I Made These 29 Chicken Recipes When Cooking Felt Like Too Much

ByMandy Applegate

Some days feel long, and cooking feels like too much. The kitchen feels quiet, and the mind wants rest. These 29 chicken recipes made things easier without extra work. Simple steps, quick clean-up, and full flavor in every bite. Each meal brought comfort, even on the hardest days.

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.

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.

Cooking felt simple with these wings that pack a flavorful punch. Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings are a quick fix that is loaded with bold spices and a tasty crunch. Less fuss in the kitchen, more flavor on your plate. Perfect for weeknights when energy for cooking is limited.
Get the Recipe: Wingstop Louisiana Rub Wings

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 quick choice when spending hours in the kitchen wasn’t an option. Orange Chicken effortlessly combines sweetness with a light tangy kick. It’s easy to put together and still feels like a delicious meal. A go-to for nights that call for something tasty but simple.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

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.

When chopping and prepping felt like too much, this dish came to the rescue. Chicken Tikka Masala offers bold flavors with minimal effort. Easy to prepare and full of comforting spices in every bite. Great for when you’re short on time but need something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

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

Making dinner seemed like a hassle until these tenders saved the day. Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders deliver a simple recipe with a delicious twist of flavors. Quick and straightforward, it’s the kind of meal everyone can agree on. Perfect for when you’re keeping things low-key.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

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 warm and effortless dish that stole the spotlight when cooking felt like a chore. Butter Chicken is creamy and flavorful, making it a convenient choice any day of the week. Simple yet comforting, it’s perfect for taking a break from complicated recipes. Definitely one of those meals that hits the spot without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Butter 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.

Effortless and vibrant, this dish is ideal for nights when cooking was kept to basics. Sweet and Sour Chicken brings a balance of flavors without being complicated to make. Perfect for eating well without spending much time in the kitchen. A fuss-free dish that’s made for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

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.

Some days just need a low-effort dinner option, and this recipe fits the bill. Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines simple flavors with hearty ingredients in an easy meal. It’s quick to throw together and still feels special enough for dinner. This one makes cooking stress-free without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled meat ribs garnished with chopped herbs and garlic, served on a white platter with fresh parsley in the background.
Grilled Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When cooking felt like a lot, this recipe kept things simple and tasty. Grilled Chicken Thighs offer straightforward flavors that are foolproof in preparation. Easy to make and versatile enough for pairing with any side dish. It’s all about simplicity without cutting corners.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs

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 creamy go-to option for when cooking wasn’t at the top of the list. Chicken Alfredo hits just the right balance of flavor without being overcomplicated. Easy steps and a comforting end result make it perfect for any low-key dinner night. Great for keeping things relaxed and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Divan Casserole

Close-up of a cheesy casserole topped with chopped parsley and crumbly bits, featuring melted cheese and a creamy texture.
Chicken Divan Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tired of cooking, this casserole makes dinner as low-maintenance as possible. Chicken Divan Casserole is a one-dish wonder that’s simple to whip up. It’s hearty enough to fill you up without requiring much effort. A great option when dinner needs to be quick and easy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan Casserole

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Close-up of folded tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, and herbs, garnished with cilantro.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Some meals just shouldn’t take hours, and this one proves it. Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas blend flavors in one tasty bite without much work. It’s simple, cheesy, and packs the right amount of spice. Ideal for moments when quick meals are all you need.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

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.

When cooking felt like too much, this salad was an easy answer. Healthy Chicken Salad comes together quickly with minimal effort. Fresh and filling, this dish makes eating feel light without the fuss. Perfect for putting together a guilt-free meal in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

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.

On those nights when cooking was the last thing you wanted to do, this dish came through. White Chicken Chili is hearty, easy to make, and doesn’t require much kitchen time. Its warm, comforting flavors make it shine without too many steps. A great option for keeping dinner simple and perfect.
Get the Recipe: White Chicken Chili

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A Caesar salad with grilled chicken, penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, croutons, and shredded cheese, topped with Caesar dressing on a bed of lettuce.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

An effortless meal, perfect for evenings when cooking needed to be simple. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines flavors you love in one no-hassle dish. Easy to prepare, but still a fulfilling choice for dinner or lunch. Great for those times when less work leads to good food faster.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

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.

