It feels like summer is over and everyone is back to their usual, busy routine. Even so, you’ve still got dinner to make. That’s why I turn to these 10 chicken dishes that are the epitome of simple cooking. Every dish is sure to be a hit and are perfect for busy nights.
![A skillet containing cooked chicken legs with sliced peaches on top, in a dark sauce.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/peach-whiskey-barbecue-chicken-in-cast-iron-skilled-over-head-flipped-and-cropped-1024x694.jpeg)
Fried Chicken in the Crock Pot
![Two cooked chicken thighs on a red dish, a bowl of cherry tomatoes behind, and a slow cooker in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/fried-chicken-in-the-crock-pot-plated-1024x768.jpeg)
While “fried” is a bit of a euphemism, this slow cooker chicken tastes just like fried chicken. It’s an easy way to get that finger-licking flavor without the actual frying, making it perfect for a hassle-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Fried Chicken in the Crock Pot
Barbecue Sauce Chicken Drumsticks in Air Fryer
![A close-up of chopsticks holding a piece of glazed, grilled chicken. The chicken appears juicy and well-cooked.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/closeup-of-bbq-chicken-drumstick-in-air-fryer.jpeg)
Making barbecue sauce chicken drumsticks in the air fryer is a game-changer. These drumsticks are a bit messy to eat but worth every finger lick, making them a great choice for a fast and easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Barbecue Sauce Chicken Drumsticks in Air Fryer
Simple Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken
![Plate of chicken with a creamy sauce, served with potatoes and carrots, garnished with parsley.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Slow-Cooker-Creamy-Ranch-Chicken-close-up-low-angle-horizontal.jpeg)
This classic recipe requires only six ingredients, making it perfect for a busy night. Just dump everything into the slow cooker for an effortless dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Simple Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken
30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta
![Creamy Chicken And Corn Pasta closeup partial of finished dish cropped horizontal.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Creamy-Chicken-And-Corn-Pasta-closeup-partial-of-finished-dish-cropped-horizontal.jpeg)
This easy-to-make dish features bowtie pasta, seasoned chicken chunks, and a bacon topping. It’s a quick dinner option that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta
Copycat Supermarket Chicken Rotisserie
![Close-up of a roasted chicken with crispy, golden-brown skin seasoned with herbs and coarse salt, on a wooden cutting board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/close-up-of-cooked-air-fryer-chicken.jpeg)
Cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer is a game-changer. It’s more cost-effective and flavorful than supermarket rotisserie chicken, making it a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Supermarket Chicken Rotisserie
Spicy Chicken with Pepperoncini Peppers
![A skillet filled with a creamy chicken and pepper dish, featuring chunks of chicken and green pepper slices in a rich, white sauce.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Pepperoncini-Chicken-Process-in-pan-1024x683.jpg)
This dish comes together in about 20 minutes, making it great for a quick dinner. The spicy kick from the pepperoncini peppers pairs well with white rice or mashed potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chicken with Pepperoncini Peppers
Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
![Close-up of a stack of seasoned, grilled chicken drumsticks, with one drumstick partially eaten, revealing moist, cooked meat inside. A lemon wedge and herbs are visible in the background.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/bite-into-drumstick-cropped-closeup-horizontal.jpeg)
Enjoy the taste of fried chicken without the oil or mess by using an air fryer. With a total prep and cooking time of 30 minutes, these drumsticks are perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Finger licking is encouraged.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Peach Whiskey Barbecue Chicken
![Plate with cooked chicken pieces garnished with fresh peach slices and herbs, served with a small bowl of peach slices and a jar of sauce on a wooden table, accompanied by two whole peaches.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/peach-whiskey-barbecue-chicken-served-overhead-1024x683.jpg)
Incorporate seasonal peaches into your summer dinners with this peach whiskey barbecue chicken recipe. It’s a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Peach Whiskey Barbecue Chicken
Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole
![A plate of chicken with rice garnished with parsley on a white surface with an orange napkin, wooden utensils, and ingredients nearby.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Broccoli-Chicken-Casserole-Set-2-8.jpg)
This easy weeknight dinner features cheesy broccoli and seasoned chicken served over a blend of rice and pasta. It’s a simple and quick meal that everyone will appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole
Easy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole
![A bowl of rice with corn and herbs on a striped cloth with garnishes on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Chicken-Enchilada-Rice-Casserole-Set-1-8.jpg)
With just five ingredients, this casserole is a great way to use leftover rice, chicken, and cheese, including rotisserie chicken. It’s a quick and easy dinner option that simplifies your meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole