Quick & Easy Chicken Dinners: Ready in 20 Minutes!
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day? Do you crave a delicious and satisfying dinner without the fuss? Look no further! This blog post is dedicated to providing you with a collection of incredibly easy chicken dinner recipes that are ready in 20 minutes or less. Yes, you read that right – delicious, home-cooked meals in a fraction of the time!
Chicken is a versatile and healthy protein source that can be transformed into countless flavorful dishes. These recipes are designed for busy weeknights, utilizing simple ingredients and quick cooking methods. Get ready to ditch the takeout menus and embrace the joy of effortless cooking!
## Why Chicken is Perfect for Quick Dinners
* **Cooks Quickly:** Chicken, especially when cut into smaller pieces like cutlets, strips, or cubes, cooks incredibly fast. This is essential for achieving those 20-minute dinner goals.
* **Versatile Flavor Profile:** Chicken’s mild flavor makes it a blank canvas for various sauces, spices, and marinades. It pairs well with almost any cuisine, from Italian to Asian to Mexican.
* **Lean Protein:** Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
* **Readily Available:** Chicken is easily accessible at most grocery stores and comes in various cuts and forms to suit your needs.
## Essential Tips for Speeding Up Chicken Dinner Preparation
Before diving into the recipes, here are a few helpful tips to ensure your chicken dinners are truly ready in 20 minutes or less:
* **Prep Your Ingredients:** Before you even turn on the stove, take a few minutes to chop vegetables, measure out spices, and prepare any sauces. This is called *mise en place* and it is a chef’s secret to efficiency.
* **Use Thin Cuts of Chicken:** Opt for chicken cutlets, tenders, or pre-cut chicken breast strips. Thinner cuts cook much faster than whole chicken breasts.
* **High Heat is Your Friend:** Don’t be afraid to use medium-high or high heat to quickly sear and cook the chicken. Just be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
* **One-Pan Wonders:** Embrace one-pan cooking whenever possible. This minimizes cleanup and allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
* **Utilize Pre-Made Ingredients:** Don’t be afraid to use store-bought sauces, marinades, or spice blends to save time. There’s no shame in taking a shortcut when needed!
* **Read the Entire Recipe:** Before you begin cooking, read the entire recipe thoroughly to understand all the steps and ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment.
## Recipes
### 1. Lemon Herb Chicken Cutlets
This recipe is bright, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The lemon and herbs create a refreshing sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken cutlets.
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 15 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound chicken cutlets
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken cutlets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
4. Remove the chicken cutlets from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Stir in the chopped parsley and thyme.
9. Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them.
10. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, or a side salad.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Use different herbs, such as oregano or rosemary.
* Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
### 2. Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken and Broccoli
This sweet and savory dish is a family favorite. The honey garlic glaze adds a delicious sticky coating to the chicken and broccoli, making it irresistible.
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 12 minutes
**Total Time:** 17 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup honey
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
6. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the chicken and broccoli and stir to coat.
7. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds (optional) and serve immediately over rice or quinoa.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
* Use a different sweetener, such as maple syrup or agave nectar.
* Serve with a side of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
### 3. Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Sheet pan fajitas are a fun and easy way to enjoy a Mexican-inspired dinner. Simply toss the chicken and vegetables with fajita seasoning, roast them on a sheet pan, and serve with your favorite toppings.
**Prep Time:** 7 minutes
**Cook Time:** 13 minutes
**Total Time:** 20 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
* 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
* 1 onion, sliced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Tortillas for serving
* Toppings: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, cheese, etc.
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips, bell pepper slices, and onion slices with olive oil, fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Warm the tortillas according to package directions.
6. Serve the chicken and vegetables in the tortillas with your favorite toppings.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add other vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms.
* Use a store-bought fajita seasoning blend or make your own.
* Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans.
### 4. Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
This creamy pesto chicken pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The pesto adds a vibrant green color and a delicious herby flavor to the creamy sauce.
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15 minutes
**Total Time:** 20 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup pesto
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in the pesto and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce.