Some nights needed something easy yet warming, and this soup was just the answer. Marry Me Chicken Soup gives comforting flavors without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s simple to pull together and feels just right after a busy day. A perfectly cozy dish for minimizing effort while enjoying your meal.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

A close-up of a spoonful of chicken stuffing, showcasing croutons, shredded chicken, peas, carrots, and sprinkled herbs.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

The kitchen feels like too much work, this comforting dish hits the spot. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole combines tender meat and soft bread in one pan. It’s easy to throw together and the flavors blend perfectly. Ideal for days when you’re craving a no-fuss meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Balti Chicken

A bowl of traditional balti chicken garnished with cilantro, served next to naan bread on a blue tablecloth.
Balti Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

When simple cooking seems like a chore, this flavorful dish does the job. Balti Chicken packs bold taste without extra effort. It’s quick, hearty, and full of unique spices. Perfect for adding variety to your meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Balti Chicken

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

A colorful salad with shredded carrots, zucchini, chicken, orange slices, and sesame seeds on a brown plate, garnished with fresh herbs.
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Forget complicated prep when you’re feeling low on time. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken offers a tangy and quick option for dinner. Its balance of flavors makes cooking feel effortless. You’ll love how easily it comes together in one go.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

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

When you’re over complicated cooking, one pan saves the day. Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe is a simple mix of sweet and tasty goodness. Throw it on the tray, bake, and let it do the work for you. It’s all about easy cleanup and delicious bites.
Get the Recipe: Maple Chicken Sheet Pan Recipe

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.

Some days you just want easy and flavorful without the hassle. Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls are perfect for filling up fast. They’re great to whip up in a pinch and pack a little heat. Perfect for no-fuss finger foods that feel perfect.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

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.

Long cooking sessions aren’t always welcome, but this dish makes life easier. Easy Chicken Casserole is a simple way to combine your favorites in a single dish. It’s hearty, warm, and effortless to prepare. Great for when you’re short on energy but still want something homemade.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

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.

For those moments when cooking feels exhausting, this quick dish saves time. Hot and Sour Soup is a great way to enjoy bold flavors without much effort. Its balance makes it worth the minimal prep. A cozy option that doesn’t need extra work to feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Skipping the stress in the kitchen has never been easier than with this dish. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe delivers sweetness and simplicity. It’s perfect for recreating a restaurant-style meal at home with little fuss. Enjoy a break in cooking while keeping delicious flavors intact.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

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.

Effortless meals are perfect on busy days, and this one hits the mark. Chicken Fried Rice is easy to throw together with minimal time in the kitchen. Its flavors are simple yet delicious. A quick mix of ingredients that works for those laid-back cooking days.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Easy Chicken Tenders

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

Some days you just need something simple to put together without much effort. Easy Chicken Tenders offer a universally loved option that’s crispy and flavorful. Perfect for dipping and enjoying without a complicated recipe. All it takes is quick prep before cooking to perfection.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tenders

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.

Skip the heavy cooking when you’re craving something light and fuss-free. Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap is ideal for whipping up lunch or dinner in minutes. It’s effortless to assemble and tastes great with little work. Perfect for cutting corners without missing out on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Chicken Noodle Soup

A bowl of chicken noodle soup with wide noodles, chunks of chicken, carrots, celery, and herbs in a clear broth.
Chicken Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Forget elaborate meals when you’re ready for something comforting and simple. Chicken Noodle Soup delivers warmth and ease on those longer days. It’s quick to make but feels homemade at the same time. A go-to choice when keeping it basic is the goal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Soup

Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Close-up of a cheeseburger with a sesame bun, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and beef patty.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you’re over big meals, something handheld can make cooking easier. Grilled Chicken Sandwich is an effortless option packed with flavor. It’s great to throw together in a short time while keeping it simple. A reliable choice for quick and tasty meals.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich

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.

Some days call for quick recipes with bold tastes and minimal prep. Sesame Chicken combines a sweet and nutty glaze with juicy bites. It’s an easy dish that feels like a treat without requiring lots of work. A great pick for when cooking feels like too much.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

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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