31 Easy Chicken Recipes That Don’t Take Much Effort

ByMandy

Busy days call for meals that don’t argue back, and 31 easy chicken recipes deliver exactly that. These ideas keep things fun without the extra work or stress. You’ll end up with meals that look planned even when they weren’t. It’s the kind of lineup that makes dinner feel more like a win than a job.

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

Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich

A shredded chicken salad sandwich with lettuce, raisins, and a creamy dressing served in a brioche bun.
Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Some days call for something easy to pull together that still feels homemade. You won’t go wrong when reaching for a Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich to make lunch less of a hassle. It’s reliable, filling, and great for serving on soft bread, buns, or even crackers. Perfect for a simple meal, it’s a recipe that never seems to get old.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich

Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells

A skillet filled with baked stuffed pasta shells, topped with melted cheese, black pepper, and fresh basil leaves.
Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crowd-pleasing meals don’t get easier than Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells. Each bite offers cheesy goodness with a tender chicken center, making it a favorite for busy nights. These stuffed shells are simple to assemble and even easier to serve. You can count on this one for a dinner that feels a little special with little fuss.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Stuffed Shells

Smoky BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Three pulled pork sliders with coleslaw on a white plate, topped with a sprig of parsley.
Smoky BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Quick bites that pack a punch are always handy to have in your recipe stash. If you’re after a meal that works for both game night or lunch boxes, Smoky BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw hit the spot. These are easy to put together and great for sharing with others. Everyone likes how they balance a touch of smoke with a bit of crunch.
Get the Recipe: Smoky BBQ Chicken Sliders with Homemade Slaw

Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls

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

Game day snacks or quick dinners are taken up a notch with Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls. They pack in bold flavor with just the right touch of heat and cream. You get roll-ups that are easy to make and just as simple to eat. They’re quick to prepare and fill up a tray with little work.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Rolls

Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

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

Weeknight dinners feel more exciting when you make Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken. It brings a bit of restaurant flair to your own kitchen with hardly any extra effort. Simple steps deliver juicy chicken coated in that recognizable sweet glaze. You get that popular takeout flavor without waiting for delivery.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi with pieces of chicken, wilted spinach, and a creamy sauce, garnished with black pepper.
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated, especially with Creamy Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi. This recipe mixes tender chicken and pillowy gnocchi in a rich sauce. You can whip it up for family meals that don’t need much attention from start to finish. Easy steps make this a go-to for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Gnocchi

Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

A serving spoon lifts a portion of creamy, baked casserole with a crunchy topping, revealing melted cheese.
Loaded Million Dollar Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Most families love a dish that feeds a crowd and keeps well for leftovers. With Loaded Million Dollar Casserole, you get lots of goodness in every scoop. It’s a hearty pick for potlucks or when you’re feeding plenty of people at home. All you have to do is let the oven do the work and serve.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

Fresh Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

A bowl of rice topped with grilled chicken, creamy sauce, sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and red onion slices.
Fresh Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bowls have become popular for good reason and Fresh Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl is a top pick when time is short. Every serving brings together plenty of simple textures that keep things interesting. It’s an easy meal you can prepare ahead or pack to go. Leftovers work well for lunch, too.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl

Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

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

Some days need something crunchy and easy to hold, so Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders do the trick. They’re perfect for dipping and especially good for kids or picky eaters. These tenders make fast snacks or quick meals you can pair with just about anything. Most people find they disappear quickly at any table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Spicy Blackened Chicken Clubs

A grilled chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, bacon, and mayonnaise on toasted bread, served with potato chips on a white plate.
Spicy Blackened Chicken Clubs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

When sandwiches need a bit more kick, turn to Spicy Blackened Chicken Clubs. They suit those who like stronger flavors without much hassle in preparation. Each bite delivers a bold profile that breaks up the usual boring lunch routine. It’s easy to build the club just how you like it, every time.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Blackened Chicken Clubs

