When it comes to cooking on a busy weeknight, it can be challenging to come up with quick, delicious, and satisfying meals that please everyone. But fear not! Diced chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from savory stir-fries to comforting casseroles. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful diced chicken recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors, these recipes offer something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed meal or a meal that’s easy to reheat for lunch the next day, our list of 20 flavor-packed diced chicken recipes has got you covered. In this article, we’ll delve into everything from creamy mushroom skillet dinners to spicy honey glazed chicken and even some international twists like teriyaki chicken with pineapple and sesame ginger noodle bowls. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up a storm!
Garlic Butter Diced Chicken with Herbs
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This Garlic Butter Diced Chicken with Herbs recipe is a classic comfort food that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken, garlic, thyme, and rosemary; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer chicken mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Diced Chicken
This sweet and spicy recipe combines the natural sweetness of honey with a kick of heat from chili flakes, creating a mouth-watering glaze that’s perfect for chicken. With only 5 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, chili flakes, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken cubes in a separate bowl and toss with the glaze until coated evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the glazed chicken in a single layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Diced Chicken Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich creamy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep work and quick cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushrooms. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Return chicken to skillet and stir to coat with creamy mushroom sauce. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Diced Chicken Stir-Fry
A refreshing twist on the classic stir-fry, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of pepper to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small dice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– 1/2 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the bell peppers to the pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Diced Chicken with Pineapple
Add a sweet and savory twist to your chicken dishes with this simple and flavorful recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the pineapple and sauce.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Diced Chicken and Rice
This classic Southern dish combines flavorful chicken, savory spices, and creamy rice for a hearty meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to the chicken. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. In a separate pot, bring the chicken broth and rice to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Serve the Cajun chicken over the creamy rice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Diced Chicken Salad
Mediterranean Diced Chicken Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with a boost of protein from chicken, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated in lemon juice and olive oil
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, feta cheese, olives, artichoke hearts, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time), serve chilled.
BBQ Diced Chicken Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the bold flavors of BBQ-diced chicken, melted cheese, and crispy tortillas. These mouthwatering bites are perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together diced chicken, BBQ sauce, onion, and jalapeño.
3. Grill the chicken mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, place one tortilla in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla, then add the grilled chicken mixture on top.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Diced Chicken with Coconut Milk
Experience the harmonious blend of Thai flavors with this easy-to-make dish, featuring succulent chicken cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic basil and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining oil, bell peppers, garlic, and curry paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce (if using), ginger, and basil leaves. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Diced Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this Cheesy Diced Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook chicken, broccoli, and flour mixture in a large skillet until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli mixture to the baking dish, followed by the cheesy topping.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Chili Diced Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these sweet chili diced chicken lettuce wraps are perfect for a light and flavorful meal or snack. The combination of crispy chicken, crunchy lettuce, and tangy sweet chili sauce is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head lettuce, leaves separated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken breast, sweet chili sauce, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Let the chicken cool before dicing into bite-sized pieces.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing the diced chicken onto lettuce leaves and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Pesto Diced Chicken Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of pesto sauce with tender diced chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir in pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute, until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the chicken and pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Dijon Diced Chicken with Roasted Veggies
This sweet and savory recipe combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast sweet potato and red bell pepper on a separate baking sheet, drizzled with olive oil, for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Bake chicken at the same time as veggies. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Buffalo Diced Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Add a kick to your stuffed peppers with this unique twist on a classic recipe! Sweet bell peppers are filled with spicy buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs for a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in buffalo wing sauce and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, followed by cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Diced Chicken with Peas and Carrots
A flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition. This recipe combines the comfort of chicken, peas, and carrots with the warmth of curry spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, carrots, and peas. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Diced Chicken and Asparagus
This recipe combines the sweetness of balsamic glaze with the savory flavor of chicken and tender asparagus, making it a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add asparagus and garlic to the skillet; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and 1 tbsp water.
7. Pour the glaze over the asparagus and chicken in the skillet; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Diced Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoky paprika with the tender juiciness of chicken. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and lime juice.
3. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with shredded chicken, cilantro, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Diced Chicken and Spinach Alfredo
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, and Parmesan cheese with a creamy Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let reduce slightly, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in cooked fettuccine pasta, reserved pasta water, and spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach has wilted and the sauce is creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the pasta and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sesame Ginger Diced Chicken Noodle Bowl
This recipe combines the flavors of sesame and ginger with juicy chicken, noodles, and vegetables for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as soba or rice noodles)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and snap peas)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the noodles, mixed vegetables, and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Stir-fry until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Diced Chicken and Quinoa Pilaf
This hearty one-pot dish combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tender taste of chicken, all in a simple and easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the quinoa and water to the pot, stirring well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
6. Add the mixed vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot; stir well.
7. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine.
8. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Need quick and delicious meals for busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes that use diced chicken as the star ingredient. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are perfect for a fast-paced lifestyle. Try Garlic Butter Diced Chicken with Herbs, Spicy Honey Glazed Diced Chicken, or Creamy Mushroom Diced Chicken Skillet – and many more! With easy-to-follow instructions and mouth-watering images, you’ll be whipping up flavorful meals in no time.
