27 irresistible chicken dinner ideas to feed your family on busy weeknights

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With these 27 chicken recipes, you’ll never be stuck for dinner ideas. From grilled salads to cozy stews, these dishes are delicious, satisfying, and sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Olive garden chicken pasta on a fork.
Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Air fryer fried chicken legs and thighs in a pile on a wooden cutting board.
Air Fryer Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Get that deep-fried flavor without the mess or guilt with Air Fryer Fried Chicken. Quick to prep and cook, it’s a crunchy and satisfying dinner that’s ready fast.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Chicken Riggies

Chicken riggies in a bowl topped with Parmesan and green onion.
Chicken Riggies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Chicken Riggies combines pasta, chicken, and a spicy tomato cream sauce for a one-pot wonder. It’s a fun and flavorful dish that takes minimal effort to create, perfect for a weeknight comfort meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Riggies

Boneless Chicken Breast

Cut chicken breasts pieces baked.
Boneless Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Cooking boneless chicken breast is a breeze, especially when you have endless seasoning options. Quick to cook and easy to pair with any side, it’s a versatile go-to for a nutritious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Boneless Chicken Breast

Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash

An Instant Pot recipe featuring a spoonful of chicken and squash soup.
Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Need a hearty meal without the hassle? The Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash blends savory flavors and nutritious ingredients in a flash. Let the pressure cooker do the work and enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Stew with Squash

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Whole chicken cooked in the air fryer with lemon and herbs.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Roast a whole chicken in your air fryer for a juicy, succulent centerpiece without heating your whole kitchen. With a crispy exterior and tender inside, this dish is both tasty and time-saving.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza

Chicken bacon ranch pizza on a pizza peel.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Take pizza night to the next level with Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza. Quick to assemble with pre-cooked chicken and a lively ranch dressing, it’s a family-friendly twist on a favorite that can be on the table in no time.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza

Healthy Chicken Parmesan

Pieces of chicken on a plate of spaghetti.
Healthy Chicken Parmesan. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Want classic comfort without the heaviness? Healthy Air Fryer Chicken Parm offers all the cheesy, saucy goodness without the guilt. A weeknight win that doesn’t sacrifice flavor!
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Parmesan

Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Olive garden chicken pasta on a fork.
Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Let your slow cooker take you to Italy with this Olive Garden-inspired chicken pasta. Set it up, forget it, and come home to a restaurant-worthy meal that the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta

Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken

Hot honey chicken on a bed of rice.
Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Sweet and spicy come together in Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken. Fast to cook and with a unique flavor kick, it’s an exciting way to shake up your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken

Thai Red Curry Chicken

A plate of Thai chicken curry with rice and vegetables.
Thai Red Curry Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Spice up your weeknight with Thai Red Curry Chicken. Simple to make with store-bought curry paste, it’s a one-pan dish that delivers complex flavors fast.
Get the Recipe: Thai Red Curry Chicken

Grilled Greek Chicken Salad

Plate with chicken salad with corn, grilled peppers and avocado.
Grilled Greek Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Grilled Greek Chicken Salad is the perfect solution for those weeknights when you want something light but still satisfying. The combination of juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty dressing, comes together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Greek Chicken Salad

Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich

Copycat Chick-fil-A sandwich with tomato, lettuce and cheese.
Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Make a crispy, juicy chicken sandwich right in your air fryer! Quick and with less oil, it’s a convenient and healthier way to satisfy those fast-food cravings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich

Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken

Slow cooker chicken with BBQ sauce in a crock pot with a spoon.
Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken is as easy as it is delicious. Throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have tender, flavorful pulled chicken ready for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken

Stuffed Chicken Breast with Apples & Cheese

Air fryer stuffed chicken breast on a white plate.
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Apples & Cheese. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This stuffed chicken recipe is simple but impressive. The combination of apples and cheese makes a satisfying filling, and it all comes together quickly for a gourmet weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Chicken Breast with Apples & Cheese

Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Orange chicken in chopsticks with chicken, rice and orange slices in the background.
Air Fryer Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Skip the takeout with Air Fryer Orange Chicken. It’s tangy, sweet, and ready in a snap, making it a sure hit for those busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Top view of Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings in a white bowl.
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Comfort food in a hurry? Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings delivers! Enjoy this homey classic with less time and effort, without sacrificing taste.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings

Air Fryer Chicken Caprese

Chicken breast topped with melted mozzarella cheese and tomato.
Air Fryer Chicken Caprese. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Fresh and flavorful, Air Fryer Chicken Caprese is a lighter dinner option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Quick to prepare and cook, it’s a delightful dish for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Caprese

Sous Vide Chicken Thighs

A plate with sous vide chicken thighs and rice on it.
Sous Vide Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Sous Vide Chicken Thighs make cooking foolproof. Set the temperature, pop them in, and get juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time. Ideal for those who want quality without the kitchen stress.
Get the Recipe: Sous Vide Chicken Thighs

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Slow cooker bbq chicken legs in the crock pot after cooking.
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs means less time at the grill and more time enjoying the party. Let them simmer all day in tangy BBQ sauce for a flavorful, fuss-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Legs

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey garlic chicken with green onions on a blue and white plate.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken is an absolute game-changer for weeknight dinners! Imagine the most perfect combination of sweet honey and savory garlic coating crispy air-fried chicken, and you have a dish that’s a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken

Chicken and Waffle Casserole

Piece of chicken and waffle casserole on a plate.
Chicken and Waffle Casserole. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Combine breakfast and dinner with Chicken and Waffle Casserole. Simple to assemble with pre-cooked chicken, it’s a novel, no-fuss meal that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Waffle Casserole

Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Two chicken leg quarters on a grey plate sprinkled with parsley with a broccoli salad in the background.
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

For an easy, economical dinner, try Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters. Fast and with a perfect crispy skin, it’s a wholesome meal that won’t break the bank or your schedule.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Plate of orange chicken in a metal bowl from the top.
Instant Pot Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Instant Pot Orange Chicken takes a popular takeout dish and makes it accessible for any night. Fast, fresh, and with a citrusy punch, it’s a lively dinner option in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Glazed Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Asian chicken with sesame seeds on a plate.
Glazed Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Sweet glaze meets succulent meat in Glazed Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Quick to prepare and irresistibly tasty, it’s a weeknight winner that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken on a white plate on rice topped with parsley.
Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Craving something creamy without the wait? Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken melds flavors all day for a rich, satisfying dish that’s ready when you are.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats

Closeup of zucchini boat stuffed with Buffalo chicken filling.
Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Light and loaded with flavor, Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats are a fun and fast dinner. With a spicy kick and fresh zucchini, it’s a lively way to serve up chicken on a weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats

Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

Air fryer chicken katsu topped with katsu sauce on a plate with rice and cucumbers.
Air Fryer Chicken Katsu. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Craving something crunchy? Air Fryer Chicken Katsu delivers that fried texture without the deep fryer. Quick and satisfying, it’s a crunchy weeknight delight.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

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