Why Chicken Is The Ultimate Hack For 29 Easy Meal Preps

Some days feel too full for long cooking times. Quick meals that still taste good can make things much easier. A simple plan and a few easy steps can help save both time and stress. With the right choice, one item can be used in many ways without much work. That is why chicken is the ultimate hack for 29 easy meal preps.

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan

Roasted chicken thigh with herbs, served on a bed of roasted vegetables.
Maple Chicken Sheet Pan. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cooking becomes a breeze with this dish, adding a sweet twist to dinner time. Just toss everything together, pop it in the oven, and dinner is sorted. The Maple Chicken Sheet Pan is a lifesaver on busy days when you want something tasty without the fuss. It’s about getting dinner on the table with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan

Butter Chicken

A bowl of creamy curry with chicken pieces served over white rice, garnished with cilantro, and accompanied by flatbread.
Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

A rich dish that turns any regular night into something special with its creamy texture. The Butter Chicken is all about comforting flavors that make meal prep feel like less work and more fun. Preparing this dish will make you wonder why you ever thought dinner was stressful.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you want something both nutritious and pleasing, this dish ticks all the boxes. With Hot and Sour Soup, chicken becomes an easy solution for meal prep, bringing aromas to your kitchen. It’s spicy and tangy, perfect for mixing up your weekly rotation. There’s minimal prep, and the result is a warming bowl.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

Marry Me Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish filled with baked pasta topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Meals shouldn’t be complicated, and here’s a perfect dish that proves it. The Marry Me Chicken Casserole brings all the flavors together in one pan without an overwhelming process. It’s about getting all the satisfaction of a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Just a bit of prep, bake, and watch how tasty chicken makes everything easy.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Vibrant and packed with a pleasing mix of flavors, it’s a top pick for easy meal preparation. The Kung Pao Chicken adds a touch of spice and simplicity into any weeknight routine. As you cook, you’ll love how everything blends into a taste-pleasing adventure. It’s the quick toss-and-cook method perfect for those evenings you crave something deliciou.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

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.

A crowd-pleaser that brings a tangy punch to your menu without much fuss. Orange Chicken helps you bring everyone around the table with its appealing flavors and easy prep. It’s about achieving that restaurant-quality dish at home, effortlessly. Mix, cook, and see how chicken can shine in a citrusy glaze. It’s time-efficient and bound to make your meal prep worthwhile.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

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.

Imagine bringing everyone together with this easy yet mouthwatering dish. Cooking Marry Me Chicken Orzo is like a mini celebration in a pot – it combines all the elements of joy and flavor into one simple recipe. No need to stress about planning; this dish turns meal prep into a joyful cooking session.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Lemongrass Chicken – PFR

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

Take your meals up a notch with a fresh twist that’s easy to whip up. The Lemongrass Chicken – PFR offers a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with everyday appreciation for simple cooking. Incorporating bold flavors into meal prep becomes effortless with just a few ingredients. Each bite is delicious and complements any side dish you have in mind.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken – PFR

Marry Me Chicken

Creamy chicken dish with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and black pepper, served with spaghetti on a plate, with a fork on the side.
Marry Me Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A dish that’s made for busy days when you need something with big flavor. Cooking Marry Me Chicken means you’ll have tender and juicy bites packed with creamy goodness in every forkful. It’s all about simplicity from start to finish with very little prep involved.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken

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.

Bring a slight crunch and irresistible flavor together in this simple dish. The Cashew Chicken proves how simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals without stress. There’s minimal effort, but the results are little bites of yum with each chew. It’s the secret to quick yet unforgettable meal prep on a weekday.
Get the Recipe: Cashew 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.

Chicken is your best friend when it comes to meal prep. Think about a Seven Layer Salad that stays fresh and delicious for days. You get layers of colorful veggies, and it all comes together with chicken. Preparing meals becomes a breeze. Chicken makes meal prepping efficient and super tasty.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

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.

When you need a quick meal, chicken saves the day. One dish you might love is Sesame Chicken. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days. Chicken’s versatility means you can make a variety of dishes that are both easy and delicious. Get ahead on your meal prep with ease.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

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.