Smoky Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken breast slices served over a bed of greens with lemon wedges on the side.
Smoky Chipotle Grilled Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Grilling can be simple, especially when cooking Smoky Chipotle Grilled Chicken at home. This recipe brings out deep flavors with minimal effort on the grill or stovetop. The chicken works well hot or cold, so it fits into plenty of meal plans. People like making extra for salads and wraps later.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Classic Chicken Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken pieces, croutons, and grated cheese on a bed of romaine lettuce. Dressing is served on the side.
Classic Chicken Caesar Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

On a day when you want something light but filling, Classic Chicken Caesar Salad always comes through. It’s a dish people keep coming back to because it’s quick and satisfying. The combo of protein and greens makes it ideal for lunch or dinner. Dressing can be changed up, so it never gets boring.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Caesar Salad

Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken

Shredded chicken mixed with sliced green peppers and seasoning in a green bowl.
Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Set-it-and-forget-it dinners are simple with Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken. This slow cooker dish is ideal for busy days when you want a no-fuss meal. Tender chicken builds great flavor while you do other things. It’s packed with comfort and requires very little effort on your part.
Get the Recipe: Easy Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken

Hearty Chicken Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with minced meat, spinach, sliced scallions, half a soft-boiled egg, and noodles in broth, garnished with sesame seeds and pepper.
Hearty Chicken Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You don’t need much time to make a filling bowl like Hearty Chicken Ramen. Warm broth and noodles pair with chicken to create a fast meal. Each bowl is simple enough for rushed evenings and flexible for additions. Ramen night at home keeps things easy and flavorful with this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Chicken Ramen

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.

Bring home a taste of something a little different with Balti Chicken. You don’t need special equipment or long prep to put this together. It’s one of those meals that fills you up without taking all night to cook. Friends and family usually want seconds, so it’s smart to make extra.
Get the Recipe: Balti Chicken

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad

A plate of creamy rotini pasta with shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a spoon placed at the side.
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for something quick that feels more planned? Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad gives your lunch or dinner a hearty twist without the fuss. It’s a smart way to enjoy comforting flavors that work well together. Perfect for when you need a meal that’s easy to make but still feels complete.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Salad

Classic Chicken and Waffles

A stack of waffles and fried chicken pieces with syrup being poured on top, served on a beige plate.
Classic Chicken and Waffles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something fun about mixing crispy and soft in one meal, as seen in Classic Chicken and Waffles. This recipe is well-loved for brunch or even a quick dinner treat. It’s a combo that’s easy to share and feels special without needing much time. Both kids and adults look forward to this meal again and again.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken and Waffles

Flavorful Greek Chicken Kabobs

Grilled chicken skewers topped with a creamy white sauce and chopped herbs, served on a plate with sliced vegetables.
Flavorful Greek Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Grilled chicken can be made in minutes with Flavorful Greek Chicken Kabobs. These skewers are easy to handle and quick to cook for meals at home or outdoors. Each piece brings a unique mix that’s different from simple baked dishes. You’ll enjoy the easy prep and fast grilling time.
Get the Recipe: Flavorful Greek Chicken Kabobs

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.

Spices come together quickly in Chicken Tikka Masala for busy nights. Creamy sauce and chunks of chicken make this dish both easy and rich without complicated steps. It’s great over rice or with bread for a full meal. Quick preparation lets you have restaurant flavors in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tikka Masala

Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

Sliced breaded chicken rolls filled with ham and cheese, topped with creamy sauce and garnished with chopped parsley on a plate.
Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fancy meals don’t have to be hard when you make Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu. This recipe layers tasty fillings inside chicken for an impressive plate. The steps are simple, and the result gives you something that looks special. You can make a memorable dinner fast without much planning.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu

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.

