If you’re over chicken dinners and craving a change, this collection is a breath of fresh air for your kitchen lineup. We’ve handpicked 27 recipes that are a cinch to whip up and promise to mix things up. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to introduce some new favorites to your table that’ll make you forget all about your chicken dinner fatigue.
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Chicken again? Not tonight! These Shake and Bake Pork Chops, made with breadcrumbs, spices, and pork chops, are the way to go. They’re crispy and full of flavor, and you don’t even have to fry them. Ready in just 25 minutes, they’re great for a weeknight dinner. If you’re a beginner cook or just want to get a good meal on the table fast, this recipe is for you.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Skip the chicken and make this Twice Baked Potato Casserole. It’s loaded with potatoes, bacon, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions. You can make it ahead of time and reheat it later. It’s great with a salad or some veggies on the side. This casserole is the way to go on a busy night when you’re craving something comforting. Top it with some extra green onions or chives for added flavor. Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this casserole and forget about boring chicken dinners.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Baked Ravioli
When chicken dinners have overstayed their welcome, turn to this Baked Ravioli for a great change of pace. It’s like getting the cozy feel of lasagna without the extra work. Grab some frozen cheese ravioli, throw in marinara sauce, sprinkle on the cheese, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s a breeze to make. It’s all done in about an hour, making it a perfect pick for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ravioli
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
Chicken’s not on the menu tonight. This Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach, made with juicy shrimp, fresh spinach, tomatoes, and a garlicky sauce, is. It’s a quick mix of shrimp, tomatoes, and spinach cooked in a garlicky sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s an impressive dinner that’s surprisingly easy to make. Serve it over pasta or with some bread. This dish is perfect when you want something different and delicious without any chicken. Treat yourself to the flavors of Tuscany with this light and fresh shrimp dish.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach
White Bean Soup
Chicken’s off the menu tonight. This White Bean Soup, packed with creamy white beans, carrots, celery, and onions, is where it’s at. It’s a one-pot meal that’s ready in 40 minutes, and it’s loaded with fiber and veggies. When you want something different but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this soup is perfect. Serve it with some crunchy toast or croutons. Want to make it even better? Stir in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or add a spoonful of pesto. This soup is a comforting and nutritious alternative to your usual chicken dinner.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Soup
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Give chicken the night off and make this Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner instead. Toss some sausages, peppers, broccoli, and zucchini on a pan and bake. It’s easy to serve and even easier to clean up. Want to go meatless? Use tofu or tempeh instead of sausage. This meal is perfect when you want something filling, easy, and fast. Add a simple salad or some fresh bread on the side to round it out. With minimal prep and cleanup, this sheet pan dinner is a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
Trade in your chicken dinner for this simple Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup. Just simmer sweet potatoes, red peppers, onions, garlic, broth, and some seasonings. It’s ready in about an hour. When you serve it, add a spoonful of yogurt and some fresh herbs for extra creaminess and flavor. Want to change it up? Add some coconut milk for a creamier texture and a hint of sweetness. This soup will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days, so it’s great for meal prep. Embrace the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and red peppers in this velvety smooth soup, perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Ditch the chicken and try this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole instead. It’s got all the good stuff: rice, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, ground beef, and lots of cheese. Super easy to make and ready in 45 minutes. It goes great with a side salad or some bread. It’s great for busy nights when you want a hearty meal with leftovers for later. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Try this casserole with broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, bacon, and cream cheese if you’re fed up with chicken. It takes 30 minutes to bake into a cheesy, veggie-packed dish. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy. Pair it with a simple green salad or a light soup to balance out the richness of the dish and add some variety to your meal. It’s filling and gets everyone eating their veggies. Refrigerate leftovers and enjoy within 3 days.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
When you’re over chicken, make this Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup. You only need a few ingredients: split peas, carrots, celery, onions, and some seasoning. Toss them in your slow cooker, set it, and forget it. It’s an easy, hands-off meal that’s perfect with some crusty bread. Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or you can freeze them for later.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Sausage Curry
Ditch chicken for Sausage Curry. Combine sausages, carrots, sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, and curry sauce, and have a flavorful dinner ready in 45 minutes. It’s a one-pot dish that’s perfect over rice or with bread for soaking up the sauce.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
This dish is a great pick for a busy evening. Just mix noodles, canned tuna, peas, cream of mushroom soup, a bit of milk, and your favorite seasonings. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish and bake until golden. Feel free to stir in some cheese for extra richness. It’s simple, filling, and a fantastic way to break from chicken dinners. Plus, you can freeze leftovers to save for a super easy meal later on.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Warm up with this rich, creamy soup made with Italian sausage, cream cheese, tomatoes, onions, and garlic, all simmered together in chicken broth. It’s a hearty, one-pot meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Add some spinach or kale for extra greens. This soup is perfect for storing and tastes even better the next day. It’s a delicious alternative to chicken dishes, great for chilly nights or when you just need some comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Dive into a bowl of Hungarian Mushroom Soup featuring a creamy mix of mushrooms, onions, paprika, milk, and sour cream. It’s a rich, flavorful meal that’s ready in under an hour. Add a splash of white wine while cooking for an extra layer of flavor. This soup pairs beautifully with bread or salad for a complete meal and keeps well in the fridge. It’s a comforting, meatless option that brings variety to your dinner table without needing chicken.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup
Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon
For a change from the usual chicken routine, this asparagus dish comes into play. It’s a great base for a meal, topped with a creamy Alfredo sauce and crispy bacon for a mix of creamy and crunchy. It’s perfect for those cutting back on carbs but still looking to enjoy a hearty meal. Plus, it’s packed with veggies and can be on your table in 30 minutes, making it a great choice for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs
For those over chicken dinners, these Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs are a perfect switch-up. They’re easy to make and bring a burst of Thai flavors to your table in a creamy coconut curry sauce. Flexible for meat-eaters and vegetarians alike, this dish is ready in 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs
Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
When chicken dinners have worn out their welcome, this Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice is a great dish to whip up. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in 30 minutes and features ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms. Great for those just starting out in the kitchen or anyone who wants a straightforward meal without the hassle. This dish is hearty and loaded with protein, and the leftovers are just as good the next day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
A soul-soothing mix of mushrooms, wild rice, and a creamy broth makes this soup a hearty, comforting option that doesn’t rely on chicken for its depth of flavor. It’s great for those seeking a nourishing meal that can easily be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week. For anyone feeling overwhelmed by the usual meal prep or looking for a dish that’s comforting yet simple to make, this soup is a perfect choice. Because it’s freezer-friendly, you can always have a homemade meal ready to go.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
Broccoli Casserole
Packed with broccoli and smothered in a cheesy, creamy sauce, this casserole is topped with a crispy cracker crust for a dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. It’s a great option for getting kids and adults alike to enjoy their vegetables, serving a delicious alternative to chicken-based meals. Ready in about 50 minutes, it’s suited for those weeknight dinners when you need something filling without falling back on poultry.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
This one is a great pick for those looking to cut down on carbs but not on taste, ready in 30 minutes. This recipe addresses the common dilemma of finding meals that are both quick to prepare and will feed the whole family. This recipe is a delicious way to switch up the dinner routine without relying on chicken.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole
Switch it up from your regular chicken dinners with this Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. It’s a simple mix of ground beef, veggies, cream cheese, and provolone that comes together quickly for those busy nights. This dish is a great choice for a filling and flavorful dinner that doesn’t require a lot of prep. It’s also perfect for serving up a meal that everyone will enjoy, whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining friends, without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole
Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
Shake up your dinner with a dish of roasted butternut squash, cauliflower, and crispy bacon, seasoned with olive oil and your choice of spices. This vibrant mix is easy to prepare and serves an appetizing meal without chicken. For a different flavor, try swapping in sweet potatoes or pumpkin.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cubed Butternut Squash with Cauliflower and Bacon
Bacon Cheeseburger Salad
Get all the flavors of a bacon cheeseburger in a lighter salad form. Ground beef, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles are tossed with a special sauce to create a delicious blend that’s ready in 45 minutes. Opt for turkey bacon and lean ground turkey to lighten it further. This salad is great for prepping ahead and assembling quickly when you’re short on time. It strikes a perfect balance between indulging and eating well.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Salad
Crock Pot Taco Soup
This taco soup combines ground beef, beans, corn, tomatoes, and taco seasoning in a slow cooker for a savory meal. It’s a comforting option that’s perfect for those evenings when you’re looking for something hearty but not chicken. Garnish with avocado, cheese, and sour cream to serve. This soup is great for enjoying the taste of tacos without the mess, making your dinner time both simple and extra special.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup
Fried Cabbage with Bacon
For a savory side that comes together in 25 minutes, try frying cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic. It’s a straightforward yet flavorful dish. This dish shows how simple ingredients can create a rich and delectable addition to any meal, perfect for pairing with a pork chop or on its own for a lighter option. It’s a great way to make your meals more interesting without relying on chicken.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Keto Zuppa Toscana
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Keto Zuppa Toscana, made with Italian sausage, radishes, kale, and a creamy broth. It’s a delicious soup that fits perfectly into a carb-conscious lifestyle, ready in about an hour. Store and reheat easily for a quick, nutritious meal anytime. Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal without chicken.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana
Lemon Garlic Scallops
These Lemon Garlic Scallops are seasoned with butter, garlic, lemon, and parsley, for a quick and memorable alternative to chicken dishes. They cook up in minutes and, while best enjoyed fresh, can be stored for a short period. It’s a great way to introduce restaurant-quality meals into your home cooking. Serve with light pasta or vegetables for a beautifully presented dish that’s sure to impress and perfect for expanding your cooking skills.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops