13 Chicken Meals That Won’t Let You Reach For The Takeout Menu

When it comes to dinner, it’s easy to reach for the takeout menu—especially after a long day. But what if you had a lineup of chicken meals that were so delicious, so satisfying, that takeout didn’t even cross your mind? These 13 recipes are here to show you that a homemade dinner can be just as quick, way more flavorful, and a whole lot better for your wallet.

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.

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those evenings when you want a quick and easy meal, Chicken Fried Rice could be your new favorite. It’s straightforward to whip up and keeps you away from the takeout menu. It blends well-loved flavors in a single dish that’s perfect for a casual family dinner. Give your local takeout a break and try this simple home-cooked alternative.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

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 offers a refreshing twist on your usual chicken dinner. It’s all cooked on one pan, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This dish is a convenient choice for a busy weekday meal. It’s sure to keep everyone at the table happy and satisfied without reaching for a takeout menu.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary 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.

Ditch the takeout menus and opt for something lighter like Chinese Chicken Salad. This dish is perfect for those looking for a meal that’s both fulfilling and refreshing. It’s easy to assemble and packs a flavorful punch that’s hard to beat. Ideal for a nutritious lunch or a light dinner, it’s a staple for a healthy diet.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

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.

Simplify your dinner routine with 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. This dish requires minimal prep and cooks itself in the slow cooker, making it a hassle-free option for any day of the week. It’s a practical choice that ensures you won’t be tempted by takeout. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

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 something a bit more upscale without the fuss, Chicken Piccata could be the answer. This dish combines simple elegance with ease of preparation, making it perfect for a special evening meal. It’s quick to make and leaves you feeling like you’ve dined out without leaving home. It’s a sure hit for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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

Turn your kitchen into a fiesta with Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. This slow-cooked meal is effortless to prepare and bursting with flavors that are robust and inviting. It’s the perfect antidote to the usual takeout fare, offering a homemade hearty alternative. Gather the family for a meal that’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

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.

When you crave fast food but want to keep things homemade, Copycat Taco Bell Cantina Chicken Bowl is your go-to. This recipe brings all the familiar flavors of your favorite fast food in a healthier way. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. You can enjoy your favorite bowl anytime, with all the comfort of home cooking.
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.

If you’re looking for a meal that combines freshness with simplicity, Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich is a sure winner. This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner on the patio. It offers an alternative to everyday meals, ensuring a pleasurable eating experience without the need for takeout. Enjoy the melding of flavors in a hand-held favorite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a dish that brings the essence of gourmet home cooking to your table with ease. This casserole takes a classic favorite and turns it into a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s ideal for those evenings when you want a meal that feels special without the fuss of intricate preparation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

A black bowl filled with rotisserie chicken pasta salad.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a dish that’s light yet fulfilling, Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad makes a perfect choice. This salad is a go-to for quick, nourishing meals that won’t have you missing takeout. It’s versatile enough for a picnic or a wholesome dinner at home. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this dish any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

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.

Enjoy the familiar flavors of a restaurant favorite right from your kitchen with Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. This dish replicates a beloved menu item, ensuring a delectable meal without stepping out. It’s perfect for those looking to recreate a dining-out experience at home. This chicken meal is a preferred choice for a family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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

Bring a bit of zing to your kitchen with Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. This meal provides a perfect alternative to the usual takeout fare. It’s great for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, offering a tasty twist on traditional quesadillas. Dig into this dish and discover why you won’t be calling for delivery anytime soon.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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.

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken offers a refreshing take on a classic grilling recipe. This dish is ideal for those seeking a lighter meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Enjoy this dish outdoors for a great dining experience that keeps the takeout menus tucked away.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken

Leave a Comment