15 Quick and Delicious Chicken Dinners for Busy Weeknights

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Weeknights can be hectic, but dinner doesn’t have to be a chore! These 15 easy chicken dinner recipes are perfect for busy nights when you need something quick, tasty, and satisfying. Whether you’re rushing home from work or managing a family schedule, these meals will keep everyone happy and fed in no time.

Quick Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry

A delicious chicken stir-fry dish with colorful vegetables and a glossy sauce, served over rice.

This Quick Honey Soy Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful dish packed with flavor and vibrant colors. The combination of sweet honey and savory soy sauce creates a delicious glaze that perfectly coats tender chicken pieces and crunchy vegetables. It’s a simple, one-pan meal that comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

With its quick preparation and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a satisfying dinner without the fuss. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce and honey. Set aside.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add garlic, ginger, bell pepper, onion, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  4. Pour the honey-soy mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs

Baked BBQ chicken thighs served on a plate with barbecue sauce.

Baked BBQ chicken thighs are a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both simple and delicious. Juicy chicken thighs smothered in tangy barbecue sauce create a meal that is full of flavor without requiring much effort. The combination of the rich sauce and tender meat makes every bite satisfying.

This recipe is great for busy evenings, as it takes just a few minutes of prep time. Pop it in the oven, and while it cooks, you have time to unwind or prepare a side dish. It’s a hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a baking dish, drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pour the barbecue sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
  4. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken

A delicious one-pan lemon garlic chicken dish with cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs.

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It brings together tender chicken breasts, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, all infused with bright lemon flavor. The dish is simple to prepare and doesn’t require much cleanup, making it perfect for those evenings when time is short.

The combination of zesty lemon and garlic creates a deliciously light taste that pairs wonderfully with the juicy tomatoes. It’s not just quick to make but also a dish the whole family will enjoy, offering a refreshing twist to your regular chicken dinner routine.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano. Sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and lemon slices on top of the chicken.
  4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the tomatoes are blistered.
  5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful one-pan meal!

Spicy Chicken Tacos with Avocado

Two spicy chicken tacos topped with avocado slices on a wooden serving board.

Spicy Chicken Tacos offer a delightful kick that’s perfect for busy weeknights. These tacos are easy to whip up, making them a go-to option for anyone looking for a quick and tasty meal. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant spices, and creamy avocado creates a satisfying flavor that everyone will love.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a homemade taco feast. These tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, making them a family favorite. Get ready to bring some spice to your dinner table!

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  3. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until pliable.
  4. Assemble the tacos by placing the spicy chicken mixture in each tortilla and topping with avocado slices and fresh cilantro.
  5. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner option? Creamy Tuscan Chicken Skillet is your answer! This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with vibrant spinach and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s not just tasty; it’s also simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The blend of flavors creates a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Serve it over pasta or rice for an extra hearty option that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Add Vegetables: Add the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet, cooking until the spinach wilts.
  5. Combine: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating with the sauce.
  6. Serve: Enjoy your creamy Tuscan chicken over pasta or rice for a complete meal!

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

A plate of Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo pasta with chicken and broccoli pieces.

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken and vibrant broccoli with a rich Alfredo sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The flavors meld beautifully, with the savory chicken complementing the fresh broccoli and the creamy sauce tying it all together. It’s a favorite for many, offering a satisfying and balanced meal in just one dish.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Create the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo!

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken Wings

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken Wings on a plate

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken Wings are a delicious and easy dinner option that brings bold flavors to your weeknight meals. These wings are coated in a savory blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese, making them irresistible and perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.

The best part? They’re simple to make! Just marinate the wings, toss them in the oven, and you’ll have crispy, flavor-packed wings ready to enjoy. Serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra kick!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are well coated with the mixture.
  4. Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Easy Chicken Enchiladas

Delicious plate of chicken enchiladas topped with cheese and cilantro

Chicken enchiladas are a delicious and simple dish that brings the flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table. With tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a rich sauce and topped with melted cheese, they are sure to please everyone in the family.

