15 Budget-Friendly Chicken Feasts

Ever felt like your wallet is on a diet every time you go grocery shopping? Well, worry no more! These 15 chicken recipes are here to save the day—and your bank account. These meals are so budget-friendly, you’ll think your cash is hiding somewhere, only to find it was never spent in the first place!

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

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you crave comfort without breaking the bank, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is your go-to meal. It’s reminiscent of that hearty restaurant favorite you love, brought straight to your kitchen. Perfect for meal preppers or those looking for a simple one-pot wonder, this dish keeps both time and budget in mind. Gather your family around the table for a nourishing feast that feels like a warm hug.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

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.

If you’re aiming for something light but still want it to be wallet-friendly, Chinese Chicken Salad has you covered. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the usual dinner routine. Excellent for a quick lunch or a no-fuss dinner, it’s a meal that proves simplicity and flavor can go hand-in-hand. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to whatever you might have in the pantry.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplins

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Settle in for a cozy evening with Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplins without the stress of a hefty bill. This dish brings home the flavors of a well-loved comfort classic. It’s designed to fulfill your cravings for something home-cooked while keeping things easy on the wallet. Enjoy connecting with family over a dish that’s straightforward, delicious, and economical — a triple win for dinner time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplins

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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

Add some excitement to your meal rotation with Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken, a dish that marries convenience with bold flavors. Busy folks will appreciate the minimal active preparation time, and your bank account will thank you for the cost-efficient ingredients. It’s a laid-back meal option that slow-cooks itself to perfection. Best of all, it’s a budget-friendly way to bring a taste of Mexico to your dining table.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken in a bowl with a bowl of rice in the background.
Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Indulge in the spicy kick of Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken while keeping your spending in check. With this recipe, you can recreate a popular takeout option right in your kitchen, and it won’t cost you a fortune. It features the perfect balance of heat and delicious flavors, sure to please anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up for a quick and exciting meal any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao 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.

For those afternoons when you desire something quick and easy, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts is an excellent choice. It’s light on the wallet and comes together in no time, offering a delicious way to stretch those chicken leftovers. This salad doesn’t skimp on flavor and is versatile enough for any meal – sandwich it, scoop it over greens, or enjoy it by itself. It’s a frugal and delicious way to lunch differently.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

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.

Fire up the grill for Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken, an economical way to enjoy a restaurant-style dish at home. This meal is all about maximizing flavor while minimizing costs. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or just treating the family, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It allows you to indulge in an enjoyable meal without the restaurant price tag.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Chicken Tinga

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

Spicy, smoky, and simple – Chicken Tinga has all the makings of a budget-friendly feast with flair. This dish is a wallet-friendly spin on a Mexican classic that doesn’t skimp on the authentic taste. It’s perfect for those who want to add some excitement to their meal plans while keeping an eye on expenses. Round up the troops for a weeknight dinner that’s big on flavor and small on costs.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

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.

Burrito lovers will enjoy this one. With Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito, you can whip up your fast-food favorite without dishing out the cash. It’s a versatile dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, and it’s particularly friendly on the wallet. So gather your ingredients and get ready to roll up a feast that’s as rewarding as it is cost-effective.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Burrito

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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

When you want to impress without the stress of a hefty bill, whip out your air fryer for some Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. This recipe gives a nod to the classic dish while embracing modern cooking methods. It combines convenience, efficiency, and budget-friendly ingredients for a meal that looks gourmet without the gourmet price. Expect a dish that cooks up crispy and delicious with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

A plate of Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl.
Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Turn your kitchen into a cantina with Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl, an economical cooking creation that doesn’t skimp on taste. This bowl is as customizable as it is delicious, allowing you to play with flavors while keeping your budget intact. It’s the perfect solution for a fun family dinner or a meal prep option that will last you throughout the week. Enjoy your favorite fast-food flavors at a fraction of the price.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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

For an Italian-inspired lunch that’s kind to your wallet, try your hand at a Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. This dish is a testament to the magic that can happen when simple ingredients come together in just the right way. It’s a particularly good pick for those looking to treat themselves to something special without going over budget. Delicious, rewarding, and simple, it’s like a little holiday in the middle of the day.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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.

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is for nights when you need dinner to be both fuss-free and frugal. This one-pan wonder is the epitome of hassle-free cooking, promising a flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. It’s a smart option for those who are short on time but still want to enjoy a homemade dinner. Plus, it leaves plenty of room in your budget for sides.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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

With Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas, fulfillment is just a few flips away. This dish takes a well-loved street food and turns it into a budget-friendly meal that you can enjoy from the comfort of your own home. It’s easy, economical, and exploding with the kind of flavor that makes it a weeknight staple. So go ahead and treat your household to a little fiesta without the high costs.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Chicken Piccata

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

Bright, tangy, and effortlessly chic, Chicken Piccata brings an element of gourmet to your everyday dining without the extravagant expense. This dish proves that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor for frugality. Perfect for those evenings when you want a meal that feels a bit fancier, but still easy on your finances. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to dine in style without the upscale cost.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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