In the chaos of busy weeknights, when time feels like it’s slipping away, planning dinner can become a real challenge. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Between after-school activities, work commitments, and keeping up with the daily grind, many families find themselves in a cooking rut, scrambling to whip up something that everyone will love. That’s why I created this list of 15 quick and easy dinner recipes with chicken. These recipes are designed to save you time while still delivering delicious, family-friendly meals.
Whether you’re a parent juggling kids’ schedules or just someone looking for quick meals after a long day, this post is for you. You want dinners that are not only simple but also kid-approved and full of flavor. You’ll find that these recipes require minimal prep and can often be made using just one pan or pot. Imagine finishing your day with a home-cooked meal that everyone enjoys. It’s possible, and I’m here to help you make it happen.
In this guide, you’ll discover a variety of chicken recipes that are quick to prepare and perfect for busy nights. From savory fajitas to creamy pasta and zesty tacos, there’s something here for every palate. Get ready to enjoy meals that bring your family together without the stress of complicated cooking. Each recipe is designed to be straightforward, allowing you to focus more on connecting with loved ones and less on what to make for dinner.
Key Takeaways
– Each recipe in this collection is quick to prepare, taking 30 minutes or less, perfect for busy weeknights.
– The meals are family-friendly, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will find something they love.
– Many of the recipes use just one pan or pot, making cleanup a breeze.
– These dishes include a variety of flavors and cuisines, offering something new to try each week.
– You’ll find tips for meal prep and variations to suit your family’s tastes, so you can customize as you go.
Contents
- 1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
- 2. Chicken Fajita Skillet
- 3. Creamy Chicken Pasta
- 4. Chicken Stir-Fry
- 5. BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
- 6. Chicken Tacos
- 7. Honey Garlic Chicken
- 8. Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
- 9. Chicken Caesar Salad
- 10. Chicken Curry
- 11. Baked Chicken Tenders
- 12. Chicken and Rice Casserole
- 13. Stuffed Chicken Breasts
- 14. Chicken Minestrone Soup
- 15. Greek Chicken Souvlaki
1. One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken
Craving a meal that’s both quick and bursting with flavor? The One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is your answer! With tender chicken marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce and roasted with seasonal veggies, it’s a dish that brings together a delightful aroma and taste, all while making cleanup a breeze. You’ll enjoy the healthy benefits of fresh veggies and lean protein, plus it’s super easy to whip up after a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Arrange broccoli and cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but ensure they are thawed before marinating.
2. Chicken Fajita Skillet
Looking to spice up your dinner routine? The Chicken Fajita Skillet is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal in no time! Juicy chicken strips are sautéed with colorful bell peppers and onions, all tossed in zesty taco spices. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to customize, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breasts, sliced into strips
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in bell peppers, onion, and fajita seasoning. Cook until veggies are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve with warm tortillas.
FAQs:
– Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, substitute chicken with portobello mushrooms.
3. Creamy Chicken Pasta
Are you dreaming of a comforting pasta dish? This Creamy Chicken Pasta is your go-to for a quick and satisfying meal! It combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and al dente pasta for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for those busy nights when you need something hearty and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and cook diced chicken until golden.
3. Add cream and garlic powder; stir until combined.
4. Mix in the cooked pasta and parmesan cheese, stirring until creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
FAQs:
– Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, feel free to swap penne for your favorite pasta shape.
How To Choose Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes With Chicken
When you’re busy with work, kids, and life, finding the right chicken recipe can be a challenge. You want something quick, easy, and tasty that the whole family will enjoy. Here are some selection criteria to help you choose the best quick and easy dinner recipes with chicken.
1. Preparation Time
Look for recipes that take 30 minutes or less. This keeps dinner stress-free and allows you to spend more time with your family. Quick prep also means less time doing dishes! You can easily find meals that can be prepped in 10-15 minutes, like chicken tacos or BBQ chicken quesadillas.
2. Cooking Method
Consider how you want to cook your chicken. Options include baking, grilling, sautéing, or slow cooking. One-pan meals, like chicken stir-fry or creamy chicken pasta, are popular because they minimize cleanup and maximize flavor. Choose a method that matches your energy for the evening!
3. Ingredients
Check the ingredient list. Opt for recipes that use pantry staples and fresh items you already have. Recipes with fewer ingredients are often quicker to prepare. For example, honey garlic chicken requires minimal ingredients but packs a delicious punch that kids will love.
4. Nutritional Value
Make sure your chosen recipes are family-friendly and healthy. Look for meals rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Chicken Caesar salad or Greek chicken souvlaki offer balanced meals that fulfill nutritional needs while being kid-approved. This way, you can serve your family delicious food without compromising on health.
