10 Quick Chicken Dinners for Busy Weeknights

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When time’s tight, quick chicken dinners can save the day without losing flavor. Try one-pan lemon garlic chicken and asparagus for minimal cleanup, or whip up a quick chicken stir-fry with your favorite veggies. For something zesty, go for 30-minute chicken fajitas or creamy chicken and spinach pasta. Don’t forget honey garlic chicken thighs or easy chicken tacos for a delicious twist. Each recipe brings something unique, so you can explore even more tasty options ahead!

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus is a quick and flavorful dish that brings a burst of brightness to your dinner table. With its tender chicken and crisp asparagus, this recipe can be easily whipped up on a busy weeknight, requiring minimal prep and cleanup thanks to the one-pan method. The zesty lemon and fragrant garlic elevate the dish, making it feel special without a lot of fuss.

To make this dish even more appealing, the chicken cooks to juicy perfection alongside fresh asparagus, creating a well-rounded meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You can serve it over rice, quinoa, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option. It’s not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors that make for an inviting presentation.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil, garlic, and asparagus, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp. Return the chicken to the pan, drizzle with lemon juice and zest, and cook together for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.

When preparing this one-pan meal, feel free to customize the veggies to your preference, or even add a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor.

Make sure to watch the chicken closely as cooking times may vary depending on thickness. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a simple side salad. Bon appétit!

Quick Chicken Stir-Fry With Veggies

Quick Chicken Stir-Fry With Veggies is an ideal dish for busy weeknights, combining tenderness, crunch, and vibrant flavors in a matter of minutes. This stir-fry isn’t only quick to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. The result is a vibrant and nutritious meal that never compromises on taste or satisfaction. Perfect for the whole family, this dish is both healthy and filling.

To keep things effortless, you can marinate the chicken beforehand or use pre-cut vegetables to save time. The key to a successful stir-fry lies in the cooking method: make certain your pan is hot enough before adding the ingredients, and stir frequently to cook everything evenly. In less than 30 minutes, you can serve up a delicious homemade meal that rivals takeout.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
• Optional: sesame seeds or green onions for garnish

In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch, mixing well to coat. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir everything together for an additional 2 minutes.

When cooking your stir-fry, always remember to prep all your ingredients beforehand and have them ready to go, as stir-frying is a fast-paced cooking method. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if you’re making a larger batch, consider working in batches to maintain high heat throughout the cooking process.

Keeping things moving in the pan will help achieve that perfect tender and crisp texture while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

30-Minute Chicken Fajitas

Minute Chicken Fajitas are a perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners, combining speed and flavor in one delightful dish. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a vibrant meal that bursts with zesty flavors.

Imagine succulent chicken breast sautéed with crisp bell peppers and onions, all topped with your favorite toppings—these fajitas can be customized to suit your palate. This recipe allows you to enjoy the delicious essence of Mexican cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen.

The key to these speedy fajitas is to have everything prepped and ready to go, so you can savor each bite in a matter of minutes. Serve with warm tortillas and your choice of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced thin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 small flour or corn tortillas
• Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, cheese, sour cream, lime wedges

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in the sliced bell pepper and onion, then sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Sauté everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Remove from heat and serve immediately with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.

For an extra bit of flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the meat.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of peppers or add a dash of hot sauce for some heat. Fajitas are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them in a skillet for a quick meal.

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta

This Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta is the perfect quick dinner option for busy weeknights. With tender chicken breast, vibrant spinach, and al dente pasta all coated in a luscious creamy sauce, it delivers both flavor and satisfaction. The combination of garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese adds a rich depth that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality, all made in the comfort of your home.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those nights when you need a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Paired with a light salad or garlic bread, this dish is sure to please family and friends alike.

• 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, then stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Once the sauce is creamy, fold in the spinach until wilted, and combine with the drained pasta. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.

For best results, verify the chicken is cut into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking. You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.

If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream alternative. Additionally, leftover pasta can be refrigerated and reheated with a splash of milk or broth to rehydrate the sauce.

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Honey garlic chicken thighs are a delightful dish that shines with a perfect blend of sweetness and savory goodness. The tender chicken thighs soak up a luscious honey garlic marinade, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites. This dish isn’t only quick to prepare but also impressively simple, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. Serve it alongside steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

The enticing aroma of honey and garlic wafting through your kitchen will leave your guests excited to dig into this delicious dish. Suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, honey garlic chicken thighs can be prepped in just minutes, and they’ll be sizzling away in no time. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking, elevating the classic chicken thighs to a whole new level.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and salt to create a marinade. Add the chicken thighs, coating them fully in the marinade.

Let them sit for 15 minutes while you preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour any leftover marinade over the chicken and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.

Let the thighs rest for a few minutes before serving, garnishing with chopped parsley.

When making honey garlic chicken thighs, consider marinating the chicken for longer, up to a few hours or overnight, to deepen the flavor. Keep an eye on cooking time, as different ovens can vary; using a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) can guarantee perfectly cooked thighs.

To achieve extra crispy skin, you can broil the thighs in the last few minutes of baking, but watch closely to prevent burning. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the leftover marinade on the stove for a few minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Enjoy your delicious honey garlic chicken!

