13 Weeknight Chicken Dinners You Won’t Dread Making

Feeling uninspired by the thought of making dinner? It is understandable. That’s why here is a compiled list of 13 chicken dinners that will have you saying, “Why didn’t I try this sooner?” They’re fast, fun, and best of all, they won’t make you dread stepping into the kitchen. Who knows, you might even impress yourself!

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.

Comfort food at its best, Chicken Tinga packs a punch of flavor that the whole family will enjoy. It’s a straightforward, weeknight-friendly dish that comes together fast, making it great for those evenings when you’re short on time. Though it’s richly flavored, it’s surprisingly light and won’t weigh you down. Perfect for those busy nights when you’re looking for something hearty yet easy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tinga

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 an easy yet impressive dish, try Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu. It simplifies a classic meal, making it doable even on the busiest of evenings. The air fryer cuts down cooking time while still delivering that flavorful crunch you love. There is no need to reserve this for special occasions; it’s perfect for any weeknight.
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.

When you’re in the mood for something fresh and easy, Chicken Salad With Cranberries & Walnuts fits the bill. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that balances delicious and sweet elements. Ideal for quick dinners, this salad offers a bit of crunch and a whole lot of fulfillment without much prep work. There’s no need to dread making dinner when you’ve got this recipe in your back pocket.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad With Cranberries & Walnuts

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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

Bite into freshness with a Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. It’s a simple yet fulfilling option that requires minimal effort. The flavors are vibrant, and it’s a great way to switch up those weeknight dinners without much hassle. You’ll appreciate the ease and deliciousness this sandwich brings to your table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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.

Enjoy a homey classic with Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings. This dish brings the comfort of the original right into your home but simplifies the process for a quicker meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you still want that cozy, homemade feel. There was no fuss, just delicious, fulfilling food.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken And Dumplings

Chicken Piccata

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

With its tangy flavor, Chicken Piccata brings excitement to your dinner table. It’s an elegant dish that is surprisingly easy to make. This makes it a fantastic option for those nights when you want something special but don’t have hours to cook. You’ll love how fast and flavorful this recipe is.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

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.

Bring some takeout vibes home with Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken. This version captures the flavors of the original but is quick and easy to make yourself. Great for weeknights, it’s an exciting alternative to ordering in. Plus, you can customize the heat level to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Keep it simple and flavorful with Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken. It’s a straightforward dish that doesn’t require much time but delivers wonderful flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it leaves you feeling rewarded without a lot of effort. Fire up the grill and enjoy a stress-free, delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb 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.

Light yet filling, Chinese Chicken Salad is perfect for evenings when you want something quick and easy. The blend of flavors and textures makes it feel special without much effort. It’s great as a main course or a side, fitting seamlessly into any weeknight meal plan. No stress, just flavor, and simplicity.
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.

A bowl of Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup brings warmth and comfort to any evening. It’s a hearty dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. This is perfect for those nights when you’re craving something comforting but don’t have hours to cook. This soup makes weeknight dinners both simple and fulfilling.
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.

Simplify your dinner plans with Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. This one-pan wonder saves you time on prep and cleanup, making it a weeknight winner. The bright and refreshing flavors make it a go-to when you need something easy but not boring. Toss everything on a sheet pan and relax while it cooks.
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.

Spice up your weeknight with Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. They’re quick to assemble and deliver a burst of amazing flavor in every bite. This dish turns regular quesadillas into something special without extra effort. It’s an easy way to add a bit of excitement to your dinner routine without spending hours in the kitchen.
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 no-fuss, flavorful dinner, try Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. It’s simple to assemble and feels like a special treat without extra work. You get all the flavor you love in a much quicker cooking time. It is ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

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