15 Chicken Recipes Better Than Takeout

If your go-to dinner is calling the local takeout spot, it’s time to shake things up with these 15 chicken dishes. They’re quicker than waiting for delivery and guaranteed to make you forget about those soggy, lukewarm meals. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and get ready to impress yourself with just how good homemade can be.

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

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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

Making Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu at home means you’re in for a treat that’s both effortless and free from the greasiness often associated with takeout. With a crunchy exterior and a warm, cheesy center, it’s clear why this recipe is a go-to for a comforting meal. Plus, the air fryer technology ensures a healthier finish without compromising on flavor. It’s a straightforward dish that promises a homemade dinner without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Tinga

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

If you’re in the mood for something that packs a bit of heat and is brimming with flavor, Chicken Tinga is your go-to dish. This recipe proves that you can achieve bold, smoky flavors without hours of prep or needing to order from your local takeout spot. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something different yet utterly rewarding. Pulling this off at home will make you a star in the kitchen without a doubt.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

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 seeking a lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste, Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts offers an alternative. This dish combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunchy texture of walnuts, creating a delicious contrast. It’s an ideal choice for a quick lunch or a healthy option that keeps things interesting. Preparing it at home means you can enjoy a burst of flavors that are as nutritious as they are delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad With Cranberries & Walnuts

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.

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Chicken Paprikash, a dish that’s simple to prepare yet rich in flavor. It’s proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a meal that’s fulfilling and perfect for colder days. This recipe brings home the robust flavors of traditional cooking, making it a family favorite. It’s an easy win for anyone looking to replicate hearty, homestyle cooking.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Paprikash

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.

If you’re a fan of chicken soup, you’ll be thrilled to know that making it at home is easier than you think. This Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup captures the essence of the beloved dish, ensuring you get all the comfort without needing to leave the house. It’s ideal for those days when you need a warm hug in the form of a bowl of soup. With every spoonful, it’s clear this homemade version rivals the original.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

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.

Sometimes, simplicity wins the day, and that’s exactly what 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken proves. With minimal ingredients and a set-it-and-forget-it approach, this dish is a testament to the wonders of slow cooking. It’s perfect for busy days when time is scarce but the desire for a home-cooked meal is high. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that feels like a gourmet meal without the effort.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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

Upgrade your sandwich game with Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. This recipe combines tender grilled chicken with fresh flavors. It’s a gourmet twist on the classic sandwich that’s easy to pull off at home. Perfect for a fancy lunch or a casual dinner, it’s a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients coming together.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Chicken Piccata

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

When in need of a quick yet impressive dish, Chicken Piccata answers the call. This recipe brings the tangy and delicious flavors of the classic dish right into your kitchen, proving that gourmet meals don’t need to be complicated. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, making it a go-to for dinner parties or weeknight meals. With this in your repertoire, a fulfilling meal is just moments away.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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.

Say goodbye to bland salads with Chinese Chicken Salad. This dish is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures, ensuring a salad that’s anything but boring. It’s the perfect recipe for when you’re looking for something light yet fulfilling. Making this at home means you’re in control of the freshness, bringing a whole new level of enjoyment to the table.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

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 the epitome of hassle-free cooking, delivering a flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. The combination of lemon and rosemary offers a refreshing take on roasted chicken. It’s a foolproof method for a weekday dinner that feels special without requiring any special skills or ingredients. This recipe is a reminder of how simple ingredients can produce outstanding results.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

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.

For those who are fans of Outback Steakhouse, mastering Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken at home will be a real treat. This recipe brings the restaurant favorite into your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy the flavors any time the craving strikes. It’s a great way to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious meal. The best part? It’s easier than you might think to recreate this beloved dish.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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

Take a cooking trip south of the border with Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. This dish is all about bold flavors and tender chicken, a combination that’s sure to please any palate. It’s perfect for a weekend meal or a festive gathering, bringing the essence of Mexican cuisine into your home. The slow-roasting process ensures every bite is juicy and infused with flavor, making it a standout dish.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you love the classic allure of cordon bleu but prefer something more comforting, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is the answer. This dish deconstructs the traditional elements and combines them into a casserole form, offering a cozy meal that’s perfect for sharing. It’s a creative take that doesn’t skimp on the flavors you know and love. This recipe is all about bringing comfort food to the next level.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Four pieces of Ninja Woodfire Grill Lemon-Herb Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Nothing beats the simplicity and freshness of Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. This recipe leans on the aromatic powers of lemon and herbs to create a dish that’s light, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just cooking for the family, this chicken promises to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a straightforward approach to grilling that yields delicious results every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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

For a twist on traditional quesadillas, try your hand at Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. This recipe takes the bold flavors of al pastor and combines them with the cheesy goodness of quesadillas. It’s the ideal choice for a fun dinner or when you’re craving something a bit more adventurous. Simple, delicious, and unexpectedly flavorful, this dish will become a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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