23 Chicken Dinners That’ll Have Your Kids Asking if They’re Grandma’s Recipes

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23 Chicken Dinners That’ll Have Your Kids Asking if They’re Grandma’s Recipes

Chicken dinners that make your kids ask if they’re grandma’s recipes? Now that’s a win. These meals are like a time machine to those cozy Sunday dinners at grandma’s. They’re perfect for those nights when you want to impress the family without breaking a sweat. Think hearty, simple, and packed with flavor that even the pickiest eater can’t resist.

Creamy chicken dish with herbs and spices in a pot, ready to be served.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup in a white bowl with a spoon.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Pot Pie Soup is perfect for showing off your cooking skills without the hassle of baking. This dish brings all the comforting flavors of classic chicken pot pie into a simple soup form. It features chunks of chicken, potatoes, carrots, celery, and corn in a creamy base and is ready in about an hour. It’s great for chilly evenings when you want a hearty, warming meal. This soup lets you enjoy the taste of pot pie with less effort, making you look like a cooking genius. This soup’s familiar, comforting taste brings back memories of grandma’s cozy kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet of creamy sun dried tomato chicken with a wooden spoon.
Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken is a quick dinner that will make your kids think it’s straight from grandma’s kitchen. This dish has boneless, skinless chicken thighs cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese seasoned with Italian herbs. Made in one pan and ready in 30 minutes, the tangy tomatoes and creamy sauce perfectly complement the chicken, making it a dinner hit. The simple ingredients and quick cooking time make it a great option for busy weeknights. This dish captures the essence of comfort food with its rich flavors and creamy texture.
Get the Recipe: Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a fast meal your kids will love, tasting like grandma’s cooking. Ready in 20 minutes, chicken pieces are coated in cornstarch and salt, fried, and tossed in a garlic butter sauce with Italian herbs. They’re great with bread or greens. The rich garlic butter flavor, crispy exterior, and tender chicken make these bites a quick favorite. The short cooking time and easy prep make this dish perfect for busy nights when you need a fast and hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

A casserole dish filled with tater tots, shredded chicken, and corn, topped with melted cheese and green onions.
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is great for convincing everyone you’re a cooking pro. This hearty dish features tater tots, shredded chicken, corn, and melted cheese. It’s ready in under an hour, budget-friendly, and easy to prep ahead. You can bake it when you’re ready, and the leftovers freeze well, making it super convenient for busy families. This casserole will get thumbs up from everyone and might make them think you’ve got serious kitchen skills. The comforting taste of this casserole brings back memories of grandma’s special dishes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Chicken Tortellini Soup

A bowl of chicken tortellini soup with vegetables and herbs.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Tortellini Soup is a hearty meal that will make your kids feel cozy and happy, just like grandma’s comfort food. Ready in 40 minutes, it’s packed with shredded chicken, cheese tortellini, carrots, celery, and onions in a flavorful chicken broth with Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning. Serve with salad or garlic bread. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and flavorful broth makes this soup perfect for cozy evenings spent at home. The simple ingredients and straightforward cooking make it a great option for busy families.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Spinach Chicken Bake

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

Spinach Chicken Bake is a great way to make your family think you’re the better cook. This dish mixes chicken thighs, spinach, cream cheese, and mozzarella in a 30-minute bake. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something quick and comforting. Serve it with crusty bread or pasta to complete the meal. The cheesy spinach pairs perfectly with juicy chicken, creating a filling dinner everyone will love. This bake captures the classic, comforting flavors that remind everyone of grandma’s kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Chicken Bake

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan of creamy dijon chicken with herbs and bacon.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a one-pan dish that will win over your kids with its great taste, just like grandma used to make. Ready in 30 minutes, it features seasoned chicken thighs in a rich sauce made from Dijon mustard, heavy cream, chicken broth, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Fresh spinach and crumbled bacon add extra flavor, making it a perfect balanced and quick meal. The creamy sauce coats the chicken perfectly, creating a comforting dish for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken dish garnished with herbs and spices.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs With Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts is a top pick for making your family think you’re the better cook. This dish features tender chicken thighs and artichoke hearts in a creamy sauce made from heavy cream, chicken stock, and Parmesan cheese. It’s all cooked in one pan, so cleanup is easy, giving you more time to enjoy with your family. The creamy, hearty flavors make it a hit for those who love big, comforting meals without spending all evening cooking. This dish brings back the soothing, rich flavors that Grandma used to make.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Chicken Corn Soup

Two bowls of chicken corn soup garnished with parsley.
Chicken Corn Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Corn Soup is great for showing your family how good homemade can be. This soup features creamed corn, tender chicken pieces, and potatoes, creating a simple yet hearty flavor. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy nights when you need something filling and easy. The creamy texture and comforting taste make it a hit; everyone will ask for seconds. This one-pot meal saves you time while bringing the cozy, soothing flavors that remind you of grandma’s cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce will make your family think you’ve nailed grandma’s recipes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs seasoned with Italian spices are cooked in a creamy mushroom, sun-dried tomato, and Parmesan sauce. This one-pan meal takes about 30 minutes and turns simple ingredients into a standout dinner. It’s great for impressing guests or treating your family to something special. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve a comforting and homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A fresh Caesar salad with chicken, croutons, tomatoes, and dressing, served in a large white bowl with a fork.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a quick meal that will make your kids think you nailed the classic flavors like grandma. Ready in 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights or lunches. Pre-cooked chicken and store-bought dressing make it easy to make and great for gatherings. The combination of pasta, chicken, and Caesar dressing makes this salad refreshing and hearty. This dish captures the classic flavors of Caesar salad with the added heartiness of pasta, making it a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Fajita Baked Chicken is a great pick for bringing the fun flavors of fajitas to your table, making you the star cook. This dish features brined chicken seasoned with fajita spices, layered with cream cheese, peppers, and mozzarella, and baked until golden. Serve it with tortillas or over rice to soak up all the flavorful juices, making dinner simple and hearty. It’s perfect for those who love the taste of fajitas without the hassle. Your family will love the cheesy goodness.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Pollo Asado