Struggling with meal prep? A great dish to try is Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Chicken fits easily into your weekly meal plans. It’s convenient, quick, and can be used in lots of different recipes. With chicken, your meals are ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Close-up of grilled chicken wings with a crispy texture, next to a red bowl of creamy dipping sauce.
Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Saving time in the kitchen is simpler with chicken. Why not spice things up with Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings? Chicken wings are easy to cook and full of flavor. They make meal prepping fast and fun. Enjoy tasty meals without spending hours cooking.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

Healthy Chicken Salad

Close-up of a salad with grilled chicken, strawberries, blueberries, pecans, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing on a bed of leafy greens.
Healthy Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Meal prepping can sometimes feel like a chore. Try making a Healthy Chicken Salad for a nutritious option. Chicken helps keep meals light and delicious. It’s perfect for fitting into your healthy eating plans. Meal prep gets a whole lot easier.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A honey hot chicken salad with succulent fried chicken pieces, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese crumbles, cucumber slices, and mixed greens, all topped with a creamy dressing.
Hot Honey Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken makes meal prepping simpler and more enjoyable. Whip up a Hot Honey Chicken Salad for a sweet and spicy twist. This easy-to-make salad keeps well and is full of flavor. With chicken, you can diversify your meal options. It’s an effortless way to eat well and save time.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad

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.

Life gets busy, and meal prep helps. Consider making Raising Cane Tenders for quick lunches or dinners. Chicken tenders are easy and kid-friendly. They fit easily into your prepped meals without much hassle. Cooking is straightforward when chicken is involved.
Get the Recipe: Raising Cane Tenders

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for an easy meal planning solution. A tasty option is Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Chicken can handle the heat and pairs perfectly with pasta. It simplifies meal prep while still offering big flavors. Your weekly meals just got a lot more interesting.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

A plate with honey chicken tenders, broccoli florets, and mashed potatoes.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Speed up your meal prep with chicken. One dish you should try is Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. They’re quick to make and always delicious. Using chicken helps you save time and reduce stress in the kitchen. Meal prep doesn’t have to be hard work.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice.
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cooking doesn’t have to take hours. Simple meals like Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are both easy and delicious. Chicken absorbs Thai flavors well and cooks quickly. Meal prepping becomes less daunting with such straightforward recipes. Enjoy great meals with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

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.

Cozy up with a bowl of heartwarming goodness that’s all about comfort food. Marry Me Chicken Soup is your answer to a delicious, easy meal that you can prep ahead of time. Whether you’re feeding the family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is both versatile and delicious. Cook it once, and you’ll find it makes every meal a cinch for the week.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

A chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun, with fries in the background.
Homemade KFC Zinger Burger. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spice up your meal prep routine with something crunchy and deliciously addictive. The Homemade KFC Zinger Burger brings that fast-food flavor to your kitchen with minimal effort. Perfect for those busy days when you need something quick and filling. All the satisfaction of takeout, but made your way at home.
Get the Recipe: Homemade KFC Zinger Burger

Easy Chicken Tenders

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

Sometimes you just want comfort food that’s quick to prepare and even quicker to eat. Easy Chicken Tenders are ideal for both solo meals and family dinners that need a quick solution. With minimal fuss, you can batch cook these and place them in the freezer for future meals. They’re perfect with any dip of your choice, adding variety to everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Golden fried chicken pieces with a side of dipping sauce.
Chick-fil-A Nuggets. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Experience the joy of a favorite takeout menu item from the comfort of your own home. Chick-fil-A Nuggets are conveniently prepped in advance, so you always have a yummy snack or meal ready to go. Just right for kids and adults alike, they’re great for any time of the day. Not only does it make weekly meal prep smoother, but it keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Chick-fil-A Nuggets

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A plate of creamy penne pasta garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese, featuring pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. A black fork is resting on the plate.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring a touch of romance to your meal prep with a dish that’s creamy and irresistible. Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines simple ingredients in a way that makes dinnertime special any day of the week. Quick to cook and even easier to store, it turns meal planning into a perfect process. Plus, it’s just as fantastic when reheated—perfect for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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.

Satisfy your carb cravings with a classic dish that’s always a hit with family and friends. Chicken Alfredo is the meal prep superhero your dinner table needs for those busy weeknights. Effortlessly storeable and easy to make, it stands up to picky eaters by being altogether familiar and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring some Asian-inspired flair to your kitchen with a delicious sauce that’s both sweet and tasty. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe allows you to craft a restaurant-quality dish with enough leftovers for next day lunches. It’s a reliable choice whether it’s served over rice, noodles, or on its own.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

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.

When you need something that’s both hearty and uncomplicated, a go-to dish will save the day. Easy Chicken Casserole offers a mix of comfort and practicality that fits seamlessly into any meal prep plan. Serve it for dinner or keep it on hand for unexpected lunchtime guests. With flavors that meld beautifully, it keeps everyone at the table satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Enjoy a spicy twist on mealtime with a recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls let you roll up delicious chunks of chicken with a bit of zing into each bite. Great for gatherings or a quick dinner option that feels a bit fancy. Make a batch ahead of time and warm them up as needed for a quick snack or meal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

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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