Are you tired of the same old chicken dishes at dinner time? Do your kids turn up their noses at the thought of plain old grilled or baked chicken? It’s time to shake things up with some fun and easy chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From cheesy quesadillas to meatballs, skewers, and more, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering ideas for you to try. And the best part? They’re all kid-friendly and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
Whether your little ones are picky eaters or adventurous foodies, there’s something on this list for everyone. So why not mix things up and give one of these tasty recipes a try tonight?
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying snack or meal with this simple recipe! Cheesy chicken quesadillas are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch or a game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, onion, bell pepper, and cheese.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned and crispy.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Veggie Nuggets
Get ready to serve up a tasty meal that’s both healthy and satisfying! This recipe combines the convenience of nuggets with the wholesomeness of chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, green beans, and onions)
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the egg and paprika.
3. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and chopped vegetables.
5. Dip each piece of chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hidden Veggie Chicken Meatballs
Boost your family’s nutrition with these deliciously hidden veggie chicken meatballs! Finely chopped veggies like zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms add moisture and flavor without altering the meatball’s texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup finely chopped zucchini
– 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped veggies and mix until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll around to coat evenly.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken Skewers
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these sweet and tangy BBQ chicken skewers! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an outdoor gathering, this recipe combines the flavors of honey, brown sugar, and BBQ sauce for a truly irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until well coated with the marinade.
4. Thread 3-4 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Get ready to impress with this easy and delicious recipe for crispy baked chicken tenders! With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying crunchy, flavorful bites that are perfect for snacking or as part of a meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured tenders in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Chicken and Cheese Sliders
These bite-sized sliders are the perfect combination of juicy chicken, melted cheese, and crunchy toppings. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be serving up delicious mini burgers in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 small hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into small patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sliders by placing cooked chicken on buns and adding optional toppings as desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This classic casserole is a staple of family meals, combining moist chicken, fluffy rice, and savory flavors in a satisfying one-dish meal. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, and thyme. Mix well.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the rice mixture and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rainbow Chicken Stir-Fry
Experience the vibrant colors of this Rainbow Chicken Stir-Fry, packed with juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and savory flavors. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add bell peppers and snow peas; cook until tender, about 4 minutes.
4. Add garlic, soy sauce, and honey; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return chicken to skillet; stir-fry until combined with vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves (if using).
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
A comforting and flavorful twist on a classic macaroni dish, this recipe combines the creaminess of mac and cheese with the goodness of chicken and broccoli. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, broccoli, and butter until the vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken-broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pizza-Topped Chicken Bites
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized chicken morsels smothered in pizza sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, or red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and brush with pizza sauce.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Mash
This comforting dish combines tender chicken with fluffy sweet potatoes and a hint of creamy richness. Perfect as a main course or side, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
4. Once the chicken is done, shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, shredded chicken, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Funfetti Chicken Pasta Salad
Add some excitement to your lunch or dinner routine with this vibrant Funfetti Chicken Pasta Salad! This easy-to-make recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tangy funfetti pasta, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. funfetti pasta
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook funfetti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and chopped parsley.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Chicken and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are filled with juicy chicken and sweet corn, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together chicken, corn kernels, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add the melted butter. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Chicken Pot Pies
These bite-sized chicken pot pies are perfect for a quick snack or as a fun appetizer for your next gathering. With a flaky crust and savory filling, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, vegetables, flour, and melted butter.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Place mini pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Carrot Muffins
These savory muffins are perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for your favorite meals. With the combination of chicken, carrots, and herbs, you’ll be surprised at how deliciously moist and flavorful they are!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken, diced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, oats, parsley, cheese (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add diced chicken, grated carrots, eggs, and milk. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Chicken Satay
Peanut Butter Chicken Satay Recipe
Elevate your satay game with this unique fusion of flavors! This recipe combines the classic Southeast Asian dish with creamy peanut butter and savory chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, garlic, soy sauce, honey, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Add chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Brush bamboo skewers with vegetable oil. Thread 2-3 marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer.
5. Grill satays for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Roll-Ups
A flavorful and healthy snack or meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken, the creaminess of spinach, and the crunch of breadcrumbs in a bite-sized package.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Breadcrumbs (for coating)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken breast with garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add spinach leaves and Parmesan cheese; stir until combined.
4. Lay a chicken- spinach mixture strip onto a flat surface. Brush edges with beaten egg.
5. Roll up tightly and coat in breadcrumbs. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Apple Bites
This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional chicken bites, adding the sweetness of apples to create a flavor combination that’s perfect for snacking or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, apple, breadcrumbs, olive oil, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spoon mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Chicken Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the spices of a classic taco with the convenience of a stuffed pepper. The result is a deliciously flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Add taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cooked chicken mixture, rice, diced tomatoes, and cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Fritters
Get ready to enjoy a delicious twist on traditional fritters! This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, zucchini, and spices with a crispy exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, zucchini, onion, garlic, egg, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the mixture into hot oil, forming patties about 3-4 inches in diameter.
3. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Summary
Looking for kid-friendly chicken recipes that are both delicious and fun? Look no further! This collection of 20 mouth-watering chicken recipes will surely be a hit with your little ones. From cheesy quesadillas to sweet potato mash, and from mini meatballs to stuffed peppers, there’s something for every taste bud. These easy-to-make dishes are perfect for busy parents and picky eaters alike. Get ready to spice up mealtime with these fun and tasty chicken recipes that kids will love!