15 easy chicken dishes that dominate weeknights

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Weeknights can be hectic, but dinner doesn’t have to be. These 15 chicken dishes are the kind of meals that make you feel like a kitchen hero, even when time is tight. They’re quick, easy, and so delicious that they’ll quickly become regulars on your weekly menu. Who knew dominating dinnertime could be so simple? Breeze through dinner with meals that are sure to become your new weeknight champions!

Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani on a plate with raita.
Chicken Biryani. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

When you’re in the mood for something a bit more exotic on your dinner table, consider Chicken Biryani. This dish is a beloved classic known for its vibrant layers of flavor that come together in a perfect blend. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a meal that’s both hearty and aromatic. You’ll find it becomes a requested favorite at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

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

Creamy Tuscan Chicken brings a taste of Italy to your weeknight routine. This dish is well-loved for its rich, comforting essence that makes any dinner feel a bit more special. It’s perfect for an evening when you need something both quick and delectable. Gather the family around the table for this one; they’ll thank you.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

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

This version captures all the deep, tangy flavors in a fraction of the time. Instant Pot Chicken Adobo offers a shortcut to a traditionally slow-cooked Filipino favorite. Ideal for busy evenings, it ensures you don’t have to compromise on taste even when time is short. It’s a robust dish that will impress with its depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Fried chicken pieces in orange sauce garnished with sesame seeds in a black bowl with chopsticks and a green and white napkin.
Air Fryer Orange Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

For a lighter take on a takeout favorite, Air Fryer Orange Chicken could be your new go-to. This dish combines the crispiness and zing you crave, all with less oil and hassle. It’s an ideal choice for a quick, flavorful meal that satisfies your fast food cravings in a healthier way. You might just find it better than your local takeout.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Chicken Potstickers

Overhead shot of chicken potstickers with chile paste on plates.
Chicken Potstickers. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Potstickers are a fantastic option for those who love a dish that serves both as a snack and a satisfying meal. These dumplings are known for their delectable texture and filling nature. They’re perfect for a casual family dinner or a fun meal with friends. Everyone will enjoy wrapping them up and dipping them into their favorite sauce.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Potstickers

Thai Chicken Curry

Low angle shot of a blue and white striped bowl filled with Thai chicken curry.
Thai Chicken Curry. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Spice up your dinner plans with Thai Chicken Curry. This dish envelops your senses with its aromatic spices and smooth, creamy texture. It’s just right for when you need a quick escape to the flavors of Thailand. Serve it on any evening for a simple yet exotic dining experience that’s both quick and mesmerizing.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Curry

Chicken Karaage

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

Dig into the crunch and juiciness of Chicken Karaage, Japan’s answer to the ultimate fried chicken. This dish is celebrated for its light, crispy coating and tender meat inside. It’s a hit at gatherings or as a novel addition to your family’s meal rotation. If you’re looking for something different, this might just become your new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

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 lets you enjoy all the crispy, comforting goodness of a Southern staple with fewer calories. This version uses the air fryer for a healthier approach to an all-time favorite. It’s perfect for a family dinner where comfort food is the star. Whip this up for a meal that combines tradition with a modern twist.
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.

It’s easy to see why Pollo Pibil is a favorite for quick dinners. This dish brings a lively flair to your weekly meal rotation, promising a no-fuss solution for busy evenings. If you’re looking for something that cooks without much oversight, this is your go-to option. It blends well with your favorite sides, enhancing any weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

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.

When you need a break from the usual, Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken offers a unique twist on dinner. This recipe introduces a bold fusion of flavors that complement each other seamlessly. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a kick of spice with a touch of creamy texture. Ideal for an adventurous weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Peanut Butter Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Korma

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

For those who treasure efficiency, Instant Pot Chicken Korma could quickly become a staple. This dish combines convenience with the allure of exotic flavors in one pot. It’s especially perfect for anyone looking to minimize kitchen time while maximizing flavor. A smart choice for a hearty midweek dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Korma

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.

Anyone craving a bit of gourmet excitement will find Tandoori Chicken to be a perfect fit. This dish is known for its vibrant, smoky flavors that are achieved with minimal effort. It’s an excellent choice for grilling outdoors or baking indoors, versatile enough for any day of the week. It’s a straightforward, flavorful option.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Chicken

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Basket of fried chicken with chilies and garlic.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are all about simplicity and flavor. This dish is a great way to kick back after a busy day, offering a casual yet delicious dining experience. They’re just right for a laid-back evening or as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Kung Pao Chicken

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

This dish is a beloved classic known for its ability to balance heat with sweet and tangy notes. Kung Pao Chicken is for those evenings when you crave something with a bit of zing. Whether it’s a meal for one or a family dinner, it’s bound to impress. Quick to prepare, it’s a real weeknight winner.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas

Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Turning to Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas can revolutionize your weekday meals. This dish is an excellent example of how traditional flavors can be enjoyed with modern cooking methods. Perfect for those who want to cut down on oil but not on taste. It’s a wholesome choice that’s both filling and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Enchiladas

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