Sick of chicken? You’re not alone. It’s easy to fall into a dinner rut, especially when chicken is often the go-to protein. But don’t worry because we’ve got you covered with 27 great recipes that are perfect for when you just can’t face another bird. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a dish to impress, these meals are sure to change things up.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
This casserole brings a great mix of flavors to the table, perfect for those evenings when you want to skip the chicken. Packed with rice, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and a generous sprinkle of cheese, it’s an easy dish that cooks in 45 minutes. Serve it hot from the oven with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. If you’re out of bell peppers, try using zucchini or mushrooms. For those busy nights, this casserole is a lifesaver, serving a filling dinner that requires minimal prep and keeps well for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
White Bean Soup
This White Bean Soup is a one-pot recipe that comes together in just 40 minutes. It’s easy enough to make for weeknight dinners, doesn’t have any chicken in it, and is an especially great option when you’re looking to get some extra fiber and veggies in.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
When chicken isn’t on the menu, this sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner is a perfect alternative. It’s as simple as tossing your chosen sausages and an array of vegetables on a pan and letting the oven do the rest. Serve it straight from the pan for the ultimate easy cleanup. If you’re looking to mix things up, swap out the sausages for chunks of seasoned tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option. This meal is a time-saver for anyone who wants to cut down on dishes and enjoy a hearty meal that’s both convenient and versatile.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Opt for this twice-baked potato casserole as a hearty substitute for a chicken dinner. It’s loaded with all the good stuff: potatoes, crispy bacon, sour cream, and cheese. You can make it in advance and just reheat when you’re ready to eat. Serve it up with a green salad or some steamed veggies on the side. And if bacon’s not your thing, try diced ham or cooked sausage instead. It’s a stress-reducer for those hectic evenings when you want a comforting and substantial dish that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
No chicken in this crock pot soup recipe. This Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is an easy recipe that’s great for anyone, including beginner cooks. Just prep your ingredients, add them to your slow cooker, and that’s it. Cook it on low to simmer all day, or set it to high if you need it ready sooner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
This sweet potato and red pepper soup is a great choice for a comforting meal without chicken. Ready in about an hour, it’s a simple yet nourishing option. Serve it with a dollop of yogurt and some fresh herbs on top for extra flavor. If red peppers aren’t your favorite, try roasting carrots or butternut squash as a delicious alternative. This soup is a great way to wind down after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
Break away from the usual chicken with this quick Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach dish. It’s a flavorful combination of shrimp, grape tomatoes, and spinach in a garlic sauce, all ready in half an hour. Serve it over pasta or with a slice of garlic bread to soak up the sauce. For those who don’t eat seafood, chunks of chicken breast or cannellini beans make a great substitute in this versatile dish. This dish is perfect for those who need a quick yet impressive meal, reducing time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor, and it’s a surefire way to add some excitement to your dinner rotation.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
This Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a great pick when you want a cheesy, veggie-packed meal fast. Broccoli and cauliflower are mixed with a cheese sauce and crispy bacon, all ready in 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a filling dinner without chicken that gets you eating more veggies without giving up any taste. Even picky eaters will dig right into this ultimate comfort food casserole. When you need a nutritious and delicious meal in a hurry, this one’s got your back.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Sausage Curry
Mix things up with this Sausage Curry. It’s got sausages, carrots, and sweet potatoes in a flavorful curry sauce, and it’s ready in just 45 minutes. This dish is great for adding some variety to your regular dinner rotation without a lot of work. Plus, it’s loaded with both protein and veggies, so you’re getting a well-rounded meal in every bite. When you want to step outside your comfort zone without spending forever in the kitchen, give this curry a shot.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is as simple as mixing noodles, tuna, peas, and cream of mushroom soup, then topping it with breadcrumbs and baking until golden. It’s quick to make and great for when you need a break from chicken. It’s smart for putting together a hearty meal without a ton of planning. And it’s especially handy on busy days when you want something filling and healthy but don’t have time to hit the store; this classic casserole is a go-to for lots of families because it’s comforting, filling, cheap, and fast.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
You’ll love cozying up with a bowl of this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. It’s got sausage, cream cheese, and tomatoes, all blended into a rich soup in just 30 minutes. This simple one-pot meal is big on flavor and perfect for a cozy dinner without any chicken. It’s great for cold nights when you want something comforting without any hassle. And after a long day, it’s a soothing, delicious way to cozy up and wind down. Got leftovers? Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally to keep the soup smooth.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Go for this Hungarian Mushroom Soup when you want a creamy, comforting meal that’s not chicken. You can have it ready in under an hour, and it’s got a creamy base that’s loaded with mushrooms. It’s perfect for busy nights or relaxing weekends. When you’re craving comfort food that’s easy to whip up, this soup is a great choice. Mushroom fans and anyone looking for a meatless option will love this one. If you have leftovers in the fridge, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy consistency.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon
This dish takes asparagus and turns it into noodles, mixes them with Alfredo sauce, and tops everything off with crispy bacon. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy way to bring something new to the dinner table without resorting to chicken. Plus, the bacon adds the perfect crunch that everyone loves. For those busy nights when you’re short on time but still want a meal that feels special, this recipe is a lifesaver. Best eaten fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs
