15 chicken meals guaranteed to make dinner the best part of the day

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Chicken dinners are a go-to for a reason—they’re versatile, easy to make, and always satisfying. Whether you’re looking for something quick on a weeknight or a dish that feels a bit more special, these meals have you covered. Each recipe brings out the best in chicken, turning simple ingredients into delicious dinners everyone will enjoy. Get ready to make dinner the highlight of your day with these guaranteed winners.

Roasted chicken and vegetables in a skillet on a cutting board.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy takes about an hour to prepare and delivers comforting flavors of tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy tarragon-infused gravy, all wrapped in a flaky pie crust. The tarragon adds a subtle anise-like flavor that complements the savory filling perfectly. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Enjoy the rich taste of this classic dish with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Overhead shot of grilled maple mustard chicken.
Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tanginess of mustard for a flavorful meal ready in just 30 minutes. The chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a smoky flavor that pairs well with the rich, sticky sauce. This dish is simple yet impressive, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Maple Mustard Chicken

Chicken Shawarma Plate

Chicken Shawarma Plate. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

The Chicken Shawarma Plate is a vibrant dish packed with Mediterranean flavors, featuring marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty garlic sauce. This meal takes about 45 minutes to prepare and is perfect for a fresh and flavorful dinner. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of warm spices, giving it an authentic taste that’s both savory and aromatic. Pair it with rice or pita for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma Plate

Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

A serving of creamy balsamic chicken skillet next to a serving of green salad.
Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet is ready in just 30 minutes, offering a rich and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. The balsamic vinegar adds a deep, slightly sweet flavor, while the creaminess of the sauce makes this dish comforting and satisfying. It’s an easy and delicious dinner option that’s sure to please. Serve it over pasta or with a side of vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Chicken Skillet

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Cilantro lime chicken on a plate next to avocado and cilantro garnish.
Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice is a fresh and zesty dish that’s ready in about 40 minutes, combining tender chicken with a burst of lime and the aromatic flavor of cilantro. The rice absorbs all the delicious juices, making it a flavorful and hearty meal. It’s a simple, yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Enjoy this meal with a side of avocado or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Roasted chicken and vegetables in a skillet on a cutting board.
Roasted Chicken and Vegetables. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Roasted Chicken and Vegetables is a one-pan meal that takes about 50 minutes to cook, featuring juicy chicken seasoned with garlic and herbs, paired with a medley of roasted winter vegetables. The flavors meld together as everything roasts, creating a hearty and delicious dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight meal. Enjoy the rich, savory taste of this simple, wholesome dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Chicken and Vegetables

Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

An overhead shot of a wooden serving bowl filled with salad next to cornbread on a cutting board.
Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

The Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad is a flavorful and refreshing dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare, combining tender BBQ chicken with crisp greens and a tangy dressing. The barbecue sauce adds a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs well with the fresh vegetables. It’s a light yet satisfying meal, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Enjoy this salad with a side of cornbread or your favorite rolls.
Get the Recipe: Carolina BBQ Chicken Salad

Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

Low angle shot of korean fried chicken with a hand holding a piece of the chicken.
Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken offers a crispy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes. The air fryer gives the chicken a perfect crunch without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier option. This dish is packed with bold flavors from the Korean-style sauce, making it a standout meal. Serve it with rice or veggies for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Serving of buffalo chicken pasta bake with casserole dish.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and spicy buffalo sauce for a hearty meal that takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The pasta soaks up all the flavors, making it a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for dinner. This bake is rich and flavorful, with just the right amount of heat. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

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

Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s ready in about 35 minutes, featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with fresh tomatoes and melted mozzarella. The combination of the tangy tomatoes and creamy cheese creates a deliciously satisfying meal. This dish is light but full of flavor, making it perfect for a quick dinner. Enjoy it with a side of pasta or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken

Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Chicken casserole with baked cheese inside a white dish.
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole is a rich and creamy dish that’s ready in about 45 minutes, combining chicken, cheese, and bacon for an indulgent meal. The casserole is loaded with flavors, making it a hit for dinner or gatherings. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to be a family favorite. Serve it with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

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

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta is a set-it-and-forget-it meal that takes about 4 hours in the slow cooker, resulting in tender chicken and pasta infused with creamy, cheesy goodness. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying dinner. This dish is perfect for a busy day when you want a delicious meal without much effort. Pair it with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey garlic chicken in a bowl served over rice.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that takes about 4 hours to cook, offering tender chicken coated in a rich honey garlic sauce. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful, making it a great option for an easy dinner. This dish is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort. Serve it over rice or with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Dairy-Free Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

white bowl with chicken pasta with sundried tomatoes and peas and garlic and a light linen around the bowl.
Dairy-Free Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Dairy-Free Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that takes about 4 hours to prepare, offering all the richness of a classic Alfredo without the dairy. The chicken is tender and flavorful, making it a perfect pairing with the smooth, dairy-free sauce. This dish is a great option for those with dietary restrictions, without compromising on taste. Serve it over pasta or with a side of steamed vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Dairy-Free Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

Closeup overhead shot of 3 crispy chicken thighs in a black cast iron skillet.
Cast Iron Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Cast Iron Chicken Thighs are a quick and flavorful dish that takes about 25 minutes to prepare, featuring crispy, golden skin and juicy, tender meat. Cooking in a cast iron skillet ensures even heat distribution, giving the chicken a perfect sear. This dish is simple but delivers big on flavor, making it ideal for a fast dinner. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Chicken Thighs

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