When it comes to cooking, chicken is an ideal choice due to its affordability and lean protein content. This makes it perfect for creating high-protein, low-fat dishes that the whole family can enjoy.
To ensure tender and juicy results, simply dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, which prevents it from drying out during cooking. Moreover, this approach allows you to stretch your recipe further by incorporating other ingredients such as vegetables, grains, and rice, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Curry Chicken Salad
Salads offer an ideal platform to showcase diced chicken, and this particular recipe is no exception. The creamy and fresh combination is elevated by the subtle warmth of curry flavor. The mix of textures in your salad provides a satisfying mouthfeel experience, courtesy of crunchy elements like celery, chewy raisins, and cashews. A zesty and creamy dressing, crafted from mayo, curry powder, and fresh lime juice, brings everything together. This versatile salad can be served in various ways – wrapped in a lettuce leaf, atop a bed of greens, or even swirled into a soft tortilla. It’s the perfect light dinner idea for a sweltering summer evening.
Chinese Jalapeno Chicken
Indulge in the flavors of this delectable jalapeno chicken dish, crafted to satisfy even the most hectic of midweek cravings. With a mere 15-minute prep time and cooking time, this recipe is an ideal solution for a quick yet satisfying dinner. To begin, marinate tender chicken cubes with minced garlic and cornstarch, allowing the latter’s unique properties to yield a golden-brown crust on your poultry.Next, create a mouthwatering sauce by combining chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sliced jalapenos. As your chicken reaches perfection in the cooking process, stir this tantalizing sauce into the mix, ensuring an even coating for each piece.
One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole
Infuse the bold flavors of Mexico into your meal with this satisfying one-pot rice casserole, richly flavored by tender chicken and creamy beans. The dish is a masterclass in layering tastes, starting with the pungency of fresh onion and garlic, followed by the savory depth of taco seasoning and chicken broth. Canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste provide a robust base, while yellow corn adds a welcome sweetness to each bite. To finish, a generous sprinkling of shredded cheese brings everything together in perfect harmony.
Healthy Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Transforming leftover chicken into an easy, healthy, and scrumptious cranberry and walnut chicken salad is a culinary win-win. The harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and colors will leave you craving more. A clever combination of Greek yogurt and mayo creates a rich yet lower-fat creamy dressing, while apple cider vinegar subtly balances the richness and honey infuses a natural sweetness. To add depth and satisfaction, celery, walnuts, and green onion contribute a delightful crunch, whereas dried cranberries burst with sweet surprises in each bite.
Brazilian Chicken Stroganoff
Indulge in this comforting winter dish featuring tender chunks of chicken smothered in a rich, creamy button mushroom gravy. The warm, hearty stroganoff makes for an excellent cold-weather meal option.
To craft the delectable sauce, combine chicken broth, dry white wine, tomato sauce, and heavy cream. A hint of heat is added by Dijon mustard, elevating the flavor profile. For the best results, use chicken thighs, which infuse the dish with their signature juiciness.
Pair your stroganoff with fluffy rice and thinly sliced potatoes for a satisfying accompaniment.
Black Pepper Chicken Stir Fry
The star-studded show in this dish features crispy chicken pieces and vibrant veggies, all swathed in a mouth-watering stir-fry sauce with just the right balance of spicy, sweet notes. To achieve that satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the inside tender, coat your chicken with cornstarch for an added layer of texture.Meanwhile, the aromatic trio of onion, garlic, and ginger works their magic to elevate the flavors of the chicken, bell peppers, and other ingredients. And for the sauce, we’re pulling out all the stops with a potent blend of Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, and hot chili sauce, all tied together by the essential kick of black pepper.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells
Stuffed pasta shells are a comfort food classic that never fails to satisfy. The combination of tender pasta, rich chicken, and broccoli, all smothered in a decadent homemade Alfredo sauce, is a match made in heaven. The real magic happens when you add mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheese to the mix – it’s like a party in your mouth! The creamy texture, courtesy of butter and heavy cream, is simply divine. But what really puts this dish over the top is the fresh basil and melted mozzarella topping that adds an extra layer of flavor and sophistication. If you’re a fan of this recipe, you’ll also love our equally delicious mozzarella stuffed chicken breast – it’s a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a gourmet twist!
Alfredo Mac and Cheese
Transforming a beloved dish into a comforting mac and cheese is a delightful idea! By elevating a classic Alfredo sauce with rich, homemade ingredients like butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan, you’ll create a deeply satisfying cheesy flavor. The addition of fresh broccoli injects a pop of color and contrasting flavor to the dish, providing a beautiful harmony. To balance out the creamy richness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to your pasta just before serving. This clever trick will cut through the heaviness, leaving you with a well-rounded and indulgent meal.