Pollo asado on a white plate with lime wedges.
Pollo Asado. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Pollo Asado is a dish that brings bold flavors your kids will enjoy, reminding them of grandma’s special recipe. Chicken is marinated in cilantro, onion, orange, lime, paprika, and oregano, then baked or grilled. It’s quick and pairs well with rice, beans, or tortillas. The quick marinating process and easy cooking method make this dish perfect for busy weeknights when you want to bring a taste of the tropics to your table.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Asado

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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

Creamy Tuscan Chicken is great for showing off your cooking skills and making your family think you’re the better cook. This dish mixes chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal that feels special. Serve it with pasta or a fresh salad, and everyone will be at the table fast, impressed by the flavors you’ve created without hassle. This dish captures the rich, comforting flavors that remind everyone of grandma’s home-cooked meals.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is a great way to spice up your meals and impress your family with bold flavors. This dish mixes jalapeños, bacon, and a creamy dressing to create a quick and exciting meal option. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy evenings when you want something different. Serve it alone or in a tortilla for a spicy chicken wrap. The combo of tangy and creamy makes this salad a hit, bringing a kick to any dinner table. The bold flavors in this salad bring a fresh spin to the classic flavors that everyone loves from grandma’s recipes.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats are great for showing your kids that light and healthy can be great. This dish uses canned chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning stuffed into cucumber halves. It’s quick to make in about 30 minutes and brings a fresh, crisp bite paired with flavorful chicken salad. Your family will love how these boats keep dinner light yet filling. This recipe is a fun way to get your kids to eat more veggies and enjoy a delicious meal that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

A chicken bacon ranch popper skewered by a toothpick.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers are perfect for making family dinners fun and delicious. Ground chicken, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese form delicious poppers baked to perfection, while the homemade ranch seasoning made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and heavy cream adds a great kick. Ready in 30 minutes, these poppers are perfect for busy nights when you want to impress without much effort. Your family will love these bite-sized treats that are great for dinner or as an appetizer for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Poppers

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white skillet of creamy garlic chicken garnished with herbs.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a go-to recipe that shows off your cooking talent at family dinners. Chicken breasts cooked in a rich garlic and Parmesan sauce are quick to make in about 25 minutes. Serve over rice or pasta for a comforting meal that feels special. Your family will love the rich flavors and creamy texture, making it a favorite for weeknights. This dish brings back the comforting flavors of grandma’s cooking with a modern touch that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Canned Chicken Patties are perfect for busy days when you need a quick meal that impresses. Made with pantry staples like canned chicken, sunflower seed meal, and eggs, these patties come together in about 20 minutes. They’re versatile for sandwiches, salads, or on their own, making dinner easy on hectic nights. Your family will appreciate the hearty and delicious option with minimal prep time. These patties bring a homemade feel to the table that captures the essence of grandma’s recipes.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish with jalapeño popper chicken and a spoon.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole combines chicken, bacon, and jalapeños with cream cheese and mayo, creating a bold and hearty meal that will remind your kids of grandma’s cooking. It’s easy to put together and ready in just over an hour, perfect for a comforting dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. The spicy kick from the jalapeños pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce, making this dish a real crowd-pleaser. If you want to impress your family with a flavorful and straightforward meal, this casserole is the way to go.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Thai Chicken Salad

Thai chicken salad with arugula, sliced onions, and red chili peppers.
Thai Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Thai Chicken Salad is a great pick for delicious chicken meals that your family will think you’re a pro. This salad mixes marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, served on a bed of arugula and cucumber noodles and topped with cilantro and red chile pepper. It’s light yet hearty, making it a great meal when you want something quick and refreshing. The bright flavors and crunchy textures make this salad stand out, and it’s easy to prepare, giving you a practical option that keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Salad

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Bowl of instant pot butter chicken atop cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Instant Pot Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a great pick for chicken recipes that’ll make your family call you the best cook. This dish features tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with a mix of aromatic spices, ready in less than 40 minutes using an Instant Pot. It’s a quick way to bring a gourmet taste to your table without spending hours cooking — the creamy and flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. If you want an easy yet impressive meal, this butter chicken will make a great impression.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Instant pot chicken adobo in a bowl atop cauliflower rice.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo is the recipe for your family to call you the top cook. This dish combines sweet and salty flavors, made quickly in the Instant Pot for a stress-free dinner solution. The chicken is cooked in a rich marinade, making it tender and flavorful. It’s great for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal that still tastes amazing. The rich flavors and easy preparation make this adobo a hit for the entire family. This dish is the way to go if you’re looking to impress with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

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