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Home » Chicken Recipes

25 Quick and Easy Chicken Recipes for Busy Nights

Published: Oct 26, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Some nights call for meals that come together fast without much planning. Quick chicken recipes are perfect for those times when a warm meal is needed but the day’s been packed. These easy dishes bring flavor to the table with little effort, keeping things delicious and simple. Just a few steps, and dinner’s ready to enjoy—making any busy night a bit easier.

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Buffalo Instant Pot Chicken Leg Quarters

Top view of buffalo instant pot chicken leg quarters on a plate.
Buffalo Instant Pot Chicken Leg Quarters. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cooking in the Instant Pot makes this chicken dish a breeze. Buffalo Instant Pot Chicken Leg Quarters offers bold flavors and juicy meat that cooks quickly. It’s a fantastic option for busy evenings when a hearty meal is desired. Pair it with some veggies for a refreshing dinner.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Instant Pot Chicken Leg Quarters

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This stir-fry brings a taste of Asian flavors to the dinner table in no time. With Kung Pao Chicken, the combination of chicken, vegetables, and a spicy sauce creates a refreshing meal. It’s a great option for busy nights when quick and easy is the goal. Serve it over rice for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

A plate of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This recipe combines two favorites into one easy meal. Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect for busy nights when everyone craves something hearty. With just a few steps, dinner can be ready to serve in no time. Top it with cheese and enjoy a cozy family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Buffalo chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Quick and crispy chicken tenders are a must for busy evenings. Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders cook fast, making them a go-to option for dinner or snacks. They are packed with flavor and perfect for dipping. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese and Vegetables

Overhead image of sheet pan chicken caprese and vegetables.
Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese and Vegetables. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This one-pan meal is all about simplicity and flavor. With Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese and Vegetables, everything cooks together, cutting down on cleanup time. Fresh ingredients make this dish a favorite for busy evenings. Just pop it in the oven and relax while dinner cooks itself.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese and Vegetables

Lemon Butter Chicken

Lemon Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Bright flavors come together for a quick meal that’s perfect for weeknights. Lemon Butter Chicken is easy to whip up, making it a go-to option when time is tight. The refreshing taste makes it a great choice for those who want something light yet fulfilling. Serve it with a side of rice or salad for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Chicken

Honey Ginger Chicken

Honey Ginger Chicken. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Quick cooking makes this chicken dish a hit for those hectic evenings. The combination of flavors in Honey Ginger Chicken creates a meal that’s both refreshing and easy to prepare. In just a few steps, a delicious dinner can be on the table. Serve it with steamed veggies or rice for a balanced plate.
Get the Recipe: Honey Ginger Chicken

Chicken Saag (Chicken Saagwala)

Chicken Saag (Chicken Saagwala). Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A quick way to enjoy a classic dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Chicken Saag offers tender chicken in a creamy spinach sauce, perfect for busy nights. With minimal prep, this dish can be served over rice or with bread in no time. It’s a comforting option that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Saag (Chicken Saagwala)

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Grilled Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This dish brings together the perfect mix of sweet and spicy flavors. Grilled Hot Honey Chicken cooks quickly, making it a great choice for busy nights when time is short. Just fire up the grill, and dinner is ready in a flash. It pairs nicely with a simple salad or rice for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Honey Chicken

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Busy weeknights call for a quick fix, and Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad delivers just that. Tossed with crunchy greens and creamy dressing, it’s a refreshing meal that comes together in no time. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish keeps everyone satisfied. You'll love how easy it is to make this crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Gochujang Chicken

Chinese gochujang chicken in a skillet on a table with black kitchen towel wrapped around the handle.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Looking for a quick dinner option? Gochujang Chicken brings a spicy kick to your table without taking up too much of your time. The bold flavors make it a standout dish that's simple to whip up after a long day. It's a perfect way to spice up your weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Air Fryer Chicken Casserole

Air Fryer Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air Fryer Chicken Casserole is your go-to for busy nights when you want something hearty yet quick. Just throw everything together, and let the air fryer do its magic. This dish is comforting and easy, making it a hit for the whole family. It's a great way to enjoy a warm meal without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Casserole

Best Shredded Chicken Tacos

Best Shredded Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Tacos can be a breeze on a hectic night, especially with Best Shredded Chicken Tacos. You can have them ready in a flash, making them ideal for a fun dinner. Load them up with your favorite toppings, and everyone can build their own. It’s a hands-on meal that keeps things lively at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Best Shredded Chicken Tacos

