13 Power-Packed Chicken Dinners For Busy Lives

Feeling the pressure of a hectic schedule? These 13 chicken dinners are here to save the day, and maybe even your sanity. With recipes that are both simple and satisfying, you can whip up something amazing even on the busiest nights. Who knew quick dinners could taste this good? Plus, you’ll finally have an answer when everyone asks, “What’s for dinner?” for the millionth time.

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.

Chicken Tinga

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

Need something quick and filling for dinner? Chicken Tinga offers a robust flavor profile with a minimal hassle. Perfect for a weeknight meal, it’s designed to cook fast and please everyone. It packs a punch of flavors that makes it a popular choice for a fulfilling meal. You’ll appreciate how effortlessly it fits into your busy schedule.
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 a lighter meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, try this Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. It’s a refreshing option for lunch, especially on those days when time is tight. The addition of cranberries adds a nice touch of sweetness, making it both nourishing and enjoyable. It’s easy to prepare in advance, ensuring you have a tasty meal ready whenever you are. This dish is perfect for keeping you energized through your day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu brings a touch of elegance to your dining table without any fuss. It’s a fantastic choice for those evenings when you want something special but need it to be straightforward. The air fryer does most of the work, leaving you more time to relax. This dish is known for its crispy exterior and rich filling, providing a meal that’s also quick to make. Enjoy the classic flavors at home with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

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 Six.

Craving comfort food but don’t have time to cook for hours? Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings is your go-to for a comforting meal that feels like home. It’s quick to whip up, offering a soothing taste of home-style cooking. This dish promises a warm, hearty meal that will keep you and your family happy and full. It’s perfect for gathering everyone around the table, even on your busiest nights.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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

When you need a quick yet delicious dinner, this Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich is a winner. It’s packed with fresh flavors and can be made in minutes, ideal for a busy evening. Enjoy the taste of grilled chicken combined with classic caprese elements in a sandwich form. It’s not only filling but also quick to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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.

Stir up some excitement at the dinner table with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. This dish brings the flavor of Asian cuisine right into your kitchen, perfect for when you’re craving something a bit different. It’s quick to make, which means less time cooking and more time enjoying. The spicy kick and hearty ingredients make it a fulfilling choice for a busy night. Get the restaurant experience at home without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Simplicity meets flavor in this 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. This is your answer to busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal. Just set it in the morning and come back to a dish that’s ready to serve. It’s ideal for those who want a delicious dinner waiting for them with minimal input. This dish proves that good food doesn’t need to be complicated.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

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 looking for something light and flavorful, this Chinese Chicken Salad is a perfect choice. It’s quick to assemble and packed with diverse flavors that blend beautifully. This salad strikes a balance between nourishing and appetizing, making it ideal for a busy weekday lunch. It’s a refreshing break from heavier meals, yet still filling. Enjoy a burst of flavors in a salad that keeps your mealtime both simple and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

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.

Warm up with a bowl of Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. This soup is a hearty choice that comes together quickly, offering a taste of Sicilian comfort in every spoonful. It’s perfect for those chillier evenings when you need something warming and substantial. The rich flavors are sure to make this soup a family favorite. It’s like a hug in a bowl, ready to comfort you after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

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.

Busy nights call for simple solutions like Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. This one-pan wonder is easy to prepare and clean up, making it ideal for your hectic schedule. The combination of lemon and rosemary offers a refreshing taste that’s both delicious and quick to make. It’s a straightforward dish that delivers big on flavor without complicating your dinner plans. Enjoy a meal that’s both wholesome and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Chicken Piccata

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

Brighten up your dinner routine with Chicken Piccata. This dish is a fantastic blend of flavors and comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight treat. The light and tangy sauce enhances the chicken beautifully, offering a meal that’s both quick to prepare and delicious to eat. It’s a great way to add a little flavor to your dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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

Add a twist to your typical dinner with Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. They are a fun and easy way to spice up your meal routine. Packed with flavor, they’re perfect for a quick dinner or a casual get-together. The quesadillas are simple to assemble and cook, saving you time and effort. Enjoy a touch of Mexican cuisine with a dish that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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 a flavorful meal that doesn’t require a lot of prep, try Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. It’s inspired by the popular restaurant dish and brings a delicious taste to your table with minimal effort. This dish is perfect for those days when you’re short on time but want something filling and flavorful. It’s quick to prepare and guarantees a tasty meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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