9. Toss to coat and serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add some sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrients.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone.
* Top with fresh basil leaves for a garnish.
### 5. Spicy Peanut Chicken Stir-Fry
This stir-fry is packed with flavor and comes together in minutes. The spicy peanut sauce is addictive, and the vegetables add a healthy dose of nutrients.
**Prep Time:** 7 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 17 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
* 1 tablespoon peanut oil
* 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
**For the Sauce:**
* 1/4 cup peanut butter
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1/2 teaspoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
* 2 tablespoons water
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, and water until smooth.
2. Heat the peanut oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat.
3. Add the chicken strips to the wok and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
4. Add the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken and vegetables and stir to coat.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, snow peas, or bean sprouts.
* Use a different type of nut butter, such as almond butter or cashew butter.
* Serve with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
### 6. Black Pepper Chicken and Green Beans
This flavorful stir-fry is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. The black pepper sauce adds a delicious kick, and the green beans provide a satisfying crunch.
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 12 minutes
**Total Time:** 17 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound green beans, trimmed
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
* 1 teaspoon cornstarch
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), honey, black pepper, and cornstarch.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
4. Add the green beans to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
6. Pour the black pepper sauce over the chicken and green beans and stir to coat.
7. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers.
* Use a different type of oil, such as sesame oil or peanut oil.
* Serve with a side of white rice or brown rice.
### 7. Chicken and Spinach Skillet with Lemon and Garlic
A flavorful and healthy one-pan meal, featuring tender chicken, wilted spinach, and a bright lemon-garlic sauce.
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 13 minutes
**Total Time:** 18 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 5 ounces fresh spinach
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
4. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until wilted.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice and bring to a simmer.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately on its own or over rice or pasta.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Use baby spinach for a more delicate flavor.
* Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
### 8. 5-Ingredient Balsamic Chicken
As the name suggests, this recipe uses only 5 ingredients (plus salt and pepper!) for an incredibly simple yet flavorful dinner.
**Prep Time:** 2 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15 minutes
**Total Time:** 17 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper and Italian herbs.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Add minced garlic (if using) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in balsamic vinegar and let simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Coat the chicken breasts in the balsamic glaze.
6. Serve immediately over salad, rice or pasta.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
* Marinate the chicken breasts in balsamic vinegar and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor.
* Serve with roasted asparagus or green beans.
### 9. Chicken and Avocado Tacos
Quick, easy and packed with healthy fats, these tacos are a delicious and satisfying meal.
**Prep Time:** 7 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10 minutes
**Total Time:** 17 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 8 corn or flour tortillas
* 1 avocado, diced
* 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
* Lime wedges for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and browned (5-7 minutes).
3. Season the chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas. Fill each tortilla with cooked chicken, diced avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
5. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add your favorite salsa or hot sauce for an extra kick.
* Top with shredded lettuce, cheese, or sour cream.
* Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
### 10. Quick Chicken and Vegetable Curry
A speedy version of a classic curry, using pre-cut vegetables and readily available ingredients.
**Prep Time:** 5 minutes
**Cook Time:** 15 minutes
**Total Time:** 20 minutes
**Serves:** 2-4
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 tablespoon coconut oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk
* 2 tablespoons curry powder
* 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Cooked rice, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add red bell pepper and broccoli florets and cook for 3 minutes.
4. Add chicken cubes, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, curry powder, ginger, garlic, salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
6. Serve over cooked rice.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add other vegetables, such as cauliflower or green beans.
* Adjust the amount of curry powder to your liking.
* Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of yogurt.
## Conclusion
With these quick and easy chicken dinner recipes, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, and they can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. So, ditch the takeout menus and start cooking up some delicious chicken dinners today!
Enjoy the delight of preparing wholesome chicken dinners in under 20 minutes! These recipes offer a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and health, making them ideal for busy individuals and families alike. Say goodbye to long cooking hours and hello to flavorful, home-cooked meals that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and customize the recipes to suit your unique palate and dietary needs. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!