Quick & Easy Chicken Dinner: 10 Delicious Recipes for Busy Weeknights
When you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a homemade, delicious meal, chicken is your best friend. Chicken is versatile, quick to cook, and can easily be transformed into a variety of dishes.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for quick options, these easy chicken dinner recipes will help you whip up something tasty in no time.
In this blog, we’ll explore 10 quick and easy chicken dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
Why Chicken is the Perfect Weeknight Meal
Chicken is the go-to protein for most home cooks. It’s inexpensive, widely available, and quick to prepare. Plus, it can be cooked in so many ways: roasted, sautéed, grilled, or even slow-cooked. In addition to its versatility, chicken is a great source of lean protein and contains essential nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
These quick chicken recipes focus on keeping things simple and hassle-free, with minimal ingredients and preparation time. Whether you’re cooking for one, two, or a whole family, these recipes will save you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor.
1. Crispy Chicken Thighs with Herbs and Garlic
This recipe features juicy, crispy chicken thighs paired with aromatic rosemary and garlic, making it a simple yet flavorful meal. The chicken is perfectly seasoned, and the high heat results in a golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Season the chicken: Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped rosemary.
- Arrange the chicken on the baking sheet, skin side up. Scatter smashed garlic cloves around the chicken to infuse flavor.
- Roast the chicken: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden.
- Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges for a citrusy finish that brightens the savory flavors of the dish.
This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a simple gathering with friends and family. Enjoy the crispy skin and savory garlic-rosemary notes in every bite!
2. One-Pan Roasted Chicken Thighs with Potatoes, Garlic, and Spinach
This recipe combines golden, crispy chicken thighs with roasted baby potatoes, fresh spinach, and garlic for a flavorful, one-pan dinner that’s easy to prepare and bursting with hearty goodness. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and roasted to crispy perfection, while the vegetables soak up all the delicious flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Season the chicken: Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
- Arrange the chicken on the baking sheet, skin side up. Scatter halved baby potatoes and smashed garlic cloves around the chicken.
- Add spinach: Scatter fresh spinach around the chicken and potatoes, allowing it to cook down with the chicken.
- Roast: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden. Add lemon wedges to the tray in the last 10 minutes for a fresh citrus boost.
- Serve hot with the roasted potatoes and spinach for a balanced, flavorful meal.
This recipe is the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and zesty flavor, making it a simple yet satisfying dish for any occasion.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers with Naan and Fresh Salad
This recipe features juicy grilled chicken skewers with a sweet and savory glaze, served alongside warm naan bread and a refreshing tomato-cucumber salad. It’s a perfect meal for summer gatherings or a weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 naan bread pieces (for serving)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken cubes in the mixture until evenly coated. Thread the chicken onto skewers.
- Grill the chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown with grill marks.
- Make the salad: While the chicken grills, toss together the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Warm the naan: Place the naan on the grill for 1-2 minutes until slightly crispy and heated through.
- Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a plate with the naan and fresh salad on the side.
This dish is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors with a nice balance of fresh vegetables and soft, warm naan bread. Enjoy the delicious grilled chicken paired with the crisp salad for a complete,
4. Grilled Chicken Burger with Avocado and Cheese
This recipe features a juicy grilled chicken patty, topped with melted cheese and fresh avocado, all nestled between a soft sesame seed bun. The perfect quick and satisfying meal for any occasion, this burger is both flavorful and packed with protein.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 slices of cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- 2 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Add cheese: In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese on top of the chicken and allow it to melt.
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the sesame seed buns on the grill or in a separate skillet until golden brown.
- Assemble the burger: Spread mayonnaise and mustard (optional) on the buns. Place the grilled chicken with melted cheese on the bottom bun, and top with sliced avocado. Place the top bun on to finish the burger.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad.
This chicken burger is a tasty, healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers and is packed with delicious flavors from the creamy avocado and melted cheese. Perfect for a casual dinner or gathering with friends!
