16 Simple and Satisfying Chicken Recipes to Save Your Weeknights

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Chicken dinners are the ultimate weeknight heroes—quick, versatile, and always a hit with the whole family! These 16 easy chicken recipes are just what you need to bring excitement and flavor to busy evenings without the fuss. From creamy chicken and asparagus to crispy baked thighs, and even a one-pan creamy tomato gnocchi with chicken sausage, this collection is packed with delicious options for every craving. Whether you’re whipping up a quick stir-fry or a cozy chicken stew, these recipes make it simple to serve up satisfying meals any day of the week.

One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage

one pan tomato gnocchi with chicken sausage in a skillet — Photo credit: Ambitious Kitchen

Deliciously creamy one-pan tomato gnocchi loaded with juicy chicken sausage and fresh spinach! This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect go-to dinner for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage

Smothered Chicken

A close-up of a plate with grilled chicken, caramelized onions, and white rice, garnished with chopped herbs. A spoon is drizzling a golden-brown sauce over the chicken, creating a savory and appetizing presentation. This easy chicken dinner idea is sure to impress every time on your marble-like surface. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This smothered chicken recipe is super easy to make, whether you use the stove or a slow cooker. It’s all about those tender chicken thighs swimming in a tasty gravy that’s just right for comfort food lovers!

Get The Recipe: Smothered Chicken

Miso Chicken

This simple miso chicken recipe will be a delightful addition to your dinner lineup. Miso paste forms a flavorful marinade, imparting a savory-sweet essence to the chicken, while high heat guarantees crispy skin and juicy perfection.

Get The Recipe: Miso Chicken

Chicken and Yellow Rice

Transform your leftover chicken into something spectacular with our delectable Chicken and Yellow Rice recipe. This simple, one-pot dish gives new life to your ingredients, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Get The Recipe: Chicken and Yellow Rice

Easy Baked Chicken Legs

an overhead image of a platter of baked chicken legs. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe makes succulent chicken legs coated with a zesty garlic mustard marinade and a tantalizing spice blend. This crispy, flavor-packed dinner will delight everyone gathered around the table.

Get The Recipe: Baked Chicken Legs

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a plate with some rice. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

It doesn’t get simpler (or more delicious) than this! Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs require only three ingredients and come out perfectly baked in your oven. Ideal for a hectic weeknight, this recipe packs a punch of flavor with minimal fuss.

Get The Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Panko Chicken

Say goodbye to boring chicken! These golden-brown cutlets feature a delightful crunch thanks to the panko parmesan crust, unveiling succulent, tender chicken inside. The perfect blend of flavor and texture will have you craving seconds in no time.

Get The Recipe: Panko Chicken

Creamy Chicken & Asparagus

A bowl of Chicken and Asparagus in a cream sauce. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

You’ll love this Creamy Chicken & Asparagus dish, where everyday ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary. Easy to prepare yet brimming with flavor, it’s perfect for special occasions and delightful weeknight dinners.

Get The Recipe: Chicken & Asparagus

Crockpot Salsa Chicken

A bowl of rice with chicken and jalapenos. — Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

Crock Pot Salsa Chicken is the ultimate easy dinner bursting with bold Mexican-inspired flavors. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights when you want something delicious without the hassle!
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Salsa Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken is a crowd-pleaser you’ll love! This quick and flavorful recipe brings the taste of your favorite Asian-inspired dishes right to your kitchen—no need to order takeout.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken

Easy Chicken Meatballs

A plate of chicken meatballs — Photo credit: Downshiftology

Prepare to be wowed by these baked chicken meatballs! Juicy, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile, they pair perfectly with any sauce you love.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Meatballs

Chicken and Rice (Stovetop)

overhead view of chicken and rice in a dutch oven with a wooden spoon. — Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

This isn’t just any Chicken and Rice dish—it’s a flavor-packed masterpiece! Cooked to perfection in one skillet, it’s easy, delicious, and sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice (Stovetop)

Easy Chicken Stew

closeup of a pot of chicken stew with a ladle — Photo credit: Salt and Lavender

This hearty chicken stew is comfort food at its best! With just 15 minutes of prep, you can whip up a cozy, filling meal perfect for chilly days. Made with simple, everyday ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Stew

Chicken Tacos (Mexican Street Corn)

Irresistibly easy chicken tacos topped with a fresh, zesty corn and avocado mix! These tacos are a breeze to whip up and packed with flavor. Plus, we’ve got all the tips and tricks to help you make the best chicken tacos ever!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tacos (Mexican Street Corn)

Pesto Parmesan Chicken with Veggies

Sheet Pan Parmesan Pesto Chicken with Potatoes, Broccoli, and Carrots is a flavor-packed, all-in-one dinner that’s as delicious as it is effortless! Made with simple pantry staples, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a meal that wows without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Parmesan Chicken with Veggies

Chicken Fajita Stuffed Peppers

Chicken Stuffed Peppers in white baking dish — Photo credit: Cooking Classy

Discover the ultimate stuffed pepper recipe inspired by chicken fajitas! Packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make, these chicken stuffed peppers are a guaranteed win for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fajita Stuffed Peppers