These 17 chicken dishes won’t break your budget

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Finding a delicious chicken recipe that keeps your wallet happy? These 17 dishes do just that. No fancy frills or price tags here—just reliable recipes that make budget-friendly meals feel like a treat. From family favorites to quick weeknight wonders, each one’s designed to keep things simple and delicious. With these options, you’ll be a budgeting pro in the kitchen!

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

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.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy provides a fantastic option for a hearty meal without breaking the bank. You set it, forget it, and before you know it, dinner is ready without any fuss. The creamy gravy ties the dish together, giving it a comfort food feel. With minimal prep, it’s a winner for those busy weeknight dinners.
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.

Cooking up a batch of Chicken Gnocchi Soup will have everyone coming back for seconds. This dish is a powerhouse of comfort, perfect for those evenings when you need a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy on the wallet while still being a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the leftover potential is fantastic; it’s just as good the next day!
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.

If you’re looking for a dish that brings some Mediterranean flair without the high cost, Mediterranean Chicken Bake is your go-to. It’s simple to toss together, and once it’s in the oven, your work is mostly done. Perfect for a busy night when you want something nutritious and straightforward. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to have a flavor-packed dinner.
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.

If you’re after some homey vibes without breaking the bank, Chicken Paprikash has got you covered. It’s a classic dish that brings comfort to your dinner table without all the fuss. Plus, you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. With this dish on your menu, you’ll nail dinner time like a pro.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’ve got leftover rice and you’re not sure what to do with it, Chicken Fried Rice is a no-brainer. It’s quick to whip up and hits the spot every single time. You’re basically giving leftovers a glow-up and no one would even guess it. So next time you’re in a pinch, remember this dish will sort you out.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of kick, Chicken Tinga’s got your back. It’s the kind of meal that brings a bit of pizzazz to the table without making your wallet weep. You’ll be the dinner champ with this one, trust me. Serve it up and watch as it disappears quicker than you can say “yum.”
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Got an air fryer? You’ve gotta try whipping up Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu in that bad boy. It’s like bringing restaurant vibes right into your kitchen without the hefty price tag. This dish is pure genius for when you want to impress without the stress—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and absolutely legendary.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Zoodle Soup

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

On those days you’re looking for something light but still filling, Chicken Zoodle Soup should be your go-to. It’s the perfect way to do dinner differently, and it’s so easy it almost feels like cheating. You’ll bowl over your friends with this one – it’s a game changer. And bonus, you’ll feel pretty good about serving it too.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Chicken Scampi

A white plate with Chicken Scampi and green beans resting in the center.
Chicken Scampi. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Sometimes you just crave something that feels a little fancy, and Chicken Scampi hits that spot without costing you a fortune. It’s the kind of meal that’ll make your evening feel special without any extra hassle. It’s downright delicious, and honestly, it’ll probably be on your mind for days. Serve this up for a win at dinner any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Scampi

Chicken Taco Casserole

A white plate with chicken Taco Casserole avocado on it.
Chicken Taco Casserole. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Let’s be real, who doesn’t love tacos? Now take that love and multiply it because Chicken Taco Casserole is like the ultimate taco experience. It’s all the good stuff you crave in one dish, and it’s as easy as it gets. Your crew will be lining up for this one, and it definitely won’t hurt your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Casserole

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.

Ever crave that restaurant soup but not the dine-out price? That’s where Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup comes in. You can recreate that rich, restaurant-quality soup right at home. It’s comforting, it’s filling, and yep, it’s pretty kind to your budget, too.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

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.

When you’re wanting something on the lighter side but still packed with taste, Chinese Chicken Salad is your answer. It’s fresh, it’s easy, and it’s the sort of dish that makes lunchtime exciting. Plus, you can feel pretty fancy without spending all that cash. This one’s a keeper for those days you want to keep it simple and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

A hand holding a spoonful of creamy chicken noodle soup with vegetables over a bowl, accompanied by slices of bread on a plate.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

There’s just something about Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup that screams comfort without being all high-maintenance. Whether you need a pick-me-up or just a simple meal, this soup’s like a hug in a bowl. It’s seriously hard to mess up and it’s perfect for when you want something no-fuss but fulfilling. Honestly, it might just be your new go-to for those lazy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Got a thing for Italian without wanting to fork out the dough? Italian Chicken is where it’s at. It’s the sort of dish that’ll have everyone thinking you spent hours in the kitchen, but we both know the truth. You’ll absolutely ace dinner time with this one on your side.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

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.

There’s no need to hit up the chain for your favorite dish when you can master Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken at home. This one’s a stunner, providing the comforts of eating out while chilling at home. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to switch things up a bit. Plus, it’s kind on your pockets – double win!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a bit of Mexican flair without the need for a siesta afterwards? Chicken Tinga Tostadas will get you there. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to eat as it is to say. It’s seriously munch-worthy and will have your friends raving without any of the spendy regrets.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Sometimes you just need a burrito fix, and Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito is your at-home solution. It’s the kind of meal that’ll fill you up and have you patting yourself on the back for your cooking skills. The best bit? You get those fast food vibes without the cost or the drive-thru.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

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