Skip The Tuna; It’s Chicken Tonight! 11 Chicken Dishes Better Than Chicken From The Sea

If you’re under the impression that seafood is the epitome of flavor, it’s time for a revelation. This lineup of 11 chicken dishes are set to surprise you. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill recipes; each one boasts a unique twist that’s perfect for everything from Sunday family gathering to those busy nights and you need a quick fill. And the best part? You won’t need to venture into the deep blue to snag these flavors.

Chicken tinga in a blue bowl.
Chicken Tinga. 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.

Forget about the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. This dish is a far cry from your everyday tuna, offering a crispy exterior with a succulent, flavorful interior. It’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create something truly special. Plus, using the air fryer means you get all the gourmet vibes without the hassle, making it an ideal choice for a fancy yet fuss-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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.

Changing up your salad game is easy when you swap tuna for something like Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. This dish combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of walnuts, all while making chicken the star. It’s a refreshing take on your typical salad, offering a sweet flavor profile that’s both nourishing and fulfilling. Perfect for a light lunch or a side, it’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

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 Heather.

Craving something spicy, delicious, and a bit sweet? Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken hits all the right notes. This dish bypasses the ordinary and brings home the beloved flavors of a classic American-Chinese takeout. It’s a lively alternative to tuna, offering a combination of textures and tastes that promise a pleasant dining experience for those who crave a bit of excitement on their plate.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

Chicken Stir Fry

A white plate with chicken and mushrooms in a sauce.
Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those evenings when you want something quick, vibrant, and brimming with flavor, Chicken Stir Fry is the go-to option. It’s a far cry from the predictable tuna, packed with fresh veggies and delicious pieces of chicken. This dish not only brightens your dinner table but also ensures a satisfying meal without the fuss. It’s the perfect way to introduce a variety of flavors and textures to your weeknight dining rotation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stir Fry

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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

Sometimes, all you crave is a sandwich, but why settle for tuna when you can have a Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich? This dish upgrades humble sandwich with fresh ingredients and grilled chicken, offering a taste of Italy in every bite. It’s a simple pleasure, combining classic flavors in a way that’s both satisfying and surprisingly light. Perfect for a summer lunch or a casual dinner, this sandwich is a winner on all fronts.
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 Heather.

When you want a meal that’s light, refreshing, and full of texture, Chinese Chicken Salad is the way to go. This salad is a fusion of flavors that puts the ordinary tuna salad to shame. With its crunchy vegetables and savory chicken, it’s a salad that packs a punch and satisfies your hunger in a refined way. It’s perfect for those who love a meal that’s as vibrant and colorful as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Chicken Piccata

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

If you’re in the mood for a dish that combines simplicity with elegance, Chicken Piccata is the answer. This classic Italian dish brings a delicious flavor profile that makes it an alternative to tuna. It’s a meal that’s both comforting and sophisticated, ensuring a memorable experience without the need for complex ingredients or techniques. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself, it’s a dish that speaks to the heart.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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.

For those nights when minimal cleanup is as important as the meal itself, Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken comes to the rescue. This one-pan wonder is a far stretch from the tuna smoothness, offering a burst of lemony freshness. The rosemary adds a touch of sophistication, making it a dish that’s both easy and elegant. It’s the ideal solution for a stress-free dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor or presentation.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Two bowls of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. This dish brings the warmth and nostalgia of Southern cooking to your table, making it a heartwarming alternative to tuna. Each spoonful is a reminder of home-cooked meals and simple pleasures. It’s an easy choice for anyone looking to recreate the magic of Cracker Barrel’s classic dish, offering a taste of tradition and warmth.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken Tinga

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

If you’re aiming for a dish with a bit more punch than your standard tuna fare, look no further. Chicken Tinga offers a flavorful and slightly spicy twist, perfect for your cravings. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, balancing rich, deep flavors with a touch of heat, making it a memorable meal that stands out. Ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, it’s a sure way to skip the tuna without missing out on taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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

When it comes to comfort food with a twist, Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas stand out. They transition seamlessly from a simple dinner idea to the highlight of a casual party menu. Unlike the usual tuna options, these quesadillas boast a unique blend of flavors that are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, even easier to love, and bring a touch of Mexican cuisine right to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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