadillas

Loaded chicken quesadillas are a fantastic option for game day or any casual gathering. They combine tender chicken, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese all packed inside a crispy tortilla. The result is a satisfying bite that’s full of flavor and a little bit of crunch.

This recipe is simple to whip up, making it perfect even for those who may not consider themselves cooks. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• 4 large tortillas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salsa, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened. Stir in shredded chicken and taco seasoning, mixing well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas: On a tortilla, spread a portion of the chicken mixture and sprinkle on cheese. Fold the tortilla in half.
3. Cook the Quesadillas: In the same skillet, cook the folded quesadilla for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese has melted. Repeat for remaining tortillas.
4. Serve: Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve with salsa and fresh cilantro on the side.

Coconut Curry Chicken Wings

Coconut curry chicken wings are a delightful twist on classic game-day snacks. These wings are bursting with flavor, thanks to the rich coconut milk and aromatic spices that create a savory and slightly sweet glaze. They are perfect for football season, offering a unique taste that will impress your friends and family.

This recipe is straightforward, making it easy for anyone to whip up a batch for game night. The combination of crispy wings and creamy coconut curry sauce is irresistible. Serve them with a side of dipping sauce, and you’re all set for the big game!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor.
4. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your coconut curry chicken wings with a dipping sauce of your choice!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for any football gathering. The bright, zesty flavors of lemon combined with fresh herbs create a mouthwatering experience that pairs beautifully with a side of grilled veggies or a light salad. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a winning choice for your game day menu.

The grilled chicken turns out juicy and tender with a delightful char, thanks to the marinade. It’s an ideal option for those looking to prepare a light yet satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. With just a bit of prep and some time on the grill, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a tasty, light option perfect for game day gatherings or casual dinners. The sweetness of the teriyaki sauce pairs wonderfully with the crunch of fresh lettuce, making each bite satisfying yet refreshing.

This recipe is super simple to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red and green)
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated
• Oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Veggies: Stir in the bell peppers and carrots. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add Teriyaki Sauce: Pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken and vegetables.
4. Assemble Wraps: Remove from heat and stir in green onions and sesame seeds. Spoon the chicken mixture into the lettuce leaves.
5. Serve: Enjoy your wraps immediately, either as a fun appetizer or a light main dish!