15 chicken dishes so easy, even dad can’t mess them up

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If you’ve got a dad who thinks a meal plan means picking up the phone for takeout, these 15 chicken dishes will change the game. With straightforward steps, even the most kitchen-challenged dads will look like pros. No fancy techniques, no stress, just simple, easy meals that everyone will enjoy. And the best part? There’s a good chance Dad won’t burn anything this time.

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm and homely, Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy is a dish that brings comfort to the table without a hassle. Even on a busy weeknight, it lets you serve a meal that feels like Sunday dinner at grandma’s. The creamy onion gravy complements the chicken perfectly, creating a match made in heaven for mashed potatoes. You’ll be surprised at just how simple it is to bring this classic flavor to your dining room.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Two Chicken Gnocchi Soup copycat soup recipes on a table.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’ve got a soft spot for hearty soups, then Chicken Gnocchi Soup will hit the spot without any complexities. It’s a forgiving recipe that allows even the most hesitant cook to produce a pot full of rich and wholesome goodness. Each spoonful appears to wrap you up in a warm hug, perfect for those chilly days when comfort is needed. The combination of tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a creamy base is a sure winner for a family meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a touch of the Mediterranean on your plate, try Mediterranean Chicken Bake, which brings together simple ingredients in a wonderfully uncomplicated way. The dish showcases ripe tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, providing a colorful and nutritious meal. The cooking process is forgiving, ideal for anyone looking to prepare a fuss-free dinner. It’s an easy escape to sunny shores on a plate, and you don’t even need a passport.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash is a homestyle dish that’s both easy to make and comforting to eat. It centers around chicken in a hearty sauce with a good punch of paprika that creates a warm, inviting aroma in your kitchen. Even someone with minimal cooking experience will find this dish within their reach, promising a fulfilling meal with little drama. Served with noodles or rice, it turns an ordinary evening into a homestyle feast.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

The lighter, healthier sibling to classic noodle soup is none other than this Chicken Zoodle Soup. Spiralized zucchini steps in as a low-carb alternative to noodles, making it friendly for those watching their intake. This soup keeps the preparation simple and the ingredients fresh. It’s a straightforward way to nourish your body without compromising on comfort or taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Monterey Chicken for One

Chicken dish with vegetables in a square pot.
Monterey Chicken for One. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When you’re dining solo, Monterey Chicken for One has got you covered with its single-serving simplicity. No need to fear leftovers, as this dish scales down to fit just right when you’re cooking for yourself. You’ll have a juicy, cheese-topped chicken breast ready in no time, complete with tomato and bacon. It’s an easy way to treat yourself to a solo feast without the worry of waste or excess.
Get the Recipe: Monterey Chicken for One

Grilled Greek Chicken

Grilled Greek Chicken on a white plate with lemon slices.
Grilled Greek Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

The beauty of Grilled Greek Chicken lies in its simplicity, providing a fuss-free grilling experience with a fantastic result. A combination of olive oil, herbs, and lemon infuses the chicken with a taste of Greece. It’s a great way to switch up your grilling routine and impress with minimal effort. Just a few straightforward steps will transport your senses to the Mediterranean coast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Chicken

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate with seasoned asparagus and diced chicken topped with herbs. A halved grilled lemon and fresh parsley are nearby on a white floral tablecloth.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Quick and utterly rewarding, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a great go-to for an effortless dish. These little morsels pack a punch with garlic’s warmth and butter’s richness, offering a cozy take on bite-sized chicken. With a cooking time that’s mere minutes, they’re perfect for when you need to whip up something fast. Serve them up for a quick snack or add them to a meal for a protein-rich addition that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings

Smoked dry rubbed chicken wings on a white plate with garlic.
Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Barbecue enthusiasts can delight in the simplicity of creating Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings that rival any restaurant’s. This meal proves that a good rub and some time in the smoker can yield spectacular results. The chicken emerges from the smoker with a mouthwatering aroma and a deliciously crisp skin. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and enjoy these wings with no tricky techniques involved.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dry Rubbed Wings

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a light and refreshing option, Chinese Chicken Salad is as straightforward as it is flavorful. Crispy lettuce, shredded chicken, and a tangy Asian-inspired dressing come together in a salad that’s far from boring. This dish is a smart choice when you’re looking for a quick and easy way to introduce some greens into your meal. It’s an ideal pick-me-up for a lunch that doesn’t slow you down.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings

Smoked and glazed peach-chipotle chicken wings on a black plate.
Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a little sweet and smoky kick to your meal plan with Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings. The peach and chipotle blend their flavors for a wing experience that’s both unique and easy to prepare. They demand very little from the cook, just some patience while they absorb those smoky, sweet, and spicy nuances in the smoker. You’ll end up with a batch of wings that are sure to impress without stressing you out.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Peach-Chipotle Wings

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring a restaurant favorite home with Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken without the complexity of dining out. This dish is a crowd-pleaser with honey mustard, mushrooms, and plenty of cheese to top it off. Your kitchen easily turns into a casual dining spot with this simple-to-execute recipe. You get to bask in the glory of making a beloved dish with your own hands, and it’s straightforward enough that anyone can do it.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken

Smoked whole chicken on Ninja Woodfire Grill.
Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Fire up the grill for a Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken that’s astonishingly easy to perfect. The process is forgiving, so even if you’re not a grill master, you can still boast about your grilling prowess. The bird comes out beautifully flavored with just the right amount of smokiness to make it a hit. It’s ideal for a laid-back weekend meal that doesn’t require constant attention.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Smoky Whole Chicken

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Recreate the warmth of an Italian restaurant staple with Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. The dish is rich with chicken, vegetables, and herbs simmered to create a comforting soup. It’s perfect for filling the house with a cozy, home-cooked aroma. Best of all, it’s super easy to make with stress-free steps.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a simple and fulfilling lunch, try Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. The tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts add a unique twist to classic chicken salad. Serve it on greens or between slices of bread for an easy lunchtime option. No complex skills are needed, just a love for fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

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