10 Quick 20-Minute Chicken Recipes for Last-Minute Dinners

Need a quick and tasty dinner solution? These 20-minute chicken recipes are perfect for those evenings when time's tight but hunger isn't. Packed with simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a delicious meal on your table in no time!

Sweet And Savory Honey Mustard Chicken

Honey mustard chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors, making it a perfect choice for a quick dinner. In the image, you can see juicy chicken thighs drizzled with a glossy honey mustard sauce. The chicken is beautifully grilled, giving it a nice char and enhancing its flavor. Surrounding the chicken are crispy roasted potatoes and fresh green onions, adding color and texture to the plate.

This recipe is not only simple but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for those last-minute dinner plans. The combination of honey and mustard creates a rich sauce that complements the chicken perfectly. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken thighs with the honey mustard mixture, ensuring they are well covered.
4. Place the chicken on the grill or skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skillet is a quick and tasty dish perfect for those busy evenings. The chicken is golden brown and juicy, swimming in a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, making this dish not just delicious but also visually appealing.

The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. You can serve this dish over pasta, rice, or even with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but comes together in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning until well combined.
5. Add the chicken back to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Lively Mediterranean Chicken Salad

This Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a vibrant and fresh dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. The colorful ingredients make it visually appealing, while the flavors are a delightful mix of tangy, savory, and refreshing. Imagine tender grilled chicken slices resting atop a bed of crisp greens, surrounded by juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and briny olives. A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon add the finishing touch, making it a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.

To prepare this salad, start by grilling or pan-searing chicken breasts until they’re cooked through and golden brown. While the chicken rests, chop up your favorite salad ingredients. Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and mixed greens work beautifully together. Toss everything in a large bowl, and don’t forget to add some olives for that Mediterranean flair. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper ties it all together.

This salad is not just quick to make; it’s also versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Add some feta cheese for creaminess or toss in some chickpeas for extra protein. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge while enjoying a delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let them rest before slicing.
2. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble: Slice the chicken and place it on top of the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately for a fresh and lively dinner!

Spicy Szechuan Chicken In 20 Minutes

Craving something spicy and delicious? This Spicy Szechuan Chicken is the perfect solution for a quick dinner. The vibrant colors in the dish, with tender chicken pieces and bright red bell peppers, make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a satisfying meal.

This recipe is all about bold flavors. The Szechuan sauce brings a delightful heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bell peppers. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.

Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Szechuan sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Mix in the sliced red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
4. In a small bowl, combine the Szechuan sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Stir well and pour over the chicken and peppers.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat everything in the sauce. Add the chopped green onions just before serving.
6. Serve hot over cooked white rice and enjoy your spicy meal!

Classic Chicken Tikka Masala, Quick Version

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine right to your table. This quick version makes it easy to whip up a delicious meal in just 20 minutes. The image showcases a creamy, spiced sauce enveloping tender chicken pieces, garnished with fresh cilantro. A side of warm naan bread completes the meal, perfect for scooping up that rich sauce.

This recipe is ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet simple. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Naan bread, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chicken pieces, cooking until they are browned on all sides.
4. Add garam masala and cumin, mixing well to coat the chicken.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan bread.

Simple Teriyaki Chicken With Rice

This Simple Teriyaki Chicken With Rice is a quick and tasty option for those busy evenings. The chicken is glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, making it a hit with everyone at the dinner table. Served over fluffy rice, it’s a complete meal that comes together in just 20 minutes!

The image shows tender pieces of chicken coated in a shiny teriyaki glaze, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions. The rice underneath is perfectly cooked, soaking up all the delicious flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The best part? You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Stir well to coat and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve: Place the cooked rice on plates, top with the teriyaki chicken, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Delectable Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a quick and tasty option for dinner. These juicy pieces of chicken are cooked to perfection, coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, and garnished with fresh parsley. The golden-brown color and mouthwatering aroma make them irresistible.

To make these bites, you’ll need chicken thighs, garlic, butter, lemon juice, and parsley. The combination of flavors creates a delightful dish that pairs well with rice or a fresh salad.

In just 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal ready to serve. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you have unexpected guests.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
2. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Quick And Easy Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata is a classic dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table in just 20 minutes. This recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection, topped with a tangy lemon-caper sauce. The image shows a beautifully plated Chicken Piccata, with golden-brown chicken fillets garnished with fresh parsley and capers, served alongside a bed of pasta. The bright slices of lemon add a fresh touch, making it not only delicious but visually appealing.

This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. The combination of lemon and capers gives it a zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with the mild flavor of chicken. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite sides or additional veggies.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Cooked pasta, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in butter until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it cook for another minute to warm through.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken with pasta, drizzling extra sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Fast And Flavorful Chicken Enchiladas

Chicken enchiladas are a quick and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time. The image shows a plate of enchiladas topped with melted cheese and garnished with fresh cilantro. On the side, you can see slices of avocado, diced tomatoes, and a couple of bowls of creamy sauces. This colorful presentation makes it a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!

These enchiladas are perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special. The combination of tender chicken, zesty sauce, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft tortillas is sure to please everyone at the table.

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these delicious chicken enchiladas in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup enchilada sauce
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with half of the enchilada sauce.
3. Place a tortilla on a flat surface, add a portion of the chicken mixture, and sprinkle some cheese on top. Roll it up and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.
4. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
5. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
6. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sour cream, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.

Quick Chicken And Broccoli Stir-Fry

Stir-fries are a lifesaver when you need a quick meal. This chicken and broccoli stir-fry is not only fast but also packed with flavor. The vibrant green broccoli pairs perfectly with tender chicken pieces, creating a colorful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

In this recipe, we’ll use simple ingredients that you probably have on hand. The chicken is marinated briefly to enhance its flavor, while the broccoli adds a nice crunch. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Add Vegetables: Toss in the broccoli and red bell pepper. Stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice.