9 Easy Chicken Recipes for Weeknight Dinners

Feeling bored with the same old chicken dinners? Looking for quick, tasty ideas? If your weeknights are all about last-minute cooking, it’s time for a change. Let’s try some easy, delicious chicken dishes!

Our easy chicken recipes are great for busy days. They take about 27 minutes to make. You’ll find zesty stir-fries and warm casseroles. These recipes use ingredients you probably have at home. Get ready for easy meals that will make everyone happy!

Key Takeaways

• Average preparation time of just 27 minutes per recipe.
• Ideal for families juggling busy schedules.
• Offers a variety of flavors, from zesty to comforting.
• Uses common kitchen ingredients for convenience.
• Each recipe provides healthy chicken meal options.
• Perfect for home cooks ranging from beginners to intermediates.
• Emphasis on simple chicken dishes that are easy to make.

Quick and Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry

Looking for a quick meal that’s also tasty? This chicken stir-fry is what you need! It’s done in less than 30 minutes. It has lots of colorful veggies and tender chicken. It’s great for beginners who want to try chicken recipes. Let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for a great chicken stir-fry:

• 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons of arrowroot flour combined with 2 tablespoons of water for the sauce
• 2 cups of frozen broccoli florets
• 3/4 cup of baby carrots
• 1 small white onion
• 1 red bell pepper
• Optional: cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option

Cooking Method

First, marinate the chicken. Do this for 15-20 minutes or even an hour is better. Then, in a skillet over medium, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Sauté onions and garlic until they smell great, about 3-5 minutes.

Next, add the chicken pieces. Cook them for around 4 minutes, and flipping them halfway is key. Then, it’s time for baby carrots, red bell pepper, and broccoli. Cook these for 3 more minutes. If using frozen veggies, let them cook a bit longer, about 3-4 minutes. Last step, add the arrowroot mix to the stir-fry. It thickens in about 5 minutes.

Tips for the Best Stir-Fry

Here are some expert tips for an amazing stir-fry. Use fresh veggies for a pretty and healthy dish. Mix soy sauce, ginger, and some honey for tasty flavors. Cut the chicken into even pieces. This cooks it faster and keeps it juicy. Finally, add fresh herbs like cilantro for a flavor boost. Serve it over rice or noodle alternatives for a full meal. Follow these hints, and you’ll be great at making stir-fries!

Savory One-Pan Chicken and Vegetables

One-pot chicken recipes save the day when I’m short on time. This dish mixes tender chicken with rich vegetables. All in one pan for easy family-friendly chicken dinners. It’s a top pick for quick chicken dinner ideas, making weeknights easier.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

Picking the right veggies is key. They round out the flavors and cook well together. I use 4 medium potatoes, 1 large onion, 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, 1 red bell pepper, and 1 cup of Kalamata olives. These hold up in the oven and grab the chicken’s flavors.

Seasoning Suggestions

For a big flavor, season well. Mix the veggies with 4 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, and minced garlic. This coating makes every bite delicious. Add Italian herbs for more aroma if you’d like!

Cooking Time and Temperature

Cooking it right means perfect texture. Heat your oven to 375°F first. Place 2 pounds of chicken with the veggies in a pan. Bake for 1 hour. Flip the chicken midway for even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and potatoes are soft.

You’ll end up with a delicious, nutrient-packed meal quickly! It’s a crowd-pleaser and makes quick chicken dinner ideas easy. Plus, it tastes great!

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

If you’re in the mood for something warm and filling, try creamy garlic chicken pasta. It’s packed with tender chicken and smooth sauce. Plus, it’s easy to make. Let’s get started on this tasty journey!

Key Ingredients

Here are the things you’ll need to make this yummy pasta:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 12 ounces of dried penne pasta (about 3 cups)
• 6 medium garlic cloves — bursting with flavor
• 1.5 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour — for thickening
• Salt and pepper — to taste
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Optional: 1/3 cup of dry white wine for that extra punch

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a pot of salted water. Drop in the pasta and cook till tender, around 10-12 minutes. Save some pasta water, then drain.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Add salt and pepper to the chicken. Warm olive oil in a skillet on medium-high. Cook the chicken both sides, about 5 minutes until done. Then, put it aside.
3. Prepare the Garlic Sauce: Use the same skillet, cook garlic for 1 minute until it smells good. Add flour and mix well. Cook one more minute. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and wine if you like. Stir constantly. Let it cook 3-5 minutes until thick.
4. Combine Everything: Cut the chicken into pieces. Put it back in the skillet. Add the pasta. Mix well with the sauce. Add some pasta water if it’s too thick.
5. Finish with Cheese: Mix in the Parmesan cheese until it melts completely. This makes it creamy and rich.
6. Serve and Enjoy! Dish out the pasta and add more cheese if you want. Enjoy it hot!

This recipe is a great addition to your quick and easy meals. It takes less than 25 minutes to make. It’s enough for the whole family. You’ll want to make creamy garlic chicken pasta all the time!

Flavorful Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilling chicken skewers is a fun and quick dinner idea. They are not just convenient but tasty and enjoyable to make. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner at home, these skewers combine flavor and health. Everyone loves them. Let’s get started and enjoy these healthy chicken meals!

Marinades That Make a Difference

Marinades are key for tasty chicken skewers. I like a simple marinade with Greek yogurt, olive oil, and lemon juice. It also has salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for extra taste. Marinate your chicken for 8 hours or overnight. This lets the flavors soak in well.

Grill Temperature Tips

For perfect grill marks and juicy chicken, knowing your grill temperature is crucial. Heat your grill to a medium-high temperature of 400°F. Soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes to avoid burning. Grill your chicken skewers for 13 to 15 minutes. Turn them occasionally for even cooking. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before taking them off the grill. Let the skewers rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step keeps the juices in!

Serving Suggestions

Grilled chicken skewers are very versatile. Serve them over rice, with a salad, or in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce. These skewers make for a quick dinner, ready in 30 minutes after marinating. Add freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra flavor. Perfect for feeding six people or just a few, these skewers are always a hit!

Quick Chicken Tacos for Busy Nights

Tacos are always a favorite, especially these quick chicken tacos for busy evenings. You can make a delicious poultry recipe quickly after a long day. Since 2015, this recipe has earned over 2400 five-star ratings.

Essential Taco Ingredients

Here’s what you need:
– ½ pound of shredded cooked chicken
– 1 ounce of taco seasoning
– 14.5 ounces (1 can) of diced tomatoes, fully drained
– 4.5 ounces (1 can) of diced green chiles, fully drained
– 10 hard taco shells
– 8 ounces (½ can) of refried beans
– 2 cups of shredded Mexican blend cheese

With these, you’re all set for making unforgettable quick chicken dinner ideas!

Assembly Tips

Follow these steps for easy assembly:
1. Heat your oven to 400°F.
2. Spread refried beans on each taco shell.

3. Mix chicken with taco seasoning, tomatoes, and chiles.
4. Put the chicken mix in shells.
5. Add cheese and bake for 6 to 7 minutes.

Simple, right? It tastes even better!

Variations to Try

For something different, try these tips:
– Use ground chicken instead of shredded for a new texture. Use 2 pounds.
– For heat, add ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
– Finish with fresh toppings like chopped lettuce or cabbage, cilantro, and more cheese.

These delicious poultry recipes are a hit at dinner. They’re popular for good reasons, with over 6 million views and 2 million social media pins. Happy cooking!

Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Who doesn’t love the classic Baked Chicken Parmesan? It’s a favorite for easy, family-friendly dinners. You get crispy breading, rich sauce, and melty cheese in one dish. Let’s explore this delicious recipe!

