Discover quick and tasty easy meals made with chicken that are perfect for busy weeknights. From one-pot wonders to healthy options, satisfy your cravings in no time! These chicken recipes are ideal for those days when you don’t feel like putting in a lot of effort or are just too busy to cook a long meal. Even though they’re made in 30 minutes or less, many of these quick chicken dinners will surprise you with how flavorful an easy dinner can be.
Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly chicken meals, one-pot chicken meals, or chicken meal prep options, this collection of healthy chicken dishes has you covered. Discover delectable chicken and vegetable combos that are perfect for chicken for busy nights or make use of chicken leftovers recipes for a stress-free dinner. Get ready to enjoy mouthwatering easy meals made with chicken that will become your new go-to options.
Quick and Easy Creamy Herb Chicken
Prepare to indulge in a delectable creamy chicken recipe that’s both quick and easy to make. This one-pan chicken dish features juicy, tender chicken breasts simmered in a flavorful and creamy herb sauce with a hint of garlic. The best part? It’s a fantastic low-calorie option for anyone craving something creamy without the calorie overload.
Ingredients and Cooking Instructions
The secret to this easy chicken recipe is that it requires no heavy cream, making it much lighter on the waistline at only 300 calories per serving. The creamy herb sauce is achieved with a combination of aromatic herbs, chicken juice, garlic, and a touch of cornstarch for thickening.
- Lightly pound the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
- Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, such as Slap Ya Mama or Tony Chachere’s, for a delightful flavor boost.
- Sauté the chicken in a large skillet until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, sauté 10 cloves of minced garlic and a diced shallot until fragrant.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine, cognac, brandy, or Marsala wine, if desired.
- Add 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano cheese, and 1/2 lb of sliced mushrooms.
- Whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream and a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh tarragon and parsley.
- Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Adjust the sauce consistency by reducing the liquid or adding a splash of water or chicken stock.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 100mg |
| Sodium | 550mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Protein | 35g |
20-Minute Meals with Chicken
When it comes to quick and easy chicken dinners, these 20-minute recipes are real lifesavers. Packed with flavor and nutrition, these fast chicken meals are perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s explore a couple of delectable options that come together in a flash.
Honey-Lime Chicken
This quick chicken dinner features a mouthwatering honey-lime glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken. With just a handful of pantry staples like honey, lime juice, soy sauce, and garlic, you can have this 20-minute chicken recipe on the table in no time. Pair it with a simple salad or steamed veggies for a complete healthy chicken meal.
Grilled Chicken with Peach Salsa
For a flavor-packed chicken meal idea, try this Grilled Chicken with Peach Salsa. The juicy grilled chicken is perfectly complemented by a fresh, homemade peach salsa that comes together in minutes. This 20-minute chicken recipe is a great way to enjoy the sweetness of summer produce. Serve it with a side of rice or roasted potatoes for a satisfying and quick chicken dinner.
| Recipe | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 Minute Honey Garlic Chicken | 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 |
These 20-minute chicken recipes are sure to become your go-to options for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and quick cooking times, you can enjoy delicious, healthy chicken dinners in a flash. Bon appétit!
Spice Up Your Weeknight Dinners with Blackened Chicken
Elevate your weeknight chicken dinners with the bold flavors of blackened chicken. This easy-to-make recipe relies on a simple seasoning blend from your spice cabinet, transforming ordinary chicken into a crispy, flavorful masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking in the oven, on the stovetop, or firing up the grill, blackened chicken is a quick and versatile way to add a kick of spice to your meals.
The Secret to Bold Flavor: The Perfect Spice Blend
The secret to this dish lies in the seasoning blend, which typically includes a mix of chili powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simply rub the spice mixture onto boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, then sear them in a hot skillet or bake them in the oven until they develop a beautiful, blackened crust.
Versatility at its Best
One of the best things about blackened chicken is its versatility. Enjoy it on its own, or use it as a flavorful base for easy chicken recipes like tacos, salads, or burrito bowls. The bold seasoning pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings and sides, making it a great option for weeknight chicken dinners.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Blackened Chicken
To ensure a perfect sear, be sure to preheat your cooking surface thoroughly before adding the chicken. Lining your baking sheet with foil can also make cleanup a breeze. And don’t be afraid to experiment with the spice blend – you can adjust the heat level to suit your personal preferences.
