29 Chicken Recipes for When You Need Dinner Fast

Busy days don’t leave much room for complicated meals, and these chicken recipes get that. They’re all about getting food on the table fast without turning it into a kitchen crisis. No need for long prep or a stack of dirty pans—just simple, easy ideas that actually work. Even if the day’s been chaotic, at least dinner doesn’t have to be.

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This delightful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re craving a quick and savory dinner, Cashew Chicken has got you covered. It’s simple to make and guarantees a fulfilling meal on any weekday night. This dish blends well with your favorite vegetables, making it both healthy and delicious. Enjoy a comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Easy Chicken Tenders

Breaded chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.
Easy Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Chicken Tenders are your go-to for a fuss-free meal that everyone will love. Ready in just minutes, they’re a lifesaver on busy evenings. Pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice for a match made in heaven. It’s a straightforward way to bring smiles to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

White Chicken Chili

A bowl of creamy White Chicken Chili with chunks of chicken, sliced avocado, green jalapeño peppers, white beans, and fresh cilantro.
White Chicken Chili. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those slightly chilly spring evenings, White Chicken Chili offers a warm embrace. It’s a lighter alternative to traditional chili but doesn’t skimp on flavor. Serve it up in less than an hour for a quick, comforting dinner. This chili is a true crowd-pleaser and will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

A close-up of a chicken and broccoli casserole featuring browned cheese, herbs, and green leafy garnish on top, displayed in a rectangular baking dish.
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When comfort food calls, Chicken and Broccoli Casserole answers. This dish is a wonderful blend of nutritious and comforting, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s as easy to prepare as it is fun to eat. Gather the family around the table for a meal that feels like a hug.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A skillet with creamy chicken pasta featuring spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated cheese, stirred with a wooden spoon.
Marry Me Chicken Orzo. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Stir up some love with Marry Me Chicken Orzo, a dish so good it might just elicit a marriage proposal. It’s quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for a romantic dinner. The blend of flavors promises a dining experience that’s both heartwarming and delicious. It’s a special way to show care on any regular day.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Chicken Noodle Soup

A bowl of chicken noodle soup with vegetables.
Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says home like a bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s the ultimate comfort food that you can easily make on a busy day. Warm, soothing, and absolutely comforting, it’s perfect for nourishing both body and spirit. Let it be your go-to for a quick and healing meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Close-up of sliced chicken wraps with lettuce, cheese, and a creamy sauce, next to an open jar of mustard on a wooden surface.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Embrace simplicity with a Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap, a refreshing option for lunch or light dinner. It wraps all the classic flavors in a convenient and easy-to-eat package. Best of all, it comes together in a snap, proving that quick meals can also be healthy and mouthwatering. Ideal for a picnic or a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Chicken Tamale Pie

A serving of chicken tamale pie topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.
Chicken Tamale Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Treat yourself to Chicken Tamale Pie, where simplicity and flavor meet. This dish is a winner for its ease of preparation and lovely heartiness. Serve it for dinner and watch it disappear quickly; it’s that irresistible. It’s proof that quick dining can still be thrilling.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tamale Pie

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Marry Me Chicken Soup combines comfort with a touch of elegance, making it perfect for a quick, cozy meal. It’s an easy way to create a moment of luxury in the middle of a hectic week. This soup is as heartwarming as it is delectable. Serving it is a simple gesture that speaks volumes.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes topped with blue cheese, drizzled with ranch dressing, and garnished with green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring a fiery twist to your dinner lineup with Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes. They’re effortlessly delicious and ready in no time, offering a meal that satisfies your hunger and spice cravings. This combination is unexpectedly perfect, providing a fulfilling crunch with every bite. It’s a fantastic way to spice up your dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Baked Potatoes

Chicken Pot Pie

A slice of chicken pot pie being lifted, showing its creamy filling with chunks of chicken and vegetables, garnished with thyme.
Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re craving comfort but short on time, Chicken Pot Pie hits just the right note. This classic dish, with its hearty filling and flaky crust, is like a warm hug on a plate. It comes together quickly, making it a reliable choice for a busy evening. Wrap up your day with this comforting meal that promises homestyle goodness.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Craving something sweet and tangy? Orange Chicken offers a fun combo that’s hard to resist. This dish is a crowd-pleaser with its vibrant flavors and succulent bites. Whether you’re aiming to impress or just need a quick dinner solution, this recipe has you covered. It’s a simple way to bring some excitement to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Raising Cane Tenders

A breaded and golden-brown fried chicken tender being dipped into a white sauce in a bowl, with more chicken tenders in the background.
Raising Cane Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For those days when only crispy comfort food will do, Raising Cane Tenders provide an enjoyable crunch. This recipe captures the essence of the beloved fast-food favorite, right from your kitchen. Quick to prepare and universally loved, these tenders are perfect for any day of the week. It’s a fuss-free meal that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Raising Cane Tenders

Buffalo Chicken Salad

A croissant sandwich filled with buffalo chicken and blue cheese, served on a white plate with celery sticks in the background.
Buffalo Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for something light yet flavorful, Buffalo Chicken Salad is the way to go. It’s a fresh take on salad that packs a punch with every bite. Ideal for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad blends spice and crunch perfectly. Amp up your salad game with this simple, quick-to-assemble dish.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Salad

Chicken Tikka Masala

A close-up of chicken tikka masala served on rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, with lime wedges and naan on the side.
Chicken Tikka Masala. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Chicken Tikka Masala brings the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine to your dinner table without the wait. This dish combines juicy chunks of chicken in a rich, creamy sauce for a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to whip up. Perfect for when you want something a bit exotic without leaving home. Let this recipe be your shortcut to a flavor-packed dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says quick and flavorful dinner like Chipotle Grilled Chicken. This recipe is all about bringing smoky heat and bold flavors to your plate in no time. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to devour. For a dinner that promises to be as effortless as it is delicious, give this dish a try.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings garnished with chopped parsley.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving that comforting taste of Cracker Barrel? Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings brings the restaurant’s cozy vibes into your kitchen. This dish is surprisingly simple to make, offering a shortcut to soulful satisfaction. For a cozy meal that feels like a warm blanket, this recipe won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Chicken Casserole is the answer to your what-to-cook dilemmas. It’s a straightforward recipe that combines all the goodness of chicken in a one-dish wonder. Perfect for busy nights, it makes for a filling meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the simplicity and warmth of this dish any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a fresh twist on dinner, try Lemongrass Chicken. This dish stands out with its light and fragrant flavors, offering a break from the routine. Quick to prepare, it’s a refreshing option for a weekday meal. This recipe is your ticket to a fast yet flavorful dinner experience.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Close-up of chicken bacon ranch sliders with grilled chicken, bacon, and melted cheese inside a golden bun, garnished with herbs.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders are your go-to for an uncomplicated yet lovely meal. These mini sandwiches pack a flavorful punch, combining favorite ingredients in every bite. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a get-together, they’re bound to be a hit. It’s an enjoyable way to slide into mealtime with smiles around the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

A bowl of rice topped with broccoli, chicken, red peppers, green onions, and sesame seeds, with black chopsticks resting on the side.
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Brighten up your dinner routine with Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also loaded with flavors that wake up your palate. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a hit with both adults and kids. Give your weeknight dinners a fast and flavorful boost with this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry

Chicken Fried Rice

Close-up of chicken fried rice with peas, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopsticks.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate quick-fix dinner that everyone loves. It’s a versatile dish that serves up comfort in a bowl, making use of simple ingredients. Ideal for busy weeknights, it offers a lovely meal in minutes. This recipe is a surefire way to bring smiles to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Combine crispy chicken with a sweet and sticky sauce for a dish that’s hard to resist, with Sesame Chicken. It’s a restaurant favorite that you can easily recreate at home for a fast and fulfilling meal. This dish is a wonderful way to satisfy your cravings for something sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious. It’s a sure hit for a hassle-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Seven Layer Salad is a colorful and easy dish that adds a burst of freshness to any meal. It’s a one-dish wonder that layers flavorful ingredients, making it a perfect side or light dinner option. Quick to assemble and even quicker to disappear, this salad is a fantastic choice for when you want something nutritious and delicious without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

A dish of seasoned chicken breasts garnished with parsley, surrounded by carrots and potatoes in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Set it and forget it with Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken. This dish is a testament to the magic of slow cooking, offering tender, fall-apart chicken by dinner time. It’s the perfect solution for those days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you at home. Enjoy the effortless preparation and mouthwatering results of this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Close-up of sweet and sour chicken with bell peppers and pineapple chunks in a thick sauce.
Sweet and Sour Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet and Sour Chicken provides a comforting balance of flavors that’s both refreshing and comforting. This dish is a fast way to add some pizzazz to your dinner routine, promising a meal that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. For a weeknight dinner that breaks the monotony, this recipe has got you covered. It’s a fuss-free route to a lively dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Buffalo Chicken Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into a cheesy baked dish topped with sliced green onions.
Buffalo Chicken Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ready for a snack that doubles as a meal? Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and all things comforting. It’s an excellent pick for a casual dining experience or a party appetizer. This dip is proof that great things come in simple packages. Whip this up for a quick and enjoyable dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip

Chicken Alfredo

A plate of bowtie pasta with creamy sauce topped with cooked chicken pieces and garnished with parsley, with a black fork on the side.
Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A classic dish that combines creamy pasta with succulent chicken for a match made in heaven is Chicken Alfredo. It’s surprisingly simple to put together, making it an ideal choice for a no-fuss dinner that feels gourmet. For an evening meal that promises comfort and flavor in every forkful, look no further.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos are here to spice up your mealtime. This dish takes the beloved nacho platter and transforms it with bold buffalo chicken, ensuring a flavor-packed experience. It’s perfect for sharing or indulging solo, and comes together in no time. Kick back and enjoy these nachos knowing you’ve served up a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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