Must-try chicken dishes for autumnal vibes

They're a firm favourite all year round, of course, but as the days shorten and we start to hanker after woolly jumpers and long walks, chicken dishes are absolutely the way to go. We asked Rosie Kellet, Diana Henry, Yotam Ottolenghi and more to recommend the recipes that will make September’s menu extra special.

Best for impromptu parties

Best for impromptu parties

Dina Macki on pomegranate & honey chicken drumsticks

“This recipe shows just how beautifully chicken and pomegranates pair. Drumsticks are ideal for feeding a crowd – simply multiply the recipe and grab a bigger tray – but it also works for a weekday dinner.”

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Best for light bites

Charmaine Katz on larb gai

“To me this is the perfect dinner. It's fiery, tangy, salty, crunchy and fresh – and simple enough to whip up after a day at work. It’s also delicious the next day (if there are any leftovers).”

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Best for Italian feasts

Alex Szrok on crispy Parmesan chicken with margherita spaghetti

“Pollo milanese with spaghetti and tomato sauce is a real comfort classic for me. It always feels a little naughty and is never not satisfying. Guaranteed to make anyone smile!”

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Best for impressing a crowd

Lucy Battersby on black garlic chicken with black garlic mayo

“This is my go-to for easy autumn entertaining. The black garlic butter gives incredible depth of flavour and keeps the chicken beautifully juicy. And it’s all cooked in one tray.”

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Best for spicy comfort

Best for spicy comfort

Diana Henry on gochujang chicken & squash traybake

“Chicken traybakes are a joy forever and this one is a huge hit in my house. Be careful not to burn the chicken as the marinade contains sugar – cover if necessary and baste frequently.”

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Best for feeding the family

Alison Oakervee on chicken, leek & mushroom pie

“Who doesn't love chicken pie? This recipe is a family favourite; it takes a little time but is easy to make ahead, freezes well, and is a certified crowd-pleaser for all ages."

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Ottolenghi's chicken warming spices dish

Best for warming spices

Yotam Ottolenghi on hawaij ‘chicken à la king’

“Hawaij paste transforms an old-school favourite with its warming blend of cardamom, cumin and turmeric. The grated carrots catch the sauce, golden raisins add bursts of sweetness, and it's easily doubled if needed.”

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Best for a modern twist

Best for a modern twist

Rosie Kellett on sesame soy roast chicken

“There are so many ways to roast a chicken. This recipe feels like the crowning jewel in my pursuit of the perfect roast chook, with a deep umami flavour and a tender texture.”

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Best for pure comfort

Rosie Bensberg on chicken with orzo & roasted garlic aïoli

“This recipe from Melissa Thompson is a real favourite; I make it on repeat through autumn as a lower-effort alternative to a Sunday roast. The schmaltzy orzo is addictive.”

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Best for maximum flavour

James Cochran’s chicken curry pie

“This is a celebrated dish from the Cochran household. My mum used to flip the switch with British classics. Here, a chicken pie gets a Caribbean makeover, with lots of pepper and spice.”

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Best for bridging the seasons

Best for bridging the seasons

Addie Lewis on crispy roast chicken legs with tomatoey butter beans

“As September is often warm these days, I hold off on a full-on roast until there’s a nip in the air. Meanwhile, this satisfies the craving for crispy skin and glazed veg.”

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