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This recipe is easy to make, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights, these enchiladas can be prepped ahead of time and baked when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add the shredded chicken, cumin, garlic powder, and half of the enchilada sauce. Stir to combine and cook for about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Remove the mixture from heat. Spoon a few tablespoons of the chicken mixture into each tortilla, roll them up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
  5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

One-Pot Chicken and Rice

A pot filled with chicken, rice, peas, and carrots, showcasing a colorful and hearty one-pot meal.

This one-pot chicken and rice dish is a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and color. It combines tender chicken with fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables, making it not just tasty but also visually appealing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep and just one pot for cooking, which means less cleanup afterwards!

The combination of juicy chicken, seasoned rice, and fresh peas and carrots creates a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite spices or vegetables. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the rice to the pot, stirring it with the chicken for a minute until slightly toasted.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
  4. After 20 minutes, add the peas and carrots, stir gently, and cover again. Cook for another 10 minutes or until the rice is fluffy and the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta

A bowl of lemon basil chicken pasta with fresh basil leaves on top.

Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a zesty lemon-basil sauce, it brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table without taking much time to prepare.

This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to choice for those evenings when you want something delicious yet quick. The combination of fresh herbs and citrus creates a bright taste that complements the chicken beautifully.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic and Lemon: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well.
  4. Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Finally, stir in the chopped basil, adjusting seasoning if needed.
  5. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving, if desired.

Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with chicken and colorful vegetables

This Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant vegetables, all roasted together to soak up the sweet and tangy flavors of honey and mustard. The result is a simple, delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it also requires minimal cleanup—everything cooks on one pan! With its satisfying combination of protein and veggies, it’s a wholesome choice that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the chicken breasts on a sheet pan and pour half of the honey mustard mixture over them. Toss the baby potatoes and mixed vegetables in the remaining mixture, then arrange them around the chicken on the pan.
  4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy your easy weeknight dinner!
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Mediterranean Chicken Pita Wraps

Mediterranean Chicken Pita Wraps with fresh vegetables and sauce

These Mediterranean Chicken Pita Wraps are a perfect blend of juicy grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauce, all wrapped up in soft pita bread. They deliver a burst of vibrant flavors with every bite and are incredibly simple to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights.

With the combination of tender chicken marinated in Mediterranean spices and a variety of crisp veggies, these wraps are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Serve them with a side of yogurt or a light salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 whole wheat pita breads
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, coating them well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  3. Prepare the Wraps: Warm the pita breads slightly. Fill each pita with sliced chicken, diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  4. Add Sauce: Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the filling and wrap the pita tightly.
  5. Serve: Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Pita Wraps immediately, paired with extra tzatziki on the side if desired.

Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk

A bowl of chicken curry with coconut milk served with rice and garnished with cilantro.

This chicken curry with coconut milk is a deliciously creamy dish that packs a flavor punch. The combination of tender chicken and rich coconut milk creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

What makes this recipe so great is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Serve it over steamed rice to soak up all that tasty sauce!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides.
  4. Sprinkle curry powder over the chicken, mixing well to coat. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
  5. Reduce heat and let the curry cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Quick Chicken Quesadillas with Salsa

Quick chicken quesadillas on a colorful plate with salsa on the side.

Quick chicken quesadillas are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. They are crispy on the outside with a cheesy, savory filling that everyone will love. With minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time, making them a fantastic option for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

The taste is a delightful blend of tender chicken and melted cheese, complemented by fresh salsa for dipping. These quesadillas are not only easy to make, but they also allow for creativity. You can customize them with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
  2. On half of each tortilla, layer shredded chicken and cheese. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
  3. Place the folded quesadillas in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  4. Remove from the skillet and let cool for a minute before slicing into wedges.
  5. Serve with salsa and any optional toppings you like.

Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Spinach and Cheese

Stuffed chicken breasts filled with spinach and cheese

Stuffed chicken breasts with spinach and cheese are a delicious, comforting meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. The tender chicken is filled with creamy cheese and fresh spinach, creating a mouthwatering combination that pleases everyone at the dinner table. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be made in about 30 minutes, giving you a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The rich flavors of the melted cheese paired with the earthy spinach make every bite delightful. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies! Serve it alongside a fresh salad or your favorite side dish for a complete dinner that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Carefully cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff with the spinach and cheese mixture.
  4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear each stuffed chicken breast for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
  6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!