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are an appetizing way to transform leftover chicken into a delightful meal that’s both quick and satisfying. This dish combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce with melted cheese and crispy tortillas, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

With minimal prep time and a few household ingredients, you can whip up a delicious quesadilla that will tantalize your taste buds and please the whole family.

To prepare BBQ Chicken Quesadillas, you first need cooked chicken, which can be shredded or diced based on your preference. Combine it with your favorite BBQ sauce to infuse flavor, and layer it with cheese between tortillas. Cooking until golden brown allows for that perfectly crispy outside while maintaining a gooey, cheesy center.

This dish isn’t only easy to make but it’s also incredibly versatile—feel free to add vegetables or swap out the protein to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: sliced jalapeños, diced onions, or bell peppers

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Take one tortilla and layer half of the shredded chicken mixed with BBQ sauce on one side, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and fold the tortilla in half.

Place the folded quesadilla in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown, and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling, then slice into wedges to serve.

For the best results, verify your skillet is adequately preheated before adding the quesadillas to achieve that perfect crispy texture.

You can also customize your quesadillas by adding any extras you like, such as black beans or corn for added nutrition. Don’t forget to serve with additional BBQ sauce or sour cream on the side for dipping to enhance the flavor!

Easy Chicken Tacos

Easy chicken tacos are a delightful and quick option for dinner that caters to everyone’s tastes. With juicy chicken cooked to perfection and fresh toppings, these tacos can be customized to fit your flavor preferences. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend meal, you can whip up this dish in no time, allowing for a delicious meal without the stress of complicated cooking.

Using simple ingredients, these chicken tacos deliver great flavor and texture in every bite. Serve them with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or fresh cilantro for an extra punch. Plus, the recipe is versatile enough to switch up the marinade, making it easy to experiment with different flavor profiles throughout the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, salsa, avocado

To make the chicken tacos, begin by preheating your skillet over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in this spice mixture and place them in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.

Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips. Warm the tortillas in the same skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, then fill each tortilla with the sliced chicken and your desired toppings.

When preparing easy chicken tacos, you can enhance the meal by marinating the chicken for an hour or overnight in the refrigerator to penetrate flavors more deeply. If you want to save time, consider grilling the chicken for an even better smoky taste while adding a lovely char.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings; ingredients like pickled onions, jalapeños, or fresh herbs can add extra layers of flavor that enhance your taco experience.

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls

Teriyaki chicken rice bowls are a delicious and satisfying meal that brings the irresistible flavors of Japan straight to your dinner table. This dish features tender chicken coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice, and topped with your favorite vegetables. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be easily prepared in under 30 minutes while still impressing your family or guests.

To make this dish even more customizable, feel free to switch up the vegetables or add toppings such as sesame seeds or green onions. The combination of juicy chicken, aromatic rice, and vibrant toppings makes this teriyaki chicken rice bowl a delightful meal that everyone will love. Plus, the leftovers (if any!) taste even better the next day, allowing you to enjoy this quick and tasty dinner more than once!

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and marinate in the teriyaki sauce for about 10 minutes. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Serve the cooked chicken and vegetables over the fluffy rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

When cooking teriyaki chicken, consider using a combination of fresh and frozen vegetables to save time and facilitate convenience. You can also make your own teriyaki sauce by mixing soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, ginger, and garlic for a fresher flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the chicken to simmer for a bit longer after adding the vegetables.

Experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa, to add more nutrients to your meal, and don’t hesitate to switch up the protein by using tofu or shrimp for a variation.

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers are a delightful and colorful dish that bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. These skewers aren’t only quick to put together but also packed with protein and fresh vegetables, making them a healthy option for any night of the week.

The combination of marinated chicken, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes, all grilled to perfection, creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. The marinade, infused with garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, gives the chicken a deliciously tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the charred goodness from the grill.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner, Mediterranean Chicken Skewers can be served on their own or accompanied by a side of tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 bell peppers (any color, cut into chunks)
• 1 large red onion (cut into wedges)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

To prepare the Mediterranean Chicken Skewers, start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).

Meanwhile, if you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. After marinating, thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between chicken and the colorful veggies.

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, then grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.

When you make these skewers, it’s beneficial to not overcrowd them; this allows for even cooking and guarantees that each piece gets that delicious grilled flavor. If possible, allow the chicken to marinate longer for deeper flavor infusion.

You can also experiment with different vegetables or add some feta cheese cubes right onto the skewers for an extra Mediterranean touch. Finally, serve your skewers with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finishing touch. Enjoy your meal!

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a delicious and creamy meal that combines tender chicken pieces, steamed broccoli, and rich fettuccine pasta enveloped in a velvety Alfredo sauce. This dish isn’t only satisfying but also packed with flavors and nutrients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of garlic, parmesan, and fresh herbs takes this dish to a whole new level, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.

Cooking Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is straightforward and can be completed in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those on busy schedules. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this comforting dish in no time.

The best part? You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or seasoning to elevate the flavor to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

To prepare the dish, start by cooking the fettuccine according to the package instructions. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is tender. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Finally, toss the cooked fettuccine into the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

When making Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo, consider using freshly grated parmesan for a creamier texture and richer flavor than pre-shredded cheese. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some freshly cracked black pepper to the sauce.

You can also supplement the dish with other vegetables like peas or spinach for added color and nutrients. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use whole wheat fettuccine to boost fiber content.

Enjoy versatile variations while keeping the essence of this classic recipe!