Looking for easy chicken dinners that don’t take much time? These 13 delicious recipes will help you get a tasty meal on the table without a lot of effort. These are our favorites, the ones we make over and over. Each recipe is simple to follow and uses ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas
Flaky crusts wrap around a savory chicken filling for a delicious handheld treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a quick bite, these empanadas make mealtime easy and fun. They’re a flavorful option when you need a simple and tasty chicken dinner without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas
Tomato Lime Chicken
This dump-and-go chicken dish is bursting with bright tomato and lime flavors that bring a fresh twist to your weeknight dinners. It’s incredibly versatile, working well in tacos, rice bowls, or salads for a quick and tasty meal. With minimal effort, this recipe helps you create a delicious and easy chicken dinner in no time.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken
Shredded BBQ Chicken
Tender chicken transforms into shredded BBQ perfection with the help of the Instant Pot, giving you a quick and tasty meal without the hassle. Pile it onto sandwiches, mix it into baked potatoes, or add it to salads for a simple way to enjoy barbecue any night. It’s an easy chicken dinner that’s packed with flavor and ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken
Weeknight Carrot Chicken Soup
Juicy chicken and tender carrots come together in a ginger-infused broth for a comforting soup that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. This simple, nutrient-packed meal is light but flavorful, making it a great choice when you want something quick and satisfying. It’s an easy-to-make chicken dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Weeknight Carrot Chicken Soup
Southwest Tortilla Pie
Layers of chicken, black beans, corn, and spices create a bold and flavorful tortilla pie that’s sure to impress. Topped with melted cheese, this dish is hearty enough to be a main course or served at parties. It’s an easy chicken dinner with a fun Tex-Mex flair, perfect for when you want a meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Tortilla Pie
Chicken Fried Rice
Leftover chicken gets new life in this quick and easy fried rice recipe that’s packed with flavor. Add your favorite veggies for a dish that’s ready in minutes and perfect for a busy night. It’s a simple way to turn leftovers into a delicious and satisfying chicken dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Skip the takeout and make this easy, one-pan meal that’s filled with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and savory sauce. It’s everything you love about an egg roll but without the mess of deep frying. This quick chicken dinner brings all the flavor of takeout right to your table in a healthier, faster way.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Shortcut Chicken Salad
This no-cook chicken salad comes together quickly with canned chicken, fresh greens, and a creamy dressing for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you serve it as a sandwich or over lettuce, it’s an easy and delicious chicken dinner. Perfect for those times when you need a quick bite without turning on the stove.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Chicken Tenders
A crispy cornflake coating gives these homemade chicken tenders the crunch you crave without the need for frozen food. They’re easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner that both kids and adults will enjoy. Skip the freezer aisle and whip up these flavorful, tender chicken strips in no time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Zesty lemon and garlic transform juicy chicken into a flavorful, easy meal that’s ready in a flash. This recipe uses the Instant Pot to make dinner quick, while still packing in bold flavors. It’s an easy chicken dinner that delivers a lot of taste with minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken
Cashew Chicken
Tender chicken meets crunchy cashews and a savory sauce in this simple and tasty dish. It’s an easy way to enjoy the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout without leaving home. This quick and delicious chicken dinner brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to the table.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Rotisserie chicken and cheesy tortellini come together in a flavorful broth for a cozy and satisfying soup. It’s an easy-to-make chicken dinner that works just as well for a busy night as it does for a relaxed weekend meal. The rich flavors make this soup feel hearty and comforting without requiring a lot of time or effort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Tamale Pot Pies
Shredded chicken and corn mix into a savory masa crust to create a unique twist on a classic comfort dish. Combining the best of tamales and pot pies, this meal delivers bold flavors in every bite. It’s an easy chicken dinner that offers a satisfying and unexpected way to enjoy two favorites in one dish.
Get the Recipe: Tamale Pot Pies