5. Loaded Sweet Potatoes with Shredded Chicken and Sauces
This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with creamy sweet potatoes, creating a hearty and flavorful meal. The sweet potatoes are baked until soft and fluffy, then topped with flavorful shredded chicken, drizzled with a tangy sauce and creamy ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 2 chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until tender.
- While the sweet potatoes bake, cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Shred the chicken using two forks.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the ranch dressing with hot sauce. Adjust the hot sauce to your desired spice level.
- Assemble the dish: Once the sweet potatoes are baked and cool enough to handle, slice them open and fluff the inside with a fork. Top each sweet potato with shredded chicken, then drizzle with ranch sauce and hot sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Serve and enjoy!
This loaded sweet potato meal is a perfect balance of savory chicken and the sweetness of baked potatoes, topped with creamy dressing and a kick of heat from the hot sauce. It’s an easy, comforting, and filling dish!
6. Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Rice
This recipe combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and roasted cashews, all tossed in a savory, sweet stir-fry sauce. Served on a bed of white rice, it makes a quick and satisfying dinner that’s packed with flavor and crunch.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup roasted cashews
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the rice: Cook the white rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- Stir-fry the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the broccoli: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the broccoli and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Make the sauce: Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the pan. Stir to combine. If you like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes at this point.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the cashews, and toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Spoon the stir-fry over the cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
This savory, sweet, and slightly spicy stir-fry is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an easy go-to meal for any night of the week. Enjoy the crunchy cashews, tender chicken, and fresh veggies in every bite!
7. Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This recipe pairs creamy, rich garlic sauce over perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta with juicy, glazed meatballs. The savory flavors of the meatballs complement the velvety texture of the pasta, creating a delightful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken or turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (or your preferred glaze)
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- Salt (for pasta water)
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). - Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Transfer the meatballs to a baking sheet and brush with BBQ sauce. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked and caramelized. - Cook the Pasta:
While the meatballs are baking, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions in salted water. Drain the pasta and set aside. - Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens. - Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy garlic sauce. Plate the pasta and top with the glazed meatballs. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.
This dish is the ultimate comfort food, offering a creamy and flavorful pasta alongside savory meatballs with a hint of sweetness from the glaze. It’s the perfect meal to indulge in on a cozy night!
8. Tortellini with Sausage, Spinach, and Melty Mozzarella
This recipe combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with perfectly browned sausage, fresh spinach, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Topped with gooey mozzarella, it’s a comforting dish that brings bold flavors together in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
- Cook the tortellini: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add spinach and seasonings: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet with the sausage and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Make the sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese for garnish.
This cheesy, savory tortellini dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal with family and friends. The rich sausage and spinach blend beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce for an irresistible flavor combo!
9. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Croutons
This recipe combines fresh, crisp lettuce with tender grilled chicken, crunchy croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese, all topped with a creamy Caesar dressing. It’s a light yet filling meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 cups romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1/4 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the chopped lettuce with Caesar dressing until evenly coated.
- Add the Toppings: Top the dressed lettuce with sliced grilled chicken, croutons, and shaved Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a fresh and satisfying meal.
This Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a quick, healthy option that combines the best flavors of creamy dressing, grilled chicken, and crunchy textures. It’s perfect for a balanced meal with minimal effort!
10. Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Breasts with Rosemary
This recipe features succulent chicken breasts baked in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, with the added aroma of fresh rosemary. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Add the sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken breasts. Add fresh rosemary sprigs to the dish for extra flavor.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.
- Serve: Garnish with additional rosemary and serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables or rice.
This honey garlic chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet honey, savory garlic, and aromatic rosemary makes this dish irresistible!
Final Tips:
- Meal Prep: These recipes are great for meal prep, so you can make them in advance and have a delicious dinner ready whenever you need it.
- Customization: Don’t hesitate to adjust the recipes based on your family’s preferences. Add more vegetables, switch out sides, or use different seasonings to make the dishes your own.
- Leftovers: Many of these dishes taste even better the next day, so you can enjoy them for lunch the following day!
