15 Quick Chicken Dinners for Busy Nights

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15 Quick Chicken Dinners for Busy Nights

Looking for quick dinners that won’t keep you tied to the kitchen? These 15 chicken dishes are here to save the day and your sanity. Perfect for those nights when time is short, but you still want something delicious without resorting to takeout. These meals are easy to whip up, keeping you from stressing over dinner while still delivering on flavor. Who knew dinner could be so simple and enjoyable?

Low angle shot of 3 chicken kathi rolls wrappedin foil on a wooden plate with fresh mint leaves.
Chicken Kathi Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re short on time but craving something hearty, Chicken Biryani is a go-to. It’s packed with flavors from spices and herbs, making it a quick solution for dinner. All the ingredients come together in one pot, making the cleanup as easy as the cooking process. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to enjoy a fulfilling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

In the mood for something Italian? Try Creamy Tuscan Chicken. It’s a simple dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and sun-dried tomatoes for a quick evening meal. Plus, it pairs beautifully with pasta or steamed veggies, allowing for a customizable dinner experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy nights when you want to keep things easy but still enjoy a satisfying, home-cooked meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Low angle shot of a plate of fried chicken with sesame sauce and sesame seeds.
Air Fryer Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken offers a fast and less oily alternative to the classic takeout dish. With the help of an air fryer, crispy chicken pieces get coated in a sweet and savory sauce. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without the mess of deep frying. Serve it with rice and steamed broccoli to round out your meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

A serving spoon serving of creamy spinach chicken bake.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a meal that feels indulgent but comes together quickly, Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake is ideal. It involves baking chicken in a creamy, cheesy spinach sauce, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. The best part is throwing everything in a baking dish and letting the oven do the work. It’s a great way to end a busy day with a warm, home-cooked dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas

Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas are a game changer for enchilada fans who are short on time. This method gets your favorite dish on the table in a fraction of the traditional baking time. The tortillas achieve the perfect crisp on the edges while keeping the filling hot and flavorful. You get all the authentic taste without all the wait.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas

Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Stir-fried diced chicken with dried chilies and spring onions in a black skillet.
Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure in their meals, Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken offers just that. The combination of spicy and nutty flavors brings a unique twist to the dinner table. It’s surprisingly quick to prepare and can be served over rice for a complete meal. This dish proves that creativity in the kitchen doesn’t have to eat up your time.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Avgolemono Soup

a bowl of soup with lemon, rice, and fresh parsley with a spoon.
Avgolemono Soup. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

This soup is a comforting and lemony chicken and rice soup that’s a staple for quick dinners. Its rich and creamy texture, without actual cream, provides a fulfilling experience. Avgolemono Soup is a testament to the notion that simple ingredients can create a deeply flavorful dish. It’s exactly what you need on a chilly evening when time is of the essence.
Get the Recipe: Avgolemono Soup

Chicken Egg Foo Young

Chicken egg foo young on top of rice on a white plate.
Chicken Egg Foo Young. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Chicken Egg Foo Young is an easy and versatile dinner option that brings a bit of Chinese American diner magic to your kitchen. This omelet-style meal marries chicken with vegetables and a delicious gravy, perfect for those seeking a hearty meal. It’s quick to whip up, ensuring you’re not stuck in the kitchen all night. Plus, it’s a delightful way to use up leftover veggies and make them shine.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young

Chicken Karaage

Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.
Chicken Karaage. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking for something crispy and juicy, Chicken Karaage is the Japanese fried chicken that will hit the spot. It’s marinated to perfection and then fried to achieve that irresistible crunch. Despite being a fried dish, it’s surprisingly not heavy, making it a great option for a lighter dinner. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce for added kick.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Low angle shot of an air fried whole chicken.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Cooking Air Fryer Whole Chicken could not be more straightforward, transforming your weeknight dinner plans. The air fryer ensures the chicken is both juicy inside and perfectly crispy on the outside. It’s a hands-off way to cook a whole chicken, freeing you up to focus on sides or just relax. Not only is it simple, but it also guarantees a show-stopping main dish without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Pollo Pibil

Pollo pibil on a grey plate with limes and shredded lettuce.
Pollo Pibil. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dig into the vibrant flavors of Yucatan with Pollo Pibil, a dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight feast. The chicken is slowly marinated in citrus and achiote, then baked to tender perfection. It’s vibrant, it’s juicy, and best of all, it practically cooks itself once the prep is done. Wrapped in tortillas or served over rice, it’s a meal that promises a mini vacation in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

Chicken Curry Laksa

Laksa in a white bowl.
Chicken Curry Laksa. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Curry Laksa combines creamy coconut broth with noodles, chicken, and just the right amount of spice for a comforting bowl. Perfect for when you’re craving something exotic yet easy to prepare. Each spoonful is a nod to the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia, ready in the time it would take to order takeout. It’s a fulfilling soup that doubles as a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry Laksa

Chicken Potstickers

Overhead shot of chicken potstickers with chile paste on plates.
Chicken Potstickers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Try Chicken Potstickers for a dinner that doubles as a fun cooking activity. They’re pan-fried to create that irresistible crispy bottom and steamed to keep the filling juicy. Whether made ahead or assembled last minute, they’re a great way to enjoy a hands-on dinner. Paired with a simple dipping sauce, they’re a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Potstickers

Chicken Kathi Rolls

Low angle shot of 3 chicken kathi rolls wrappedin foil on a wooden plate with fresh mint leaves.
Chicken Kathi Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Kathi Rolls offer an exciting twist to the usual dinner routine. These are Indian street-food-inspired wraps filled with spiced chicken, vegetables, and sometimes a tangy sauce, all rolled up in a paratha or flatbread. They’re not just quick to assemble but also packed with flavor, making them a perfect on-the-go or sit-down meal. Plus, they’re customizable to cater to everyone’s tastes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Kathi Rolls

Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken

Overhead shot of a striped bowl with kung pao chicken.
Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This dish is your answer to a fast and furious craving for something spicy, sweet, and slightly sour. Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken is known for its speed of execution in the air fryer, leaving chicken pieces wonderfully crispy and coated in that classic, addictive sauce. It’s a healthier alternative to the deep-fried favorite without skimping on taste. Pair with rice or noodles for a complete, stress-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken

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