Enhanced Recipesculinary collection
Home
CoursesView CuisinesWhat Can I Make?My Kitchen

15 Easy Chicken Dinners | Traditional, Sheet Pan and Instant Pot Chicken Recipe Compilation

Login to Save
2.2K views👍 53
MyRecipes
MyRecipes
73 recipes on Enhanced Recipes
Follow MyRecipes to prioritize their recipes in your meal plans, pantry matches, and suggestions

Recipes in this Video

7 recipes

Fried chicken is a staple of Southern cuisine in the United States, often associated with comfort food and family gatherings. Its origins can be traced back to various cultural influences, including Scottish frying techniques and West African seasoning practices. The dish has become popular across the country and is often served at picnics, barbecues, and celebrations.

Ingredients

  • chicken pieces
  • flour
  • buttermilk
  • salt
  • pepper
  • paprika
  • oil

Instructions

  1. 1Marinate chicken pieces in buttermilk for several hours or overnight.
  2. 2In a bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  3. 3Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
  4. 4Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
  5. 5Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  6. 6Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
  7. 7Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
  8. 8Remove chicken and drain on paper towels.
  9. 9Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

buttermilk

Healthier: low-fat yogurt

Cheaper: milk with vinegar

Low-fat yogurt provides similar tanginess with fewer calories.

flour

Healthier: whole wheat flour

Cheaper: cornstarch

Whole wheat flour is more nutritious, while cornstarch can be a cheaper alternative for a lighter batter.

Techniques

marinatingbreadingfrying

Equipment

deep skilletmixing bowltongspaper towels
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairy

Also Known As

Southern Fried ChickenCrispy Chicken

Chicken Parmesan, or Pollo alla Parmigiana, hails from Southern Italy, where it was originally made with veal. This dish embodies the Italian tradition of transforming simple ingredients into a comforting meal, often served with pasta or a salad. Today, Chicken Parmesan is a beloved staple in Italian-American cuisine, enjoyed in homes and restaurants alike, with variations that include different cheeses and sauces.

Ingredients

  • chicken breasts
  • bread crumbs
  • parmesan cheese
  • mozzarella cheese
  • marinara sauce
  • eggs
  • flour
  • olive oil
  • basil
  • oregano
  • garlic powder
  • salt
  • black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
  3. 3Season chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. 4Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
  5. 5Dip chicken in beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
  6. 6Coat chicken in bread crumbs, pressing to adhere.
  7. 7Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  8. 8Fry chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  9. 9Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  10. 10Place fried chicken in the dish and top with marinara sauce.
  11. 11Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the chicken.
  12. 12Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
  13. 13Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

parmesan cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.

mozzarella cheese

Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

Cheaper: provolone

Part-skim mozzarella reduces fat while maintaining texture.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a high smoke point and is healthier.

bread crumbs

Healthier: panko

Cheaper: crushed crackers

Panko gives a lighter texture, while crushed crackers are often cheaper.

Techniques

poundingdredgingfryingbaking

Equipment

ovenskilletbaking dishmeat malletmixing bowls
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairyegg

Also Known As

Chicken ParmigianaPollo alla Parmigiana

Originating from the southwestern region of France, cassoulet is a hearty dish traditionally made with various meats and white beans. It reflects the rustic cooking style of the region, often associated with family gatherings and celebrations. Modern variations may include different proteins or cooking methods, such as this Instant Pot version, making it accessible for busy home cooks worldwide.

Ingredients

  • chicken thighs
  • smoked sausage
  • white beans
  • onion
  • garlic
  • carrots
  • celery
  • chicken broth
  • tomato paste
  • bay leaves
  • thyme
  • parsley
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. 1Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil until shimmering.
  2. 2Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. 4Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. 5Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaves; stir to combine.
  6. 6Add chicken thighs to the pot, followed by white beans, chicken broth, and tomato paste.
  7. 7Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
  8. 8Once cooking is complete, allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  9. 9Remove chicken thighs and shred the meat, discarding bones and skin.
  10. 10Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the beans and sausage.
  11. 11Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  12. 12Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
  13. 13Set the oven to broil and place the dish under the broiler until the breadcrumbs are golden, about 3-5 minutes.
  14. 14Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowmilksoy

Also Known As

Instant Pot Chicken Cassoulet

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. 1Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and heat the olive oil.
  2. 2Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
  3. 3Add the chicken thighs to the pot and brown them on both sides, about 5 minutes.
  4. 4In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, cocoa powder, peanut butter, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and sugar until smooth.
  5. 5Pour the sauce over the chicken in the Instant Pot, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
  6. 6Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' for 15 minutes.
  7. 7Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  8. 8Open the lid and stir the mole sauce, shredding the chicken with two forks if desired.
  9. 9Serve the chicken mole hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Equipment

Instant PotMixing bowlWooden spoonMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoons
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Originating from Thailand, Tom Kha Gai is a fragrant soup that beautifully balances the heat of chilies with the creaminess of coconut milk and the zing of lime. Traditionally enjoyed as a comforting dish, it reflects the harmony of flavors in Thai cuisine. Today, it has gained global popularity, with many variations that include different proteins and vegetables, making it a versatile option for many palates.

