21 no-chicken dinner recipes you shouldn’t skip

Photo of author

| Published:

These 21 no-chicken dinner recipes are more than just a way to diversify your meal planning; they are quick, easy, and packed with alternative protein sources. When you want to shake up your weeknight dinner routine, these recipes are straightforward to prepare and rich in flavor. From hearty casseroles to quick skillet meals and comforting soups, there’s a chicken-free recipe here for everyone.

A casserole dish filled with broccoli and cheese.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Creamy ground beef skillet with cauliflower rice garnished with fresh herbs with a fork.
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice blends well-seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms in one pan. If you’re seeking an alternative to chicken, this high-protein beef dish is a nourishing option for dinner. The blend of meat and vegetables offers a balanced meal. The one-skillet preparation makes cleanup easy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a quick and convenient option. It’s a balanced and protein-rich alternative to a chicken dinner with roasted sausages and vegetables. The 30-minute cooking time is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, a sheet pan meal means easier clean-up.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach combines shrimp, garlic sauce, grape tomatoes, and spinach for a protein-rich meal. It’s a solid choice for those looking to steer clear of chicken while still enjoying a hearty dish. The meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a convenient dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Loaded broccoli cauliflower casserole in a baking dish garnished with green onions.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole combines frozen broccoli and cauliflower with cheese and crispy bacon, offering a flavorful alternative to a chicken-based dinner. The dish presents a mix of textures and flavors that harmonize well. It’s convenient for a weeknight meal as it’s easy to prepare and bake.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Italian Sausage Soup is a 30-minute meal featuring Italian sausage, cream cheese, canned tomatoes, and heavy cream. As a chicken-free option, it offers rich flavors and a filling experience. The quick prep and cooking time make it suitable for weeknight dinners. The hearty sausage and creamy elements make it a comforting dish.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Soup

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a gold spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Hungarian Mushroom Soup is your answer for a warming, flavorful meal that comes together in one pot in just 45 minutes, making it a perfect pick for no-chicken dinners. It’s easy to make and is a hit for cooks of all skill levels.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

A casserole dish with meat and spinach in it.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach is a 30-minute meal that combines beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar. This casserole is an excellent option if you’re seeking a balanced, protein-rich dish without chicken. It’s quick to prepare and bake.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup

Easy keto cauliflower cheddar cheese bacon soup in a pot with a spoon.
Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup blends cauliflower, cheddar, and bacon to create a warm and comforting dinner. It comes together quickly, with flavors that come together within 30 minutes. The result is a quick yet nourishing dinner option that’s rich in protein. The combination of cheddar and bacon adds depth to the cauliflower base.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Cheddar Cheese Bacon Soup

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A serving of Philly cheese steak casserole being pulled up from a pan.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Philly Cheese Steak Casserole features thinly sliced steak, sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms, and provolone cheese. As a high-protein dish, it’s a great alternative to chicken dinners. The mixture of meat and vegetables provides a balanced meal that’s easy to prepare. This casserole is a flavorful way to enjoy the classic Philly cheese steak without the roll.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Sausage Curry

Sausage curry with rice in a bowl with a fork.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sausage Curry combines sausages, vegetables, and a creamy curry sauce, offering a chicken-free yet protein-rich dinner option. It’s straightforward to prepare and packed with flavors that the whole family will enjoy. The dish pairs excellently with steamed jasmine rice or naan bread, making it a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A bowl of crock pot taco soup topped with sour cream and cilantro.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Crock Pot Taco Soup combines seasoned ground beef and pantry staples in a slow-cooked dish. It’s a protein-rich and hearty alternative to a chicken dinner. The slow cooking melds the flavors well, making it a comforting choice. The crockpot preparation means you can set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Big Mac Salad

Hands scooping up a serving of bacon cheeseburger salad from a bowl.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Big Mac Salad combines bacon, ground beef, and vegetables for a protein-packed meal that’s a great alternative to a chicken dinner. It’s straightforward to put together and offers a hearty dining experience. Leftovers make a great lunch choice for tomorrow, too.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Fried cabbage with bacon garnished with parsley in a pot.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon includes cabbage, bacon, and onion for a well-rounded taste. As a quick 25-minute meal, it’s an excellent chicken-free option. The combination of vegetables and bacon offers a balanced and flavorful dinner. It’s a great way to incorporate leafy greens in a meaty, satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Roasted cubed butternut squash and spinach with sour cream.
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon combines butternut squash, cauliflower, bacon, and spinach with a simple dressing. If you’re seeking a no-chicken dinner, this dish provides a protein-rich alternative that’s easy to make. The dressing adds flavor to the mix of vegetables. This recipe offers a balanced meal in terms of nutrition and taste.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon

Keto Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of keto zuppa Toscana with a spoon in it.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This Keto Zuppa Toscana offers a low-carb twist on the famous Olive Garden soup. Instead of potatoes, this version incorporates radishes to keep it keto-friendly. With a cooking time of just one hour, it’s relatively quick to prepare and an excellent option for a no-chicken dinner. Radishes as a potato substitute offer a similar texture without the carb content, making this soup delicious and keto-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs are ready in 30 minutes and combine ground turkey, coconut milk, and curry spices. The blend of spices provides a unique flavor profile. Adding coconut milk offers a creamy texture that complements the spiciness of the curry.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Mini spicy canned salmon patties in a serving bowl.
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties feature canned salmon, jalapeño, and cayenne pepper, topped with zesty lemon dill aioli. A 30-minute recipe, these patties offer a seafood-rich, non-chicken option. They’re easy to make and provide a unique twist on protein sources. The lemon dill aioli adds a refreshing zing to the spicy patties.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Scallops with parsley and garlic in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Lemon Garlic Scallops pair scallops with lemon and garlic, resulting in a protein-rich dish. This 30-minute recipe is an excellent option for those seeking a seafood alternative to chicken. The combination of flavors makes for a unique and memorable dinner choice.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Bowls of pumpkin soup with sprigs of rosemary.
Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin is a straightforward dish that comes together effortlessly. It’s a comforting, warm option for those seeking an alternative to chicken-based soups. The soup is ready in 40 minutes, making it a quick and nourishing choice. A sprinkle of pumpkin seeds or a dollop of cream can add a finishing touch.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon

Bowl of asparagus noodles with alfredo sauce and bacon with a fork.
Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon turns asparagus into noodles topped with homemade Alfredo sauce and bacon. This dish provides a creative, high-protein alternative to traditional chicken recipes. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a convenient choice for dinner. The Alfredo sauce adds a touch of indulgence to this vegetable-based dish.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon

Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili

Sweet and spicy bacon and turkey chili garnished with avocado slices, sour cream, and cilantro.
Sweet And Spicy Bacon And Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili offers a mix of sweet, savory, and spicy elements. This one-pot recipe provides a hearty, warming meal rich in protein. For those looking to skip chicken, it’s a well-balanced dinner option. Topping the chili with shredded cheese or sour cream can add a layer of richness.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili

1 thought on “21 no-chicken dinner recipes you shouldn’t skip”

Leave a Comment

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