17 quick chicken meals for busy evenings

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Busy evenings don’t have to mean boring dinners. With these 17 quick and easy chicken meals, you can have a delicious, home-cooked dinner on the table in no time. These recipes are perfect for those hectic days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. So, if you’re ready to take the stress out of weeknight dinners, these chicken recipes are your go-to solution.

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

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Busy evenings require quick solutions for dinner, and this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Offering a robust and creamy option, Creamy Tuscan Chicken serves as a fantastic choice for those who want a meal that is both quick to prepare and comforting. It is a perfect way to wind down a hectic day with a meal that feels both sophisticated and effortless.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Korma

Low angle shot of bowls of chicken korma.
Instant Pot Chicken Korma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in a rush but craving something with rich flavors, Instant Pot Chicken Korma is your go-to meal. This recipe ensures a swift preparation without compromising on the deep, complex flavors expected from a traditional dish. It’s a practical choice that offers both convenience and a touch of gourmet to your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Korma

Ramen Fried Chicken

Hand reaching into a bowl of ramen fried chicken pieces.
Ramen Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When time is of the essence, Ramen Fried Chicken provides an inventive and speedy dinner option. This unique dish combines familiar elements in a novel way to create a quick meal that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something a little different without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the plate!
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken

Thai Chicken Satay

Overhead shot of thai chicken satay on a black plate with peanut sauce on the side.
Thai Chicken Satay. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a meal that transports you to another part of the world without leaving your kitchen, Thai Chicken Satay is an excellent choice. This dish brings the aromatic and exciting flavors of Thailand into your home, all while ensuring a quick turnaround suitable for a busy evening. It’s ideal for when you desire a meal that is both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Satay

Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken

A hand holding a crispy fried chicken drumstick.
Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken is perfect for those who love a crispy, golden crust without the hassle of deep frying. This recipe offers a healthier alternative by using an air fryer, ensuring a mess-free and quick cooking process. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a classic favorite on a tight schedule, providing both convenience and flavor in one easy-to-make dish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Pollo Pibil

Pollo pibil on a grey plate with limes and shredded lettuce.
Pollo Pibil. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re looking for a meal that’s both quick and infused with flavor, Pollo Pibil is an excellent choice. This dish is steeped in tradition and can be prepared swiftly. It combines simplicity with a rich cultural heritage, ensuring that your quick meal is also a course of taste. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a fuss-free way to bring a taste of tradition to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

Gochujang Chicken

Gochujang chicken on a platter with fresh herbs.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Gochujang Chicken is the perfect recipe for those evenings when you crave something spicy and flavorful but need it fast. This dish uses vibrant flavors to create a meal that’s as exciting as it is easy to prepare. It’s great for anyone looking to add a quick yet delicious and bold dish to their dinner rotation. The spicy kick provides a delectable twist to your evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Low angle shot of chicken shawarma on a white platter with harissa paste and tomatoes and cucumbers in the background.
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a taste of the Middle East without leaving your home, try Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma. This dish is quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a busy evening. It offers a practical and delicious way to enjoy a traditionally slow-cooked dish in a fraction of the time, using an Instant Pot. Ideal for a flavorful, no-fuss dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Tandoori Chicken

A plate of tandoori chicken with a side dish of cooked rice, shot from a low angle.
Tandoori Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re in the mood for something exotic yet easy to prepare, Tandoori Chicken is the answer. This recipe allows you to recreate the bold flavors typical of this beloved dish with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy individuals who want to prepare a meal that’s both quick and flavorful. This dish offers a fantastic way to enjoy international cuisine at home.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Chicken

Avgolemono Soup

a bowl of soup with lemon, rice, and fresh parsley with a spoon.
Avgolemono Soup. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

For those evenings when you crave simplicity with a touch of elegance, Avgolemono Soup is a match. This dish is both comforting and light, making it ideal for a quick dinner after a long day. It’s a smooth, soothing choice that brings a bit of Mediterranean flair to your table with minimal effort. Let this dish be your go-to when you need a meal that’s quick and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Avgolemono Soup

Kung Pao Chicken

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

Turn up the heat on your dinner routine with Kung Pao Chicken, a dish known for its vibrant kick. This meal is perfect for those who enjoy a little spice and a lot of flavors, all wrapped up in a quick and easy dinner option. It’s ideal for a bustling weekday where time is of the essence but flavor is not compromised. Enjoy this lively dish that packs a punch and cuts down on kitchen time.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Chicken Kathi Rolls

Low angle shot of 3 chicken kathi rolls wrappedin foil on a wooden plate with fresh mint leaves.
Chicken Kathi Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re in the mood for something different yet quick, Chicken Kathi Rolls are the perfect pick. This dish wraps flavor and convenience into one, making it a great choice for a handheld meal on the go. It’s particularly suited for those busy nights when sitting down is a luxury. Grab one of these rolls and enjoy a fulfilling meal that keeps pace with your busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Kathi Rolls

Mochiko Chicken

A hand holding a crispy piece of mochiko chicken.
Mochiko Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dig into Mochiko Chicken for a quick taste of Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. This dish offers a crunch and a hint of sweetness, making it a popular choice among both kids and adults. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a meal that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum enjoyment. Serve this at your next family gathering for a casual yet memorable dinner everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mochiko Chicken

Chicken Karaage

Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.
Chicken Karaage. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Japanese cuisine brings you Chicken Karaage, a dish celebrated for its crispy texture and juicy interior. This meal is a fantastic way to indulge in something deliciously quick and satisfying without the fuss. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want a meal that feels special but doesn’t keep you tied to the kitchen. Enjoy this dish as a perfect way to wind down a hectic day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken

Fried salt and pepper chicken in a black bowl lined with parchment paper.
Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken offers a no-fuss dinner solution that doesn’t skimp on flavor. This dish is ready in minutes, providing a crispy, peppery treat that goes well with any side. It’s the perfect recipe for health-conscious diners looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy chicken. Make this your staple on nights when time is tight but the craving for something good is big.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken

Pancit Bihon

Pancit noodles on a plate with veggies and chicken.
Pancit Bihon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a meal that’s as nourishing as it is quick, Pancit Bihon stands out. This Filipino favorite is a fulfilling dish that combines simplicity with the rich taste of tradition. It’s perfect for last-minute dinners where you need something that can be whipped up quickly yet fills the room with an inviting aroma. Serve this at any family meal for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon

Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Stir-fried diced chicken with dried chilies and spring onions in a black skillet.
Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken brings an unconventional twist to your dinner table, offering a bold blend of flavors that awaken the palate. This dish is ideal for those looking to break away from the mundane with a meal that’s as speedy as it is exciting. It’s perfect for adventurous eaters who appreciate a meal that’s out of the ordinary yet easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

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