Ingredients

  • chicken
  • coconut milk
  • galangal
  • lemongrass
  • kaffir lime leaves
  • mushrooms
  • fish sauce
  • lime juice
  • chili peppers
  • coriander
  • onion
  • garlic
  • sugar
  • water
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare chicken by cutting into bite-sized pieces.
  2. 2Heat water in a pot over medium heat until simmering.
  3. 3Add galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves to the pot; simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse flavors.
  4. 4Stir in chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
  5. 5Add mushrooms and simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.
  6. 6Pour in coconut milk and stir gently; heat until just warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. 7Season with fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar; adjust to taste.
  8. 8Add sliced chili peppers for heat and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

coconut milk

Healthier: light coconut milk

Cheaper: evaporated milk

Light coconut milk reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

galangal

Healthier: ginger

Cheaper: ginger

Ginger is more accessible and has a similar flavor profile.

fish sauce

Healthier: soy sauce

Cheaper: salt

Soy sauce is a vegetarian alternative and easier to find.

chicken

Healthier: tofu

Cheaper: chicken thighs

Tofu is a plant-based option, while thighs are less expensive than breast.

Techniques

simmeringinfusinggarnishing

Equipment

potknifecutting boardmeasuring spoons
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumfishcoconut

Also Known As

Tom Kha GaiTom Kha

Sheet Pan Chicken Parmesan is a modern twist on the classic Italian dish, combining convenience with comfort. Traditionally, Chicken Parmesan is fried and served with pasta, but this sheet pan version simplifies preparation and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It's a beloved family meal that showcases the flavors of Italian cuisine, with crispy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese. Today, it is popular in many households across the United States, often served with a side of spaghetti or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

  • chicken breasts
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • flour
  • eggs
  • breadcrumbs
  • parmesan cheese
  • mozzarella cheese
  • marinara sauce
  • fresh basil

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  3. 3Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
  4. 4Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan cheese.
  5. 5Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
  6. 6Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared sheet pan, spaced apart.
  7. 7Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
  8. 8Remove the pan from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast.
  9. 9Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce on each piece of chicken.
  10. 10Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. 11Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
  12. 12Serve hot with pasta or a side salad.

Ingredient Alternatives

parmesan cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is lower in calories and adds a cheesy flavor.

mozzarella cheese

Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

Cheaper: cheddar cheese

Part-skim mozzarella reduces fat while cheddar is often less expensive.

Techniques

breadingbaking

Equipment

sheet panshallow dishesovenparchment paper
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowmilkeggswheat

Also Known As

Baked Chicken ParmesanOven Chicken Parmesan

Originating from Thailand, Tom Kha Gai is a fragrant soup that beautifully balances the richness of coconut milk with the sharpness of lime and the warmth of spices. Traditionally enjoyed as a comforting dish, it reflects the Thai culinary philosophy of harmonizing flavors and aromas. Today, it has gained popularity worldwide, often adapted to include various proteins and vegetables, while still celebrating its core ingredients.

Ingredients

  • chicken
  • coconut milk
  • galangal
  • lemongrass
  • kaffir lime leaves
  • mushrooms
  • fish sauce
  • lime juice
  • chili peppers
  • coriander
  • sugar
  • water
  • shallots
  • green onions
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the chicken by slicing it into thin strips.
  2. 2Heat water in a pot over medium heat until simmering.
  3. 3Add the galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves to the pot.
  4. 4Simmer for 10 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  5. 5Add the chicken strips and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. 6Stir in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. 7Add the mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
  8. 8Season with fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
  9. 9Add sliced chili peppers for heat, adjusting to preference.
  10. 10Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander and green onions before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

coconut milk

Healthier: light coconut milk

Cheaper: evaporated milk

Light coconut milk reduces calories while evaporated milk offers a creamy texture.

galangal

Healthier: ginger

Cheaper: ginger

Ginger is more widely available and offers a similar flavor profile.

fish sauce

Healthier: soy sauce

Cheaper: salt

Soy sauce provides umami flavor while being vegetarian-friendly.

chicken

Healthier: tofu

Cheaper: chicken thighs

Tofu is a great vegetarian option, while chicken thighs are often less expensive than breasts.

Techniques

simmering

Equipment

potknifecutting boardladle
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumcoconut

Also Known As

Thai Coconut Chicken Soup

More Fried Chicken Videos

(24 videos)

Similar American Videos

(24 videos)

Similar Dishes From Other Cuisines

(23 videos)