When you’re in a hurry but still want something good for dinner, these 15 quick chicken dinners always hit the spot. They’re easy to throw together and somehow always end up being the answer to that “What’s for dinner?” dilemma. You won’t be stuck in the kitchen all night, but you’ll still get a meal that feels like you put in the work. Even picky eaters won’t have a reason to complain—well, except maybe when there’s no leftovers!
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
When you mix tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich cream sauce, you get Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. You only need one pan, which means clean-up is a breeze. It’s both hearty and simple to make, without being boring.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps take your taste on a quick trip to the Middle East without leaving your kitchen. They’re juicy, packed with spices, and surprisingly simple to whip up in your air fryer. The wraps are great for a light dinner or a quick lunch. Plus, you get all the flavor without a lot of oil.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Chicken Biryani
This Chicken Biryani is a classic one-pot dish filled with aromatic spices and tender chicken. It stands out because it’s a robust meal that doesn’t require a lot of sides. Honestly, it’s the kind of dinner that keeps you coming back for seconds. Plus, it fills your home with the most inviting aroma.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani
Instant Pot Tortilla Soup
There’s something about Instant Pot Tortilla Soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. This recipe takes the traditional flavors of tortilla soup and makes it easy by using the Instant Pot. It’s a mix of your favorite kitchen staples topped with crispy tortilla strips. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortilla Soup
Thai Chicken Satay
If you’re in the mood for something slightly exotic, Thai Chicken Satay is a go-to. It’s skewered chicken, grilled to perfection, and usually served with a mouth-watering peanut sauce. This dish is surprisingly easy to make at home. It’s a great way to add some variety to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay
Chicken Curry Laksa
For those who love a bit of warmth in their meal, Chicken Curry Laksa strikes the perfect balance between spicy, savory, and creamy. It’s a noodle soup that’s rich in both history and flavor. This dish is a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine for a reason. It’s filling, comforting, and packed with layers of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry Laksa
Mochiko Chicken
Mochiko Chicken offers a crispy, slightly sweet alternative to your average fried chicken. This Hawaiian favorite uses sweet rice flour for a unique bite. It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially if you’re keen on trying different fried chicken versions. Plus, it’s a great excuse to get adventurous in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken
Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken
This recipe is for those evenings when you crave something with a little kick. Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken is a healthier take on the classic Chinese dish, made easier and quicker with an air fryer. This version doesn’t skimp on the spicy, savory, and slightly sweet sauce. And it’s ready in minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken
Ramen Fried Chicken
When you want to mix things up, Ramen Fried Chicken brings an exciting twist to your dinner table. It uses crushed ramen noodles as a breading for a crunchy, flavorful exterior. This dish is playful, creative, and downright delicious. It proves that ramen noodles are not just for soup.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken
Chicken Potstickers
Chicken Potstickers are the perfect answer when you need a bit of comfort food. They’re pan-fried dumplings filled with juicy chicken and veggies, delivering just the right bite of goodness. Sure, making them might take a little time, but trust me, it’s time well spent. Whether you’re serving them up as a main dish or a side, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Potstickers
Chicken Egg Foo Young
This dish is essentially a fluffy omelet loaded with chicken and vegetables. It’s a Chinese-American classic that’s often overlooked but incredibly fulfilling. Chicken Egg Foo Young is versatile, filling, and pairs well with rice. Plus, it’s a flavorful way to sneak more veggies into your meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup brings the heat and tanginess in the best possible way. This soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine, offering a perfect balance of spicy and sour flavors. It’s packed with chicken and tofu, making it a rewarding meal on its own. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup
Pollo Pibil
This Pollo Pibil is a celebration of Yucatan flavors, marinated in your usual kitchen staples, then slow-cooked to perfection. This Mexican dish is tender, juicy, and incredibly flavorful. It’s traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and baked. Fixing up a batch is as close as you can get to a cooking trip to the Yucatan without leaving your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil
Thai Chicken Curry
With Thai Chicken Curry, you can bring the complexity and warmth of Thai cooking to your dinner table. This dish blends coconut milk, curry paste, and tender chicken pieces. It’s comforting yet light, and perfect for any night of the week. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce more global dishes into your repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry
Chicken Kathi Rolls
Chicken Kathi Rolls are a popular Indian street food that wraps flavorful chicken in a soft paratha bread. It’s an easy handheld meal filled with a mix of spicy chicken, fresh veggies, and sometimes a tangy sauce. These rolls are versatile and can be customized to your taste. They make a fun and different dinner option for when you’re in a rut.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Kathi Rolls