When it comes to dinner, chicken often steals the spotlight. It’s versatile, easy to cook, and a hit with both kids and adults. But let’s be honest, coming up with new and exciting chicken recipes can sometimes feel like a challenge. That’s where I come in.
I’ve rounded up 15 easy chicken recipes that will make your dinner planning a breeze. From quick stir-fries to comforting casseroles, these dishes are perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find something delicious to whip up without breaking a sweat.
Why Choose Chicken For Dinner?
Chicken offers a versatile and accessible protein option. It’s lean, affordable, and available in various cuts like breasts and thighs. According to the USDA, chicken provides essential nutrients, including vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.
Chicken suits myriad culinary styles. One can grill, bake, stir-fry, or slow-cook it, making it a staple in international cuisines like Italian, Chinese, and Mexican dishes.
Chicken cooks faster than many other proteins. A boneless, skinless chicken breast typically cooks in 15-20 minutes, ideal for busy evenings when time is limited.
Kids are generally more receptive to chicken dishes. Favorites like chicken nuggets and tenders are always safe bets. This ensures meals cater to picky eaters.
Chicken adapts well to healthy recipes. Opt for grilled or baked options over fried, and pair chicken with vegetables and whole grains for balanced meals.
Benefits Of Easy Chicken Recipes
Easy chicken recipes offer numerous benefits, making dinner planning less stressful and more enjoyable. This section delves into two primary advantages: saving time and maximizing nutritional value.
Time-Saving
Easy chicken recipes save significant time in meal preparation. Most chicken dishes require minimal prep work, and many can be cooked in under 30 minutes. For example, grilled chicken breasts or stir-fried chicken with vegetables are quick options. Using simple seasonings or pre-marinated cuts also reduces cooking time. Additionally, having pre-cut chicken pieces or boneless, skinless chicken breasts speeds up the process, allowing for fast weekday meals.
Nutritional Value
Chicken is packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy dinner choice. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. A 3-ounce serving of chicken breast provides around 26 grams of protein. Chicken also supplies vital vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, iron, and zinc. Choosing skinless, grilled, or baked chicken options keeps the fat content low, contributing to a balanced diet when paired with vegetables and whole grains.
Recipe 1: Classic Roast Chicken
A Classic Roast Chicken is a timeless choice for a delicious and comforting dinner. It’s simple yet flavorful, making it a favorite in many households.
Ingredients
- 1 Whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tsp salt
- 1/2 Tsp black pepper
- 1 Tsp garlic powder
- 1 Tsp dried thyme
- 1 Lemon (halved)
- 4 Garlic cloves (peeled)
- 1 Bunch fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Remove and discard the giblets from the chicken.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil, ensuring an even coating.
- Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Roast the chicken for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving.
This simple recipe yields a succulent and flavorful roast chicken, perfect for any dinner table.
Recipe 2: Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo offers a creamy, rich flavor perfect for a quick yet indulgent dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add sliced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes, until fully cooked.
- Stir in heavy cream. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Recipe 3: Chicken Stir-Fry
Chicken stir-fry is a quick, healthy dinner option, combining lean protein with fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for busy nights when time is limited but a nutritious meal is essential.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 broccoli head, cut into florets
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook, stirring, until no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the pan, then add garlic and ginger. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, approximately 5 minutes.
- Return chicken to the pan. Pour in soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Mix cornstarch and water mixture into the stir-fry, cooking for another minute until the sauce thickens.
- Serve chicken stir-fry over cooked rice.
This chicken stir-fry is a versatile and flavorful dish that accommodates various vegetables and dietary preferences.
Recipe 4: BBQ Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 425°F. Prepare a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Spread BBQ Sauce: Spread the BBQ sauce evenly over the pizza crust.
- Add Chicken: Distribute the shredded chicken evenly over the sauced crust.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
- Add Red Onions: Arrange the sliced red onions on top of the cheese.
- Bake Pizza: Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Remove from oven, then sprinkle cilantro on top.
Recipe 5: Lemon Garlic Chicken
Lemon Garlic Chicken provides a refreshing twist on classic chicken recipes and offers a zesty yet savory flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Mix lemon juice, garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
- Coat chicken breasts with the marinade, ensuring they are evenly covered. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade over them.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
This recipe delivers a burst of citrusy herb flavor and pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Recipe 6: Chicken Tacos
Chicken Tacos are quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner. They offer a balance of protein, vegetables, and spices, making them a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Cook chicken by adding diced chicken to heated oil, and stir occasionally until chicken is no longer pink inside, about 7-10 minutes.
- Mix seasoning by adding taco seasoning mix to the chicken, then pour in water. Stir well to coat while simmering for 5 minutes.
- Warm tortillas in a microwave or on a dry skillet until they are pliable.
- Assemble tacos by placing cooked chicken onto each tortilla, then topping with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on each taco.
