Chicken is a staple in many households, and it’s no surprise why. It tastes good cooked, fried, baked, or steamed, it’s relatively inexpensive, and most recipes are quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights when you just don’t have the time to spend hours in the kitchen. This article brings you eight delicious chicken recipes that are simple enough to put together at the last minute. Let’s dive into these mouth-watering recipes that promise to make your dinners both effortless and enjoyable.
Honey Mustard Chicken
Honey mustard chicken is a sweet and tangy dish that comes together in no time. For this recipe, you’ll need some chicken breasts, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and a sprinkle of paprika. Start by combining honey, mustard, garlic, vinegar, and paprika to make the marinade. Coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak up all the flavors. In a skillet, heat some oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through, usually about 8 minutes per side. The final step involves baking this honey mustard chicken in the oven for a few minutes to intensify the flavors and ensure it’s beautifully caramelized. It’s best served over rice or with steamed greens.
Simple Grilled Chicken
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about grilled chicken. Its smoky flavor and juicy texture make it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. To prepare, you’ll need chicken breasts, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs like rosemary or thyme. Begin by brushing the chicken with oil and seasoning it generously. Heat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through. The key to perfect grilled chicken is not overcooking it, so keep an eye on the temperature. Serve this delightful dish with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Stir-fry
If you enjoy a bit of lemon zest and a kick of pepper, lemon pepper chicken stir-fry is your go-to recipe. You’ll need thinly sliced chicken breasts, lemon pepper seasoning, olive oil, assorted bell peppers, onions, and a splash of lemon juice. Heat oil in a large pan, add the chicken sprinkled with lemon pepper, and stir-fry until it starts to brown. Add the sliced vegetables and continue to cook until they’re just tender. Drizzle lemon juice over the top for that extra zing. This vibrant and colorful dish is perfect on its own or can be served over a bed of fluffy white rice to keep things filling and satisfying.
Chicken and Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner
One of the easiest and healthiest ways to prepare a meal is by using a sheet pan. For a chicken and veggie sheet pan dinner, all you need are chicken breasts, your choice of vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, plus some olive oil, salt, and pepper. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats, chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces and toss them on the sheet pan with the chicken. Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are roasted and tender. This meal not only saves you washing multiple pots and pans, but it also packs a nutritious punch.
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Tacos are always a crowd-pleaser, and these spicy chicken tacos are no exception. You’ll need chicken breasts, taco seasoning, tortillas, and your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sour cream. Begin by cooking the chicken breasts with taco seasoning in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then shred the chicken with two forks. Warm the tortillas in the oven or microwave, and assemble your tacos by placing the chicken and toppings inside each tortilla. These tacos are not only quick to make but also fun to eat, making them a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
For a quick and healthy lunch option, try a Caesar salad wrap with chicken. You’ll need cooked chicken (leftover or rotisserie chicken works great), Caesar salad dressing, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and tortillas. Chop the lettuce and toss it in a bowl with the chicken and a generous amount of Caesar dressing. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Lay a tortilla flat and place a portion of the salad mixture in the center. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly. These wraps are tasty, portable, and convenient, making them excellent for a grab-and-go meal.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Who can resist a good pizza? To make a BBQ chicken pizza, you’ll need pre-made pizza dough, BBQ sauce, cooked chicken (again, leftover chicken is perfect), sliced red onions, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Preheat your oven as high as it will go, usually between 450°F and 500°F. Roll out your pizza dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread a thin layer of BBQ sauce over the dough, then top with chicken, red onions, and a generous amount of mozzarella. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and browned. This pizza combines the smokiness of BBQ with the heartiness of chicken; all melted together with gooey cheese.
Thai Chicken Curry in a Hurry
For a taste of something exotic yet easy, whip up a Thai chicken curry in no time. You’ll need chicken breasts, a can of coconut milk, Thai curry paste, a bag of frozen vegetables, and some rice. In a large pan, brown the chicken, then add the curry paste and coconut milk. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer. Add the frozen vegetables and cook until they are heated through and tender. Serve the curry over cooked rice for a satisfying and flavorful meal. This dish is not only quick to make but also brings a variety of flavors and textures to your dinner table.
Wrapping Up
These eight simple chicken recipes demonstrate just how versatile and delicious chicken can be, even when you’re short on time. From the smoky flavors of grilled chicken to the exotic zest of Thai curry, there’s a recipe here to suit every palate and occasion. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these dishes are designed to be straightforward and satisfying without requiring hours in the kitchen. Next time you’re in a pinch for time, remember these easy and tasty options that are sure to delight everyone at your table. Enjoy your meal preparation with these quick solutions that promise minimal effort and maximum flavor.