17 ways to cook chicken that don’t require culinary school training

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Chicken is a staple in many homes, but it doesn’t have to be complicated to prepare. These simple methods of cooking chicken will show you how to create delicious meals without needing to be a professional chef. Whether you’re short on time or just want an easy dinner solution, these recipes offer something for everyone, making mealtime less stressful.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Three pieces of Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions on a white rectangular plate.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you love crispy, flavorful chicken without all the grease, Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are perfect. Using the air fryer makes this dish not only quicker but also healthier, locking in all the flavors. The honey-garlic combo adds a sweet and savory punch that pairs well with the crispy skin. It’s a great option when you want something fast but delicious.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

A lighter take on a comforting classic, Chicken Zoodle Soup gives you all the warmth of chicken soup but keeps it low-carb. The zoodles are a great alternative, making this soup a perfect balance between hearty and healthy. You don’t need advanced cooking skills to whip this up, and it’s ideal for when you need something soothing. A wonderful choice for fall days.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Tinga brings a smoky, slightly spicy flavor to the table, perfect for those who want a bold yet easy-to-make dish. This shredded chicken dish is simple, yet it feels special thanks to its rich flavor profile. Great for tacos, tostadas, or even on its own, it’s a versatile recipe you can use in different ways. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a quick, one-pan meal, Chicken Fried Rice is an easy go-to. It’s a fulfilling dish that doesn’t require much more than some stirring and tossing in a pan. Perfect for busy nights when you need to whip up something filling in no time. The best part? It’s an excellent way to use up leftover chicken and still get a flavorful, balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu takes a classic recipe and makes it accessible for any home cook. The air fryer simplifies the process, giving you a crispy, golden finish without needing to deep fry. This dish is rich and indulgent, yet surprisingly easy to pull off with minimal steps. Great for those nights when you want to feel fancy without the kitchen stress.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts is a great option. The sweet and nutty combination brings a fresh twist to your typical chicken salad, making it a bit more interesting. It’s perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch, and the minimal prep time is a real bonus. Ideal for when you want something simple but fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Chicken Bake is a recipe that’s big on flavor but easy on effort. It brings together classic Mediterranean flavors in a simple, one-dish meal that requires minimal hands-on time. You just throw everything together and let the oven do the work, making it great for busy evenings. A wonderful recipe when you want something wholesome and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings

Chicken wings with garlic and Parmesan on a white plate.
Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re craving wings but want something homemade, Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings are surprisingly easy to make. The smoky flavor combined with the garlic and Parmesan creates a bold, rich taste that’s perfect for any occasion. These wings come together quickly and don’t require any special equipment. Perfect for game day or even just a casual dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Garlic Parmesan Wings

Chicken Scampi

A white plate with Chicken Scampi and green beans resting in the center.
Chicken Scampi. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a lighter take on a classic pasta dish, Chicken Scampi delivers all the flavors you love without the need for fancy ingredients. The chicken is the star here, paired with a garlicky sauce that brings everything together. It’s simple to prepare but feels like a restaurant-quality dish you can enjoy at home. Great for nights when you want a comforting, flavorful dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Scampi

Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Curried chicken salad in a blue bowl.
Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add some variety to your regular lunch routine with Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins. The hint of curry adds a unique flavor that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the raisins. This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for meal prepping or a quick meal on the go. You’ll love how this salad offers something a bit different without requiring much effort.
Get the Recipe: Curried Chicken Salad with Raisins

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Kale and tortellini soup in a bowl on a wooden table.
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken is a great way to enjoy a comforting, hearty soup without a lot of work. The addition of kale and chicken makes this soup a filling and balanced meal, perfect for cooler days. This recipe comes together easily, making it a great option for weeknight dinners. It’s an easy way to get something warm and nourishing on the table quickly.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

A platter of Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The perfect party snack or quick meal option that doesn’t require much prep is Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. They’re small, flavorful, and easy to eat, making them ideal for gatherings or casual nights. The smoky chicken brings a bold flavor, while the tortilla gives it a nice crunch. A great way to get a fun and flavorful snack on the table with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a simple yet satisfying meal, Italian Chicken is a great recipe to have in your back pocket. This dish is packed with savory flavors that remind you of a cozy, home-cooked Italian dinner. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. A perfect option for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

Garlic Chicken Skillet

Garlic Chicken Skillet with peppers and asparagus on a white plate.
Garlic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Garlic Chicken Skillet is your answer to a fast and flavorful dinner that comes together in one pan. It’s all about simplicity here, as the garlic and chicken do all the work to create a dish that’s rich in flavor but light on effort. Minimal cleanup is always a plus, too. This is a great option when you’re short on time but still want a fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet

Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Chicken Tinga Tostada on a plate.
Chicken Tinga Tostadas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For something a little different, Chicken Tinga Tostadas bring crunchy textures and smoky flavors to the table. This recipe is easy to make but feels fun and flavorful, perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. You don’t need any complicated techniques, just follow a few simple steps. Great for those nights when you want something bold and satisfying without too much work.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken is a dish that rewards patience, offering rich, deep flavors that develop as it cooks. The best part? It requires very little hands-on time, making it an easy option when you have other things to do. Let the slow roast do the work while you enjoy the results. Ideal for weekends or days when you want something flavorful without being in the kitchen all day.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy a hearty meal without a lot of prep with Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. The oven does most of the work, leaving you with tender chicken and a rich, comforting gravy. This dish is perfect for those colder nights when you want something warm and filling. Simple enough for weeknights, but rich enough to feel like a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

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