Necessary Ingredients

To make Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan, here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 8 oz each
• 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
• 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil
• 3/4 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce

Baking Instructions

Follow these steps for crispy chicken:

1. Heat your oven to 450°F for the best crispiness.
2. Flatten chicken breasts to 1/2 inch thickness.
3. Coat each piece in butter or oil, then with breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
4. Place on a baking sheet and cook for 25 minutes.
5. Add 1 cup marinara sauce over the chicken.
6. Top with 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake 5 more minutes to melt the cheese.
8. Ensure the chicken’s internal temperature is 160°F, let it rest until 165°F.

Optional Add-Ons

Add a personal touch to your Baked Chicken Parmesan! Try fresh herbs like basil or oregano. Red pepper flakes give a nice kick. These extras make your dish even more special and tasty.

So, there you have it! A simple, delicious meal for your family dinner night. Enjoy this Baked Chicken Parmesan tonight!

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Who doesn’t love a warm, comforting dish? This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a real find. It mixes tender chicken, creamy soups, and fluffy rice. It’s a simple chicken dish that’s great for any weeknight. Plus, you can make it fit your tastes and needs.

Preparing the Ingredients

First, gather your ingredients. You need four boneless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes. This beginner-friendly chicken dish uses instant white rice because it’s easy to find and affordable. The trio of canned soups – Cream of Chicken, Celery, and Mushroom – add creamy richness. Feel free to add Cheddar cheese or chopped broccoli if you like!

Cooking Instructions

With your ingredients ready, start cooking. Combine chicken, rice, water, onion soup mix, and cream soups in a baking dish. It takes just 5 minutes to prepare. Great for when you’re short on time.

Bake it at 350°F for around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Sometimes, it might need 25 minutes more. To keep leftovers safe and tasty, reheat them to 165°F.

Storage Tips

Have leftovers? Store them in a sealed container for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze it in an aluminum pan for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating. This dish is a favorite for many. Some even double the recipe to have these comforting flavors all week.

15-Minute Chicken Quesadillas

It’s amazing how fast you can make these chicken quesadillas. They are a perfect choice when you are rushed on a weekday. These tasty meals are ready in just 15 minutes. If you need quick chicken dinners or meals you can make in 30 minutes, give these quesadillas a try.

Cheese and Filling Options

Chicken quesadillas can be made with a variety of cheeses and fillings. I love using shredded cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey texture. For the filling, try sautéed peppers and onions – they only take about 5 minutes to soften. And for a little heat, add some jalapeños or spicy salsa.

Cooking Tips for Crispy Quesadillas

To get a golden-brown crisp on your quesadillas, cook them on medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 2 minutes. Make sure not to put too much filling on the tortilla. A thin layer is best. For extra crunch, brush the outside of the tortilla with a bit of butter or oil before cooking.

Adding taco seasoning to your chicken and letting it thicken for 2 minutes enhances the flavor. Remember, flip your quesadillas carefully to keep the filling inside.

Instant Pot Chicken Curry

Want to try a tasty Instant Pot Chicken Curry? It’s one of my top easy chicken meals. It’s full of amazing flavors and doesn’t take much time. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without much work!

Ingredients for a Flavorful Curry

You don’t need a lot of things for this tasty chicken dinner. Here’s what you need:

• 2 lb. of boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3 cups of cauliflower florets
• 1 can (13.66 oz.) of unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 cup of frozen peas
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of lime juice, ½ to 1 cup of plain whole milk yogurt
• Spices: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 4 tablespoons of cooking oil (olive oil or ghee)
• Basic spices like salt, pepper, and curry powder

Instant Pot Instructions

Follow these steps in your Instant Pot:

1. First, turn on the Sauté function and heat the oil.
2. Then, brown the chicken thighs on all sides. It locks in the taste!
3. Now, add the cauliflower, coconut milk, and spices. Mix them well.
4. Close the lid, select Manual, and cook for 8 minutes on high pressure.
5. Once done, let the pressure release on its own for 10 minutes. Then quickly release any left.
6. Add frozen peas and any optional items (like lime juice or yogurt) now.

Serving Suggestions

Your curry is now ready! It goes great with warm naan or basmati rice. For a low-carb option, try it over cauliflower rice. For a kid-friendly meal, a little yogurt can make it less spicy. And don’t forget some fresh cilantro for extra flavor!