Honey Sriracha Chicken
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of this dish as tender chicken breast pieces are smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce. To achieve the perfect crisp coating, start by dusting your chicken breasts in cornstarch and pan-frying them until golden brown. This crispy exterior gives way to a juicy interior that’s then infused with the bold flavors of a five-ingredient sauce. Honey brings natural sweetness, while Sriracha adds a spicy kick. Rice vinegar provides a tangy contrast to balance out the dish. To add an extra layer of texture and crunch, garnish your chicken with crushed toasted peanuts.
Blueberry Basil Chicken
Summer’s sweetness is perfectly captured in the blueberry basil chicken salad, where fresh flavors mingle with creamy Greek yogurt dressing. The unlikely union of fragrant basil and juicy blueberries creates a unique taste experience that surprisingly complements succulent chicken. A sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds adds a satisfying crunch, while serving the salad in large, crisp lettuce leaves keeps it light and refreshing.
Healthy Mexican Chicken Salad
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Mexico with a refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad. The star of the show is tender cooked chicken, paired with an assortment of fresh vegetables that add texture and crunch. A tangy avocado and lime crema brings everything together, boasting a creamy richness that’s simply irresistible.The secret to this salad’s Mexican flair lies in its supporting cast: jicama, bell peppers, scallions, and chili peppers all work together to evoke the bold flavors of south-of-the-border cuisine. But it’s the raw jicama – often referred to as a Mexican turnip – that truly elevates the dish, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the other ingredients.To craft this crema, a medley of ingredients comes together in harmony: shallot adds a subtle pungency, lime juice provides a burst of citrus freshness, and fresh cilantro lends its herbaceous charm. Meanwhile, Greek yogurt and buttermilk team up to create a creamy base that’s the perfect foil for the ripe avocado – an essential component, if we do say so ourselves!
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Tater tot casserole is a quintessential winter comfort food that warms the hearts of families everywhere. At its core, this dish is all about tender chicken breast, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, velvety sauce that’s sure to become a staple in your household. The key to its success lies not only in the quality of its ingredients but also in the care taken to craft the sauce from scratch, rather than relying on canned shortcuts. By combining flour, milk, and savory stock with aromatics like onion, garlic, and thyme, you’ll unlock a depth of flavor that’s unmatched by store-bought alternatives. The finishing touch comes when you top your casserole with crispy tater tots, bake it to perfection in the oven, and then crown it all off with a golden-brown crust courtesy of melted cheddar cheese and a quick broiling session. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, and one that will keep you cozy on even the chilliest of winter nights.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Savoring the rich flavors of India, this tikka masala boasts tender chicken pieces bathed in a velvety, spicy tomato sauce. The ease of preparation only adds to its appeal, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.To elevate the dish, marinate your chicken in a mixture of Greek yogurt, minced garlic and ginger, sweet paprika, cumin, and garam masala. This thoughtful step infuses each piece with an extra layer of complexity.The sauce itself is a masterclass in balancing bold flavors, combining creamy coconut milk, rich tomato paste, and puree. A pinch of paprika, turmeric, garam masala, coriander, ginger, and garlic adds depth, while the subtle sweetness of honey counterbalances the spicy kick.
Gluten-Free White Chicken Chili
White chili is an excellent way to mix things up from traditional chili recipes. This variation boasts tender chicken breast, creamy cannellini beans, and a rich broth that melds the flavors together. The addition of fresh green chilies adds a bold and spicy kick, which is expertly balanced by the subtle nuances of cumin, thyme, and a touch of cayenne pepper. To elevate this dish to new heights, serve it with a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese. For added visual appeal and a burst of flavor, garnish with sliced jalapeños and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
Slow Cooker Chicken Gnocchi Soup
A delectable copycat of Olive Garden’s signature chicken gnocchi soup, this recipe is bursting with herby flavors and tender chicken that adds a delightful chunky texture to the dish. The base of the soup is created by combining heavy cream and chicken broth, which are then seasoned with thyme, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. A pinch of nutmeg adds an unexpected yet intriguing dimension to the flavor profile. To simplify the process, store-bought gnocchi can be used in place of making your own. The addition of fresh baby spinach and shredded carrot provides a delicate balance of taste and a visually appealing contrast in color.
Classic Chicken Cobb Salad
The Chicken Cobb salad is a timeless delight, boasting an abundance of flavors and textures courtesy of its medley of vegetables, complemented by the richness of cooked chicken breast, hard-boiled eggs, and crispy smoky bacon. To assemble this delightful dish, begin with a bed of fresh watercress and salad leaves at the base, then pile on your other ingredients – including succulent tomatoes and creamy avocado. As for the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to create a zesty condiment that’s sure to elevate the overall experience. And if you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, be sure to check out our recipe for cast iron skillet chicken breast – it’s a real showstopper!
Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole
Indulge in this delectable chicken broccoli casserole, elevated by an unexpected twist – the addition of savory stuffing. The rich flavor profile stems from a trifecta of chicken-based ingredients: succulent chicken breast, canned chicken soup, and broth. Meanwhile, shredded cheese transforms the soup into a velvety, cheesy sauce that will leave you craving more. By incorporating stuffing into the casserole, this dish becomes a satisfying, filling meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. In fact, it’s one of the most delightful summer casserole recipes out there, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Chicken Divan with Curry
Chicken Divan is a beloved dish that combines tender broccoli with juicy chicken, all elevated by the rich flavors of curry sauce. While it’s easy to overlook this classic recipe, its simplicity belies a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
To make your own curry sauce, start by warming up a can of chicken soup and shredded cheese until the cheese melts. Then, mix in a blend of curry powder, lemon juice, and mayonnaise for a creamy and aromatic accompaniment to your dish.
To assemble the Chicken Divan, layer the cooked broccoli, chicken, and curry sauce in a baking dish. For a delightful textural contrast, sprinkle stuffing mix on top before serving.
Skillet Cashew Chicken with Celery and Water Chestnuts
Indulge in a healthier take on the classic Chinese takeaway dish – cashew chicken! To make this scrumptious recipe, start by crafting a mouthwatering marinade using a blend of brown sugar, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. For added depth of flavor, incorporate hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and Chinese cooking wine to evoke authentic Asian notes. Once your juicy chicken is perfectly marinated, it’s time to bring all the elements together in the pan – simply combine the remaining sauce with sautéed celery, crunchy water chestnuts, and toasted cashews. Serve this savory dish alongside a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Chicken and Chorizo Pasta
In this mouthwatering chicken pasta dish, the chorizo adds an undeniable smoky flavor that perfectly complements the creamy tomato sauce. Every component is meticulously cooked to a tender and juicy perfection, harmoniously balanced with the sweetness from red bell peppers, red onion, and pungent garlic. The silky-smooth pasta sauce results from the ingenious combination of mascarpone cheese and heavy cream. To finish, a sprinkle of fresh parmesan adds an extra layer of richness and indulgence, making this dish a true culinary delight.
Chicken Fusilli Pasta
To whip up this mouthwatering chicken fusilli pasta, you’ll only need six essential ingredients – the perfect recipe for a busy day. The combination of heavy cream and salty feta yields a rich, indulgent sauce that coats tender chicken and al dente noodles to perfection. Before serving, add a touch of freshness by garnishing with fragrant chives, elevating this comforting dish into a truly satisfying meal.
Curried Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
Indulge in a harmonious balance of flavors with these delectable lettuce wraps, featuring curried chicken salad that will tantalize your taste buds. The perfect blend of sweet and savory notes is achieved through a delightful interplay of textures. Chunks of crunchy sweetness from chopped apples and toasted almonds are offset by the tender crunch of red onion, while bursts of raisins add a touch of sweetness.The magic behind this culinary delight lies in the creamy curry dressing, expertly crafted with a medley of flavors – mayonnaise, coconut oil, and curry powder. To balance the spiciness, a squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a welcome burst of brightness.
Chicken Stew
Winter brings a cozy warmth that’s perfectly captured in a hearty chicken stew. This comforting dish is a symphony of tender chicken, potatoes, celery, and carrots, all harmonizing in perfect flavor. To elevate the broth, add a pinch of dried herbs – oregano, rosemary, and thyme – along with ground cumin, bay leaves, and a hint of red pepper flakes for depth. Finish the dish by sprinkling fresh parsley or dill on top, then serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last morsel of that rich, savory broth.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
By cleverly combining leftover chicken with pantry staples, buffalo chicken pasta bake offers a scrumptious solution for repurposing ingredients. The harmonious blend of spicy buffalo sauce and two types of cheese yields an exceptionally flavorful dish.
To create this mouthwatering cheesy sauce, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic, and hot sauce. Then, combine this sauce with cooked noodles and diced chicken before topping it off with even more cheese. The result is a satisfying casserole that’s sure to please.
Cook the pasta bake until the cheese reaches a golden, bubbly state, and you’ll be left with a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Chicken Noodle Vegetable Soup
As the cold winter nights settle in, there’s no better way to warm up than with a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle vegetable soup. By making it from scratch, you can ensure a filling and nutritious meal that will keep you cozy all evening.
To take your soup to the next level, consider adding some extra nutrition with ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes. These vegetables not only add flavor but also provide essential vitamins and minerals. When it comes to seasoning your broth, dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning can’t be beat.
When it comes to the noodles, you have a variety of options. Broad egg noodles are a classic choice, but you could also use thin egg noodles or even flat pasta like fettuccine or linguine. And don’t forget to finish your soup with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Still stuck on what to make for dinner tonight? Check out our list of best dinner ideas for some inspiration.