Why Blackened Chicken is a Must-Try Recipe
With its bold flavors and quick cooking time, blackened chicken is a spice cabinet staple that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So the next time you’re looking for an easy, spice-rubbed chicken dish to jazz up your weeknight meals, give this recipe a try.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 684 kcal | 34% |
| Carbohydrates | 53g | 18% |
| Protein | 31g | 62% |
| Fat | 38g | 58% |
| Saturated Fat | 23g | 144% |
| Cholesterol | 148mg | 49% |
| Sodium | 1284mg | 56% |
| Potassium | 564mg | 16% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 6g | 7% |
| Vitamin A | 1698IU | 34% |
| Vitamin C | 7mg | 8% |
| Calcium | 362mg | 36% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
5-Ingredient Chicken Dinner
Looking for an easy and budget-friendly chicken recipe that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night? Look no further than this delicious 5-Ingredient Chicken Dinner! This simple yet satisfying meal comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights.
At the heart of this dish are tender, juicy chicken breasts that are cooked to perfection. The real secret, however, lies in the flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with irresistible taste. With just five easy-to-find ingredients, you can create a chicken dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.
- Chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic cloves
- Dried herbs (such as oregano, basil, or thyme)
To make this 5-Ingredient Chicken Dinner, simply marinate the chicken in the oil, lemon juice, garlic, and dried herbs for 30 minutes. Then, bake the chicken in the oven until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Serve the chicken with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes or a fresh salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to make, but it’s also budget-friendly. With just a handful of inexpensive ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy chicken dinner without breaking the bank. Plus, the leftovers make great lunches or quick weeknight meals throughout the week.
Whether you’re short on time or looking to save a few bucks, this 5-Ingredient Chicken Dinner is the perfect solution. Give it a try and savor the flavor of a homemade chicken dinner without all the fuss. Your taste buds and your wallet will thank you!
Air Fryer Chicken Katsu
Are you craving a restaurant-worthy chicken katsu but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? This air fryer chicken katsu recipe has you covered. It takes just 20 minutes and your trusty air fryer to create a crispy, golden-brown Japanese-inspired chicken that rivals what you’d find at your favorite sushi spot.
The air fryer ensures the air fryer chicken is perfectly cooked and crunchy on the outside, making this an easy and healthy 20-minute chicken recipe for busy weeknights. Panko breadcrumbs are the secret to achieving that signature crispy coating, providing a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken inside.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 |
| Large egg | 1 |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
To make this air fryer chicken katsu, simply dredge the chicken in flour, dip it in the beaten egg, and then coat it in the panko breadcrumbs. Place the breaded chicken in your preheated air fryer and cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve this crispy air fryer chicken with your favorite dipping sauce, a side of steamed rice, and a fresh cabbage slaw for a complete, restaurant-quality meal. Enjoy the convenience of this 20-minute chicken recipe without sacrificing flavor or crunch.
easy meals made with chicken
Chicken is a versatile protein that can be used to create a variety of easy, flavorful meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick chicken stir-fry or craving crispy skin-on chicken breasts, there are plenty of easy chicken recipes that can be whipped up in no time.
Chicken Stir-Fry Tips
For a delicious and healthy chicken stir-fry, be sure to remove the chicken from the pan after browning it. This prevents the chicken from overcooking. Then, simply add it back to the pan at the end to heat through. Serve your stir-fry over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete one-pan chicken meal.
Crispy Skin-on Chicken Breasts
Another easy option is to bake crispy skin-on chicken breasts. The skin provides extra flavor and texture, making this a satisfying and healthy chicken dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s ready in under an hour.
With simple techniques and a few key ingredients, you can enjoy delicious easy chicken recipes any night of the week. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick stir-fry or want to savor the crispiness of skin-on chicken breasts, chicken is a versatile protein that can help you create one-pan chicken meals and healthy chicken dinners with ease.
Pan-Seared Chicken with Creamy Sauce
If you’re in the mood for a delicious and easy chicken dinner, look no further than this Pan-Seared Chicken with Creamy Sauce. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts that are pan-seared to perfection and then simmered in a flavorful, creamy sauce. The best part? It all comes together in a single pan, making for a hassle-free cleanup.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this creamy chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe has earned a stellar rating of 4.56 out of 5 from 222 votes, thanks to its irresistible flavor and ease of preparation.
