13 chicken recipes that deserve a spot on your table tonight

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These 13 chicken recipes will quickly earn a spot on your dinner table and might just become the go-to favorites. They’re the kind of meals that keep everyone happy, full, and satisfied without you breaking a sweat. Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or just need something easy after a long day, these dishes cover all the bases and more. It’s time to stop overthinking dinner—chicken’s got you covered in the tastiest way possible!

Roasted chicken with a crispy, golden-brown skin on a white plate, served with a side of greens in a black bowl.
Whole Baked BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken Pot Pie

A slice of chicken pot pie being lifted, showing its creamy filling with chunks of chicken and vegetables, garnished with thyme.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you want something warm and comforting for dinner, nothing beats a hearty Chicken Pot Pie. It’s packed with tender chicken pieces, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all tucked under a golden-baked crust. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you of home, perfect for those cooler evenings or anytime you need a bit of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who love a little kick to their meals, Chipotle Grilled Chicken offers just the right amount of spice. The chipotle peppers give the chicken a smoky heat that is hard to resist, making it a fantastic choice for BBQs or any outdoor cooking event. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the heat level to cater to everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce.
Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re a fan of fast food but want to try making a healthier version at home, Chick-fil-A Nuggets should definitely be on your to-cook list. These nuggets are juicy, tender, and have that distinct seasoning mix that makes them so popular. What’s more, by making them at home, you can control the quality of the ingredients. It’s a great way to indulge in your fast food cravings without stepping out.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Kung Pao Chicken brings a bit of the Sichuan province to your dining table, known for its bold flavors and slight heat. It combines chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a sweet and spicy sauce that is incredibly moreish. This dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine for good reason and can make a weeknight dinner feel like a special occasion. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for those busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

A serving of creamy chicken pot pie casserole with vegetables, lifted on a fork, with a flaky crust and garnished with herbs.
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re looking for a twist on a classic, Chicken Pot Pie Casserole turns a traditional favorite into an even easier to serve dish. It deconstructs the conventional pot pie, layering the chicken and vegetable mixture under a blanket of biscuits or pie crust pieces. This version simplifies the process without sacrificing any of the comfort or taste. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of a pot pie without the fuss of a pie.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

A dish of seasoned chicken breasts garnished with parsley, surrounded by carrots and potatoes in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken is the epitome of set it and forget it, making your life significantly easier on those hectic days. Just throw the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do its thing. By dinner time, you’ll be greeted with tender, flavorful chicken that goes well with almost anything. It’s an incredibly versatile recipe, great for salads, tacos, or served as is.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

Chicken Tamale Pie

A serving of chicken tamale pie topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.
Chicken Tamale Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When craving something uniquely comforting, Chicken Tamale Pie offers a mix of flavors that’s hard to beat. It combines the sweetness of cornbread with the savory taste of seasoned chicken, all baked to perfection. It’s a one-dish wonder that captures the essence of tamales without the labor-intensive process. Plus, it’s always a hit, whether you’re serving it for family dinner or a potluck.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamale Pie

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Close-up of a pasta dish with corn, bacon, and herbs, seasoned with a creamy yellow sauce.
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those chilly nights when you’re craving something creamy and comforting, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta hits the spot perfectly. This dish balances the sweetness of corn with the savory richness of chicken in a creamy sauce, tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a quick and easy meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Not only does it taste great, but it also brings a comforting warmth to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes topped with blue cheese, drizzled with ranch dressing, and garnished with green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes combine the thrill of spicy buffalo chicken with the comforting familiarity of baked potatoes. This combo transforms the humble potato into a flavorful feast with the chicken adding a protein punch. It’s ideal for when you want something a little different yet utterly fulfilling. Plus, it’s customizable with your choice of toppings, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This dish is a refreshing take on traditional chicken salad, adding a dose of sweetness and crunch. The cranberries bring a bright pop of flavor, while the pecans add an irresistible texture contrast. It’s perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even just on its own. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad proves that chicken salad can be anything but boring, offering a delicious twist on a classic.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who enjoy the sweet-savory combination,Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe recreates a famous fast-food favorite at home. It marries the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with succulent pieces of chicken for a dish that’s hard to resist. It’s simpler than you might think to make, and it allows for a healthier version of a take-out treat. Enjoy it over rice for a complete meal that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Seven Layer Salad is a showstopper, layering colors, textures, and flavors in a way that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With chicken added to the mix, it becomes a hearty meal that’s as suited to a weeknight dinner as it is to a party. It’s a great way to pack in a variety of vegetables along with a good protein punch. Each layer brings its own unique taste, making every forkful a delicious experience.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Whole Baked BBQ Chicken

Roasted chicken with a crispy, golden-brown skin on a white plate, served with a side of greens in a black bowl.
Whole Baked BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This recipe can be the focal point of a fantastic meal, bringing everyone to the table eager to share. Baking it whole locks in the moisture, ensuring the meat is succulent and tender, with the BBQ sauce providing a sweet and tangy outer glaze. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare but always impressive to serve. Whole Baked BBQ Chicken is perfect for a relaxed weekend meal, giving you that BBQ taste without the grill.
Get the Recipe: Whole Baked BBQ Chicken

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