Don’t be chicken: 37 weeknight recipes to wow you

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Are you stuck in a weeknight dinner routine that lacks excitement? Tired of serving up the same old chicken dishes week after week? Well, it’s time to break free from the culinary monotony and make something that will have everyone asking for seconds.

These chicken creations are not only delicious but also easy to whip up on those busy evenings. Say goodbye to the dinner rut and hello to a world of bold flavors, innovative twists, and mouthwatering delights. Whether you’re craving the exotic tastes of Thai cuisine, the comforting classics of Italian comfort food, or the fiery kick of spicy Mexican dishes, we’ve got you covered.

Overhead shot of chicken tortilla soup in a red bowl on wooden table with tortilla strips on the soup.
Chicken Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Start your meal with comforting chicken tortilla soup, a quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring chicken, beans, and corn—a simple and tasty treat that satisfies your cravings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Enjoy classic sweet and sour chicken without deep frying in this healthier baked version. Crispy, tangy, and oh-so-delicious, it’s a family-friendly favorite that makes weeknight dinners enjoyable without the extra calories, ensuring a satisfying and guilt-free dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Baked Sweet and Sour Chicken

Shredded BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Honest & Truly.

Shredded BBQ Chicken

Satisfy your BBQ cravings with this delicious shredded BBQ chicken, perfect for sandwiches, salads, or baked potatoes. It offers a flavorful and easy-to-make weeknight dinner option that ensures you enjoy the irresistible taste of barbecue without the hassle of grilling.
Get the Recipe: Shredded BBQ Chicken

Miso Glazed Chicken

Elevate your weeknight dinner with the irresistible taste of Miso-Glazed Chicken. This perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors leaves you with tender, marinated chicken that’s simply mouthwatering. Discover the magic of this Asian-inspired recipe, sure to delight your palate and satisfy your dinner cravings.
Get the Recipe: Miso Glazed Chicken

Image shows Chicken tortellini soup in a ceramic enameled pot with a wooden spoon stirring it.
Chicken Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken Tortellini Soup

Delight in a comforting bowl of chicken tortellini soup, a soul-soothing weeknight dish made even more delightful with leftover rotisserie chicken. This recipe combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and flavorful broth for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for cooler evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortellini Soup

Chicken Fried Rice

Turn your leftover chicken into a flavorful and comforting weeknight meal with this easy chicken fried rice recipe. Versatile with your favorite veggies, it’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy dinner without the hassle, making it an ideal choice for satisfying your cravings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Image shows a closeup of chicken egg roll in a bowl in a blue enameled cast iron pot.
Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Discover the mouthwatering simplicity of Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl, a quick and flavorful weeknight recipe that satisfies your cravings in no time. It combines tender chicken, crisp veggies, and savory seasonings in one bowl, offering a convenient and delicious dinner option for those busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Southwest Tortilla Pie

Dive into the bold flavors of Southwest Tortilla Pie, featuring rotisserie chicken, black beans, corn, and zesty spices layered between crisp tortillas and topped with melted cheese. Whether as a main course or a festive party dish, this Southwest-inspired pie will impress your taste buds and provide a satisfying weeknight dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Tortilla Pie

Image shows a Bite of tomato lime chicken on a fork with rice and the rest of the bowl in the background.
Tomato Lime Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Experience the zesty and tangy flavors of slow cooker tomato lime chicken, a succulent weeknight dish that combines juicy chicken with vibrant tomato and lime accents. Let the slow cooker do the work for you, creating tender and flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with your favorite side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Tomato Lime Chicken

Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of semi-homemade chicken empanadas. These perfect summer appetizers are filled with flavorful chicken and encased in a golden, flaky crust. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party treat, these handheld delights are sure to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Semi-Homemade Chicken Empanadas

Image shows a closeup of Kung Pao Chicken Salad in a white bowl.
Kung Pao Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Kung Pao Chicken Salad

Elevate your weeknight salad game with this vibrant and zesty Kung Pao chicken salad. Packed with bold flavors, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s a refreshing and satisfying meal in a bowl that adds a touch of excitement to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad

Orange Chicken

Skip the takeout and indulge in homemade orange chicken bursting with tangy citrus flavors. Tender and delicious, this weeknight dinner option ensures you savor the sweet and savory goodness in every bite, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a flavorful and convenient meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Honey glazed chicken on a blue plate.
Honey Glazed Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Honey Glazed Chicken

Savor this delicious and easy-to-make honey glazed chicken for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Coated in a sweet and sticky glaze, it’s a flavor-packed choice that will have your taste buds singing with delight as you enjoy a fuss-free evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Chicken

Cashew Chicken

Dive into the rich and savory flavors of cashew chicken, a popular Chinese-inspired weeknight dish that’s sure to satisfy. Tender chicken and crunchy cashews combine in a flavorful sauce, creating a delicious and convenient dinner option that’s perfect for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Close up image of lemon garlic chicken with rice on a white plate.
Lemon Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Lemon Garlic Chicken

Liven up your dinner with Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken, infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This delightful and flavorful weeknight dish ensures each bite bursts with freshness and tanginess, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an exciting and convenient meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken

Thai Chicken Chili

Embark on a weeknight culinary adventure with Thai Chicken Chili, where fragrant spices and tender chicken create the perfect balance of heat and depth in every spoonful. Discover a flavorful and satisfying dinner option that adds a touch of excitement to your evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Chili

