I’d like to count the number of times I’ve realized, with mounting panic, that I didn’t plan ahead for dinner, but my brain won’t go past eleventy kabillion. And much as I’d love to order in, our budget objects. Plus — and this will sound conceited (because it is) — I really prefer my own cooking.

So I’ve become a master of the last-minute chicken feast. I can defrost a pack o’ thighs just with my winning smile. I can alter a recipe to fit my fridge contents on the fly. But sometimes even I get sick of the same old options. As in: if I have to bread another chicken breast … I’ll just pluck myself.

Here’s a collection of family-pleasing, quick-cooking, poultry-packing recipes that put a chicken in every pot, and on every plate. What makes them so family-pleasing? Unexpected touches of sweetness, like grapes and honey — just enough to tickle the tongue without loading on the calories. Fun presentation — kids can’t resist skewers, so maybe you invest in some dinner goggles. And, of course, fantastic flavors from all over the globe, tempting to even the pickiest palates.

Chicken with Grapes

Grapes and apples come together to create a sweet sauce on the lighter side, perfect over rice.

Nutty Chicken Fingers

Swap cornflakes and pecans for plain old bread crumbs for a very different take on an old fave.

Lebanese Chicken

The sweetness of honey, tart citrus and Middle-Eastern spice give this dinner a friendly international flair.

Mustard and Honey Chicken

An even easier version: Honey. Mustard. Chicken. You’re done. And it’ll be gone in no time.

Chicken Quesadillas

Is this Mexican standard a staple in your home yet? It’s perhaps the best use of leftover or rotisserie chicken.

Chicken and Bow Ties

Cream and black olives come together to create a hearty pasta entree.

Chicken, Apricot and Ham Lollipops

Say what now? Ham, jam and chicken, and it’s served on a stick? Show me a kid who won’t eat that.

Lemony Chicken Orzo

Another creamy pasta option — but with honey and citrus, and definitely diet-friendly.

Need a bird on the fly? Explore all our quick and easy chicken recipes!

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Categories: Dinner Tonight | Tags: Chicken, Chicken Thighs, Quick and Easy, Quick and Easy Chicken Dishes, Quick and Easy Dinners
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