Chicken is a universal favorite, appearing in cuisines around the world with distinct flavors, techniques, and spices. From fiery curries to herb-infused roasts, international chicken dishes offer something for every palate. Whether you’re a culinary adventurer or just want to spice up your weeknight meals, these 7 international chicken dishes are a must-try.

This guide includes recipes, cooking tips, flavor profiles, and cultural insights to bring global flavors to your kitchen.

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1. Chicken Tikka Masala (India)

A globally beloved dish, chicken tikka masala features tender chicken in a rich, spiced tomato cream sauce.

Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed

• 1 cup plain yogurt

• 2 tbsp garam masala

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• ½ cup cream

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Steps

1. Marinate chicken in yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin for 15–30 minutes.

2. Sauté onion and garlic, add tomatoes and simmer 10 minutes.

3. Cook chicken separately until tender, then add to sauce.

4. Stir in cream and simmer 5 minutes.

5. Serve with basmati rice and naan.

📊 Flavor Tip: Adjust chili powder to control spiciness.

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2. Coq au Vin (France)

A classic French dish, coq au vin is chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and herbs.

Time: 2 hours | Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces

• 2 cups red wine

• 1 cup chicken stock

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp thyme

Steps

1. Brown chicken pieces in olive oil.

2. Remove chicken, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms.

3. Add wine, stock, and herbs; return chicken to pot.

4. Simmer 1.5–2 hours until chicken is tender.

5. Serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

📊 Cooking Tip: Use a full-bodied red wine for richer flavor.

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3. Pollo a la Brasa (Peru)

This Peruvian roasted chicken is marinated with spices and roasted to crispy perfection, often served with aji verde sauce.

Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken

• 2 tbsp paprika

• 2 tsp cumin

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 lime

Steps

1. Rub chicken with olive oil, spices, and lime juice; marinate 1–2 hours.

2. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 50–60 minutes.

3. Serve with roasted potatoes and aji verde sauce.

📊 Pro Tip: Basting the chicken halfway ensures crispy skin.

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4. General Tso’s Chicken (China)

A popular Chinese-American dish, General Tso’s chicken is crispy, sweet, and spicy.

Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 tsp garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ginger, minced

• 2 tbsp rice vinegar

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp chili flakes

Steps

1. Toss chicken in soy sauce and cornstarch; fry until crispy.

2. Sauté garlic and ginger, add vinegar, sugar, and chili flakes to make sauce.

3. Toss fried chicken in sauce until coated.

4. Serve over steamed rice.

📊 Flavor Tip: Adjust sugar and chili to balance sweetness and heat.

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5. Butter Chicken (India)

Also known as Murgh Makhani, butter chicken is creamy, buttery, and mildly spiced—a global comfort food favorite.

Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ginger, minced

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 cup tomato puree

• ½ cup cream

Steps

1. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in butter.

2. Add tomato puree and spices; simmer 10 minutes.

3. Cook chicken separately and add to sauce.

4. Stir in cream, simmer 5 minutes.

5. Serve with rice or naan.

📊 Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh cilantro.

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6. Jamaican Jerk Chicken (Jamaica)

A spicy, smoky, and aromatic grilled chicken, jerk chicken is infused with allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, and herbs.

Time: 1 hour (marination included) | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs

• 2 tbsp allspice

• 1 tsp thyme

• 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, minced

• 2 cloves garlic

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• Juice of 1 lime

Steps

1. Blend all spices and herbs into a paste; marinate chicken 30–60 minutes.

2. Grill over medium heat 15–20 minutes per side until cooked through.

3. Serve with rice and peas or a fresh salad.

📊 Pro Tip: Use gloves when handling Scotch bonnet peppers.

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7. Chicken Adobo (Philippines)

A savory, tangy, and slightly sweet chicken dish, adobo is a Filipino classic.

Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs

• ½ cup soy sauce

• ¼ cup vinegar

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp black pepper

Steps

1. Combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and pepper in a pot.

2. Simmer covered 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Remove lid and simmer 10 more minutes to reduce sauce.

4. Serve with steamed rice.

📊 Flavor Tip: Adjust vinegar for more tanginess or sweetness.

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Tips for Cooking International Chicken Dishes

1. Balance flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

2. Prep ingredients ahead: Chop vegetables and measure spices to save time.

3. Use fresh herbs: Elevates the dish and adds authenticity.

4. Control heat: Adjust chilies and spices to match your tolerance.

5. Serve with appropriate sides: Rice, bread, or vegetables depending on cuisine.

📊 Cuisine and Flavor Guide

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Final Thoughts

Exploring international chicken dishes is a delicious way to travel the world from your kitchen. Each recipe brings unique flavors, techniques, and cultural heritage. From creamy Indian curries and French braises to fiery Jamaican jerk and tangy Filipino adobo, these dishes will inspire your cooking and delight your taste buds.