Olive garden chicken pasta on a fork.
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Transform your weeknight with the convenience of a slow cooker and the creamy goodness of Olive Garden chicken pasta. This easy-to-make copycat recipe ensures you can enjoy a delicious dinner without the hassle, perfect for busy evenings when you crave comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo

Discover the flavorful harmony of Mediterranean-inspired chicken with orzo, featuring tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and creamy feta cheese. It’s a Mediterranean feast for your palate that transforms weeknight dinners into a delightful and memorable culinary experience.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo

Blackened chicken tenders in a white dish.
Blackened Chicken Tenders (Popeye’s Copycat). Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Blackened Chicken Tenders (Popeye’s Copycat)

Indulge in the flavors of Popeye’s Chicken with these juicy, savory blackened chicken tenders. This healthier and budget-friendly version ensures you can satisfy your cravings for a beloved classic on any weeknight, making dinner a delightful and guilt-free experience.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Tenders (Popeye’s Copycat)

Chicken Pastina Soup

Make weeknight family dinners memorable with a comforting and healthy Chicken Pastina Soup. Featuring star-shaped pasta, veggies, lemon, and dill, it’s an easy meal that appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys a satisfying and delicious dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pastina Soup

A bowl of chicken and spinach soup with a spoon.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Warm up your weeknight with the comforting flavors of this copycat Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup. Creamy and delicious, it’s a must-try for soup enthusiasts seeking a hearty dinner option that’s quick and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce

Spice up your weeknight dinner routine with these quick & easy chicken lettuce wraps with peanut sauce. This low-carb Thai recipe adds a burst of flavor to your evening meal, ensuring your family savors a healthy and satisfying dinner that’s anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps With Peanut Sauce

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken inside cast iron.
Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

Take a flavorful journey with this Italian Baked Chicken filled with tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Baked until golden brown, it’s the ideal dish for a weeknight evening, offering juicy and flavorful chicken breasts that satisfy your craving for Italian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

Popcorn Chicken

Craving the taste of popcorn chicken? Try this baked version for a weeknight dinner that’s light on fat but heavy on flavor. Enjoy all the crispy goodness without the guilt, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a tasty yet healthier option.
Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Kung Pao Chicken

Weeknight dinners just got more exciting with this Kung Pao Chicken recipe. It features tender bits of chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a delightful salty-sweet sauce, reminiscent of your favorite takeout dish. Enjoy the convenience of a homemade version bursting with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Lemon Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

Elevate your weeknight dinner with these zesty lemon chicken thighs, roasted alongside fresh thyme, sweet peppers, tomatoes, shallots, and garlic. The result? An incredibly flavorful dish that’s not only easy to make but also perfect for those looking for a delicious one-pan meal.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner

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

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

If you love crispy, sweet-savory Sesame Chicken, try this air fryer version for a delightful weeknight dinner. Your family will appreciate this healthier take on a beloved Chinese restaurant classic, ensuring a tasty meal that’s just as good as takeout without the extra calories.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Skip the takeout and opt for this homemade honey garlic chicken cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. With a sticky, sweet, and healthier sauce, plus the surprise of pineapple pieces throughout, this easy recipe is destined to become a weeknight family favorite that’s both convenient and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Soy garlic wings on a blue plate surrounded by a white linen, a glass of bear, soy ginger sauce, and cloves of garlic.
Soy Garlic Wings. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Soy Garlic Wings

For a delightful weeknight treat, savor these crispy, juicy soy garlic chicken wings. They’re a healthier alternative, baked to perfection and packed with sweet and savory flavors, making them an excellent choice for a quick and guilt-free dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Soy Garlic Wings

Sticky Thai Chicken

Spice up your weeknight dinner with these sticky Thai chicken thighs. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re packed with authentic Thai flavor, making them better than takeout. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this homemade meal that’s perfect for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Thai Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken on a white plate on rice topped with parsley.
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

Make your weeknight dinner a breeze with this Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken. It’s a blend of savory spices and creamy sauce, resulting in tender chicken that’s both convenient and satisfying for those busy evenings when you need a delicious meal without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

Experience the creamy comfort of a dairy-free chicken pot pie made conveniently in a slow cooker. This twist on a classic dish offers traditional flavor with a gluten-free twist, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when you crave comfort food without the added fuss.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken bacon ranch casserole in baking dish.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Indulge in a creamy, cheesy, flavorful bacon ranch casserole dish with pasta. You will love this comforting chicken recipe for a cozy weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Harissa Chicken

Harissa chicken is so easy to make and loaded with deliciously spicy North African flavor. It’s amazing that it only has 6 ingredients (plus salt + pepper). I love cooking with Tunisian harissa paste, the spicy North African chile paste. It brings tons of flavor to this favorite weeknight chicken dish.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken

Cream cheese chicken in a white skillet.
Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cream Cheese Chicken

This cream cheese chicken is your answer to boring weeknight meals! Seasoned with 5 flavor-packed spices, it’s creamy, indulgent & full of savory goodness.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

Crock Pot Chicken Tacos

Spice up Taco Tuesday with this crock pot chicken tacos recipe! Cooked with honey and lime this recipe is perfect for a stress-free weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken Tacos

Pecan crusted chicken cut into slices on a plate with honey dijon sauce and green beans.
Pecan Crusted Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pecan Crusted Chicken

This pecan crusted chicken is served with a killer honey dijon yogurt sauce that takes this easy weeknight meal over the top. Crunchy and packed with flavor, this is a dinner everyone will ask for over and over.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Crusted Chicken

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