There’s something comforting about knowing you have a few chicken recipes up your sleeve for when life gets hectic. These 13 dishes are our go-to because they don’t require hours in the kitchen, yet they’re hearty enough to gather everyone around the table. It’s about making those precious dinner moments count, even on the busiest days.
![Low angle shot of a blue and white striped bowl filled with Thai chicken curry.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/thai-chicken-curry-fdl.jpg)
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
![Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/instant-pot-black-beans.jpg)
If you’re eyeing a cozy dinner but time isn’t on your side, here’s where technology meets tradition. Instant Pot Chicken Adobo brings home the rich, tangy flavors you crave with a fraction of the effort. The perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet makes your evening meal less about the rush and more about the savor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
Chicken Karaage
![Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/chicken-karaage-oh-horiz-3.jpg)
Craving something crispy without the hassle of deep frying? Chicken Karaage has covered you with its golden, crunch exterior and juicy inside. It’s the dish that promises restaurant-quality taste right from your kitchen, ensuring your busy nights are still filled with quality eats.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage
Gochujang Chicken
![Gochujang chicken on a platter with fresh herbs.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Gochujang-Chicken-1600-2.jpg)
When your palate is begging for a little adventure, Gochujang Chicken answers the call. This dish effortlessly combines the fiery zest of Korean cuisine with the simplicity needed for a weeknight meal. It’s a vibrant, flavor-packed option that will undoubtedly add a kick to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
![Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/salt-and-pepper-chicken-16-x-9.jpg)
Forget about your local takeout; achieving crispy, flavorful wings at home is simpler than you might think. Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings bring the pub favorite to your table with minimal fuss. They’re the quintessential game night fare or weeknight treat that pairs perfectly with your favorite dip.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Kung Pao Chicken
![Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kung-Pao-Chicken-1600-2.jpg)
For those evenings when only something with a bit of heat will do, Kung Pao Chicken is the go-to. It strikes a fine balance between spicy, sweet, and savory, incorporating a delightful crunch from the veggies. Plus, it’s a flexible dish, ready to adapt to whatever’s in your pantry.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Harissa Chicken
![Harissa chicken in a baking pan with a plate of it over rice with yogurt and herbs on the side.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Harissa-Chicken-1600-2.jpg)
Spice up your dinner lineup with Harissa Chicken, a dish that’s as bold in flavor and easy to prepare. This North African-inspired creation lends a smoky, spicy depth to your usual chicken routine. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something truly sophisticated with the right touch.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken
Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken
![Fried salt and pepper chicken in a black bowl lined with parchment paper.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/af-salt-and-pepper-chicken.jpg)
If you’re aiming for crispy perfection without the oil-splattered cleanup, Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken becomes your kitchen ally. This method delivers the desired texture and taste with a healthier twist. It’s an uncomplicated dish for those who want to keep things light yet satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken
Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken
![Overhead shot of a striped bowl with kung pao chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/af-kung-pao-horiz-1-1.jpg)
Bring the heat to your weeknights without guilt using Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken. This version retains all the beloved spicy, savory, and sweet notes while cutting down on the grease. It’s the dish that proves you can have your flavor and eat it too, minus the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken
Mochiko Chicken
![A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/mochiko-chicken.jpg)
When your taste buds are in the mood for something uniquely savory and sweet, Mochiko Chicken is the answer. This Hawaiian favorite wraps tender chicken in a light, crispy coating for a hard-to-reresist texture. It’s a delightful deviation from the norm that brings a taste of the islands to your table.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken
Pad Kee Mao with Chicken
![A bowl of pad kee mao with chicken shot from above.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/pad-kee-mao-9-1.jpg)
For those craving the bold flavors of Thai street food, Pad Kee Mao with Chicken delivers. This dish is a vibrant mix of spices, heat, and everything nice, making it a perfect pick for spicing up your dinner routine. It’s like taking a culinary trip to Thailand without leaving your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pad Kee Mao with Chicken
Sweet and Spicy Chicken Salad
![Curried chicken salad with apples, raisins, and cashews in a bowl.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/curry-chicken-salad-la-horiz-2.jpg)
Who said salads have to be boring? Sweet and Spicy Chicken Salad mixes crunch, zest, and a hint of sweetness to prove otherwise. It’s a refreshing change of pace for those nights when a heavy meal won’t do.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Chicken Salad
Thai Chicken Curry
![Low angle shot of a blue and white striped bowl filled with Thai chicken curry.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/thai-chicken-curry-fdl.jpg)
When you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting, Thai Chicken Curry is like a hug in a bowl. Its rich, aromatic sauce envelops tender chicken pieces, creating a harmonious, soothing and satisfying dish. It’s a flavorful journey that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum taste.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry
Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
![Stacked taquitos on a plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/taquitos-la-horiz.jpg)
Busy night ahead? Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos are here to save the day with their crisp texture and flavorful filling. They’re a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly, proving that quick meals can still be fun and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos