Every family knows that chicken breasts are the weeknight hero of the kitchen. They can be baked, sauteed, shredded, or thin-sliced, as long as the recipe isn’t too complicated. We’ve rounded up 18 kid friendly chicken breast recipes that are go-to for families who want a stress-free dinner that’s far from basic. Need more easy dinner ideas? Check out these quick meal ideas that take just 30 minutes or less.
Popcorn Chicken
Who doesn't love a plate full of crispy, crunchy bites of chicken with the dipping sauce of your choice? By tenderizing and marinating in buttermilk, Cozy Cook creates restaurant-worthy nuggets your kids will gobble up.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
We love a good 30-minute meal and this one from Julia's Album definitely fits the bill. Penne, chicken, and broccoli come together in a creamy cheesy sauce that's totally irresistible. Bonus: the chicken manages to stay juicy and tender and it's a one-pot meal that checks all the boxes.
instant Pot Garlic and Honey Chicken
Skip the takeout because your whole family will go wild for this dish, pairing juicy chicken and tender-crisp veggies with tangy garlic and honey sauce. You can whip up The Salty Pot's tasty supper in the Instant Pot or the slow cooker from fresh or frozen, so it really adapts to any lifestyle.
Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken
Our love for Crock Pot dinners runs deep, and this Hawaiian Chicken from Weelicious tops the list. The sauce is a perfect mix of sweet and savory, while the star of the show—the chicken—stays tender and juicy. When the afterschool schedule is hectic and you want something warm and tasty ready when you get home, this dinner recipe is perfect for you.
Buddy’s Crispy Chicken
If you want your kids to love what’s for dinner—get them involved in cooking it. Bashing the chicken in this Jamie Oliver recipe before you coat it in flavored crumbs makes it more tender, and it’s a task kiddos love. Pair with your favorite side dish for a guaranteed hit.
Smothered Chicken with Creamed Spinach, Bacon, and Mushrooms
If you love stuffed chicken breasts, you’ll love this easier “smothered” version of the stuffed chicken. The assembly is straightforward: just put the creamed spinach, bacon, mushrooms, and Pepper Jack cheese on top of seasoned chicken breasts and bake everything uncovered to perfection. This kid friendly chicken breast recipe from Julia’s Album is anything but boring!
Bruschetta Chicken
Customize this bruschetta chicken with your family’s favorites, like avocado, bacon, or minced olives. Also, the balsamic marinated chicken can be used in any meal prep dishes and is great as leftovers. Hop over to One Lovely Life for all the scrumptious details.
One Pan Chicken Pizzaiola
A quick, easy Italian dish that’s sure to be a mid-weeknight favorite. Bonus: It only gets one pot dirty! Get the how-to at Scrummy Lane.
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Chicken breasts, a handful of other ingredients, and a sheet pan are all you need for these Chicken Fajitas from Camille Styles. For a party (or picky eaters), set out the fillings and garnishes with a stack of just-charred tortillas and let everyone dig in. It’s super easy and fun.
Copycat Chick-fil-A Chicken Nuggets
This one is a fast food favorite made healthier at home. Choose the air-fryer or baking options; they’re both equally delicious. Check out the full recipe from Every Day Dishes. Bonus points for whipping up some homemade dipping sauce to go with them.
Almond Crusted Chicken
This gluten-free, kid friendly chicken breast dinner checks all the boxes. It’s high in protein, packs a lot of flavor, and only takes 20 minutes from start to finish. For all the yummy details, check out Every Day Dishes.
Related: 21 Simple Dinners That Use One Pan
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Recipe
Calling all Instant Pot lovers! This Buffalo Chicken from Boulder Locavore must be in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s a versatile way to get the flavor of buffalo wings on anything from a sandwich or pizza to an appetizer. The buffalo sauce can be store-bought or homemade, depending on preference and time.
Chicken Fingers on a Stick
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
Let’s be honest; the best recipe is one that’s barely a recipe at all. This baked honey mustard chicken from Scrummy Lane will be on the table in a flash, and you only need three ingredients. Now, that’s a weeknight hero!
One Dish Chicken Bake
You can’t go wrong when you nestle your chicken between a bed of tomatoes and a blanket of mozzarella. Serve on top of pasta for a simple and easy Italian-inspired dinner. Click here for the recipe.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Is there anything more comforting than tortilla soup? We don’t think so. Make it in a crock pot or stovetop and customize it with your favorite toppings. The recipe from The Cozy Cook calls for chicken breasts, but a rotisserie chicken works great, too.
Crispy Baked Chicken Schnitzel
Here’s a slight twist on the traditional German Schnitzel. Usually, the meat is pounded thin with a meat tenderizer, coated with breadcrumbs, and then lightly fried. This kid friendly chicken breast recipe from Simple Home Edit is baked instead to make it healthier and easier to clean up. Don’t miss the tips in the recipe to keep the chicken from drying out and on how to get the perfectly crispy golden skin.
Chicken Fried Rice
This one comes together quickly, is made with pantry staples, and tastes like an indulgent takeout dish. Yes, please! Simple Home Edit’s Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect comfort dish the whole family will enjoy.
Zesty Pineapple Chicken
With BBQ sauce, pineapple, and chicken breasts, this dish is a kid favorite. It also takes minimal effort, so you’ll love it too. Visit the Salty Pot here for the recipe.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
If you’re having a few extra people at the dinner table or if you’re just craving a little comfort food mid-week, try this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole from Kristine’s Kitchen. It’s make-ahead friendly and every bite is packed with flavor. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
One Pot Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Sun-dried tomatoes, veggies, spinach, and chicken come together to make this one-pot pasta dish from Gimme Some Oven. The garlic basil cream sauce is one you’ll want to go back to time and again.
