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    Home / Roundups

    30 Quick Chicken Recipes Ready in a Flash

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Jan 8, 2026 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    I'm always looking for chicken recipes that come together fast without a lot of fuss, and these quick chicken recipes are exactly that. They're perfect for nights when I want a hot, satisfying meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're feeding a family or just yourself, these recipes make dinner simple, practical, and surprisingly quick.

    A hand holding a chicken wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and white sauce in a tortilla.Pin
    Greek Chicken Gyros. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

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    Honey Butter Fried Chicken

    Serving of honey butter chicken garnished with parsley on plate.Pin
    Honey Butter Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This chicken comes together quickly, making it a strong option for busy evenings when time is limited. The simple ingredient list keeps prep easy and stress-free. It works well for family dinners or casual gatherings. The fast cooking time helps get food on the table without a long wait.
    Get the Recipe: Honey Butter Fried Chicken

    Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

    Serving of buffalo chicken pasta bake with casserole dish.Pin
    Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish is a smart pick when you need something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. It uses straightforward ingredients and bakes in a short time. The combination of chicken and pasta makes it suitable for weeknight dinners. It is easy to prepare ahead and finish quickly.
    Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.Pin
    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These cook fast in the air fryer, which helps when dinner needs to be ready soon. The prep is simple and does not require many steps. They work well for lunch, dinner, or even snacks. Cleanup is also quick, making them practical for busy days.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces.Pin
    Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Boneless thighs cook evenly and quickly in the air fryer, saving time. The short cook time makes them helpful for last-minute meal plans. They pair easily with simple sides for a complete dinner. Preparation is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    Panko Chicken Breast

    Panko chicken on a white plate.Pin
    Panko Chicken Breast. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This recipe uses basic pantry items and comes together without much effort. The chicken cooks in a short amount of time, which is helpful on hectic nights. It works well for lunch or dinner. The simple steps make it easy to repeat during the week.
    Get the Recipe: Panko Chicken Breast

    Chicken Nuggets

    Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background.Pin
    Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These nuggets are quick to prepare and cook, making them ideal when time is tight. They use common ingredients and do not require complicated prep. They are a good fit for family meals or kid-friendly dinners. The fast turnaround keeps mealtime moving smoothly.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

    Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

    Bowl of black pepper chicken with chop sticks.Pin
    Chinese Black Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish is ready in a short time, which helps when dinner needs to happen fast. The ingredients are easy to find and quick to prep. It works well for weeknight dinners with rice or noodles. The short cooking time keeps things simple and efficient.
    Get the Recipe: Chinese Black Pepper Chicken

    Santa Fe Salad

    A colorful chicken salad with avocado, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and lime slices, presented in a white bowl.Pin
    Santa Fe Salad. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This salad comes together quickly and works well for lunch or light dinners. The chicken adds protein without adding long cook times. It is easy to assemble and does not require many steps. This makes it a reliable choice on busy days.
    Get the Recipe: Santa Fe Salad

    Chicken Cacciatore

    Plate of spaghetti topped with tomato sauce, mushrooms, and herbs, with a fork and spoon on the side.Pin
    Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This version is designed for faster cooking while keeping preparation simple. It works well for family dinners when time is limited. The ingredients are straightforward and easy to manage. The shorter cook time helps get dinner ready sooner.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

    Popcorn Chicken

    A bowl of golden brown popcorn chicken on a table.Pin
    Popcorn Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bite-sized pieces cook quickly, which is helpful when you need food on the table fast. The prep is simple and does not take much time. They work well for snacks, lunches, or casual dinners. Cleanup is also easy, making them practical.
    Get the Recipe: Popcorn Chicken

    Chicken Gnocchi Soup

    A bowl of chicken and spinach soup with a spoon.Pin
    Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This soup comes together in a short time, making it suitable for quick dinners. The ingredients are simple and easy to prep. It works well as a light meal or paired with bread. The fast cooking time keeps things moving.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

    Cream Cheese Chicken

    A plate with chicken and green beans on it.Pin
    Cream Cheese Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish uses a short ingredient list and comes together quickly. It is well suited for weeknight dinners when time is limited. The prep does not require many steps. The quick cook time helps reduce time in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Chicken

    Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

    A grilled chicken thight with barbecue sauce and a side of green beans on a white plate, garnished with chopped parsley.Pin
    Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These thighs cook quickly on the grill, making them useful for fast dinners. The prep is simple and does not take long. They work well for family meals or casual gatherings. The short grilling time keeps things easy.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Boneless Chicken Thighs

    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers.Pin
    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These skewers cook fast in the air fryer, which helps on busy evenings. The ingredients are easy to prepare and assemble. They work well for lunch or dinner. The quick cook time keeps prep and cleanup manageable.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    Chicken Divan

    A casserole dish with cheese and broccoli on a napkin.Pin
    Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish comes together in a short time and uses simple ingredients. It works well for family dinners when schedules are tight. The prep is easy to follow and not time-consuming. The quick bake time helps dinner stay on track.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

    Creamy Chicken Curry

    Chicken curry with rice.Pin
    Creamy Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This curry is designed for faster cooking without complicated steps. It works well for weeknight dinners when time is limited. The ingredients are easy to prepare and cook. The short simmer time keeps the process efficient.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Curry

    Chicken Chop Suey

    Stir-fried chicken chop suey in a skillet.Pin
    Chicken Chop Suey. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish cooks quickly, making it helpful for last-minute meal plans. The prep is simple and does not require much time. It works well for dinner with rice or noodles. The fast cooking time keeps things moving.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Chop Suey

    Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

    A sandwich with avocado, chicken and cheese on a plate.Pin
    Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This sandwich-style meal comes together quickly and is easy to prepare. It works well for lunch or casual dinners. The short cook time makes it useful when time is limited. The simple assembly keeps things stress-free.
    Get the Recipe: Copycat Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

    Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

    Three bacon-wrapped pieces of chicken on a white plate with a sprig of parsley and a red and white checkered cloth on the side.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bites cook in a short time, making them helpful for quick meals or snacks. The prep is straightforward and easy to manage. They work well for parties or family dinners. The fast cook time keeps things simple.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

    Wet Burrito

    Chicken wet burrito with salsa and sour cream on a white plate.Pin
    Wet Burrito. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This dish comes together quickly and works well for hearty dinners. The ingredients are easy to prepare and assemble. It does not take long to cook, which helps on busy nights. The short prep time makes it practical.
    Get the Recipe: Wet Burrito

    Keto Collard Green Salad with Chicken

    A bowl of fresh salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and chunks of tuna. A lime wedge and cherry tomatoes are in the background.Pin
    Keto Collard Green Salad with Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This salad is quick to assemble and works well for lunch or light dinners. The chicken can be prepared in advance to save time. The simple steps make it easy to put together. The fast assembly keeps things moving.
    Get the Recipe: Keto Collard Green Salad with Chicken

    Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

    Plate of sliced teriyaki chicken over white rice, topped with sesame seeds, served with snap peas and carrot slices.Pin
    Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This recipe cooks quickly in the air fryer, which is helpful on busy evenings. The prep is simple and does not take much time. It works well for dinner with rice or vegetables. The short cook time keeps cleanup easy.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

    Greek Chicken Gyros

    A hand holding a chicken wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and white sauce in a tortilla.Pin
    Greek Chicken Gyros. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    These gyros come together quickly and are easy to assemble. They work well for lunch or casual dinners. The chicken cooks in a short time, which helps when schedules are tight. The simple prep keeps things efficient.
    Get the Recipe: Greek Chicken Gyros

    Creamy Chicken Thighs Skillet

    Seasoned chicken thighs cooked in tomato sauce with bell peppers and herbs, served in a cast-iron skillet. Fresh parsley, garlic, and a tomato are nearby.Pin
    Creamy Chicken Thighs Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This skillet meal is ready in a short time and uses simple ingredients. It works well for family dinners when time is limited. The one-pan setup helps reduce cleanup. The quick cooking time keeps things moving.
    Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Thighs Skillet

    Keto Air Fryer Spicy Sauced Tenders

    Four seasoned and sauced chicken breast fillets garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.Pin
    Keto Air Fryer Spicy Sauced Tenders. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    These tenders cook quickly in the air fryer, making them useful for fast meals. The prep is easy and does not take long. They work well for lunch, dinner, or snacks. The short cook time keeps the process simple.
    Get the Recipe: Keto Air Fryer Spicy Sauced Tenders

    Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

    Sliced grilled chicken breast in a white dish, with whole pieces on another plate in the background, next to a fork and dark cloth napkin.Pin
    Air Fryer BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This chicken cooks fast in the air fryer, which helps on busy nights. The prep is straightforward and easy to follow. It works well for family dinners or casual meals. The quick cook time keeps cleanup minimal.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

    Chicken Roll Ups

    A wooden spoon holds a piece of cheesy lasagna above a glass baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley.Pin
    Chicken Roll Ups. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    These roll ups are quick to assemble and cook in a short time. They work well for lunch or dinner. The ingredients are easy to prepare and handle. The fast baking time helps keep meals on schedule.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll Ups

    Low Carb Pizza Soup

    A pot of tomato-based stew with mushrooms, herbs, and chunks of meat, being stirred with a gray ladle.Pin
    Low Carb Pizza Soup. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This soup comes together quickly and works well for easy dinners. The prep is simple and does not take much time. It is suitable for busy evenings when you need something warm and filling. The short cook time keeps things efficient.
    Get the Recipe: Low Carb Pizza Soup

    Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings

    Three pieces of seasoned and grilled chicken are served on a white plate with sprigs of leafy green garnish.Pin
    Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    These wings cook quickly in the air fryer, which is helpful for fast meals. The prep is simple and easy to manage. They work well for dinners, snacks, or gatherings. The short cook time keeps cleanup easy.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings

    Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts

    Sliced grilled chicken breast garnished with parsley on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    These breasts cook evenly and quickly in the air fryer. The marinade can be prepared ahead to save time. They work well for lunch or dinner. The fast cook time helps keep meals on track.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

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