Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas

By Rai Mincey
Published 1/30/2023
In This Article
Easy Chicken Dinner Ideas

These easy chicken dinner ideas from the Health eCooks Test Kitchen are ready to serve in under an hour.

Looking for new easy weeknight dinner ideas? Don’t get stuck making the same old chicken meal on repeat. Infuse tonight’s routine with seriously bold flavor and light, fresh ingredients.

These chicken dishes do it all — from an Asian-inspired sheet pan meal to a cheesy rollatini. Try these healthy recipes for guaranteed satisfaction.

Classic Chicken Dinners

Classic chicken dishes never go out of style. From Chicken Parmesan to Whole Roasted Chicken, these timeless recipes are perfect for any occasion and are sure to please everyone at the table.

Grilled Chicken Recipes

Grilled chicken is a versatile and healthy option for dinner. These recipes offer a variety of flavors and styles, from tacos with mango salsa to chimichurri chicken, making it easy to enjoy grilled chicken all week long.

Baked Chicken Recipe Ideas

Baked chicken is a simple and reliable dinner choice. These recipes, including rosemary chicken Dijon and pecan-crusted baked chicken, bring out the best in oven-cooked chicken with minimal effort.

  • Rosemary Chicken Dijon

    Healthy Rosemary Chicken Dijon
    45 mins

    Make weeknight magic with this luxurious rosemary chicken recipe. Lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and dried seasonings create a uniquely delicious flavor that will appeal to even the pickiest of eaters. Try your hand at this family-friendly chicken recipe and watch it disappear in no time.

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  • Pecan-Crusted Baked Chicken

    Healthy Pecan-Crusted Baked Chicken
    45 mins

    Try chicken breast coated in breadcrumbs, chopped pecans, and a mouthwatering spice blend for dinner tonight. Ready in under an hour, this uniquely delicious chicken recipe makes the perfect complement to a bright, tangy salad or soup.

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  • Looking for more baked chicken recipes? Check out a few more of our favorites:

Budget Friendly Chicken Dinners

Eating well doesn't have to break the bank. These budget-friendly chicken recipes, like chicken stir-fry and creamy bow-tie pasta, provide delicious and affordable meal options for any night of the week.

International Chicken Dishes

Explore global flavors with these international recipes. From sheet pan Asian chicken to Mediterranean chicken and zucchini, these dishes offer a taste of different cuisines without leaving home.

  • Sheet Pan Asian Chicken

    Healthy Sheet Pan Asian Chicken
    60 mins

    Skip the takeout and create an Asian-inspired chicken that boasts a beautiful vegetable medley, cauliflower rice, and sweet garlicky marinade. Garnish your meal with sesame seeds and scallions for a delightful snap in every bite. This easy sheet pan recipe is sure to make your weeknight memorable.

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  • Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl

    Healthy Sesame Chicken Noodle Bowl
    45 mins

    You can’t go wrong with chicken soup, and this Asian spin on the soothing classic will thrill your tastebuds. Enjoy a gluten-free noodle bowl loaded with bok choy, chicken broth, shiitake mushrooms, and snap peas.  Ready in just 45 minutes, this chicken recipe is bound to become a new family favorite.

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  • Take your taste buds for a journey around the world with these internationally-inspired chicken recipes:

Family Favorite Chicken Meals

These family-favorite chicken meals are sure to become staples in your household. Featuring comforting and crowd-pleasing dishes like chicken rollatini and buffalo chicken tenders, these recipes are perfect for pleasing everyone at the table.

  • Chicken Rollatini

    Healthy Chicken Rollatini
    60 mins

    Crispy chicken cutlets are topped with cheese and spinach, secured with toothpicks, then baked in a velvety mushroom sauce. This impressive 9x13 chicken recipe idea has restaurant-worthy flavor but is incredibly easy to make. “I made this chicken rollatini recipe for a few friends and they were raving about it,” shares one reviewer. “All of the flavors were spot on the chicken came out juicy and tender.”

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  • Balsamic Chicken

    Healthy Balsamic Chicken
    45 mins
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  • Treat your family to a delicious homecooked meal with these amazing chicken recipes:

FAQ Chicken Dinner Ideas

  • Some recipes for beginners include chicken stir-fry, baked chicken breasts, and one-pan chicken and vegetables. These recipes are straightforward and require only a few ingredients.

  • Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken is cooked to the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Make sure no pink remains in the thickest part of the meat.

  • Yes, you can usually substitute chicken breasts for thighs but keep in mind that thighs are juicier and may require slightly longer cooking times. Adjust seasoning and cooking time accordingly.

  • Cook chicken in bulk and store in airtight containers. Combine with various sides such as rice, veggies, or salads for different meals. For more inspiration, check out our Chicken Meal Prep Ideas.

  • Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it’s kept in a sealed container to maintain freshness.

  • Marinate the chicken beforehand for extra flavor and grill over medium-high heat. Flip once and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For detailed timing, visit our guide on How Long to Grill Chicken Breast.

  • Brine the chicken breasts or marinate them before cooking. Avoid overcooking and let them rest before serving.

  • Yes, but it will take about 50% longer to cook. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

  • Baking generally involves lower temperatures and often uses boneless pieces. Roasting is done at higher temperatures and typically involves whole chickens or bone-in cuts.

  • Buffalo Chicken Wrap, Chicken Avocado Sandwich, and Lentil Chicken Salad are great low-carb chicken options. These recipes will fill you up without the extra carbs.

  • Our favorite gluten-free recipes are Chicken Salad, Chicken Posole, and Southern BBQ Chicken Stir-Fry. Ensure all seasonings and sauces are gluten-free.

  • Chicken Nuggets, Buffalo Chicken Pizza, Chicken Nachos, and Chicken Noodle Soup are popular with kids. They are tasty and easy to make.

  • Marinate the chicken before cooking and use fresh herbs and spices. Cooking with aromatics like garlic and onions also enhances flavor.

  • Yes, but use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. Dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.

  • Common spices for chicken include paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary. These add depth and enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.

  • Coat the chicken in a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then bake at a high temperature. Using a wire rack on the baking sheet helps air circulate for crispiness.

  • Reheat chicken in the oven or microwave until it’s hot throughout. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

  • Yes, most cooked chicken dishes freeze well. Store in airtight containers and label with the date.

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

  • Make chicken salads, wraps, or soups. Leftover shredded chicken can also be used in casseroles and stir-fries.

Incorporating these chicken ideas into your meal planning can make weeknights less stressful and more delicious. Whether you're looking for quick recipes, healthy options, or budget-friendly meals, these versatile chicken recipes have you covered. Try these recipes and enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience that your whole family will love!

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