Are you tired of the same old boring meals with your little ones? Look no further! We’ve got 20 fun and easy chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic comfort food to international flavors, these dishes are all kid-friendly and can be customized to suit your family’s tastes.
Whether you’re in a hurry or have some extra time on your hands, we’ve got you covered with a range of recipes that cater to different skill levels and dietary needs. And the best part? These delicious dishes are sure to become new favorites for kids and adults alike!
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering chicken recipes that are perfect for families, including cheesy quesadillas, sweet and sour bites, and pasta with hidden veggies. So grab your apron, gather your gang, and get ready to cook up some fun!
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
These classic quesadillas are filled with shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a hint of spices. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 cups mixed cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella)
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dip
Satisfy your cravings with this classic comfort food recipe that combines the perfect blend of crispy and tender chicken, paired with a tangy and sweet honey mustard dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey Mustard Dip ingredients (below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken nuggets until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with Honey Mustard Dip (recipe below).
Honey Mustard Dip:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken nuggets.
Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry
This classic stir-fry recipe is a staple for any meal, packed with protein-rich chicken, crunchy veggies, and savory flavors. Whip it up in no time and enjoy a satisfying dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes; set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Return chicken to the pan, pour in soy sauce, and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Pasta with Hidden Veggies
This recipe is a game-changer for kids (and adults!) who refuse to eat veggies. Finely chopped veggies are seamlessly incorporated into the pasta sauce, making it impossible to detect their presence.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), finely chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with veggies.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Chicken Pot Pies
These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or snacks, and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs. With flaky crusts and creamy fillings, these mini pies will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 1/4 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, vegetables, and seasonings.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into small squares (about 3 inches per side).
5. Spoon a small amount of filling onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
6. Fold other half over filling and press edges together with a fork to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Roll-Ups
This recipe brings together the flavors of chicken, cheese, and herbs to create a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal. Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or just a quick bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay out a large tortilla or flatbread.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture along the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Roll up tightly, then place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Bites
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic chicken bites! This sweet and sour recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together cornstarch, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss chicken pieces in the mixture until evenly coated.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Fry chicken bites for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Rice Casserole
A comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. This casserole combines the flavors of chicken, rice, and creamy sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup creamy mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
4. Stir in peas and carrots, mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked rice with the chicken mixture and transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Tenders with BBQ Sauce
Get ready to savor the sweet and tangy flavor of chicken tenders smothered in a rich BBQ sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend picnic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then buttermilk, and finally coat with flour again.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry chicken tenders for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon water.
7. Toss cooked chicken tenders with BBQ sauce mixture until coated.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich macaroni and cheese sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken and broccoli in butter until the chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.
4. In a separate pot, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken mixture, and cheese sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Pizza Pockets
These bite-sized Chicken Pizza Pockets are a fun and easy twist on classic pizza, perfect for snacking or as a meal. They’re packed with chicken, cheese, and pizza sauce all wrapped up in a flaky puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spoon chicken, pizza sauce, and cheese onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
4. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect comfort food dish, packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the potatoes, corn, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Tacos with Guacamole
Savor the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe that combines juicy chicken, crunchy tacos, and creamy guacamole. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Guacamole (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese (if using), and guacamole.
Guacamole:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Mash all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Waffle Bites
These bite-sized treats combine crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles and a hint of sweetness, perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 waffle mix (homemade or store-bought)
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken pieces into buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture.
4. Fry chicken for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, cook waffles according to package instructions.
6. Serve fried chicken on top of a waffle, drizzled with maple syrup if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti
Enjoy a rich and satisfying meal with this classic Italian-inspired dish. This recipe combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and creamy Alfredo sauce with al dente spaghetti for a comforting and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, mushrooms, and garlic over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet; stir until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and chicken mixture in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Potato Hash
This hearty dish is a perfect blend of crispy chicken, tender potatoes, and smoky flavors. It’s an ideal breakfast or brunch option that’s easy to make and packs a punch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the chicken in a single layer.
4. Roast the chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the chicken is cooking, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add potatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
7. Add smoked paprika to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Once the chicken is done, chop it into smaller pieces and add it to the skillet with the potatoes. Stir to combine.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Meatball Subs
Elevate your sandwich game with these juicy chicken meatballs nestled in crispy sub rolls, smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 sub rolls
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form meatballs into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast sub rolls by placing them in the oven for 2-3 minutes or under broiler for 1 minute.
5. Assemble subs by placing meatballs on toasted buns, topping with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Veggie Skewers
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these flavorful chicken and veggie skewers, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large chunks
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large chunks
– 1 onion, cut into wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite marinade or sauce (e.g., teriyaki, BBQ, or Italian dressing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and your favorite dipping sauce (if desired).
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Elevate your slider game with these bite-sized Chicken Parmesan wonders! Crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and melted mozzarella come together in a flavor-packed package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup marinara sauce
– 12 mini buns (or regular buns cut in half)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare chicken by pounding thin and season with salt.
3. Dip each piece in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast buns and spread marinara sauce on bottom half.
6. Assemble sliders by placing chicken on top of sauce, followed by a slice of mozzarella and a sprinkle of basil.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the tender sweetness of bell peppers with savory chicken and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken in a pan with olive oil until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked chicken, then top with shredded cheese.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the filling and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get your kids excited about cooking with these 20 fun chicken recipes! From classic favorites like cheesy quesadillas and chicken tenders to creative twists like chicken and waffle bites and chicken parmesan sliders, there’s something for every little chef. These easy-to-make dishes are perfect for a family dinner or a quick lunchbox addition. With hidden veggies and kid-friendly flavors, you can’t go wrong! Whether your kiddos love sweet and sour bites or broccoli mac and cheese, these recipes are sure to be a hit.
