Busy weeks can make dinner feel like a constant challenge, and finding meals that are quick, reliable, and satisfying isn’t always easy. I can always count on these 29 simple chicken recipes to get a meal on the table without stress. They’re full of flavor and simple enough for a weekday, yet tasty enough that the whole family loves them.
Kung Pao Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Start dinner with a warm bowl of chicken tortellini soup packed with tender chicken and cheesy pasta. The rich broth is full of flavor and makes every spoonful satisfying. This simple chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeks when a quick, homemade meal is needed. Sprinkle with Parmesan for an extra touch and enjoy a comforting dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Cook chicken with crisp vegetables and a savory sauce all in one pan for a meal that captures the flavors of an egg roll without the fryer. Each bite is packed with bold taste while keeping cleanup simple. This flavorful chicken dish works well during busy weeks when a fast, satisfying dinner is wanted. Serve it on rice or enjoy it on its own for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Lemon Roasted Chicken
Roast chicken with golden skin and a bright lemon flavor for a dish that looks impressive but is simple to make. The oven locks in moisture while the meat stays tender and juicy. This classic chicken dinner is ideal for busy weeks when a filling and flavorful meal is needed. Pair it with simple sides for a complete plate.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Roasted Chicken
Chicken Tenders
Make dinner quick and satisfying with crispy chicken tenders that stay juicy inside. The golden coating adds crunch without losing flavor. This family-friendly chicken meal works perfectly during busy weeks when a favorite that everyone will eat is needed. Serve with dipping sauce and a side for a simple, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders
Shredded BBQ Chicken
Get slow-cooked flavor fast with shredded chicken coated in smoky barbecue sauce. It works well in sandwiches, over baked potatoes, or in rice bowls for a versatile dinner. This bold and flavorful chicken dish is ideal for busy weeks when a quick meal is needed. Pair it with a side salad or vegetables for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken
Chicken Curry
Make a creamy chicken curry with coconut milk and warm spices that comes together quickly. The sauce is rich and flavorful while the chicken stays tender. This simple chicken dinner is perfect for busy weeks when a hearty, satisfying meal is wanted.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry
Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Toss chicken with crisp vegetables, peanuts, and a tangy dressing for a salad full of flavor and texture. It’s bold, fresh, and satisfying in a single bowl. This quick chicken meal works well during busy weeks when a lighter but filling dinner is needed. Eat it chilled or at room temperature for convenience.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Chicken and Pea Risotto
Stir together creamy risotto with tender chicken and sweet peas for a comforting, flavorful dinner. Parmesan adds a cheesy depth that makes each bite rich and satisfying. This filling chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeks when a hearty, home-cooked meal is wanted. Add a side salad to round out the plate.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Pea Risotto
Cashew Chicken
Cook chicken with crunchy cashews in a savory sauce that balances sweet and salty flavors. The dish tastes like takeout but comes together in less time. This satisfying chicken meal works well during busy weeks when a quick, flavorful dinner is needed. Serve it over rice to make a complete, family-friendly plate.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken
Chicken and Rice Soup
Fill bowls with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich broth that warms the table. The simple ingredients create a comforting and flavorful meal. This easy chicken dish is perfect for busy weeks when a quick, hearty dinner is wanted. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Soup
Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Layer tender chicken with cheese and sauce for a baked dish that tastes rich and satisfying. Using rotisserie chicken keeps it fast while still hearty. This flavorful chicken recipe works perfectly for busy weeks when a quick, comforting meal is needed. Bake until bubbly for a dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Enchiladas
Chicken Taco Wraps
Wrap chicken, crisp vegetables, and bold sauce in a soft tortilla for a meal packed with flavor and texture. Each bite is satisfying while coming together quickly. This fresh chicken dish is ideal for busy weeknights when a fast and tasty dinner is wanted.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Wraps
Orange Chicken
Make crispy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce for a dish that tastes like takeout. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful with every bite. This quick chicken recipe is perfect for busy days when a fast, delicious dinner is needed.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken
Chicken Tikka Masala
Simmer chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce for a dish that tastes like a restaurant favorite but is easy to make at home. The flavors are rich, bold, and satisfying. This hearty chicken recipe works well during busy weeks when a filling, flavorful dinner is needed. Pair it with rice or naan to complete the plate.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala
Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Cook chicken with tender orzo, feta, and olives for a one-pan meal that’s fresh and full of flavor. Everything comes together quickly while staying light and satisfying. This chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights when a simple, tasty dinner is needed.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Grilled Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Skewer spice-marinated chicken and grill to juicy perfection, then drizzle with a creamy peanut sauce. The combination of smoky meat and nutty sauce gives bold, satisfying flavor without extra effort. This chicken recipe is ideal for busy weeks when a fun, flavorful dinner is wanted. Serve with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Marinate chicken in lemon and garlic for a fresh, bright flavor that cooks quickly and stays tender. Every bite is packed with seasoning that makes dinner taste special. This quick chicken dish works well on busy days when a flavorful, hassle-free meal is needed.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken
Tomato Lime Chicken
Marinate chicken in fresh tomatoes and lime for a tangy, juicy flavor that comes together fast. The bold combination makes every bite bright and satisfying. This fresh chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when a lively, easy dinner is wanted.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Lime Chicken
Honey Glazed Chicken
Coat chicken in a sticky honey glaze that caramelizes into golden, flavorful perfection. The sweet and savory balance makes dinner look impressive while staying simple to cook. This delicious chicken dish is ideal for busy days when a quick, tasty meal is needed. Pair it with simple sides for a complete, satisfying plate.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken
Chicken and Dumplings
Cook chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich, creamy broth for a hearty, comforting meal. Each bite is filling and satisfying for the whole family. This classic chicken recipe works well during busy weeknights when a warm, satisfying dinner is needed. Serve straight from the pot for a simple, hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumplings
Miso Glazed Chicken
Coat chicken in a sticky miso glaze for a dish with sweet, salty, and savory flavors that comes together quickly. The caramelized surface locks in juice while givinga bold taste. This flavorful chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when a restaurant-quality dinner is wanted at home. Pair it with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Chicken
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Fill bowls with smoky, spiced chicken soup packed with beans, corn, and tender meat. Crunchy tortilla strips add texture and make every bite satisfying. This hearty chicken dish works well during busy weeks when a quick, warming dinner is needed.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup
Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Cook chicken and vegetables inside foil packets for a no-mess, flavorful dinner. Cheese and tender vegetables mix perfectly with juicy meat without extra cleanup. These foil packets are ideal for busy weeknights when a quick, satisfying meal is wanted. Open them at the table for an easy, ready-to-eat dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Foil Packets
Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs
Marinate chicken in bright lemon and spices, then grill for smoky, juicy skewers full of flavor. Every bite is fresh, bold, and satisfying. These chicken kebabs are perfect for busy weeks when a quick, fun dinner is needed. Serve them with rice or vegetables for a full plate.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Marinated Chicken Kebabs
Chicken Stew with Biscuits
Combine tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a thick, savory sauce, then top with golden biscuits for a filling meal. Each bite is rich and comforting while staying simple to make. This classic chicken recipe works well during busy weeknights when a warm, satisfying dinner is needed.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stew with Biscuits
Thai Chicken Chili
Simmer chicken with fragrant spices in a thick, bold broth for a chili that’s hearty and flavorful. Every bite has depth without taking too long to cook. This chicken dish is perfect for busy weeks when a rich, satisfying dinner is wanted. Serve it with rice or bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Chili
Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken
Marinate chicken in fresh lime, garlic, and spices for a quick, juicy, and flavorful meal. Grilling adds smoky notes while keeping the meat tender. This bright chicken recipe works well for busy days when a fast, bold dinner is needed.
Get the Recipe: Lime Marinated Grilled Chicken
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Let the Instant Pot cook tender chicken and noodles in a rich broth that tastes homemade in a fraction of the time. Every bite is comforting and satisfying without long prep. This quick chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeks when a warm, filling dinner is needed.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken Paprikash
Simmer chicken in a smoky, velvety paprika sauce for a rich and comforting dinner. The flavors are bold and satisfying while staying simple to make. This hearty chicken dish works perfectly during busy weeknights when a filling meal is wanted. Serve it hot with noodles or mashed potatoes for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash