23 delectable chicken meals with minimal effort

Photo of author

| Published:

Say goodbye to boring chicken dinners with these 23 delectable, surprisingly easy-made meals. Each recipe offers a unique way to enjoy chicken, turning this common protein into extraordinary meals with minimal effort. These dishes are ideal for anyone looking to add some variety to their chicken repertoire without adding stress to their cooking routine. From comforting wraps to quick air-fried dishes, there’s a variety of styles to suit any taste and occasion.

The key to these recipes is their simplicity and flavor. They’re designed to be quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, these chicken meals are straightforward and foolproof. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these minimal-effort chicken dishes that are as delicious as they are easy to prepare.

low angle shot of a plate of fried chicken with sesame sauce and sesame seeds.
Air Fryer Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ramen Fried Chicken

This recipe is a twist on traditional fried chicken, incorporating the irresistible crunch and flavors of ramen. It’s an effortless way to bring some excitement to your dinner table. The chicken turns out beautifully crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside, and it’s all done without a hassle. This dish is a clever fusion that will make weeknight dinners more interesting.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Looking for a healthy and flavorful meal that’s easy to make? This recipe uses the air fryer to create succulent chicken shawarma that’s both juicy and full of spices. Wrapped in a soft pita with fresh veggies and sauce, it’s a convenient meal with a burst of flavor. Plus, the air fryer means less oil and more health benefits.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Low angle shot of a white bowl filled with tortilla soup. There is an instant pot in the background.
Instant Pot Tortilla Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

This recipe offers a comforting bowl of tortilla soup with minimal effort. The Instant Pot does the magic, combining chicken, vegetables, and spices into a heartwarming soup. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, and each spoonful is packed with flavor. Plus, you can top it with your favorite garnishes like avocado or cheese.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tortilla Soup

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Get ready for a game-day favorite that’s both easy and irresistible. These salt and pepper chicken wings are a crowd-pleaser, offering the perfect balance of crispiness and seasoning. They’re quick to prepare and cook, making them ideal for impromptu gatherings. The simplicity of salt and pepper brings out the natural flavors of the chicken, making each bite a delight.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Pakora

This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Indian street food right to your kitchen. Chicken pakora is a delightful snack, featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a spiced gram flour batter and fried to perfection. It’s surprisingly simple and can be served with a variety of dips. Whether it’s a snack or a party appetizer, these pakoras are sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken

For a quick and healthier version of a Chinese takeout favorite, this recipe is a must-try. The air fryer creates a wonderfully crispy Kung Pao chicken while keeping it lighter than traditional frying methods. It’s spicy, it’s sweet, and it’s ready in no time. Serve this with some steamed rice for a complete, fuss-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken

Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Dig into the rich, tangy flavors of the Philippines with this simple recipe. The Instant Pot makes chicken adobo a breeze, combining soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic to create a mouthwatering sauce. It’s a one-pot wonder that cooks the chicken to tender perfection. Serve this over rice for a comforting and easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Chicken Potstickers

These chicken potstickers are a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic Asian appetizer. The recipe guides you through making a tasty filling and the pleating process, which is simpler than you might think. Pan-frying them creates a delightful contrast between the crispy bottom and the tender top. They’re great for a family meal or as party finger food.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Potstickers

Laksa in a white bowl.
Chicken Curry Laksa. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Curry Laksa

Experience the warmth and complexity of Southeast Asian flavors with this chicken curry laksa. It’s a creamy, spicy noodle soup that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The combination of coconut milk, curry paste, and fresh herbs creates a rich and aromatic broth. This dish is perfect for when you need something both comforting and exotic.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Curry Laksa

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

This air fryer sesame chicken will become a new favorite for those who love Asian flavors without the extra calories. The chicken pieces are coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, then air-fried to crispy perfection. It’s a healthier alternative to takeout, and it’s ready in just minutes. Serve this with a side of steamed broccoli or rice for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

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

Kung Pao Chicken

Bringing a classic Chinese dish to your kitchen, this Kung Pao chicken is packed with flavors and a spicy kick. It combines tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a sauce that’s just the right mix of sweet and spicy. The best part? It’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Mongolian Chicken

Try this Mongolian chicken recipe for a sweet and savory dish that’s both easy and impressive. It features tender chicken pieces coated in a rich sauce made with simple ingredients. The dish comes together in just a few minutes, making it a great option for a last-minute dinner. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying and flavorsome meal.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken

Overhead shot of two white bowls with chicken hot and sour soup.
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

This chicken hot and sour soup is a great way to warm up on a chilly day. It’s a harmonious blend of spicy, sour, and savory flavors, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Packed with chicken and vegetables, it’s a wholesome and comforting meal. This soup is also customizable, so you can adjust the heat and sourness to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Chicken Egg Foo Young

Egg foo young, essentially a Chinese-style omelet, gets a protein boost with the addition of chicken. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables. The end result is a fluffy, savory omelet smothered in a delicious gravy. It’s a great way to make a quick, nutritious meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young

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

Chicken Karaage

Experience the joy of making Japanese-style fried chicken at home with this chicken karaage recipe. It’s all about the ginger-soy marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. Once fried, the chicken becomes irresistibly crispy outside and succulently tender inside. It’s a fantastic dish for a casual get-together or a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Roasting a whole chicken has never been simpler thanks to the air fryer. This recipe delivers a chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat, all with minimal effort. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional roasting methods and takes less time. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or when you want a comforting meal without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole 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.

Tandoori Chicken

Bring the flavors of an Indian barbecue into your kitchen with this tandoori chicken recipe. It’s all about the marinade, a mix of yogurt and spices, which tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with bold flavors. You can grill it or bake it in the oven – either way, it turns out wonderfully juicy and aromatic. Serve it with some naan and cucumber raita for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Chicken

Pollo Pibil

This Pollo Pibil recipe is a delightful way to explore the flavors of the Yucatan. Marinated in a blend of citrus and achiote, the chicken is slow-cooked until tender and packed with flavor. It’s a simple yet exotic dish that’s perfect for when you want something different for dinner. Serve it with rice or tortillas for an authentic experience.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

Stacked taquitos on a plate.
Air Fryer Taquitos. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Taquitos

Taquitos are a fun and easy Mexican-inspired dish, and this air fryer version makes them even simpler. The chicken is rolled in corn tortillas with cheese and spices, then air-fried until crispy. They’re perfect for a quick snack or a casual dinner. Serve with your favorite dips for a complete and enjoyable meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Taquitos

Chicken 65

This Chicken 65 recipe is a popular Indian bar snack that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. It’s a spicy, deep-fried chicken dish that’s both flavorful and addictive. The key is in the marinade, a blend of spices that gives the chicken its unique taste. It’s perfect for a party or as a special treat for a weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken 65

overhead shot of gochujang chicken with herbs and lettuce.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Gochujang Chicken

This gochujang chicken is a must-try for those who love a bit of Korean spice. The recipe uses gochujang, a Korean chili paste, to create a sweet, spicy glaze for the chicken. It’s an easy way to add some excitement to your dinner routine. Serve it with rice and vegetables for a balanced and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup

This recipe transforms the classic comfort of chicken pot pie into a simple, hearty soup. Using the Instant Pot, you can have a creamy and delicious soup ready in no time. It’s packed with chicken, vegetables, and that comforting pot pie flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a quick, satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup

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

A classic combination of salt and pepper chicken made in the air fryer is effortless and delicious. The air fryer ensures the chicken is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional frying, and the simplicity of the seasoning highlights the natural taste of the chicken. This dish is excellent for a quick, no-fuss meal any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.