Today I’m sharing 18 easy weeknight dinners featuring chicken that are part of my family’s menu rotation. Why chicken?
Simply put, most kids like chicken. Chicken is a versatile, lean protein that’s great for introducing new flavors and textures. Moms want meals they know their child will eat, and chicken usually checks that box!
As a registered dietitian (RD), I seek recipes from other dietitians because many RDs are moms. They know we’re busy, so they build recipes that are practical, kid-friendly, and yet balance flavor with healthy ingredients.
The recipes below are organized by cooking method and include tips for prep, cooking, and ingredients. Happy cooking!
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Crockpot Meals
1. Classic Chicken Noodle Soup :: Soup is good for the soul and for busy moms. Chicken noodle soup has been a nice introduction to soups with my son, and Eleat Nutrition nails this classic recipe! Tip: Use a fun noodle shape to encourage your child’s interest (adjust your cook time to ensure doneness).
2. Healthy Crockpot Lasagna with Chicken and Veggies :: Wellness for the Win is one of my favorite dietitian mom blogs because she keeps it real. If you have a Dutch oven, you can easily make this recipe in one dish. Tip: Look for a jarred red sauce with low sodium and no added sugar.
3. Simple Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos :: The Real Food Dietitians know how to play up flavor in a simple way. I love their recipe for taco seasoning, and it’s one less thing to buy. Save this site because you’ll be back for more deliciousness!
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4. Slow Cooker Chicken Quinoa Enchilada Casserole :: This was an instant favorite. Even my husband commented how flavorful and hearty yet light this dish is. Quinoa is a plant-based protein that also provides fiber, so you can feel good about serving this to your family. Tip: This dish freezes and reheats well.
5. Sweet Potato Chicken Chili :: If your child only likes chicken, this recipe is a great gateway for new flavors and textures. You can dice the chicken and add it later, or swap for another protein (tips on the blog). This recipe includes Instant Pot instructions — perfect for days you get home late.
Sheet Pan Meals
6. Chicken Bacon Ranch :: My husband gets excited any time a recipe has bacon. I use pre-cut sweet potatoes and sometimes add other veggies. Tip: Tessemae’s is our favorite healthy ranch dressing, and if you like spicy, try the habanero ranch with this recipe for a little kick.
7. One-Dish Chicken Fajita Bake :: Make this dish even easier with pre-cut chicken and veggies for a no mess prep. Tip: Keep frozen diced chicken, bell peppers, and onions on hand. Trader Joe’s is my go-to for these frozen staples.
8. Sheet Pan Chicken Potato and Green Beans :: Kara Lydon’s recipe was my introduction to cooking with za’atar, and since then, I’ve been hooked! Tossing your chicken on a sheet pan with veggies is as easy as meal prep gets. Tip: Add tricolor carrots for additional color and flavor.
9. Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Sausage :: The Lean Green Bean is a mom on a mission to help moms succeed. With only three main ingredients, you can toss this meal together in minutes. Tip: Look for lower sodium chicken sausage, and add extra veggies for fiber.
10. Sheet Pan Greek Chicken and Potatoes :: This dish boasts flavor and color! I rotate cuts of chicken and add baby carrots or bell peppers for variety. Tip: Pair leftover meat with microwavable rice and veggies for easy lunches.
11. Sheet Pan Teriyaki Ginger Sesame Chicken and Broccoli :: As a dietitian and mom, I love the flexibility of this recipe. I adjust the spiciness of the marinade and toss in whatever vegetables I have on hand. Andy is one of my favorite dietitians to follow for good reason! Tip: Try this recipe with pork tenderloin or ground turkey and 3 Dragons Teriyaki Sauce.
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One Pot Meals
12. Black Bean Rice Skillet :: When I need a last minute dinner, this recipe is my foundation. I cook veggies in the microwave and stir in with leftover or chopped rotisserie chicken. Finish in the oven and voila! Tip: Frozen grilled chicken strips and Trader Joe’s cooked chicken breast slices are great staples to keep on hand.
13. Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs :: When I want chicken to be the star, this is the recipe I make. Pair with Path of Life’s frozen grains and steam-in-bag veggies for a quick, low mess meal. Eleat Nutrition‘s flavorful recipe is a great way to introduce a new cut of chicken to kids.
14. King Ranch Casserole :: This southern dish was not a staple growing up, so I rely on the Real Food Dietitians to get it right! I prep the veggies and grill extra chicken in advance for easy weeknights. Tip: Cook in a Dutch oven, and stir the chips in for a true one pot dish.
15. Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice :: Cara’s recipes are full of authentic flavor! I stock most of these ingredients and snag a rotisserie chicken on my way home for a simple, tasty meal everyone loves. Tip: Let your child peel the carrots. Kids who engage in the kitchen are more likely to try what they make.
16. Southwest Chicken Quinoa Casserole :: This version of a family favorite can be prepped in minutes and bake while you do mom things. I love the flexibility of this recipe and how easy it is to adapt to what’s in your pantry. Tip: Set a timer for this recipe — quinoa can become “gummy” when overcooked.
What I’m Trying Next
17. Tandoori Cheesy Braided Chicken with Veggies :: Finally, someone made a healthy, grownup version of a pizza pocket! Nazima provides details to make this recipe entirely from scratch and uses pantry ingredients –- this is the flexibility moms need.
18. Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Kabobs :: My son enjoys helping me measure and stir, so this recipe will keep him engaged, and make eating healthy fun. The sauce also sounds delicious for salads and bowls, two favorites.
I hope you find a new family favorite to add to your menu rotation!