5. Family Preferences
Take your family’s tastes into account! If your kids love cheesy dishes, creamy chicken pasta or baked chicken tenders will likely be a hit. For spice lovers, chicken curry or chicken fajita skillets can add excitement to dinner. Engaging your family in meal planning can lead to more enjoyable and satisfying dinners.
6. Leftover Potential
Choose recipes that make enough food for leftovers. This saves time on the next busy night and can also be used for lunches. Dishes like chicken and rice casserole or chicken minestrone soup are perfect for this, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without much work the next day!
Pro Tip: Always have a few go-to quick and easy chicken recipes saved or written down. This way, you can easily refer to them during your busiest weeks. Meal planning even one week in advance can make dinner time feel less hectic. Don’t forget to involve your kids in cooking; it’s a great way to teach them valuable skills and create lasting memories!
4. Chicken Stir-Fry
Need a meal that’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor? Look no further than Chicken Stir-Fry! This vibrant dish comes together in under 20 minutes, featuring colorful veggies and tender chicken, making it perfect for using up any produce you have on hand. It’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over high heat.
2. Add chicken strips and stir-fry until cooked through.
3. Add the veggies and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but crisp.
4. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil, cooking for another minute.
5. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, just ensure they are thawed before cooking.
5. BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Looking for a fun and tasty meal? BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are the answer! These cheesy, crispy quesadillas are loaded with flavors and are perfect for a quick family dinner or game night. The smoky BBQ sauce combined with tender chicken makes them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet, layer with BBQ chicken and cheese, then top with another tortilla.
4. Cook until golden brown, flip, and cook the other side until cheese melts.
5. Cut into wedges and serve with sour cream.
FAQs:
– Can I use a different type of sauce? Absolutely, ranch dressing works well too!
6. Chicken Tacos
Taco night just got better with these easy Chicken Tacos! Juicy chicken seasoned with flavorful taco spices is piled into soft tortillas and topped with your favorite fixings. This hands-on dinner allows everyone to get involved and customize their tacos just the way they like.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
– 8 small tortillas
– 1 cup lettuce, shredded
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
– Salsa for topping
Instructions:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until browned.
2. Stir in taco seasoning and cook until chicken is fully cooked.
3. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
4. Assemble tacos by adding chicken to tortillas and topping with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa.
FAQs:
– What type of tortillas are best? Corn or flour both work well!
7. Honey Garlic Chicken
If you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory, try this quick Honey Garlic Chicken! The chicken is marinated in a delightful honey and garlic mixture, resulting in deliciously caramelized edges. This dish is packed with flavor and comes together in no time, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
– 1/2 cup honey
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix honey, garlic, and soy sauce.
2. Add chicken, and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Pour remaining marinade over the chicken and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serve with rice or steamed vegetables.
FAQs:
– Can I use chicken breasts instead? Yes, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
8. Teriyaki Chicken Bowls
Craving a taste of Asia? These Teriyaki Chicken Bowls are incredibly simple and bursting with flavor! Featuring grilled chicken drizzled in tangy teriyaki sauce, fluffy rice, and crisp veggies, these bowls are customizable and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 2 cups mixed veggies (like carrots, snap peas, and bell peppers)
– Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate chicken in teriyaki sauce for at least 15 minutes.
2. Grill or pan-fry chicken until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, stir-fry the mixed veggies until tender.
4. Serve grilled chicken over rice and top with veggies and green onions.
FAQs:
– Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free? Check labels, as some may contain gluten.
9. Chicken Caesar Salad
Ready to refresh your dinner routine? This Chicken Caesar Salad is a light yet filling option! Juicy grilled chicken sits on a bed of crisp romaine lettuce, drizzled with creamy Caesar dressing, and topped with crunchy croutons and parmesan for a delicious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound grilled chicken breast, sliced
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, toss together chopped lettuce, grilled chicken, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
2. Top with parmesan cheese before serving.
3. Enjoy as a light dinner or lunch option.
FAQs:
– Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, it saves time and is perfectly fine.
10. Chicken Curry
Warm up your evenings with a comforting Chicken Curry that’s aromatic and delicious! This quick recipe uses spices to elevate chicken and veggies into a creamy, vibrant dish that pairs perfectly with rice or naan. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a cozy meal without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breast, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots)
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add the chicken and cook until no longer pink.
3. Stir in curry powder and coconut milk, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Serve with rice or naan.
FAQs:
– Is this dish spicy? You can adjust the curry powder to suit your taste.
11. Baked Chicken Tenders
Who can resist crispy chicken tenders? These Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to fried ones and are super easy to prepare. Coated in breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, they make a delicious appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil spray for baking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
3. Dip chicken tenders in beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place on a baking sheet and spray with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze these tenders? Yes, they freeze well before or after baking.
12. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Make dinner a breeze with this Chicken and Rice Casserole. It’s a classic comfort dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice, all baked in one dish for easy cleanup. Perfect for weeknight meals, it’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup rice
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth.
