When it comes to cooking with chicken, there are countless ways to prepare this versatile protein. But when you add in the sweet, subtle flavor of leeks, the possibilities become endless! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering chicken and leek recipes that are perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes have got you covered.
From creamy pasta dishes to hearty stews and soups, and even international-inspired flavors like tacos and curry, we’ve got a recipe to suit every taste and style. So grab your leeks and chicken breasts, and get ready to spice up your cooking routine with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes.
Creamy Chicken and Leek Pasta
This comforting pasta dish combines sautéed chicken, tender leeks, and a rich creamy sauce, all wrapped up in al dente spaghetti. A perfect weeknight dinner option that’s quick to prepare and pleases the palate.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced leeks and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with leeks. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with cream sauce. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and creamy chicken mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Chicken with Caramelized Leeks
Roasted Chicken with Caramelized Leeks: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavor of roasted chicken with the sweet, caramelized goodness of leeks. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the leeks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roast the leeks in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
6. Place the chicken in the oven and 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 with the roasted leeks.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Chicken and Leek Pie with Puff Pastry
Elevate your comfort food game with this indulgent chicken and leek pie wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, leeks, garlic, flour, and paprika until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a 1/8-inch thickness.
5. Place the filling mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Leek Skewers
Impress your guests with these flavorful and healthy skewers, perfect for any outdoor gathering or backyard barbecue. This recipe combines juicy chicken breast, tender leeks, and a hint of garlic for a deliciously easy-to-make appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and leeks to the marinade; toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken and leek pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or as a standalone snack.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chicken and Leek Risotto
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken, sweet leeks, and Arborio rice in a rich and creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced leeks to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the Parmesan cheese and cooked chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Leek Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, leeks, garlic, and onion.
2. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken and Leek Soup with Herbs
This comforting soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly day. The combination of tender chicken, sweet leeks, and fragrant herbs will warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add the chicken, chicken broth, thyme, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the pot to medium heat and add the heavy cream (if using). Stir until warmed through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Chicken with Sautéed Leeks
Elevate your chicken dish with a flavorful pan-sear and the sweet, tender goodness of sautéed leeks. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add sliced leeks and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and caramelized.
5. Serve chicken breasts with sautéed leeks spooned over the top. Offer lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Leek Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the tender taste of chicken with the mild sweetness of leeks, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add the leeks and garlic; cook until leeks are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, stirring to combine with the leek mixture.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Chicken and Leek Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, caramelized leeks, and a rich creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck. With minimal prep time and a straightforward baking process, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and leeks in butter until cooked through and tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and shredded cheese.
4. Combine the cooked chicken-leek mixture with the creamy sauce and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle with thyme.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Leek Dumplings
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Chicken and Leek Dumplings, a classic comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken, sweet leeks, and fluffy dumplings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the sliced leeks in butter until tender and lightly browned.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the milk and chicken broth to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Drop rounded spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture onto the top of the chicken and leeks.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dumplings are puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Leek Quiche
A classic quiche recipe gets a delicious twist with the addition of tender chicken and sweet leeks. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium leeks, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a skillet, cook the chicken and leeks until the chicken is cooked through and the leeks are tender. Drain excess liquid.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange the cooked chicken and leek mixture in the pie crust. Top with grated cheese.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Leek Tacos
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chicken, leeks, and spices with the convenience of a taco. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, these tacos are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium leeks, sliced into thin rings
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
4. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, sauté leeks in a little oil until tender and lightly browned.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing chicken into thin strips and serving with leeks, tortillas, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Leek Frittata
This classic frittata recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken and leeks, and it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet caramelized leeks, and creamy eggs makes for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, kale, and arugula)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 6 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked leeks and chicken in the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the frittata is cooked through.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Chicken and Leek Curry
This creamy and aromatic curry recipe combines tender chicken with sweet leeks and a blend of Indian spices. Perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium leeks, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add sliced leeks, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk; stir to combine. Return chicken to skillet; simmer until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Leek Shepherd’s Pie
This classic comfort food dish gets a flavorful boost with the addition of chicken and tender leeks, all wrapped up in a crispy mashed potato crust. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– Butter or cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, leeks, and garlic in olive oil until leeks are tender and chicken is cooked through.
3. Mix in flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream; season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with diced potatoes.
5. Dot the top of the potatoes with butter or cooking spray.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Leek Stuffed Bell Peppers
These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of chicken, leeks, and cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken and leeks in olive oil until chicken is cooked through.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-leek mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with paprika.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Leek Lasagna
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken, sweet leeks, and creamy cheese in a layered lasagna that’s sure to please. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 large leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté leeks and garlic until softened.
4. Layer cooked chicken, leek mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with beaten egg and olive oil-greased lasagna noodles.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious combination of chicken and leeks with these 18 mouthwatering recipes for every occasion. From creamy pasta dishes to hearty stews and soups, there’s something for everyone. Try roasting chicken with caramelized leeks, or grilling chicken and leek skewers for a quick and easy meal. For a comforting casserole, look no further than the baked chicken and leek casserole. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
