Versatile chicken dinners

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Chicken is one of the most adaptable ingredients you can keep in your kitchen. Whether you’re planning a quick dinner, prepping for the week, or making a family favorite, chicken can handle it all. From hearty casseroles to fresh salads and skillet meals, there’s no shortage of ways to prepare it. Its mild flavor pairs well with a variety of spices, sauces, and sides, making it easy to customize to your tastes. You can keep it simple for busy nights or dress it up for special occasions. No matter how you cook it, chicken remains a reliable option for meals that please everyone. Let’s explore some of the most versatile recipes you can try today.

A dozen crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders on white parchment paper, with a glaze drizzled over them.
Spicy Chicken Strips. Photo Downsizing Dinner.

Crock Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu

A close up of cheese and cream soup in a crock.
Crock Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This slow cooker take on chicken cordon bleu brings together tender chicken, melty cheese, and savory ham in a creamy sauce. It’s a simple way to create a meal that feels special without the extra effort. Serve it with rice or over a bed of pasta for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

Serving trays with bbq chicken and salad.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Air fryer BBQ chicken delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy outside in a fraction of the time. Toss it with your favorite BBQ sauce for a dinner that pairs perfectly with coleslaw, baked beans, or a fresh green salad. It’s a quick and satisfying option for busy evenings or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

A pan of bacon ranch casserole topped with tater tots and cheese.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: little house Big Alaska.

This hearty casserole layers chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch under a topping of golden tater tots. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day. Serve it on its own or with a side of roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Baked casserole with a crumbly topping in a white dish, resting on a striped cloth, with a serving spoon inserted.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This classic dish combines tender chicken with a savory stuffing topping that’s baked to perfection. It’s a warm, satisfying meal that’s ideal for a chilly evening or a simple Sunday dinner. Pair it with steamed green beans or a side salad for a wholesome plate.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Chicken Piccata

Creamy chicken in a cast iron skillet with capers.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Bright, tangy, and full of flavor, chicken piccata is a perfect dinner for those who enjoy bold, lemony dishes. The thinly sliced chicken is seared and simmered in a buttery lemon-caper sauce that’s great over pasta or rice. It’s quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for guests.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Stuffed Chicken

A baking dish full of stuffed chicken breasts.
Stuffed Chicken. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Stuffed chicken brings variety to your dinner table with a flavorful filling of cheese, spinach, or even ham and herbs. It’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile meal for any night of the week. Serve it with roasted potatoes or a side of vegetables for a balanced plate.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken

Crispy Chicken Salad

A salad with crispy chicken and dressing on top.
Crispy Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Crispy chicken salad is a refreshing option when you want something light but filling. Breaded chicken adds a satisfying crunch, while fresh greens and a tangy dressing bring the meal together. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken or make a quick lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken Salad

Easy Roasted Chicken

Roasted chicken nestled amongst potatoes, onions, and carrots in the baking pan.
Easy Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: .

Roasting a whole chicken is an easy way to prepare a flavorful, juicy meal with minimal effort. Add your favorite seasonings, and pair it with roasted vegetables or potatoes for a meal that feels timeless and satisfying. It’s a reliable option for family dinners or meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Easy Roasted Chicken

Oven Fried Chicken

Oven fried chicken with cherry tomatoes.
Oven Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Oven-fried chicken delivers all the crispy goodness of fried chicken without the mess or added oil. Perfectly seasoned and baked, it’s a great choice for a family dinner or casual party. Serve it with mashed potatoes and a side of gravy or biscuits for a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Oven Fried Chicken

Blackened Chicken Thighs

Chicken coated in seasoning on a plate with tomatoes.
Blackened Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Blackened chicken thighs are bold and flavorful, coated with a smoky, spiced rub and seared to perfection. They’re versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or even a crisp side salad. This recipe is great when you’re craving something with a bit of a kick.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Thighs

Chicken Pot Pies

Two pot pies sitting on top of a baking sheet.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Mini chicken pot pies are a delightful way to enjoy a warm and comforting meal. With a flaky crust and a creamy chicken and vegetable filling, they’re great for dinner or meal prepping. They can be baked as individual servings or one big pie, depending on your preference.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pies

Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Chicken breasts on a plate with vegetables around it.
Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

These stuffed chicken breasts are cooked to perfection in the air fryer, resulting in a crispy outside and a flavorful filling. From cheesy spinach to peppery ham, you can customize the filling to suit your tastes. It’s a quick and easy dish that feels like a step up from everyday chicken dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Marry Me Chicken in the Crock Pot

Crock Pot Marry Me Chicken on a plate with pasta.
Marry Me Chicken in the Crock Pot. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s slow-cooked to tender perfection. The combination of rich sauce and tender chicken makes it a standout meal, ideal for pairing with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. It’s a great recipe for date nights or family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken in the Crock Pot

Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

A cast iron skillet with chicken and apples in it.
Apple Cider Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Apple cider chicken brings together the sweetness of apples and the savory depth of a perfectly seared chicken breast. This one-skillet meal is perfect for fall but delicious any time of year. Serve it with roasted root vegetables or a simple side salad.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Chicken Skillet

Spicy Chicken Strips

A dozen crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders on white parchment paper, with a glaze drizzled over them.
Spicy Chicken Strips. Photo Downsizing Dinner.

These sweet and spicy chicken strips are perfect for adding some heat to your dinner. Tossed in a sticky glaze, they’re great as a standalone meal, a salad topper, or even as an appetizer. Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a cooling contrast to the spice.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Chicken Strips

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