3. Stir in mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour mixture into a baking dish and cover with foil.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until rice is tender.
FAQs:
– Can I use uncooked rice? Yes, but increase cooking time as needed.
13. Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Elevate your dinner with Stuffed Chicken Breasts! These juicy chicken breasts are filled with a wonderful mixture of spinach and cheese, baked to perfection. It’s an impressive dish that’s surprisingly simple to make and sure to wow your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chopped spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella.
3. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and fill with the cheese mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Thaw them before stuffing for best results.
14. Chicken Minestrone Soup
Warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients, Chicken Minestrone Soup is a fantastic way to use leftover chicken. This hearty soup is filled with vegetables, pasta, and tender chicken, making it ideal for chilly evenings. It’s a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup kidney beans, drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
– Italian herbs for seasoning
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add carrots, celery, and tomatoes, cooking until tender.
3. Stir in shredded chicken and kidney beans.
4. Add pasta and cook until al dente.
5. Season with Italian herbs and serve hot.
FAQs:
– Can I freeze minestrone soup? Yes, it freezes well!
15. Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Take a culinary trip to Greece with these flavorful Greek Chicken Souvlaki skewers! Marinated in a delightful blend of herbs and spices, they’re perfect for grilling and pair beautifully with tzatziki sauce. This easy recipe is sure to impress and add a Mediterranean flair to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Skewers for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken cubes and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers.
4. Grill over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
5. Serve with tzatziki sauce and pita bread.
FAQs:
– Can I use a grill pan instead? Yes, a grill pan works great for indoor cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking should be a joy, not a chore, especially on busy nights. These 15 quick and easy dinner recipes with chicken are not just time-savers; they’re filled with flavors that the whole family will love. From savory stir-fries to hearty casseroles, there’s something here for everyone!
Try them out, mix and match according to your family’s tastes, and before you know it, dinner will be your favorite time of day. Share your favorites and don’t forget to keep exploring new flavors and recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a quick and easy dinner recipe with chicken that’s perfect for busy nights?
Finding a quick and easy dinner recipe with chicken that fits a busy schedule is totally doable. Look for one-pan, sheet-pan, or skillet options that cook in 20–30 minutes.
In our article ’15 Quick & Easy Dinner Recipes With Chicken for Busy Nights’, you will find plenty of family-friendly and kid-approved ideas that use simple ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and a tasty sauce.
Practical steps: thaw chicken if needed, chop vegetables in advance, and use a simple, versatile sauce to finish the dish. Cooking in a single pan minimizes cleanup and speeds things up.
If you are really pressed for time, keep a few pantry staples on hand (olive oil, garlic, paprika, canned tomatoes) to turn ready ingredients into a flavorful quick dinner in under half an hour.
Which quick chicken dinners are family-friendly and kid-approved?
To keep meals family-friendly and kid-approved, choose milder flavors and familiar textures. Start with chicken cooked to tender, juicy perfection, and add veggies in a way kids enjoy (thinly sliced peppers, corn, or shredded carrots). Let kids customize toppings or sauces so they feel part of the meal.
Our 15 chicken dinners include options that are family-friendly and kid-approved, with simple sides like rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. If spice is a concern, skip or tone down heat and finish with a light honey-garlic or mild tomato glaze. Pair meals with a quick DIY topping bar to boost engagement and make weeknights more fun.
What are the best time-saving tips for these quick & easy chicken dinners?
Prep in advance, use one-pan recipes, and lean on pantry staples to cut cooking time. Batch-marinade or season chicken in the morning; chop vegetables while you boil water; store sauces in the fridge for a fast finish.
Sheet-pan dinners let you bake chicken and vegetables together, saving dishes and cooking time. Choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs when you need extra flavor and quicker cooking. Keep frozen vegetables and pre-cut produce on hand for ultra-fast weeknights. Pro tip: use pre-made sauces or spice blends you already love to shave minutes off prep.
Can I repurpose leftovers from these chicken dinners for easy lunches?
Yes. Leftover chicken from these meals can become easy lunches or dinners. Shred the chicken for wraps, tacos, quesadillas, or salads. Keep sauces separate to prevent sogginess, or mix in a fresh splash of lemon or herbs before serving. Reheat leftovers to 165F for safety, either in a skillet or microwave, and store properly in airtight containers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for longer freshness.
Are these chicken dinner ideas budget-friendly and freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Many quick chicken dinners are budget-friendly, especially when you choose affordable cuts like bone-in thighs and keep an eye on pantry staples. You can freeze both raw sheet-pan meals or cooked leftovers, making busy weeknights even easier. Buy in bulk, use canned tomatoes, beans, and inexpensive grains to stretch meals, and portion servings so nothing goes to waste. When reheating, ensure the chicken is heated through to 165F for safety.