To make this pan-seared chicken dish, you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- Chicken broth, lemon juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, shallots, salted butter, and heavy cream
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
The cooking process is straightforward. First, you’ll pan-sear the chicken until it’s golden brown. Then, you’ll create the creamy sauce by simmering the chicken in a mixture of broth, lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of cream. The whole dish comes together in a single skillet, making it a breeze to prepare and clean up.
Nutritionally, this one-pan chicken meal packs a punch. Each serving contains:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 607 | – |
| Fat | 36g | 55% |
| Saturated Fat | 18g | 113% |
| Cholesterol | 230mg | 77% |
| Protein | 54g | 108% |
| Potassium | 1072mg | 31% |
| Vitamin A | 2484IU | 50% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 12% |
| Calcium | 84mg | 8% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
Whether you’re looking for a creamy chicken dinner or a quick and easy one-pan chicken meal, this Pan-Seared Chicken with Creamy Sauce is sure to become a new family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the delicious flavors and convenience of this easy chicken dish.
Lemon-Garlic Chicken Piccata
Chicken piccata is a classic Italian-American dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. This lemon-garlic chicken piccata recipe puts a flavorful spin on the traditional dish, combining tender chicken breasts with a bright and tangy lemon-garlic sauce.
The key to this 30-minute chicken recipe is in the preparation. The chicken is pounded thin, then dredged in flour and pan-seared until golden brown. The sauce is made by deglazing the pan with lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers, creating a rich and velvety texture that coats the chicken perfectly.
Serve this easy chicken entree over a bed of hot pasta or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. The bright, lemony flavors pair beautifully with the savory chicken, making this lemon-garlic chicken piccata a family-friendly favorite.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 421 |
| Total Fat | 21g |
| Carbohydrates | 16g |
| Protein | 41g |
| Cholesterol | 128mg |
| Sodium | 348mg |
| Vitamin C | 20mg |
| Calcium | 38mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
| Potassium | 388mg |
This lemon-garlic chicken piccata recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its vibrant flavors and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce
Indulge in the delightful flavors of chicken katsu, a classic Japanese-inspired dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This crispy breaded chicken is the perfect canvas for the savory-sweet tonkatsu sauce, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
The secret to achieving the perfect chicken katsu lies in the use of panko breadcrumbs. These light and flaky breadcrumbs deliver a satisfying crunch that will have your taste buds dancing. Paired with tender chicken breasts, the result is a dish that’s both Japanese-inspired and easy to prepare.
- Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2-inch thick, to ensure even cooking.
- Dredge the chicken in all-purpose flour, then dip it in a beaten egg mixture, and finally, coat it generously with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a skillet and fry the breaded chicken until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Drain the chicken katsu on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
The real star of this dish is the tonkatsu sauce, a Japanese-style barbecue sauce that perfectly complements the crispy chicken. This savory-sweet sauce is made by combining ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, Worcestershire sauce, ginger, and garlic. The result is a flavor-packed dipping sauce that elevates the chicken katsu to new heights.
Whether you serve the chicken katsu over a bed of steamed rice, atop a crunchy cabbage salad, or as a sandwich filling, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. With its easy preparation and delicious Japanese-inspired flavors, chicken katsu with tonkatsu sauce is a weeknight dinner that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Tokyo.
Why This 4-Ingredient Garlic Chicken is a Winner
When it comes to easy chicken recipes, this 4-Ingredient Garlic Chicken is a true winner. With just a handful of simple pantry staples, you can whip up a deliciously flavorful, garlic-infused chicken dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The quick cooking time and short ingredient list make this an ideal budget-friendly chicken meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without a lot of fuss.
The Secret to Flavor: A Simple Wet Rub
The secret to this easy chicken recipe is in the wet rub. By sautéing the garlic in olive oil, you create a flavorful base that coats the chicken, infusing it with a savory garlic taste. The chicken is then baked to perfection, resulting in juicy, tender meat with a crispy skin. And the best part? It all comes together in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this 4-ingredient chicken dish, you’ll need:
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper
Easy Steps to Make 4-Ingredient Garlic Chicken
-
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a small skillet, sauté the minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish coated with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Spoon the garlic-infused olive oil over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
This 4-ingredient chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly budget-friendly. The nutritional information per serving is as follows: 210 calories, 13g carbohydrates, 24g protein, 6g fat, 72mg cholesterol, 135mg sodium, and 12g sugar.
