12 Chicken Dinners That Make Sides Feel Like an Afterthought

When it comes to dinner, chicken is often the star of the show. With the right recipes, chicken dinners can be so satisfying that sides almost seem like an afterthought. If you’re tired of serving the same old dishes, it’s time to try something new that puts the focus on the main course. These chicken dinners will fill you up and leave little room for the usual side dishes. Say goodbye to simple meals and start preparing dishes that make chicken the highlight of your dinner plate. You’ll be surprised at how easily you can shake up your routine.

Sticky Wings

A plate of glazed chicken wings garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions on a blue plate. The wings appear crispy and are coated in a brown, sticky sauce, creating an appetizing presentation. — Sticky Wings. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

These sticky wings are a perfect mix of sweetness and savory flavors. The sticky sauce caramelizes on the wings, creating a mouthwatering finish. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or for game day, these wings are sure to be a hit. Get the recipe: Sticky Wings

Honey Mustard Chicken

A plate with four pieces of glazed, seasoned roasted chicken thighs garnished with fresh green leaves. The plate is on a woven mat with utensils nearby, creating a rustic table setting. — Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Honey mustard chicken is a classic dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors. The combination of Dijon mustard and honey creates a marinade that transforms chicken thighs into a mouthwatering meal. This dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Get the recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken

Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

A skillet filled with a dish topped with melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, avocado, chopped cilantro, and a red sauce. There are colorful bell peppers and diced onions mixed with quinoa beneath the toppings. — Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

This cheesy chicken enchilada skillet is a one-pan meal that’s full of bold flavors. The enchilada sauce and melted cheese coat the tender chicken, creating a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare. It’s a great choice for a quick and satisfying dinner. Get the recipe: Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Skillet

Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables

Chicken teriyaki and vegetables is an easy and delicious meal option. The tender chicken and crisp vegetables are drizzled with homemade teriyaki sauce, making for a satisfying dinner. It’s a balanced meal that’s perfect for busy days. Get the recipe: Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables

Crusted Chicken Romano

A breaded and fried chicken cutlet is garnished with parsley and served on a white plate, placed on a patterned tablecloth. — Crusted Chicken Romano. Photo credit: Easy Everyday Food.

Crusted chicken Romano is a simple yet flavorful dinner idea. The crispy panko breadcrumb coating, paired with the nutty taste of Romano cheese, delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious option for any occasion. Get the recipe: Crusted Chicken Romano

Roasted Red Pepper Chicken

Red Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

This roasted red pepper chicken is full of bold flavors with minimal effort. The tender chicken thighs are paired with roasted red bell peppers and a tangy salsa base, making it a flavorful choice for a quick dinner. It’s simple and delicious, perfect for any night of the week. Get the recipe: Roasted Red Pepper Chicken

Pan Fried Lemon Chicken and Asparagus

A skillet containing three pan-seared chicken breasts in a creamy sauce with black pepper. Fresh asparagus spears are nestled between the chicken pieces, all coated in the rich sauce. The dish is presented on a white surface. — Lemon Chicken and Asparagus. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Pan fried lemon chicken and asparagus is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s easy to make. The bright lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crisp asparagus, creating a meal that’s both light and satisfying. It’s the ideal one-pan dinner for any night. Get the recipe: Pan Fried Lemon Chicken and Asparagus

Lemon Oregano Chicken

A person places a platter of roasted chicken drumsticks garnished with lemon slices and herbs on a wooden table. A wooden spoon and a checkered cloth are in the background. — Lemon Oregano Chicken. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project

Lemon oregano chicken drumsticks are a perfect way to bring vibrant flavors to your table. The tangy lemon and aromatic oregano create a tasty marinade for the chicken, making this dish great for both weeknight meals and weekend cookouts. It’s a simple, flavorful choice for any occasion. Get the recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken

Sticky Chicken

Sticky chicken is a favorite for anyone who loves rich, savory, and slightly sweet dishes. The sauce coats the chicken with a balance of flavors, making each bite irresistible. This dish is perfect for impressing your family or guests with minimal effort. Get the recipe: Sticky Chicken

Spaghetti Squash Casserole

A bowl of baked cheesy dish with a wooden spoon, garnished with herbs, on a wooden table. A white and black checkered cloth is next to the bowl, along with stacked white plates and forks. — Spaghetti Squash Casserole. Photo credit: The Happy Body Project.

Spaghetti squash casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s sure to please. The combination of tender spaghetti squash, savory chicken, and creamy ricotta cheese creates a rich, satisfying texture. It’s a great meal for those looking for something cozy and filling. Get the recipe: Spaghetti Squash Casserole

Chicken Paprika

A white bowl filled with creamy orange stew, garnished with a small green herb sprig. A light-colored fabric napkin is placed nearby, with greenery blurred in the background. — Paprika Chicken. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Chicken paprika is a flavorful, one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare. The creamy garlic sauce and tender chicken thighs make for a rich and comforting dinner. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet delicious meal. Get the recipe: Chicken Paprika

Pecan Crusted Chicken

Pecan crusted chicken offers a delightful mix of crunchy texture and savory flavor. The pecan coating adds a nutty depth to the chicken, making every bite a satisfying experience. This dish is perfect for those looking for a flavorful, yet easy-to-make meal. Get the recipe: Pecan Crusted Chicken