Are you a carnivore looking to boost your protein intake? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering and savory chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic comfort foods to bold and adventurous dishes, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a fan of crispy skin, juicy thighs, or tender breasts, these recipes are designed to bring out the best in chicken. And with their high protein content, they’re perfect for fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike. So without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 20 savory carnivore diet chicken recipes!
**Recipe 1: Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs**
Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs
Tender and flavorful chicken thighs smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce – perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dot the top of each chicken thigh with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Chicken Skin Cracklings
Elevate your snack game with these crispy chicken skin cracklings that are addictively delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful attention, you’ll be rewarded with crunchy, flavorful bites that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pieces of chicken skin (preferably from a roasted or grilled chicken)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken skin pieces under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Add the chicken skin pieces to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken skin pieces in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites
Savory chicken bites wrapped in crispy bacon, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., BBQ, ranch, or honey mustard)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chicken pieces, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut bacon slices in half.
4. Wrap each chicken piece with a half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
5. Place the wrapped chicken bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with any additional seasonings you like.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Chicken Liver Pâté
A rich and creamy pâté made with tender chicken livers, perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken liver, cleaned and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken livers and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the liver from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the cooked chicken liver to the skillet and stir to combine with the cream mixture.
8. Simmer the pâté over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches desired consistency.
9. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Roasted Whole Chicken
This recipe yields a juicy, flavorful whole chicken infused with the aromas of fresh herbs and spices. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Egg Scramble
A simple and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that’s ready in just a few minutes. This scramble combines the flavors of chicken, eggs, and veggies for a nutritious start to your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well-beaten.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the veggies are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the whisked eggs and stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are scrambled to your liking.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Spicy Chicken Heart Skewers
These bite-sized skewers are perfect for a quick and delicious snack or as part of a larger meal. The spicy kick from the Korean chili flakes adds depth to the tender chicken hearts, making them a unique and exciting addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken hearts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and Korean chili flakes.
3. Add chicken hearts to the marinade and mix until coated.
4. Thread 3-4 pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chicken Gizzard Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of this Asian-inspired stir-fry, featuring tender chicken gizzards and a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken gizzards, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken gizzards and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan, then add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and snow peas to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bone Broth Poached Chicken
Transform your chicken into a tender and juicy masterpiece by poaching it in a flavorful bone broth. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cups bone broth
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine bone broth, carrots, celery, garlic, and thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Add the chicken to the pot, breast side up.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
6. Poach for 30-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Chicken Wing Drumettes with Salt
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that highlights the natural taste of chicken wing drumettes paired with a generous sprinkle of salt. Perfect for a quick and satisfying bite!
Ingredients:
– 12-16 chicken wing drumettes
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken wing drumettes under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
4. Place the chicken wing drumettes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle the kosher salt evenly over the drumettes, making sure each piece is coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crunchy exterior, increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.
– Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is!
Grilled Chicken Breast with Tallow
Savor the rich flavor of grilled chicken breast smothered in tallow, a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup tallow (beef fat or rendered duck fat)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together tallow, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush the tallow mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken during the last minute of grilling.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Feet Collagen Soup
This comforting soup is a great way to harness the nutritional benefits of chicken feet, which are rich in collagen, glucosamine, and other essential minerals. By simmering them with aromatic vegetables and herbs, you’ll create a soothing and rejuvenating broth perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken feet
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken feet under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chopped carrots and celery, along with the thyme and bay leaf. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the chicken feet to the pot, along with enough water to cover them by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Air-Fried Chicken Skin Chips
Air-Fried Chicken Skin Chips Recipe: Crunchy Snacks with a Twist!
Are you looking for a crispy and savory snack that’s healthier than regular potato chips? Look no further! This air-fried chicken skin chip recipe transforms leftover chicken skin into addictive, flavorful treats.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lbs chicken skin (preferably with some fat still attached)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Remove excess fat from the chicken skin, if necessary.
3. Cut the chicken skin into desired chip shapes or strips.
4. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss the chicken skin pieces in the mixture until evenly coated.
6. Load the chicken skin chips into the air fryer basket in batches (about 1/2 full).
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
8. Repeat with remaining chip batches.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes total
Chicken and Pork Rind Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of chicken, pork rinds, and creamy sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup pork rinds, crushed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, and thyme. Stir in the crushed pork rinds.
5. Combine the cooked chicken, sauce mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thighs with Duck Fat
Elevate your chicken game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the tender goodness of chicken thighs with the luxuriousness of duck fat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup duck fat (or substitute with unsalted butter)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the duck fat, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
5. Brush the duck fat mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Liver Mousse
Elevate your appetizer game with this decadent chicken liver mousse recipe. This rich and creamy spread is perfect for crackers, toast, or as a dip for fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken livers
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cognac (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, cook the chicken livers for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
3. Remove the livers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. In a food processor, combine the cooled liver, heavy cream, butter, garlic, and cognac (if using). Process until smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mousse to a serving dish or ramekin. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters
Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters: A Deliciously Easy Recipe
Savor the rich flavor of tender smoked chicken leg quarters, perfect for a weekend BBQ or family gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying juicy, smoky goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hickory, apple, or cherry)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C). If using a charcoal or gas grill with a smoke box, follow manufacturer’s instructions for smoking.
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season chicken leg quarters with salt, pepper, and the spice mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place wood chips in your smoker or grill, depending on your setup. Add chicken leg quarters once chips start smoking (about 10-15 minutes).
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with pan juices or melted butter during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Chicken and Beef Fat Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game by combining juicy chicken and rich beef fat for a flavorful twist on the classic Italian-American dish. These bite-sized balls of goodness are perfect for snacking, serving as an appetizer, or adding to your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/4 cup beef fat (such as chuck roast or short rib), finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, beef fat, onion, garlic, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Breast with Bone Marrow Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this decadent recipe featuring tender chicken breast smothered in a rich bone marrow sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bone marrow (canned or homemade)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
5. Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. While chicken is cooking, combine bone marrow and heavy cream in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
7. Serve chicken breasts with bone marrow sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salt-Cured Chicken Jerky
This recipe transforms tender chicken into crispy, flavorful jerky with a boost of salty goodness. Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place the chicken breast on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or broiler pan.
4. Sprinkle the salt-cure mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Cure for 2-3 hours or overnight.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Cut into strips and dry at room temperature for 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours + drying time (up to 24 hours)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a protein lover’s paradise! This article brings you 20 savory chicken recipes that are perfect for those following the carnivore diet. From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs and Pan-Seared Chicken Liver Pâté, to more adventurous options like Spicy Chicken Heart Skewers and Chicken Feet Collagen Soup, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide a boost of protein to keep you going all day long.
