15 OMG-Level Chicken Meals That Don’t Require Hours In The Kitchen

Chicken dinners don’t have to be a marathon in the kitchen to be absolutely amazing. If you’re craving meals that are big on flavor but short on prep time, these 15 recipes are about to become your new best friend. They’re the kind of dishes that make you say “OMG” when you take that first bite, yet they come together so quickly that you’ll wonder why you ever spent hours cooking before.

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Paprikash is a comforting dish that brings traditional flavors to your dinner table without spending all day in the kitchen. This meal is known for its hearty and homey feel, perfect for a weeknight dinner. It allows you to enjoy a taste of Eastern Europe with minimal effort. Gather around the table for a meal that’s quick to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer chicken cordon bleu on a plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a dish that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple, try Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. This recipe cuts down on prep and cooking time thanks to the air fryer. Perfect for a busy day when you want something special without the wait. It’s a quick route to a meal that looks as impressive as it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate one-pan meal that’s ready in no time. This dish is perfect for using up leftovers and getting dinner on the table fast. It’s a versatile and forgiving meal that keeps everyone happy and satisfied. Enjoy a simple, quick dish that’s packed with flavor and convenience.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken without dedicating your entire day to the kitchen. This dish brings a fiesta of flavors with minimal active cooking time, ideal for a laid-back meal. It’s perfect for when you want your slow cooker to do the heavy lifting. Enjoy bold, delicious flavors with hardly any effort.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts offers a mix of textures and flavors, making it a perfect choice for a quick lunch or light dinner. This salad is easy to assemble and packed with nutrients. It’s ideal for a no-cook meal that feels fresh and fulfilling. Whip this up for a refreshing meal that comes together in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is perfect for those who want to throw ingredients into a pot and come back to a delicious meal. 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is as simple as it gets, making it impossible to mess up. It’s a stress-free recipe that delivers great taste every time. Enjoy the simplicity and flavor that make this chicken dish a weeknight winner.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Piccata offers a burst of vibrant flavors in a dish that doesn’t require complicated preparations. This meal is known for its light yet bold taste profile, making it a favorite for quick dinners. It’s a straightforward dish that impresses with its zingy, mouth-watering sauce. Serve this up for a quick, flavorful meal that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Enjoy the taste of your favorite restaurant at home with Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. This recipe is perfect for a casual dinner yet is flavorful enough to serve when entertaining guests. It’s easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When time is short and you’re looking for a meal that comes together quickly, Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is a standout choice. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a no-fuss setup with a clean-up that’s just as easy. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with rotisserie chicken pasta salad.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you need a meal that’s both quick to assemble and portable, Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad is your go-to. It combines convenience with flavor, making it a popular choice for picnics and work lunches. This dish is appreciated for its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re at home or on the go, it’s a meal that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a lunch that promises to be both quick and delicious, Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich hits all the right notes. It’s the perfect blend of simple ingredients and classic flavors, making it a favorite for quick lunches and easy dinners. This sandwich is a great way to turn a few minutes of preparation into a meal that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chinese Chicken Salad is a vibrant choice for anyone looking for a quick meal that’s full of flavor. This salad is often picked for its crunchy texture and refreshing taste, making it a popular lunch option. It’s easy to whip up, even on your busiest days, and it packs well for meals on the go. Whether you’re dining alone or with friends, it offers a light yet fulfilling experience.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing a twist to traditional meals, Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful dinner without lengthy preparation. They are perfect for an evening when you crave something a bit different yet straightforward. This dish stands out for its unique flavor profile and quick preparation time, making it a favorite for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

A close-up of a hand holding a copycat Taco Bell Cantina chicken burrito.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re a fan of quick and hearty meals, Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito is a must-try. This dish brings the fast-food favorite right into your kitchen with a homemade twist that’s both simple and quick to make. It’s ideal for those nights when you want a meal without the wait. You’ll enjoy the familiar flavors with the bonus of knowing it’s made in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Chicken Tinga

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a meal that’s bursting with flavor and can be ready in no time, Chicken Tinga is an excellent choice. This dish is celebrated for its robust taste and ease of preparation. It’s particularly great for those who love a meal with a little kick. Whether you’re wrapping it in tacos or serving it over rice, it’s a dish that brings excitement to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

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