17 chicken recipes that are off your radar (but shouldn’t be)

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These chicken recipes might not be on your radar yet, but they deserve a spot in your weekly rotation. They’re easy to make and perfect for adding variety to your meals, especially when you’re tired of the usual options. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend, these 17 dishes offer a fresh take on chicken that will keep everyone coming back for more.

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals, Kung Pao Chicken is a must-try dish. It’s a thrilling blend of flavors that can turn any dinner into an exciting event. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for something different to cook at home, this recipe won’t disappoint. It’s a splendid way to spice up your chicken routine.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

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

Craving comfort food? Chick-fil-A Nuggets offer that familiar and beloved taste right from your own kitchen. This recipe produces nuggets that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Ideal for gatherings or a family-friendly meal, these nuggets promise to be a hit among both adults and kids. They bring a touch of restaurant quality to your dining table without the need to leave your home.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets

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.

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole combines the cozy vibes of home-cooked meals with the heartiness of classic comfort food. It’s an excellent choice for chilly evenings when you need something to warm you up from the inside out. This casserole offers all the beloved flavors of traditional pot pie, but with less fuss in the kitchen. Every forkful is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for a crunch that packs a punch, Homemade KFC Zinger Burger is your go-to option. This recipe allows you to recreate the iconic burger with your twist. It’s perfect for weekend BBQs or when you’re just in need of a lovely meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. This homemade version brings a sense of accomplishment that you can’t find in fast food.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those evenings when you crave something bold and spicy, try Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. This dish is a breeze to prepare, making it a weeknight lifesaver. It merges the richness of pasta with the excitement of chipotle spices, creating a meal that’s both comforting and exhilarating. A lovely choice for anyone looking to break the monotony of their usual pasta night.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Glazed barbecued chicken drumsticks on a white plate.
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks offer a healthier take on a BBQ favorite without sacrificing flavor. Utilizing an air fryer means less oil and a quicker cooking time, making it an excellent option for busy days. They come out beautifully crispy and smothered in BBQ goodness. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved classic while keeping things light.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Chick-fil-A Sauce

A bowl of smooth, creamy peanut butter with a hint of Chick-fil-A sauce and a spoon inside.
Chick-fil-A Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Missing that special something from your chicken dishes? Chick-fil-A Sauce might just be the answer. This recipe brings the fast-food giant’s signature sauce into your home. It’s incredibly versatile and can transform any chicken meal, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that’s hard to resist. This sauce will quickly become a staple in your fridge.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Sauce

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken and Rice Casserole serves up comfort in every bite. It’s a seamless blend of simplicity and home-cooked goodness, making it a favorite for family dinners. This dish not only warms the stomach but also the heart, with its creamy texture and hearty flavors. It serves as a gentle reminder of the joys of simple, uncomplicated meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

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.

For a twist on traditional tamales, Chicken Tamale Pie is a revelation. It captures the essence of beloved Mexican flavors baked into a pie that’s both enjoyable and innovative. This dish is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to spice up any meal with its unique composition and delicious taste. The perfect choice for those seeking an adventure at dinnertime.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamale Pie

Cowboy Casserole

Close-up of a cowboy casserole in a white dish, showing layers of ground meat and vegetables topped with a golden-brown mashed potato crust, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Take you on a trip to the Wild West with its rustic flavors and hearty ingredients with Cowboy Casserole. It’s the kind of meal that immediately feels like a warm hug, ideal for days when you need an extra bit of comfort. This casserole is a testament to the joy of combining simple ingredients to create something wonderfully touching. It promises a dining experience that’s both nourishing and enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Casserole

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.

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is an ode to the creamy treats of pasta dishes. It marries the sweetness of corn with the richness of chicken in a sauce that’s utterly comforting. Perfect for days when you need a meal that’s both filling and heartwarming. This pasta dish stands out as a creamy treat in a sea of tomato-based sauces.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

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.

Bring a burst of freshness to your meal routine with Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. It’s a splendid mix of textures and flavors, ideal for light lunches or as a sophisticated side dish. This salad is a celebration of contrasts, from the tartness of the cranberries to the crunch of the pecans. It offers a refreshing take on chicken salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

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 reimagines the classic baked potato with a spicy and flavorful twist. This dish is perfect for those who like their meals with a bit of a kick. It combines the comfort of a baked potato with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken, creating a meal that’s both innovative and rewarding. A fantastic choice for a cozy night in or a casual dinner party.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Cobb Salad

A close-up of a Cobb salad featuring sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, avocado, boiled eggs, red onion, bacon bits, and blue cheese crumbles on a bed of lettuce.
Cobb Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A timeless classic that never disappoints is Cobb Salad. It’s a colorful and nutritious option packed with flavors that work in harmony to create a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a hearty lunch, this salad covers all bases with its balanced composition. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can produce something truly special.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Close-up of a chicken and dumpling casserole dish filled with vegetables, including peas, carrots, and chunks of biscuit mixed with tender pieces of meat in a creamy sauce.
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole brings the soul-soothing flavors of Southern cooking right to your table. It’s a comforting dish that serves warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Ideal for cold days or whenever you need a comforting meal that feels like a hug from the inside. This casserole is a beautiful homage to traditional cooking, offering a taste of home no matter where you are.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a touch of Italian-inspired elegance, Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara offers a delicious dining experience. This recipe brings the ambiance of Olive Garden into your home, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without the high-end restaurant price tag. It’s a wonderful meal option for romantic dinners or when you’re looking to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Chicken Casserole is the epitome of weeknight dinner solutions. This dish is straightforward to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. It’s perfect for busy evenings when time is of the essence but you still want a meal that’s hearty and comforting. A dependable recipe that proves simplicity often leads to the best outcomes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

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