Experience the flavors of Thailand right at home with these Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. They’re done in 30 minutes and serve a savory break from the usual chicken dishes. Paired with rice or noodles, the coconut curry sauce brings a burst of flavor that’s sure to impress. When you’re craving something different but don’t have hours to spend, this meal comes together fast and leaves everyone at the table happy. To reheat any frozen leftovers, microwave or gently heat in a pan until hot, adding a little water or coconut milk if the sauce needs thinning.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Mix up dinner with this Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice, ready in 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic mix of beef, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms for a filling meal that steps away from the chicken norm. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need something comforting but also want to keep things light and easy. This skillet dish means you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your evening. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
This Wild Rice Mushroom Soup is your go-to for a comforting and easy meal. Filled with mushrooms and wild rice, it’s a cozy option for a dinner that diverges from the typical chicken dish. Serve it up in no time for a meal that warms from the inside out. On those days when you need a bit of comfort without a lot of work, this soup has your back, bringing warmth and satisfaction with minimal effort. To serve up any frozen leftovers, reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
Broccoli Casserole
This Broccoli Casserole, ready in 50 minutes, combines broccoli in a creamy sauce with a cheesy topping for a comforting dish that moves away from chicken. It’s an easy and straightforward way to make a veggie-packed meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for getting kids to happily eat their greens. For anyone looking to beat the dinner rush without falling back on fast food, this casserole is a game-changer.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Cheesy Beef Casserole mixes cauliflower rice and spinach for a meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s an easy, no-stress dinner that packs in great flavor and serves as a hearty alternative to chicken dishes. This casserole is a big help on busy nights and still serves a balanced, filling meal. It shows that fast prep doesn’t mean you have to compromise on a good, nutritious dinner. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with lentils or a meat substitute. If you’re not a fan of cauliflower rice, try using quinoa or rice for a different texture.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole
Bring the classic sandwich flavors to your dinner table with this Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. It’s a filling and quick-to-prepare dish that serves a delicious meal on busy evenings. Enjoy the comforting flavors of a cheese steak in a casserole form that’s simple to make and serve. This dish is great for anyone wanting a familiar taste without the hassle, making dinner memorable and easy. For a lighter version, substitute the beef with chicken or turkey slices.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
Mix butternut squash, cauliflower, and bacon for a dish that’s flavorful and ready in under an hour. This option is great for nights when you’re after something other than chicken. It’s a smart way to pack more vegetables into your dinner. With this recipe, simple ingredients really make a cozy, good meal. Plus, it’s a hit for adding a burst of color and taste to your dinner routine. For a different veggie profile, replace butternut squash with sweet potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
Bacon Cheeseburger Salad
This Bacon Cheeseburger Salad mixes bacon and beef with fresh greens and tangy pickles for a lighter take on dinner. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s a refreshing choice that steers clear of chicken, perfect for a quick meal. It’s a great way to quench your burger cravings in a lighter form, blending easy preparation with a balanced mix of flavors. A smart choice for a nutritious, quick meal that keeps dinner exciting. For a lower-fat option, use turkey bacon and lean ground turkey or beef.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Salad
Crock Pot Taco Soup
Set up your slow cooker for Crock Pot Taco Soup, combining beef and veggies for a comforting meal that’s waiting for you at the end of the day. It’s an excellent chicken-free option, great for those times when you need dinner to be ready without extra effort. The ultimate easy solution for busy days, you’re sure to return home to a hot, ready meal. Make this soup vegetarian by using a meat substitute or extra beans in place of the beef.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties
Add some heat to your dinner with Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties, which you can whip up in 30 minutes. Jalapeños and cayenne pepper give these easy patties a spicy flavor, making for a great change from usual chicken meals. They’re a speedy, nutritious option, excellent for switching up your meal plan on those busy nights. Plus, they’re an awesome way to bring more seafood into your diet with a spicy, simple recipe. To adjust the spice level, add more or less jalapeño and cayenne pepper according to taste.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties
Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a straightforward dinner option, ready in 25 minutes. It’s a solid pick for a meal that fills you up without defaulting to chicken. This dish highlights that great meals don’t need a long list of ingredients to serve a hearty, affordable option. Perfect for those evenings when you want something quick and delicious. To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon and use a splash of liquid smoke for a similar flavor profile. For a different taste, try adding smoked sausage instead of bacon.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Keto Zuppa Toscana
Check out Keto Zuppa Toscana for a hearty soup with radishes, Italian sausage, and kale, fitting for a low-carb diet and skipping the chicken. It’s ready in about an hour, serving as a filling choice that still meets keto guidelines. This soup makes it easier to stick to your dietary preferences without losing out on rich flavors, perfect for a comforting meal that aligns with your lifestyle goals. It’s a top choice for enjoying a hearty soup while keeping your diet on track.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana
Lemon Garlic Scallops
Lemon Garlic Scallops are a great seafood alternative to chicken dinners. Quick to cook, these scallops are seared and then simmered in a lemon-garlic sauce. It’s a protein-rich meal in 30 minutes. This dish is excellent for impressing guests or treating yourself, bringing a bit of elegance to the dinner table without much effort. For those who may not have fresh scallops available, shrimp can be a great substitute and will also pair well with the lemon-garlic sauce.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops
Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili
Try Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili for a hearty, one-pot meal that serves as a fantastic alternative to chicken. The added bacon enriches the dish, making it great for filling up on busier nights. This chili brings warmth and comfort, and it’s perfect for making in large quantities, so you’ll have appetizing leftovers for the week. It’s a great combo of sweet and spicy flavors, creating a dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening at home or for impressing friends with your cooking skills.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Bacon and Turkey Chili