Easy Street Eats: 17 Chicken Recipes for Hectic Weeknights

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Easy Street Eats: 17 Chicken Recipes for Hectic Weeknights

Craving something quick and easy for those busy nights? Check out these 17 chicken recipes that are perfect for any hectic weeknight. These dishes are simple yet incredibly filling, saving you time without sacrificing taste. Get ready to enjoy some effortless and tasty meals that will have everyone asking for seconds. Who knew weeknight dinners could be this easy?

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re craving the tang of Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito, this option has your name on it. It packs all the flavorful punch of your favorite takeout but from the comfort of your home kitchen. This burrito includes seasoned chicken that marries well with fresh veggies and creamy sauces. It’s a stellar choice for a quick and fulfilling dinner after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chinese Chicken Salad pairs crispy vegetables and juicy chicken for a fulfilling crunch in every bite. Loaded with nutrients, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also light on the stomach, making it ideal for lunchtime. It’s a refreshing break from heavy, cooked meals, offering a burst of freshness with its delicious dressing. This dish proves that salads can be both healthful and fulfilling, perfect for those on a go.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

With Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins, you’re treating yourself to a comforting classic right in your dining room. This dish brings tender chicken, soft dumplings, and a rich broth together for a truly homey meal. It’s particularly inviting when you need something warming and straightforward during the colder months. Grab a bowl and unwind with this soothing dish after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken offers a tantalizing mix of spices and tender meat that falls right off the bone. This dish allows you to slow cook your way to a relaxed dinner, ideal for weekends when you can allow the oven to do most of the work. Experience the depths of Mexican cooking with a blend of robust seasonings and juicy chicken. It’s a fuss-free recipe that feeds the whole family or doubles as great leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This dish is your quick fix to a busy weekday meal dilemma. Combining seasoned chicken with freshly chopped vegetables, a bed of warm rice, and a dollop of guacamole, this bowl covers all bases. Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl is both nourishing and quick to assemble, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. Perfect for those evenings when time is of the essence, but a good meal is still a priority.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

A hand holding a spoonful of creamy chicken noodle soup with vegetables over a bowl, accompanied by slices of bread on a plate.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Dig into the creamy comfort of Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup; this recipe is a heartening blend of tender chicken, soft noodles, and rich, creamy broth. It serves as an excellent pick-me-up on a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather. Not only is it soothing, but it also requires minimal prep time, great for a no-fuss dinner option. Enjoy a bowl of this comforting soup when you need a touch of warmth.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken brings a beloved restaurant favorite into your kitchen with ease. Marinated chicken breast, seared to perfection, is topped with sautéd mushrooms, crisp bacon, and melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering dish. This recipe combines simple ingredients for a dish that looks impressive without much effort. Serve this up for a weeknight treat that’s bound to impress both family and guests.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Two Chicken Gnocchi Soup copycat soup recipes on a table.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

In the mood for something warm and comforting? Then Chicken Gnocchi Soup might be just what you need. This soup blends soft potato gnocchi and tender pieces of chicken in a creamy broth, giving you a touch of comfort with each spoonful. It’s perfect for a light yet filling meal that won’t leave you feeling weighed down. Gather the family for a warm meal tonight with this easy-to-make soup.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Nothing warms the soul like a hearty bowl of Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. This recipe captures the essence of Sicilian flavors with its robust and hearty ingredients. With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth. It’s the perfect antidote to a long, stressful day, promising simplicity and warmth in one dish.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Grilled Greek Chicken

Grilled Greek Chicken on a white plate with lemon slices.
Grilled Greek Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or something special for the weekend, Grilled Greek Chicken fits the bill. This dish infuses chicken with herbs and lemon, offering a light but flavorful meal option. It’s easy to grill, whether outdoors during a sunny day or on a grill pan indoors. For those who appreciate a Mediterranean touch, this chicken recipe is a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Chicken

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash is a Hungarian classic that brings comfort food to a new level. This dish features chicken simmered in a rich creamy sauce with a gentle hint of paprika, offering deep warmth and robust taste. It’s excellent for serving over pasta or rice, which makes it both a versatile and fulfilling meal option. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it will keep you warm and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those seeking a lighter fare, Chicken Zoodle Soup offers a fantastic, health-conscious twist on traditional recipes. It replaces regular noodles with zucchini noodles, bringing a fresh and nutritious take to your bowl. This dish is not only low in carbs but also packed with flavorful chicken and a savory broth. It’s a comforting meal that fits well into any diet plan, providing both taste and health benefits.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate quick and versatile dinner solution. It offers a fantastic way to use leftover rice and veggies, mixed with chicken and a touch of soy for a fulfilling meal. Perfect for those busy nights, it cooks up in minutes and is customizable to what you’ve got on hand. This one-pan wonder is a go-to for a stress-free evening where cooking shouldn’t be a lengthy affair.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Monterey Chicken for One

Chicken dish with vegetables in a square pot.
Monterey Chicken for One. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

This is an ideal recipe for those dining solo but craving something special. It features a juicy chicken breast topped with BBQ sauce, melty cheese, and crispy bacon, all cooked to perfection. Easy to assemble with just a few ingredients, Monterey Chicken for One brings a restaurant-quality meal to your table. Enjoy the luxury of a delicious, no-sharing-required dinner tonight.
Get the Recipe: Monterey Chicken for One

King Ranch Casserole

A skillet full of chicken and vegetables in a pan.
King Ranch Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that combines comfort with bold Tex-Mex flavors, then King Ranch Casserole is the way to go. Layers of corn tortillas, chicken, cheese, and a creamy sauce make for a filling dish that’s perfect for family dinners. This casserole can also be made ahead, saving time during your busiest days. It’s a crowd-pleaser that promises to keep everyone at the table happy and full.
Get the Recipe: King Ranch Casserole

Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

A plate of chicken wings on a white plate with a slice of mango.
Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings provide a sweet and spicy twist to your usual chicken wing recipe. The blend of mango and chipotle creates a unique glaze that caramelizes perfectly as it grills, offering a smoky and fruity taste. These wings are ideal for gatherings or a family weekend treat. Fire up the grill and prepare for a dish that’s bound to be a hit at any outdoor event.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is known for its smoky, spicy sauce made with tomatoes, onions, and chipotle peppers, enveloping shredded chicken. Chicken Tinga is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly versatile, serving well over rice, in tacos, or even atop a salad. Preparing a batch ahead of time ensures you have a delicious base ready for various meals throughout the week. It’s a Mexican staple that brings lively flavors to your dinner table with little fuss.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

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