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Easy Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Easy Chicken and Dumplings is a classic comfort food that’s super quick to prepare. You can have a warm, hearty meal ready in no time, perfect for those chilly evenings. It's like a warm hug in a bowl that satisfies everyone. This recipe makes busy nights feel cozy without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Best BBQ Chicken Pizza

Four slices of pizza on a table.
Best BBQ Chicken Pizza. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

Pizza night doesn’t have to be complicated with the Best BBQ Chicken Pizza on the menu. This easy recipe allows you to throw together your favorite flavors quickly. It’s a fun way to mix things up and keep everyone engaged in making their own slices. Enjoy pizza in a whole new way that fits your busy schedule.
Get the Recipe: Best BBQ Chicken Pizza

Instant Pot Chicken Korma

Low angle shot of bowls of chicken korma.
Instant Pot Chicken Korma. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Instant Pot Chicken Korma is a fantastic option for those who want a flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe packs a punch, making it a delicious meal for a busy weeknight. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a dish that tastes like it took all day. Enjoy the rich flavors without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Korma

Italian Chicken Cutlets

Breaded italian chicken cutlets on a black plate with sliced lemon.
Italian Chicken Cutlets. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Italian Chicken Cutlets are perfect for a fast weeknight meal. These cutlets cook quickly and pair with your favorite sides. They’re crispy, flavorful, and sure to please everyone at the table. It’s a simple way to add a taste of Italy to your dinner without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Cutlets

Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast

Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast on two black plates with parsley and one plate with green beans.
Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

When you’re short on time, Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast is a game changer. It’s spicy, juicy, and ready in a flash, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners. This dish adds a kick to your meal and is perfect for those who love bold flavors. It’s a quick way to please the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Breast

Chinese Ginger Chicken

Chicken stir fry in a white bowl with chopsticks.
Chinese Ginger Chicken. Photo credit: Food Fun & Faraway Places.

A quick stir-fry brings ginger and chicken together for a delicious meal. This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when dinner needs to come together fast. The flavors are bright, providing a refreshing experience. Serve with rice or noodles for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Ginger Chicken

Easy Air Fryer Shake n Bake Chicken Breast

Easy Air Fryer Shake n Bake Chicken Breast on a white plate with a salad topped with bell peppers and parmesan.
Easy Air Fryer Shake n Bake Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

Easy Air Fryer Shake n Bake Chicken Breast makes dinner super simple. Just coat the chicken and let the air fryer do the work, leaving you free to focus on sides or relaxation. The result is juicy chicken with a refreshing crunch. This dish fits perfectly into your busy routine.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Shake n Bake Chicken Breast

Blackened Chicken Thighs

Blackened chicmen thighs in a white dish.
Blackened Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

Blackened Chicken Thighs are a speedy solution for flavorful weeknight dinners. This dish is packed with flavor and cooks up quickly, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for long. Serve it with your choice of sides for a complete meal. It's a simple way to impress without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Thighs

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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

A delicious option for a busy night that everyone can enjoy. Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas are quick to prepare, making them ideal for evenings when time is limited. They are filled with flavorful chicken and can be served with salsa for a fun twist. Enjoy a meal that brings a taste of Mexico right at home.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Sticky Chinese Bourbon Chicken

Chinese bourbon chicken in a white bowl over rice.
Sticky Chinese Bourbon Chicken. Photo credit: Food Fun & Faraway Places.

Sticky Chinese Bourbon Chicken is perfect for a busy evening when you want something quick and flavorful. This dish is easy to prepare and is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table. The sweet and savory sauce makes it a delicious option for any weeknight. Enjoy a taste of takeout without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Sticky Chinese Bourbon Chicken

Stovetop Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Cooked chicken chunks on skewers in a grill pan.
Stovetop Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

These kabobs are quick and easy, bringing fun to the dinner table. Stovetop Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are perfect for busy evenings when something delicious is desired. Just grill them up on the stove for a delicious meal in no time. Serve with rice or noodles for a filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Stovetop Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.
Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chinese Black Pepper Chicken is a quick fix for a flavorful dinner on busy nights. This dish packs a punch with its bold peppery flavor, and it’s easy to whip up in no time. Serve it over rice or with veggies for a complete meal. It’s a great way to spice things up without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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