Are you tired of the same old boring meals with your little ones? Look no further! We’ve got a list of 20 mouth-watering and kid-approved chicken recipes that will make mealtime a breeze. From classic comfort food to international twists, we’ve got something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are so easy to make, even the kids can help in the kitchen!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special treat for a birthday party, these fun and delicious chicken recipes are sure to please. From cheesy quesadillas to sweet and sour bites, we’ve got 20 reasons why chicken is the perfect protein for kids.
Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with these creamy, cheesy, and indulgent chicken quesadillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, cilantro, and green onions.
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 crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and golden.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Chicken and Veggie Nuggets
Transform your snack game with these healthy and delicious homemade chicken and veggie nuggets! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these bite-sized treats are packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup mixed veggies (carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, veggies, and egg.
3. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs and olive oil. Mix until crumbly.
4. Add breadcrumb mixture to chicken mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings.
5. Shape into small nuggets (about 1-inch/2.5 cm in size).
6. Place nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with these adorable mini chicken pot pies, perfect for a snack or a meal. These individual treats are filled with juicy chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce, all wrapped in flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package mini pie crusts (about 20-25 crusts)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is done.
3. Stir in frozen vegetables, flour, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Roll out pie crusts to about 1/8 inch thickness. Spoon chicken mixture onto one half of each crust, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
5. Fold the other half over filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush tops with beaten egg.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and tangy chicken bites! Perfect as an appetizer or quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hidden Veggie Chicken Meatballs
A creative twist on traditional meatballs, these Hidden Veggie Chicken Meatballs pack a nutritious punch while remaining deliciously flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken breast
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken breast, chopped onion, grated carrot, and grated zucchini.
3. Mix in the egg, breadcrumbs, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each meatball.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Pizza Rolls
Elevate your pizza game with these flavorful BBQ chicken pizza rolls that combine the best of both worlds – crispy, buttery pastry and savory barbecue chicken. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 6-8 equal pieces.
3. Place a tablespoon of BBQ sauce, a sprinkle of chicken, and a pinch of mozzarella cheese on one half of each piece.
4. Fold the other half over filling and press edges together. Use a fork to crimp and seal.
5. Brush with melted butter and beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Shells
Enjoy a rich and satisfying pasta dish with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta shells
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta shells with the chicken and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with this crispy and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these baked parmesan chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound 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
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Olive oil for brushing
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, then the beaten egg, and finally the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
5. Brush tops with olive oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Brighten up your mealtime with these flavorful peppers filled with juicy chicken, melted cheese, and a hint of spice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, cooked rice, cheese, onion, garlic, and paprika.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken Corn Dog Bites
Get ready to bite into a flavorful twist on classic corn dogs! These bite-sized morsels combine crispy chicken, creamy corn, and savory spices for a snack that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Corn kernels for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cornmeal, flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg and then coat with the chicken mixture.
4. Fry coated chicken in batches until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per batch.
5. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with corn kernels on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Elevate your BBQ game with these mouth-watering Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering. The sweet and sticky teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken and vegetables to the marinade; mix well to coat.
4. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through, turning occasionally.
6. Serve hot with additional teriyaki sauce for dipping (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on a classic macaroni and cheese recipe, this dish adds protein-rich chicken and nutrient-dense broccoli for a well-rounded meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a large saucepan, whisk together flour and milk to make a roux. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken, and broccoli in the saucepan. Stir until well coated with the cheesy sauce.
7. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crunchy Baked Chicken Taquitos
Crunchy Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these crispy and flavorful baked taquitos! This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken, the crunch of tortillas, and the zest of seasonings for a delicious snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Cooking spray or non-stick cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Roll up the tortillas tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spray the tops with cooking spray or non-stick cooking spray.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Rice Casserole Cups
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, these individual chicken and rice casserole cups are a flavorful and comforting twist on the classic casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 mini muffin tin liners
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, peas and carrots, and cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Spoon the mixture into prepared muffin tin liners.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Fajita Wraps
Experience the flavors of Mexico with these mouthwatering chicken fajita wraps. Sizzling chicken, bell peppers, and onions wrapped in a warm flour tortilla make for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil, chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble wraps by placing chicken mixture onto tortilla and adding desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Mash
This hearty recipe combines tender chicken with creamy sweet potatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner or comforting meal. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this mash is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add sweet potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Mash in chicken broth and butter until sweet potatoes are creamy.
7. Serve warm with cooked chicken on top.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
A bright and flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the zest of lemon with the richness of garlic to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and add minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in lemon juice and stir to combine with garlic mixture.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with lemon-garlic sauce.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to combine with pasta and sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Cheese Empanadas
Savory empanadas filled with shredded chicken, melted cheese, and spices, perfect for a quick snack or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out the empanada dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around.
5. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing edges together with a fork to seal.
6. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Taco Salad Bowls
These vibrant bowls are packed with juicy chicken, crunchy taco fixings, and a tangy dressing, all wrapped up in a crispy corn tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite taco toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and baking for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble bowls by slicing chicken, adding bell peppers, onions, cilantro, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Pinwheels
These flavorful pinwheels are perfect for a quick snack or lunch on-the-go. Made with shredded chicken, wilted spinach, and creamy cream cheese, they’re sure to satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 whole wheat tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, spinach, butter, and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay a tortilla flat and spread about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
5. Roll up the tortilla tightly, but gently, to form a pinwheel shape. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place pinwheels seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get your kids excited about cooking with these 20 fun and delicious chicken recipes! From cheesy quesadillas to sweet potato mash, there’s something for every little chef. Try making mini pot pies, nuggets, or meatballs that hide veggies – they’ll never know what’s good for them! You can also make pizza rolls, pasta shells, and more. Perfect for a fun family cooking night or a school lunchbox treat.