Few things beat comfort food, and Butter Chicken is proof. The recipe is friendly to beginners and loved by many households for its ease. Goes great with bread or rice and works for both lunches and dinners. Clean-up stays simple, since you only need a few pans.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Comforting Chicken Soup

A pot of soup with sliced carrots, potatoes, and herbs floating in a seasoned broth.
Comforting Chicken Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Easy options often stick around for a reason, and Comforting Chicken Soup is one of those recipes. It’s a go-to on busy days when you need something warm that won’t take much effort. Soup is easy to batch cook and freeze for later. Great for lunch, dinner, or whenever hunger hits fast.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Chicken Soup

Golden Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Stack of golden-brown fritters topped with a red sauce, showing crispy edges and bits of herbs.
Golden Air Fryer Chicken Fritters. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fast snacks or sides are simple with Golden Air Fryer Chicken Fritters. Each bite is crisp and easy to eat without much preparation. Air frying keeps it quick and gives you results in minutes. It’s perfect for parties or when you need a fast option.
Get the Recipe: Golden Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Loaded Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

A bread bowl filled with a creamy dip, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits. Celery sticks are placed on the side.
Loaded Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you want an easy shareable snack, Loaded Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip makes a smart choice. It’s packed with flavor and comes together quickly for game nights or parties. Serve it with chips or bread for something everyone grabs. Prep is quick, and you’ll see empty bowls in no time.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Creamy Marry Me Chicken Risotto

A slice of chocolate cream pie with a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, served on a black plate.
Creamy Marry Me Chicken Risotto. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rice dishes don’t take much effort when you choose Creamy Marry Me Chicken Risotto. This recipe mixes tender chicken with creamy rice for a one-pan meal. You can make it for family dinners or gatherings without any stress. All you need are simple steps for big results.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Marry Me Chicken Risotto

Aromatic Chicken Shawarma

Close-up of a wrap filled with grilled chicken, lettuce, cucumber, red onion, and sauce in a folded flatbread.
Aromatic Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sandwiches and wraps are easier with Aromatic Chicken Shawarma. You can make spiced chicken quickly and serve it with sauces for extra flavor. This recipe keeps things stress-free for busy days or quick lunches. Wrap it up for a fast meal that feels new.
Get the Recipe: Aromatic Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Pinwheels

Close-up of baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with cheese, herbs, and finely chopped toppings, garnished with sliced green onions.
Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Roll-ups like Chicken Pinwheels are handy for quick snacks or easy party food. They pack well for lunchboxes and road trips, too. Everyone enjoys the bite-sized pieces that are easy to grab. You can prep them in advance for quick meals throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pinwheels

Seasoned Chicken Taco

Three soft tacos filled with seasoned ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, red onion, shredded cheese, and topped with sour cream and green sauce sit on a plate.
Seasoned Chicken Taco. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tacos fit almost any night, and Seasoned Chicken Taco are super quick to make at home. Set out a few toppings and let everyone build their own. Clean-up is simple because most of the prep goes in one pan. Leftover taco chicken can be used in salad or wraps.
Get the Recipe: Seasoned Chicken Taco

Crispy 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.
Crispy Raising Cane Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you like food with crunch, try Crispy Raising Cane Tenders at home. They’re popular for a reason and pair well with lots of easy sides. These chicken tenders get used for both main dishes and quick snacks. Make extra because they go fast when everyone’s hungry.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Raising Cane Tenders

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheels filled with a creamy mixture, garnished with herbs, served with bowls of salsa and breadcrumbs.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Snacks with spice are always welcome, and Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels check that box. Roll them up in advance for easy snacks or quick party trays. Each piece packs just enough kick to keep things interesting. They’re easy to serve and great for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Easy Sheet Pan Maple Chicken

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

Weekday dinners are a breeze with Easy Sheet Pan Maple Chicken. Just spread everything on one pan and bake for a no-mess meal. You get juicy chicken with hardly any cleanup. Save time and still serve up something that keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Maple Chicken

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