Easy Chicken Recipes for Dinner: Quick & Delicious Meals
Are you looking for easy chicken recipes that won't keep you slaving away in the kitchen all evening? You've come to the right place! Chicken is a versatile protein, perfect for weeknight dinners because it cooks quickly and pairs well with countless flavors. This post is packed with simple yet flavorful chicken recipes that are guaranteed to become family favorites.
One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is a winner for its simplicity and minimal cleanup. Toss your favorite chopped vegetables (broccoli, carrots, potatoes work great!) with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (rosemary and thyme are classic choices). Add some chicken pieces (thighs or breasts) to the pan, season generously, and roast until cooked through. It's a complete meal in one pan!
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before roasting.
Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Asparagus
Another sheet pan superstar! This recipe is quick, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors. Simply toss asparagus spears and chicken pieces with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning. Spread everything on a baking sheet and roast until the chicken is cooked and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
Why this recipe is great:
- Minimal prep time: Everything goes on one pan!
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lean protein.
- Delicious and customizable: Easily adapt the herbs and vegetables to your liking.
30-Minute Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
Craving pasta? This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal ingredients. Sauté some diced chicken breast in olive oil until cooked through. Add canned diced tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, and your favorite pasta seasonings. Stir in cooked pasta and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra touch of freshness.
Ingredients you'll need:
- Chicken breast
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Heavy cream
- Garlic
- Pasta (any shape you like)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil (optional)
Simple Baked Chicken Breast with Garlic and Parmesan
This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something quick and easy, but still delicious. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Bake until cooked through. Serve with a side of your favorite vegetables or a simple salad.
Tips for juicy chicken breasts:
- Don't overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Brine your chicken: Soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution before baking helps to keep it moist.
Conclusion
These easy chicken recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. They're all quick, delicious, and require minimal cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal with family and friends. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to create your own variations. Happy cooking!
