Chicken is a versatile and budget-friendly protein that can be used in countless meals. Whether you're looking for quick weeknight dinners or simple recipes that won't break the bank, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are 21 easy chicken meals that are perfect for anyone trying to save money while still enjoying delicious home-cooked food. We know "cheap" can mean different things to different people, so here you will find recipes fitting a variety of budgets - but all without any unnecessarily expensive ingredients.
Cajun Chicken Wraps
Cajun Chicken Wraps feature chicken thighs that are cooked until they're a bit crispy and coated in a spicy mayo marinade. They're filled with crunchy romaine, fresh tomatoes, and creamy avocado, all wrapped up in a whole wheat tortilla. This meal is quick to prepare, taking just over 30 minutes and only requires one pan, making it easy to whip up on a busy night.
Thin Basil Chicken Breasts
Thin chicken breasts can be cooked in an air fryer for a simple and tasty dinner. In just 6 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal seasoned with garlic and basil. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and satisfying.
Grilled Lemon Basil Chicken
This Lemon Chicken Marinade is quick and easy to whip up using simple, healthy ingredients. It's perfect for grilling, pan frying, or baking in the oven. With a mix of olive oil, lemon, and basil, the chicken turns out juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
BBQ Chicken Wraps
Big barbecue flavor doesn't require a grill. These BBQ Chicken Wraps are quick to make and packed with cheesy goodness. In under 10 minutes, you can have a tasty meal that's perfect for any night.
Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Enjoying the flavors of a Sunday roast chicken is possible any night of the week. This dish allows you to prepare a comforting dinner with minimal effort, so you can relax and savor the meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken Tenders
Air fried chicken tenders are quick and simple to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish. With just a few basic ingredients and plenty of flavor, they're bound to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy them as a main dish alongside your favorite sides, or serve them as a tasty snack with some dips.
5-Ingredient Turmeric Chicken
This turmeric chicken dish is simple to make with only five ingredients. It's a flavorful option that works well with chicken or any other protein you prefer. Perfect for a quick meal, it brings a nice twist to your dinner table.
Slow Cooker Tuscan White Bean Soup
This soup is filled with white beans, shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and some vegetables, creating a tasty dish that everyone will appreciate. The preparation is quick and straightforward, making it a breeze to whip up.
Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and hearty wild rice in a rich, creamy broth. It's a warm and comforting dish that's great for chilly days. This simple soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Chicken Thigh Tray Bake
This Chicken Thigh Tray Bake is a simple and tasty meal. Juicy chicken thighs roast alongside colorful vegetables on a single sheet pan, which means less mess to clean up afterward. It's a great option for a quick dinner that doesn't skimp on flavor.
Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti is a simple meal that you can just throw together for busy weeknights. It has a familiar taste that everyone in the family will enjoy, making it a go-to option for dinner. This easy dish is sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation.
Chicken Teriyaki Stir-fry
Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry is a quick and easy meal that you can whip up in just 25 minutes, including prep time. It's packed with chicken, broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, making it a hearty and satisfying dish. This low-carb option can stand alone or be served with noodles or rice if you want to feed a crowd. You can use either homemade or store-bought Teriyaki sauce, and frozen vegetables work just fine too.
Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce
Chicken enchiladas with green sauce are quick to prepare and are a great option for a cozy meal any night. This dish combines tender chicken with garlic, all wrapped in soft tortillas and smothered in melted cheese and zesty green chile sauce. You can make everything from scratch or take a shortcut if you prefer. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Sheet Pan Roast Chicken with Potatoes
Sheet Pan Roast Chicken with Potatoes is full of fresh flavors that everyone will love. You can prepare it a day or two ahead of time, making it easy to just pop it in the oven when dinner time comes.
Baked Chicken Tenders
Oven baked chicken tenders come together in just 25 minutes using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. These tenders are a healthier option compared to frying, as they don't use any oil or dairy. They're perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce, or you might just want to enjoy them straight from the oven because they're so delicious.
Chicken Burgers
This chicken burger is a simple and satisfying meal. It's perfect for a quick dinner that won't break the bank. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up something delicious that everyone will enjoy. This recipe is great for busy nights when you want something tasty without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Healthy Chicken Salad
This is a lighter take on a classic creamy salad, ideal for making a tasty sandwich for lunch. It's easy to prepare and offers a satisfying meal without being too heavy. Enjoy this refreshing dish that brings a twist to your usual salad.
Chicken Drumsticks
These drumsticks are packed with flavor and are sure to please everyone at the table. They're easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Soup with Rice
This chicken soup made in the instant pot is loaded with vegetables, rice, and tender shredded chicken in a creamy Parmesan sauce. It's a cozy one-pot meal that's easy to prepare and has that homemade feel. Perfect for a quick dinner, this dish brings warmth and comfort to the table.
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs
Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs are seasoned well and cooked until they're nice and tender. This dish goes well with any side you like. It's a simple and quick main course that everyone in the family will appreciate.
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters come together in just 15 minutes, offering a great mix of crispy skin and juicy meat. The marinade, featuring lime juice, adds extra flavor and helps keep the chicken tender. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any night of the week.
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