Finding the right dinner recipes for a busy week can be a challenge, but having a plan in place can make all the difference. This collection of 14 dinner recipes is designed to streamline your weeknight meals without sacrificing flavor or variety. Each recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep and cook time, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying meal even on the busiest of nights.
Pomegranate chicken with walnuts
Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts is a vibrant dish that brings a sweet and nutty flavor to your weeknight dinner. It takes about 1 hour to prepare, with pomegranate molasses and walnuts being the star ingredients. The chicken is infused with a tangy pomegranate sauce, offering a unique taste experience. This dish is perfect for those looking to try something different from the usual chicken dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate chicken with walnuts
Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes
Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes offers a comforting meal that’s ready in about an hour. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk, ensuring it’s juicy and tender, while the potatoes roast to perfection alongside. Main ingredients include buttermilk and paprika, which give the dish a mild, smoky flavor. It’s a fuss-free recipe that promises a satisfying and hearty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken and Potatoes
Chicken Pakora
Chicken Pakora is a crispy, Indian-inspired snack that doubles as a quick weeknight meal, ready in just 30 minutes. The chicken is coated in a spiced gram flour batter, delivering a crunchy texture and robust flavor. Key ingredients such as garam masala and ginger add a warm, aromatic taste. It’s an ideal choice for those craving a bit of spice and crunch in their dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora
Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks
Colombian Marinated Chicken Drumsticks are a juicy, flavorful option that requires about 1 hour of marinating plus 45 minutes of cooking. The drumsticks are soaked in a citrusy marinade with garlic and spices, resulting in a zesty and savory taste. Lime juice and cilantro are central to its refreshing flavor profile. This dish is perfect for a lively meal that’s full of character.
Get the Recipe: Colombian marinated chicken drumsticks
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken is a rich and comforting dish that’s effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker over 4 to 6 hours. The combination of cream cheese and cream of chicken soup creates a velvety sauce that coats the chicken. With mushrooms and Italian seasoning among the main ingredients, it offers a creamy and herby taste. This recipe is ideal for those who love a creamy, indulgent dinner without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken
Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba
Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish that can be ready in just 30 minutes using an Instant Pot. The chicken is sautéed with a medley of vegetables and seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. Key ingredients such as cinnamon and allspice provide a warm, inviting flavor. It’s a quick and flavorful option for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba
Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)
Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano) are a traditional feast that takes about 3 hours to prepare, offering a taste of Colombian culture. Wrapped in banana leaves, the chicken is combined with a corn dough and steamed to perfection. Main ingredients include masa, chicken, and vegetables, creating a savory and filling taste. This dish is a weekend project that’s worth the effort for a special dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Colombian Tamales (Tamales Colombiano)
Uzbek chicken plov
Uzbek Chicken Plov is a one-pot rice dish that’s both hearty and aromatic, typically ready in about 2 hours. Chicken is cooked with rice, carrots, and onions, seasoned with a unique blend of spices. Cumin and coriander are essential for its distinctively warm and earthy flavor. This recipe is great for those who enjoy exploring international cuisines.
Get the Recipe: Uzbek chicken plov
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies is a colorful and healthy meal that’s ready in about 45 minutes. The chicken and a variety of vegetables are seasoned with paprika and roasted on a single sheet pan. This method brings out the sweetness of the veggies and the smokiness of the paprika. It’s a simple, nutritious option for a no-fuss dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
grilled chicken kofta kebab
Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab is a Middle Eastern delight that can be prepared and cooked in about 45 minutes. Ground chicken is mixed with spices and herbs, then grilled to create a smoky and savory flavor. Ingredients like parsley and cumin play a significant role in its taste. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy grilling and are looking for a lighter dinner option.
Get the Recipe: grilled chicken kofta kebab
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a creamy and comforting dish reminiscent of the popular restaurant’s flavors, taking about 4 hours to cook. The chicken is slow-cooked with Olive Garden Italian dressing, cream cheese, and parmesan, resulting in a rich and creamy pasta dish. It’s a hands-off recipe that brings a touch of indulgence to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
Chicken Marbella
Chicken Marbella is a sophisticated dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, ready in about an hour and a half. The chicken is marinated with prunes, olives, and capers, offering a complex and bold taste. With a hint of brown sugar and white wine, it has a balance of richness and acidity. This recipe is suited for those looking to impress with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella
Ajiaco Recipe
Ajiaco Recipe is a traditional Colombian soup that’s hearty and comforting, typically taking about 1 hour to make. It’s made with chicken, three types of potatoes, and corn, resulting in a thick and creamy texture. The guasca herb is key to its authentic flavor. This soup is ideal for a warm, fulfilling end to your day.
Get the Recipe: Ajiaco Recipe
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a savory dish that combines the ease of a slow cooker with the bold flavors of honey and garlic. With a cook time of about 4 hours, this dish features tender chicken thighs drenched in a sweet and tangy sauce. The main ingredients include soy sauce and honey, contributing to its rich, caramelized taste. This recipe is ideal for a hands-off dinner that delivers on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken