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23 chicken dinners you can whip up faster than your kids can complain that they are hungry

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By Leah Ingram

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I’m hungry. When is dinner going to be ready? These refrains grate on my nerves almost as much as “Are we there yet?” in the car. Same with you? Well, with these 23 chicken dinners, perfect for busy weeknights, you’ll have fewer complaints and a faster way to get supper on the table.

Close-up of cheesy hash brown casserole on a fork.
Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

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.
Copycat Supermarket Chicken Rotisserie. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer is budget-friendly and packed with flavor. This method serves as an easy alternative to store-bought rotisserie chicken, giving you a homemade meal that saves you money, comes together quickly and tastes great. Enjoy the satisfaction of a delicious dinner without breaking the bank!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Supermarket Chicken Rotisserie

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.
Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks deliver crispy fried chicken in just 30 minutes. They’re quick to make, mess-free and packed with flavor. Enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of traditional frying!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

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.
Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Broccoli Chicken Cheese Casserole is a great pick for weeknight dinners. With seasoned chicken, rice, pasta and cheesy broccoli, it’s hearty and filling, perfect for keeping everyone at the table happy.
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.
Easy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Easy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole transforms rice, chicken and cheese into a quick meal. This dish is a smart way to use up leftovers while still enjoying something packed with flavor. Get ready for a hassle-free dinner that satisfies everyone at the table!
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole

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.
Fried Chicken in the Crock Pot. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

When you’re craving fried chicken but want to avoid the frying, this slow cooker recipe has you covered. You’ll enjoy crispy chicken without the hassle of oil or the mess that comes with traditional frying. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your kitchen!
Get the Recipe: Fried Chicken in the Crock Pot

Simple Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

Plate of chicken with a creamy sauce, served with potatoes and carrots, garnished with parsley.
Simple Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Simple Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken requires just six ingredients and comes together quickly. This recipe is perfect for those times when you’re short on time and need an easy meal that still delivers on taste. Set it and forget it for a hassle-free dinner!
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.
30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta features bowtie pasta, seasoned chicken and crispy bacon for a straightforward dish that delivers bold flavors. This meal is perfect for those nights when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss. Get ready to enjoy a comforting dinner that hits the spot!
Get the Recipe: 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta

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.
Barbecue Sauce Chicken Drumsticks in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Barbecue Sauce Chicken Drumsticks in the Air Fryer bring juicy chicken with less cleanup than grilling. It’s a simple way to enjoy barbecue flavors without the hassle of having to go outside to cook.
Get the Recipe: Barbecue Sauce Chicken Drumsticks in Air Fryer

Spicy Chicken with Pepperoncini Peppers

A plate of white rice topped with chunks of chicken and sliced green bell peppers, all cooked in a creamy yellow sauce.
Spicy Chicken with Pepperoncini Peppers. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Spicy Chicken with Pepperoncini Peppers is ready in just 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for those busy nights. This fast and flavorful dinner option packs a punch, ensuring you won’t sacrifice taste for time. Get ready to spice up your week!
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chicken with Pepperoncini Peppers

Peach Whiskey Barbecue Chicken

A cast iron skillet filled with cooked chicken pieces and topped with sliced peaches.
Peach Whiskey Barbecue Chicken. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Peach Whiskey Barbecue Chicken brings together the sweetness of peaches and savory barbecue sauce for a delightful flavor combo. This dish is a standout choice when you’re in the mood for a seasonal meal that impresses without a lot of effort. Enjoy the taste of summer any time of year!
Get the Recipe: Peach Whiskey Barbecue Chicken

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Fettuccine

A close-up of fettuccine Alfredo topped with grilled chicken pieces, garnished with parsley. Breadstick visible in the background.
Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Fettuccine. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo brings restaurant-style comfort food right to your kitchen. With creamy Alfredo sauce and seasoned chicken it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Fettuccine

Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

Close-up of a dish featuring seasoned strips of chicken, red and yellow bell peppers, green peppers, and onions.
Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas pack a bold punch and are full of flavor, all ready in just minutes. This makes them a quick and easy choice for weeknight dinners when you need something tasty without the hassle. Enjoy a fiesta on your plate without spending hours in the kitchen!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

Crock Pot Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo with Tortellini

Close-up of tortellini pasta cooking in a creamy yellow sauce with pieces of chicken, stirred by a wooden spoon.
Crock Pot Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo with Tortellini. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Crock Pot Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo with Tortellini combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce and cheesy tortellini. It’s a lifesaver for busy days when you want something satisfying and everyone’s starving.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo with Tortellini

Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken Breast with Fresh Veggies

A plate with grilled chicken breast, asparagus, and zucchini slices, garnished with basil, on a wooden table.
Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken Breast with Fresh Veggies. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken Breasts with Fresh Veggies is a simple one-pan meal. Juicy chicken and seasonal vegetables come together for an easy dinner with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Chicken Breast with Fresh Veggies

Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

Sliced breaded and fried chicken breast on a wooden board, garnished with herbs and accompanied by lemon slices.
Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets give you golden crispy results using very little oil. This makes them a perfect choice for any meal when you want something hearty yet simple. Enjoy the crunch without the guilt!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

Slow Cooker Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Cheesy potato casserole topped with crispy bacon and chopped green onions in a black dish.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tater Tot Casserole makes dinner a breeze. In just four hours, you’ll have a meal that everyone will love. It’s a great choice for those hectic evenings when you crave something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken

A plate with sweet and spicy glazed chicken topped with cranberries, served with green beans and a side of yellow rice.
Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken uses just four ingredients to create a sweet and tangy dish. Let the slow cooker do the work and dinner will be ready even before the “I’m hungry” complaints begin.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken

Crock Pot Chicken Taco Soup

A ladle holds a hearty stew with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and shredded chicken in a rich, orange-colored broth.
Crock Pot Chicken Taco Soup. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Crock Pot Chicken Taco Soup is a hearty stew with chicken and chili-like textures. It’s perfect for cold nights when you need something filling and comforting. It’s a stick-to-the-ribs meal hungry people will love.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken Taco Soup

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

A bowl of rice topped with shredded chicken and green onions, with chopsticks resting on the side.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken brings takeout flavors right to your kitchen and satisfies hungry bellies fast. Soy sauce, hoisin and sesame oil create a bold sauce that ties the dish together.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder

A spoonful of creamy chicken and corn chowder with bacon pieces, potatoes, and herbs in a thick broth.
Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder is great for busy evenings when everyone arrives home, starving. It stays warm in the Crock Pot so it’s ready for dinner or second helpings later in the evening.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder

Copycat Slow Cooker Panda Express General Tso Chicken

Close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of stir-fried chicken with green beans, red bell peppers, and onions in a flavorful sauce from a black pot.
Copycat Slow Cooker Panda Express General Tso Chicken. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Copycat Panda Express General Tso Chicken proves that you can get stir-fry flavors in a slow cooker. With the right ingredients and sauce mix it’s a surprising take on a mall food court classic.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Slow Cooker Panda Express General Tso Chicken

Slow Cooker Caesar Chicken With Pasta

A crockpot filled with cooked rotini pasta mixed with spinach, shredded chicken, and a creamy sauce, with a serving spoon inside.
Slow Cooker Caesar Chicken With Pasta. Photo credit: Bagels and Lasagna.

Slow Cooker Caesar Chicken with Pasta gives you a dish that’s versatile for leftovers. Start with creamy pasta for dinner then use the leftover chicken for creative meals later in the week.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Caesar Chicken With Pasta

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Roasted chicken thighs with potatoes and lemon slices on a white plate, garnished with rosemary sprigs.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: My Full Belly.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs is a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner. The air fryer ensures the chicken comes out crispy and delicious. I guarantee everyone will be going back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

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