The great thing about this recipe is that it’s adaptable to your preferences. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even drumsticks if you prefer. And if you want to get a head start, you can even prep the chicken and freeze it for future use.
So, if you’re looking for a quick chicken dinner that’s packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, this 4-Ingredient Garlic Chicken is the perfect solution. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, easy chicken meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite!
Chicken Fajita Salad
Craving the smoky, sizzling flavors of fajitas but want a lighter, more nutritious option? Look no further than this delectable chicken fajita salad! This 20-minute meal combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a zesty homemade dressing for a satisfying one-dish dinner that’s bursting with Southwestern flair.
The secret to this healthy chicken recipe is in the marinade and dressing. A blend of fresh lime juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and jalapeño creates a flavor-packed base that perfectly complements the grilled chicken and crisp salad greens. And with just 5 simple ingredients, this 30-minute chicken recipe is a breeze to prepare on even the busiest weeknights.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 324 |
| Total Fat | 35g (Saturated Fat: 8g) |
| Sodium | 355mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 28g (Dietary Fiber: 11g, Sugar: 7g) |
| Protein | 30g |
| Cholesterol | 121mg |
To prepare this one-dish chicken meal, start by marinating the chicken in the zesty dressing. Then, grill the chicken until perfectly cooked and pair it with a colorful salad of crisp romaine lettuce, sautéed peppers and onions, black beans, and fresh avocado. The result is a satisfying, nutritious, and flavor-packed chicken fajita salad that’s sure to become a family favorite.
With its balance of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats, this chicken fajita salad is a great way to enjoy the bold flavors of fajitas in a lighter, more wholesome package. Whether you’re looking for a healthy chicken recipe, a 30-minute chicken recipe, or a delicious one-dish chicken meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Conclusion
These delicious chicken dishes have shown that you can enjoy flavorful, satisfying meals even on the busiest of weeknights. From creamy chicken to blackened and air-fried varieties, these easy chicken recipes come together quickly and with minimal effort, making them perfect for feeding your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re in the mood for a one-pan wonder, a 20-minute meal, or a simple 4-ingredient dish, there’s an easy chicken recipe here to suit your needs and cravings.
Elevate your weeknight dinners with these fast and fabulous quick chicken dinners. With a focus on healthy chicken dishes and budget-friendly chicken meals, these recipes prove that you can enjoy mouthwatering meals without sacrificing time or your wallet. Get ready to savor the flavors of these delectable chicken dishes and make them a regular part of your weekly meal rotation.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into these easy chicken recipes and elevate your dinner game with dishes that are not only delicious but also simple and satisfying. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound chicken culinary skills!
FAQ
What are some easy and quick chicken recipes for busy weeknights?
The article features a variety of easy chicken recipes that come together in 30 minutes or less, including creamy herb chicken, 20-minute honey-lime chicken, blackened chicken, air fryer chicken katsu, and more.
How can I make chicken dishes that are healthy and low-calorie?
The article highlights several healthy and low-calorie chicken recipes, such as the creamy herb chicken which is made without heavy cream and is only 300 calories per serving.
What are some budget-friendly chicken meal ideas?
The article includes a 5-ingredient chicken dinner and a 4-ingredient garlic chicken recipe, both of which are easy on the wallet while still being delicious.
How can I use my air fryer to make quick and crispy chicken dishes?
The article features an air fryer chicken katsu recipe that creates a crispy, restaurant-quality chicken dish in just 20 minutes.
What are some tips for making easy chicken stir-fries and other one-pan chicken meals?
The article provides tips for a quick chicken stir-fry, as well as a recipe for crispy skin-on chicken breasts that can be used in a variety of one-pan dishes.
How can I add bold flavor to my chicken dishes with minimal effort?
The article highlights a blackened chicken recipe that uses simple spices from your pantry to create a crispy, flavorful chicken in no time.
What are some creative ways to use chicken in easy weeknight salads and one-dish meals?
The article includes a chicken fajita salad recipe that combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing for a satisfying and nutritious one-dish dinner.