Recipe 7: Chicken Casserole
A great chicken casserole combines hearty ingredients to create a comforting dish perfect for dinner. This recipe provides a satisfying meal with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup broccoli (chopped)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. While waiting, gather all ingredients necessary for prep.
- Mix the rice, chicken broth, and milk in a large bowl. Ensure thorough blending for even cooking.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cooked chicken, and chopped broccoli. Combine until all components are evenly distributed.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust quantities based on taste preferences.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly for consistent baking.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will create a golden, melted layer when baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The casserole should be bubbly and the top layer of cheese melted and slightly browned.
- Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.
Enjoy this hearty chicken casserole for a delightful and easy dinner option sure to please the whole family.
Recipe 8: Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan blends crispy chicken cutlets with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, offering a satisfying dinner perfect for any evening.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a shallow dish.
- Dredge chicken breasts in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place chicken on top, then cover with remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
- Bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Recipe 9: Chicken Teriyaki
Chicken Teriyaki offers a quick, flavorful dinner option perfect for any evening. With a savory sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish sure to please.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp mirin
- 2 tbsp sake (optional)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix Sauce: Combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl. Mix until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides.
- Add Sauce: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the chicken. Serve with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Recipe 10: Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas offer a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner solution. These fajitas combine seasoned chicken with bell peppers and onions, providing a well-rounded meal perfect for any night.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 8 flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, lime wedges
Instructions
1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2: Add chicken slices to the skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3: Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4: In the same skillet, add bell peppers and onions, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
5: Return chicken to the skillet, sprinkling fajita seasoning over the mixture. Stir to coat evenly.
6: Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
7: Warm flour tortillas in a separate dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
8: Serve chicken and vegetable mixture on warmed tortillas.
9: Add optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or lime wedges as desired.
Recipe 11: Chicken Soup
Chicken soup offers a comforting and nutritious option for dinner. It’s easy to make and perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup noodles or rice
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced chicken breast. Cook until it’s no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes.
- Add the noodles or rice. Cook until tender, usually around 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Recipe 12: Chicken Salad
Chicken Salad combines fresh vegetables and chicken for a light and satisfying dinner option.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place mixed greens in a large salad bowl.
- Add chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.
- Sprinkle feta cheese and nuts over the top.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad.
- Toss gently to combine ingredients.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Recipe 13: Chicken Quesadilla
Chicken Quesadilla offers a quick, delicious meal that combines chicken, cheese, and tortillas. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 8 flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Filling: Mix shredded chicken, cheese, salsa, chopped cilantro, diced bell peppers, diced onions, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Heat Pan: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Assemble Quesadilla: Place one tortilla on a flat surface, spread the chicken mixture evenly on it, and cover with another tortilla.
- Cook Quesadilla: Place the assembled quesadilla in the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Cut into wedges and serve hot with sour cream and additional salsa on the side.
This Chicken Quesadilla recipe provides a satisfying meal in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for any night of the week.
Recipe 14: Baked Chicken Wings
Baked chicken wings offer a tasty, healthier alternative to fried wings. They’re great for dinner, parties, or game nights.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (optional for extra spice)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then place a wire rack on top.
- Prepare Wings Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Place them in a large bowl.
- Season Wings Drizzle the olive oil over the wings. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange on Rack Lay the wings on the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Bake Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, turning the wings halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Add Hot Sauce (Optional) If desired for extra spice, remove the wings from the oven and toss with hot sauce before serving.
Serve these delicious baked chicken wings hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.
Recipe 15: Chicken Burrito Bowl
This Chicken Burrito Bowl is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for dinner. It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and customizable.
Ingredients
- 2 Chicken Breasts: Diced
- 1 Cup Cooked Rice: Brown or white
- 1 Can Black Beans: Drained and rinsed
- 1 Cup Corn Kernels: Fresh, canned, or frozen
- 1 Red Bell Pepper: Chopped
- 1 Avocado: Sliced
- 1/4 Cup Red Onion: Diced
- 1/2 Cup Salsa: Choose your preferred type
- 1/4 Cup Fresh Cilantro: Chopped
- 1 Lime: Cut into wedges
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 Teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Cumin
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
- Cook Chicken: Add diced chicken breasts and season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is no longer pink, about 7 minutes.
- Prepare Rice: While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice according to the package instructions.
- Heat Corn and Beans: In a smaller pan, warm the corn and black beans over low heat.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide rice among serving bowls. Top with chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, avocado, red onion, salsa, and cilantro.
- Add Lime: Garnish with lime wedges to squeeze over the bowls before serving.
This Chicken Burrito Bowl offers a simple and tasty dinner option that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Exploring these 15 easy chicken recipes has been a delightful journey for me. Each dish brings its own unique flavors and simplicity to the dinner table. From the comforting Chicken Soup to the vibrant Chicken Burrito Bowl there’s something for every palate and occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests these recipes offer versatility and ease. I hope you find these chicken recipes as enjoyable and convenient as I do. Happy cooking!