17 chicken recipes that are surprisingly underrated

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Let’s spice up your chicken routine! These 17 underrated recipes are waiting to be your new favorites. No clichés here, just straightforward, delicious dishes that prove sometimes the best meals are the ones you haven’t tried yet. After all, the underdog—or should we say, under-chicken—often comes out on top.

A dish of seasoned chicken breasts garnished with parsley, surrounded by carrots and potatoes in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Gather the family, serve this dish, and watch it become a new favorite for its ease and undeniable charm. Easy Chicken Casserole is a dish that stands out for its simplicity and heartiness. It’s a no-fuss meal that fills the room with a comforting aroma and fills your stomach with warmth. This casserole is all about bringing together simple elements to create something wonderfully fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie

A slice of chicken pot pie being lifted, showing its creamy filling with chunks of chicken and vegetables, garnished with thyme.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When it’s time for comfort, Chicken Pot Pie stands ready to wrap you in warmth. It’s like a hug in the form of a meal, with a golden crust that breaks perfectly to reveal its hearty soul. This dish is a tribute to home-style cooking, offering a fulfilling conclusion to any day. Let each bite reassure you that some classics just never go out of style. Gather round and let this pie bring back memories of family dinners past.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Easy Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.
Easy Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s the kind of uncomplicated pleasure that brings smiles all around. Easy Chicken Tenders offer a quick, delicious meal that can please a crowd or satisfy a solo craving. They’re the epitome of simple satisfaction, providing a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior with each bite. This dish is your go-to for last-minute gatherings or a reliable favorite for a family-friendly meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce.
Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized and beloved, Chick-fil-A Nuggets are more than just a snack; they’re a cult favorite for a reason. They bring together the joy of nibbling with the satisfaction of a full meal, encapsulated in small, golden bites that are hard to stop eating. It’s casual dining done right, where simplicity meets irresistible flavor. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself, these nuggets are a delicious escape from the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Whole Baked BBQ Chicken

Roasted chicken with a crispy, golden-brown skin on a white plate, served with a side of greens in a black bowl.
Whole Baked BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine coming home to the aroma of a Whole Baked BBQ Chicken that’s been slow-roasting to perfection. It’s not just another chicken dinner; it’s the centerpiece that draws everyone to the table with promises of juicy bites. It’s about simplicity paired with a subtle flair that turns a routine meal into a memorable evening. Let this dish be the hero of your next family gathering without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Whole Baked BBQ Chicken

Chicken Tamale Pie

A serving of chicken tamale pie topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.
Chicken Tamale Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Who says you need a holiday for Chicken Tamale Pie? Here’s a dish that brings the fiesta to your fork any day of the week. It combines tradition with a twist, crafting a casual yet intriguing meal that’s bound to stir up dinner conversation. Celebrate the everyday with a dish that’s as vibrant and lively as your favorite party. Dig into layers of flavor that make every day seem like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamale Pie

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Close-up of a pasta dish with corn, bacon, and herbs, seasoned with a creamy yellow sauce.
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

In the realm of comfort foods, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is a shining star. It’s the answer to your cravings for something heartwarming yet uncomplicated. This dish is about merging coziness with a touch of elegance, creating a dinner that’s both inviting and fulfilling. Why not let tonight be the night you indulge in a little self-care? Enjoy a meal that combines comfort with a flair for the sophisticated palate.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Chick-fil-A Sauce

A bowl of smooth, creamy peanut butter with a hint of Chick-fil-A sauce and a spoon inside.
Chick-fil-A Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s the sidekick that often steals the show—Chick-fil-A Sauce has a knack for turning any chicken meal into an event. This sauce isn’t just a dip; it’s a must-have that enhances every bite with its unique blend of flavors. Whether you’re a dipping enthusiast or a sauce connoisseur, this is one accompaniment that promises to amplify your dining experience. Dig into this sauce to discover why it’s the highlight of many a chicken dish.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Sauce

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Glazed barbecued chicken drumsticks on a white plate.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Let your air fryer take the lead and enjoy a guilt-free version of your favorite BBQ bliss. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are here to revolutionize your meal prep with efficiency and flavor. These drumsticks come out perfectly crispy on the outside and succulently juicy on the inside, all with less oil. It’s a healthier alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste, proving that good-for-you meals can also be mouthwateringly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The quintessential comfort dish, Chicken and Rice Casserole, is everything you need for a fulfilling meal. It’s a cozy blanket of flavors, warm and inviting, perfect for chilly evenings or lazy Sunday dinners. This casserole combines homeliness with a touch of nostalgia, bringing a sense of tranquility to your busy life. It’s a dish that demands minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!)

Roasted air fryer whole chicken served on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Let this air fryer recipe simplify your cooking process while still delivering an impressive dish. Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!) is a game-changer for anyone who wants a full-flavored roast without the hassle. This recipe guarantees crispy skin and tender meat, all achieved with minimal kitchen time. It’s the perfect way to impress guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe (Super Easy!)

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who cherish a good kick in their meal, Homemade KFC Zinger Burger delivers just that. This burger brings the heat and the flavor, all packed within a bun. It’s a cooking adventure that doesn’t require leaving the house, offering a fresh twist to your typical chicken burger. Enjoy the thrill of the spice tempered by the cool crunch of lettuce and mayo, making each bite a balance of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but flavor can’t be compromised. Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is a whirlwind of flavors that invigorates the palate with just the right amount of spice. This dish offers a bold taste that’s both invigorating and comforting, perfect for those looking to add a little excitement to their meal routine.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Air fryer chicken wings served with fresh tomatoes and herbs on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For wing enthusiasts, Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!) offer the ultimate satisfaction—extra crispy without deep frying. Enjoy the crunch and the tender meat, all achieved with a healthier twist. Whether it’s game day or a casual get-together, these wings will be the star of your snack table, proving that you can indulge in your favorite treats without any of the guilt.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy!)

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s the salad that proves you don’t need to compromise on taste for health. Cobb Salad is a classic that offers more than meets the eye, with layers of flavors and textures that make every forkful a discovery. It’s a salad that eats like a meal, perfect for those seeking something light yet fulfilling. This dish brings together a variety of elements in a harmonious blend that satisfies both the eyes and the palate.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dig into the creamy indulgence of Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara, where each bite is a blend of rich flavors and smooth textures. This dish recreates a beloved restaurant favorite, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal in the comfort of your own home. It’s the perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a special family meal, offering a taste of Italian elegance without the need for a reservation.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

A dish of seasoned chicken breasts garnished with parsley, surrounded by carrots and potatoes in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Set it and forget it; let Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken do the heavy lifting for dinner tonight. This dish is a testament to the magic of slow cooking, where time gently coaxes out rich flavors and tender textures. It’s the kind of meal that offers comfort after a long day, proving that good things indeed come to those who wait. Revel in the ease of preparation that brings a deliciously fulfilling meal to your table with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

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