I’m sure you’ll find this Instant Pot Chicken Curry to be a simple yet satisfying dish. Enjoy cooking!

Simple Chicken Soup Recipe

A bowl of chicken soup feels perfect on a cold evening, doesn’t it? It’s healthy and warms your heart. Making soup from scratch is easier than you might think. It’s also a quick dinner idea!

Basic Ingredients

First, let’s collect what we need. You’ll want chicken breasts with bones, water, and olive oil. Also get a yellow onion, some garlic, carrots, and celery. For spices, you’ll need dried basil, parsley, thyme, a bay leaf, pepper, and salt. Egg noodles are a must for the soup. Cooking the chicken in broth makes it richer.

Cooking Process

Start by cooking the onions and garlic for 5 minutes. They should smell great. Then add chopped carrots and celery and stir for 5 more minutes. Put in the chicken breasts and add 8 cups of water. Add your herbs and let it simmer for an hour.

When the chicken is tender, take it out, shred it, and put it back in the pot. Add the egg noodles. They cook in about 7-10 minutes until just right!

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

Want to make your chicken soup even better? Add a lemon wedge or some ginger. These add a fresh taste. For a richer soup, add 3 cups of broth for each pound of noodles. To make it creamy, try adding cream or milk. Try different seasonings like garlic, herbes de Provence, rosemary, and thyme for extra flavor.

There you have it, a simple yet tasty chicken soup recipe. It’s great for dinner tonight and adds to your healthy meal ideas. Enjoy your warm, homemade soup!

Low-Carb Stuffed Chicken Breast

Picture making gourmet healthy chicken at home! With beginner-friendly recipes, you can serve low-carb stuffed chicken breasts. They’re easy to make and really satisfying. Let’s talk about how to prepare, cook, and serve this tasty dish.

How to Prepare the Filling

First, let’s make a filling that’s both delicious and healthy. I begin by mixing 6 oz of cream cheese with 2 cups of chopped spinach. I also add 1/3 cup of grated parmesan and 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella cheese. This mix makes the chicken super tasty. Next, I slice a pocket into each of the 4 chicken breasts. I stuff them with our yummy mixture.

Cooking Methods

Now, for the cooking part! You can bake or fry these chicken breasts. To bake, first preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Coat each chicken with almond flour and chill them for 15 minutes. Then bake on a sheet for about 25-30 minutes. They’re done when the middle reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If frying sounds better, start with 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. They should be golden and fully cooked. No matter which way you cook them, they’ll be delicious!

Serving Ideas

Not sure how to serve them? They’re great on fresh greens or with roasted veggies. Or, try slicing and serving them over cauliflower rice. These chicken breasts are versatile. You can pair them with different sides for exciting meals!

Quick Chicken Salad for Lunch

Are you searching for quick chicken dinners that also make great lunches? Try this quick chicken salad! It only takes 15 minutes to prepare. This salad is tasty, fresh, and will keep you full and energized all day. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for a Fresh Salad

First, get 3 cups of pre-cooked roast chicken and chop it up. This saves a lot of time. You will also need 12 cups of cos or romaine lettuce, 1 cup of corn kernels, and ½ a red onion. Add in 300 grams (10 oz) of cherry or grape tomatoes, 2 cucumbers, and 2 avocados. If you like, throw in 150 grams (5 oz) of crispy bacon bits.

Dressing Options

To make the dressing, mix 2 ½ tablespoons of cider vinegar and 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick, and 2 teaspoons of dried herbs. Also include ¾ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. A tasty dressing is all about flavor balance! Or pick a light ranch or Italian vinaigrette from the store if easier.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store them in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Keep the dressing on the side to avoid soggy salad. If you’re preparing meals in advance, cut the avocados right before you eat to prevent browning.

This quick chicken salad is perfect for fast meals. It’s healthy, tasty, and full of nutrients. It’s ideal for a refreshing lunch or a simple dinner!