19 chicken dishes that turn weeknights into wins

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Why settle for another boring chicken meal when you could be serving up something that gets a round of applause from your family? These 19 recipes are the culinary equivalent of finding cash in an old jacket pocket—pure magic with no effort. Weeknight dinners just leveled up!

A bowl of pad kee mao with chicken shot from above.
Pad Kee Mao with Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Layers of spiced chicken and fragrant rice come together beautifully in Chicken Biryani, a dish that’s perfect for any night when you want something hearty and flavorful. It’s got that balance of richness and spice, making it a standout meal. Whether for family or guests, it’s bound to impress with its aroma and taste. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a celebration, even on a weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

A rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken make Creamy Tuscan Chicken a perfect choice for a comforting meal. It feels indulgent but is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. With its Italian-inspired flavors, this dish can easily become a go-to for dinner. It’s a great way to add a little luxury to your evening without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Low angle shot of a plate of fried chicken with sesame sauce and sesame seeds.
Air Fryer Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking for something crispy without the guilt of deep-frying, Air Fryer Sesame Chicken is a fantastic choice. It’s quick, light, and full of that classic sesame flavor everyone loves. Perfect for a busy night when you need something flavorful fast. The air fryer does all the work while you enjoy a stress-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Sweet and flavor packed combine perfectly in Mochiko Chicken, a Hawaiian-inspired dish that’s crispy and full of flavor. It’s a fun and flavorful way to switch up your chicken routine. Great for both dinner and leftovers, this dish brings a unique twist to your weeknight meals. It’s sure to be a hit with anyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Thai Chicken Satay

Overhead shot of thai chicken satay on a black plate with peanut sauce on the side.
Thai Chicken Satay. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Grilled skewers and a flavorful dipping sauce make Thai Chicken Satay a favorite for those who love bold, smoky flavors. It’s a light dish that packs a punch, perfect for evenings when you want something quick but fulfilling. Whether as a snack or a full meal, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. A delicious way to bring a taste of Thailand to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Fried chicken pieces in orange sauce garnished with sesame seeds in a black bowl with chopsticks and a green and white napkin.
Air Fryer Orange Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

Bringing the sweetness of orange together with crispy chicken, Air Fryer Orange Chicken is a healthier twist on a takeout favorite. It’s got all the flavor without the extra oil, making it a guilt-free option for dinner. Easy to prepare, this dish satisfies those weeknight cravings for something flavorful. It’s a great way to enjoy a familiar dish with a lighter touch.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Packed with flavor, Instant Pot Chicken Adobo brings the classic Filipino dish to your table in no time. The tangy, rich sauce is what sets this dish apart, making it both unique and comforting. Using the Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time while keeping all the rich flavors intact. Perfect for those nights when you want something delicious with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Chicken Karaage

Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.
Chicken Karaage. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside, Chicken Karaage is Japanese fried chicken at its finest. It’s a perfect choice when you’re craving something crispy but don’t want the heaviness of traditional fried chicken. Light, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s great for dinner or even as a snack. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for that extra kick.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

Gochujang Chicken

Gochujang chicken on a platter with fresh herbs.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spicy and sweet, Gochujang Chicken brings Korean flavors to your weeknight dinner with a kick. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bold, spicy dishes that are still easy to prepare. The heat from the gochujang is balanced by its sweetness, making it a flavorful and exciting option. Ideal for spicing up your routine with minimal prep.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Green Chili Chicken Soup

Overhead shot of a pot of the soup with two bowls of the soup and garnishes.
Green Chili Chicken Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a comforting meal with a little heat, Green Chili Chicken Soup is a great pick. It’s warming, fulfilling, and perfect for those cooler nights when you want something hearty but not heavy. This soup is flavorful enough to stand on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side of bread. A simple, wholesome dish that turns a weeknight into a win.
Get the Recipe: Green Chili Chicken Soup

Pancit Bihon

Pancit noodles on a plate with veggies and chicken.
Pancit Bihon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A Filipino noodle dish that’s both light and filling, Pancit Bihon combines chicken with rice noodles for a simple but flavorful meal. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or even as leftovers the next day. With its mix of textures and flavors, it’s a dish that’s easy to enjoy any time. A great option when you want something a little different on a weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon

Ramen Fried Chicken

Hand reaching into a bowl of ramen fried chicken pieces.
Ramen Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Mixing two favorites, Ramen Fried Chicken brings together crispy fried chicken and the familiar seasoning of ramen noodles. It’s a fun and flavorful twist on traditional fried chicken, perfect for adding excitement to your dinner. Whether for a casual meal or a fun family night, this dish is sure to be a hit. Crispy, meaty, and full of flavor, it’s not your average chicken dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken

Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Stir-fried diced chicken with dried chilies and spring onions in a black skillet.
Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Creamy peanut butter paired with a bit of spice makes Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken a unique and flavorful option. It’s great for those who enjoy a rich, nutty sauce with a touch of heat. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a great way to mix up your usual chicken routine. Perfect for anyone looking for something bold and different.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Pad Kee Mao with Chicken

A bowl of pad kee mao with chicken shot from above.
Pad Kee Mao with Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for spicy noodles, Pad Kee Mao with Chicken delivers bold Thai flavors in every bite. This dish, also known as drunken noodles, is packed with chicken and fresh ingredients that make it hearty and fulfilling. Perfect for a quick dinner when you want something with a kick. A great way to bring a taste of Thailand to your table without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Pad Kee Mao with Chicken

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Low angle shot of an air fried whole chicken.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a perfectly roasted chicken with crispy skin and tender meat, Air Fryer Whole Chicken makes it easy. It’s faster than traditional roasting and requires less oil, but the results are just as fulfilling. Great for a family meal or even meal prepping for the week. With minimal effort, you get maximum flavor and tenderness.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Chicken Curry Laksa

Laksa in a white bowl.
Chicken Curry Laksa. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A rich, coconut-based broth and tender chicken come together in Chicken Curry Laksa for a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. This Southeast Asian dish is perfect when you want something warming and fulfilling. The curry gives it a slight heat, balanced by the creaminess of the broth. Great for cold nights or when you need something to warm you from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry Laksa

Instant Pot Chicken Biryani

Overhead shot of 3 plates of chicken biryani.
Instant Pot Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A quicker take on a classic, Instant Pot Chicken Biryani brings all the layers of flavor and aroma with less time and effort. It’s perfect for when you want a special meal but don’t have hours to spare. The Instant Pot does the hard work, leaving you with a delicious, fragrant biryani. Ideal for weeknights when you still want something impressive.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Biryani

Pollo Pibil

Pollo pibil on a grey plate with limes and shredded lettuce.
Pollo Pibil. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Slow-cooked for tender, juicy chicken, Pollo Pibil brings Mexican flavors to your kitchen with ease. The smoky, earthy taste comes from its traditional cooking method, but this version simplifies things while keeping all the flavor. Perfect for a weekend meal or when you want to impress without much effort. A fulfilling dish that’s full of vibrant flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

Thai Fried Rice

Overhead shot of Thai fried rice in a white bowl with a skillet of fried rice on the side.
Thai Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Quick and fulfilling, Thai Fried Rice with chicken is a dish that can be made in no time but still packs a punch. It’s versatile enough to be a side or a main dish, making it a great option for busy nights. The combination of flavors keeps it exciting, and it’s an easy way to use up leftover rice. Perfect for a fast, delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

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