What to Cook Tonight: Chicken Edition

Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes and looking for some inspiration for dinner tonight? Look no further. Chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in countless ways, from classic comfort food to international flavors. In this article, we’ll explore some delicious and easy-to-make chicken recipes that are perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Classic Chicken Recipes

When it comes to chicken, some recipes are timeless. These classic dishes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. To make Chicken Parmesan, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil for frying

Simply bread the chicken with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and then fry until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Chicken Fajitas

Chicken Fajitas are a classic Tex-Mex dish that consists of sizzling chicken and vegetables served with warm flour tortillas. To make Chicken Fajitas, you’ll need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1/2 cup sliced onions
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 small flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro

Simply sauté the chicken and vegetables in a large skillet, and serve with warm flour tortillas and your choice of toppings.

International Chicken Recipes

If you’re looking to spice up your chicken routine, why not try a recipe from around the world?

Korean-Style Fried Chicken

Korean-Style Fried Chicken is a popular dish in Korea that consists of crispy fried chicken glazed with a sweet and spicy sauce. To make Korean-Style Fried Chicken, you’ll need:

• 2 pounds chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, and breasts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

Simply dredge the chicken in flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs, and then fry until crispy. Glaze the chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce made from gochugaru, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.

Indian-Style Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that consists of marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce. To make Chicken Tikka Masala, you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Simply marinate the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, ghee or oil, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using), and then grill or bake until cooked through. Serve the chicken in a creamy tomato sauce made from diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream.

Healthy Chicken Recipes

If you’re looking for a healthier chicken option, why not try one of these recipes?

Grilled Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables

Grilled Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables is a healthy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. To make Grilled Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 large bell peppers, sliced
• 2 large zucchinis, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Simply grill the chicken until cooked through, and serve with roasted vegetables made from olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion, bell peppers, zucchinis, and garlic.

Baked Chicken Thighs with Quinoa and Broccoli

Baked Chicken Thighs with Quinoa and Broccoli is a healthy and filling dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. To make Baked Chicken Thighs with Quinoa and Broccoli, you’ll need:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 cups broccoli florets

Simply bake the chicken until cooked through, and serve with quinoa and steamed broccoli made from olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and broccoli.

Chicken Recipes for Special Diets

If you’re following a special diet, don’t worry – there are plenty of delicious chicken recipes to choose from.

Gluten-Free Chicken Recipes

If you’re gluten-free, why not try one of these recipes?

• Grilled Chicken Breast with Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce: Simply grill chicken breast and serve with a gluten-free BBQ sauce made from ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Gluten-Free Soy Sauce: Simply stir-fry chicken and vegetables in a gluten-free soy sauce made from tamari, coconut aminos, or gluten-free soy sauce.

Low-Carb Chicken Recipes

If you’re low-carb, why not try one of these recipes?

• Grilled Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables: Simply grill chicken breast and serve with roasted vegetables made from olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion, bell peppers, zucchinis, and garlic.
• Chicken and Vegetable Kabobs with Low-Carb BBQ Sauce: Simply thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers and grill or bake until cooked through. Serve with a low-carb BBQ sauce made from ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are countless delicious chicken recipes to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for something classic, international, healthy, or special diet-friendly. So next time you’re wondering what to cook for dinner, why not give one of these recipes a try? Your taste buds will thank you.

Note: The cooking times listed in the table are approximate and may vary depending on individual skill levels and equipment.

What are some popular chicken dishes to cook for dinner?

There are numerous popular chicken dishes to cook for dinner, depending on your taste preferences and the amount of time you have available. Some classic options include chicken parmesan, chicken fajitas, chicken stir-fry, and chicken soup. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, you could try making chicken tikka masala, chicken shawarma, or Korean-style fried chicken.

These dishes can be made in a variety of ways, from simple and quick to more complex and time-consuming. You can also customize them to suit your dietary needs and preferences, such as using gluten-free breadcrumbs or substituting vegetables for a low-carb option. With a little creativity, the possibilities for delicious chicken dinners are endless.

How do I choose the right cut of chicken for my recipe?

Choosing the right cut of chicken for your recipe is crucial to ensure that your dish turns out flavorful and tender. Different cuts of chicken are better suited to different cooking methods and recipes. For example, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling or sautéing, while chicken thighs are better for slow-cooking or braising.

When selecting a cut of chicken, consider the cooking method and the desired texture of the final dish. You should also think about the flavor profile you’re aiming for, as different cuts of chicken can have varying levels of fat and marbling that affect the taste. By choosing the right cut of chicken, you can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

What are some healthy chicken dinner ideas?

If you’re looking for healthy chicken dinner ideas, there are plenty of options to choose from. Grilled chicken breast with roasted vegetables is a classic choice, while chicken and vegetable stir-fries are also a great option. You can also try making chicken salads with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Another healthy option is to make chicken and vegetable skewers, which can be grilled or baked for a quick and easy dinner. You can also try making chicken and lentil soup, which is packed with protein and fiber. By using herbs and spices for flavor instead of salt and sugar, you can create delicious and nutritious chicken dinners that are good for you.

How do I prevent chicken from drying out when cooking?

Preventing chicken from drying out when cooking can be a challenge, but there are several techniques to help you achieve juicy and tender results. One of the most important things is to not overcook the chicken, as this can cause it to dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature, but avoid overcooking it.

Another way to prevent chicken from drying out is to marinate it before cooking, which can help to lock in moisture and add flavor. You can also try brining the chicken, which involves soaking it in a saltwater solution before cooking. By using these techniques, you can help to keep your chicken moist and flavorful, even when cooking methods like grilling or roasting.

What are some creative ways to season chicken?

There are countless ways to season chicken, and the right seasonings can make all the difference in the flavor of your dish. One creative way to season chicken is to use a spice blend, such as curry powder or chili powder, to add a bold and aromatic flavor. You can also try using herbs like thyme or rosemary to add a savory and slightly bitter taste.

Another way to season chicken is to use a marinade, which can be made with ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. You can also try using a dry rub, which involves coating the chicken in a mixture of spices and herbs before cooking. By experimenting with different seasonings and marinades, you can create unique and delicious flavor profiles that will elevate your chicken dishes.

Can I cook chicken in advance and reheat it later?

Cooking chicken in advance and reheating it later can be a convenient option, but it’s essential to do it safely to avoid foodborne illness. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to four months. When reheating cooked chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

When cooking chicken in advance, it’s best to cook it until it’s just done, then let it cool before refrigerating or freezing it. This helps to prevent the chicken from drying out when reheated. You can also try cooking chicken in a way that makes it easy to reheat, such as making chicken soup or chicken stew, which can be reheated and served with minimal effort.

How do I know when chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature?

Ensuring that chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature is crucial to avoid foodborne illness. The safest way to check the internal temperature of chicken is to use a food thermometer, which can be inserted into the thickest part of the breast or thigh. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for breast meat and 180°F (82°C) for thigh meat.

You can also check for doneness by looking for visual cues, such as the chicken being white and firm to the touch, or the juices running clear when the chicken is cut. However, these methods are not foolproof, and using a thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure that your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.