As a busy parent, I know how hard it is to make a good meal after a long day. But, with the right recipes, diced chicken can save the day. These 15 tasty dishes turn simple chicken cubes into delicious meals that everyone will love.
Looking for a stir-fry, casserole, or salad? This collection has it all. With a bit of prep and some smart shortcuts, you can make a healthy meal fast. Say goodbye to long cooking times and hello to quick, tasty dinners.
Table of contents
- Why Diced Chicken Is Perfect for Quick Meals-diced chicken recipes
- Classic Chicken Stir-Fry with Colorful Vegetables-diced chicken recipes
- Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole-diced chicken recipes
- Mediterranean Diced Chicken Salad-diced chicken recipes
- Spicy Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa-diced chicken recipes
- One-Pan Diced Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights-diced chicken recipes
- Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Soup-diced chicken recipes
- Thai-Inspired Coconut Curry Chicken-diced chicken recipes
- Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps-diced chicken recipes
- Quick and Easy Chicken Fried Rice-diced chicken recipes
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta-diced chicken recipes
- BBQ Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner-diced chicken recipes
- Greek-Style Chicken Pita Pockets-diced chicken recipes
- Southwestern Chicken Quinoa Bowl-diced chicken recipes
- Conclusion-diced chicken recipes
Why Diced Chicken Is Perfect for Quick Meals-diced chicken recipes
Diced chicken is a game-changer for quick meals. It’s versatile and perfect for busy cooks. It cooks fast and evenly, making weeknight dinners special.
Benefits of Cooking with Diced Chicken
- Reduced cooking time: Smaller chicken breast recipes cook faster, so you can eat sooner.
- Even heat distribution: Diced chicken heats evenly, avoiding dry or under-cooked spots.
- Increased versatility: It fits well in many dishes, like stir-fries, casseroles, salads, and soups.
- Portion control: Diced chicken helps manage serving sizes and diced chicken benefits.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Dicing Chicken
You’ll need some key kitchen tools for diced chicken. A sharp knife or poultry shears are essential for cutting chicken evenly. A non-slip cutting board keeps you safe while dicing.
Time-Saving Preparation Tips
Prepping diced chicken ahead saves time. Use a food processor or manual chopper for quick dicing. Freezing pre-diced chicken makes it easy to add to your favorite recipes on busy nights.
Classic Chicken Stir-Fry with Colorful Vegetables-diced chicken recipes
Make your weeknight dinner special with a classic chicken stir-fry. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with colorful veggies. It’s perfect for those looking for tasty chicken stir-fry recipes or quick dinner ideas.
The secret to a great stir-fry is tender chicken and fresh veggies. Start by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small pieces. Then, cook them in a hot wok or skillet until they’re lightly browned.
Next, add your favorite veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, snow peas, and carrots. These colorful veggies not only look good but also add nutrients to your meal.
To add more flavor, mix a stir-fry sauce. Use soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a bit of honey or brown sugar. Pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, letting them simmer and soak up the flavors.
Finish with chopped scallions or cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. This dish is great because you can change up the veggies and add leftovers. It’s a quick and delicious dinner that everyone will love.
“Stir-frying is a fast and flavorful way to get dinner on the table in a hurry. This classic chicken stir-fry is a great go-to recipe for busy weeknights.”
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole-diced chicken recipes
Craving a comforting, homemade chicken dish? This creamy chicken and rice casserole is perfect. It’s a classic comfort food, great for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Best Rice Varieties to Use
For this casserole, choose long-grain white rice or basmati rice. They offer a light, fluffy texture that pairs well with the creamy chicken. Brown rice is also a good option for a healthier choice, but it cooks a bit longer.
Make-Ahead Storage Tips
This chicken casserole is great for busy days. You can prepare it ahead, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just bake it when you’re ready. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, thawing it before baking.
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Diced | 2 lbs |
Uncooked Long-Grain White Rice | 2 cups |
Cream of Chicken Soup | 2 cans (10.5 oz each) |
Milk | 1 cup |
Frozen Peas | 1 cup |
Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup |
Salt and Pepper | To Taste |
diced chicken recipes
This chicken and rice casserole is a crowd-pleaser. It’s creamy, comforting, and easy to make. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a big gathering.
Mediterranean Diced Chicken Salad-diced chicken recipes
Looking for a refreshing and healthy meal option? Our Mediterranean Diced Chicken Salad is perfect. It’s light yet satisfying, great for lunch or a quick dinner on warm days. It features chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing.
Diced chicken is the key to this salad’s success. It provides bite-sized pieces that mix well with crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado. The Mediterranean flavors come from kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Diced Chicken Breast | 2 cups |
Mixed Greens | 4 cups |
Cherry Tomatoes, halved | 1 pint |
Cucumber, diced | 1 medium |
Kalamata Olives, sliced | 1/2 cup |
Crumbled Feta Cheese | 1/2 cup |
Lemon Vinaigrette | 1/4 cup |
To make this salad, toss all ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette and enjoy! It’s a protein-rich, fresh, and tangy meal. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
Spicy Chicken Tacos with Fresh Salsa-diced chicken recipes
Explore the lively tastes of Mexican dishes with these tasty chicken taco recipes. They use a homemade taco seasoning and a zesty salsa. These spicy chicken tacos will make your mealtime exciting.
Homemade Taco Seasoning Blend
Make your chicken taco recipes even better with a homemade taco seasoning. It’s a mix of warm spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This adds a rich taste to your tacos. Just mix the ingredients together and keep them in an airtight container for later use:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Toppings and Garnishes
Enhance your Mexican-inspired dishes with fresh toppings and garnishes. Turn your spicy chicken tacos into a flavorful feast with:
- Diced avocado
- Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced red onion
- Sliced jalapeños (for extra heat)
- Lime wedges for squeezing over the top
“The perfect chicken taco recipes are all about striking the right balance between bold flavors and freshness.”
One-Pan Diced Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights-diced chicken recipes
Make your weeknight dinners easier with delicious one-pan diced chicken recipes. These meals are quick to make and clean up. They’re perfect for when you’re short on time.
One-pan meals are a big help for those looking for fast dinner ideas. They let you cook everything in one place. This means you get a full meal with less effort. Plus, the diced chicken adds a lot of protein.
There are many one-pan diced chicken recipes to try. You can find creamy casseroles, spicy tacos, and hearty soups. These dishes are great for busy nights because they’re easy to make and taste great.
Time-Saving Preparation Tips
- Purchase pre-diced chicken to save time on meal prep.
- Chop vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator for quick assembly.
- Utilize a sheet pan or skillet with high sides to easily contain all the ingredients.
Cleanup-Friendly One-Pan Recipes
- One-Pan Baked Parmesan Chicken and Vegetables
- Skillet Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
- Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
- Lemon Garlic Chicken and Roasted Potatoes
Recipe | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
---|---|---|---|
One-Pan Baked Parmesan Chicken and Vegetables | 10 minutes | 35 minutes | 45 minutes |
Skillet Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions | 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 40 minutes |
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 50 minutes |
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Roasted Potatoes | 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 50 minutes |
Try one-pan diced chicken recipes for easy and tasty meals on busy weeknights.
Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Soup-diced chicken recipes
When it gets cold outside, nothing beats a warm bowl of chicken soup recipes. This hearty soup is great for cold winter days. It’s a nourishing meal that warms you up inside.
Soup Base Options
The base of a tasty chicken soup is key. You can pick from several options to make the perfect soup:
- Classic chicken stock: Made with chicken bones, veggies, and herbs for a rich taste.
- Homemade bone broth: Cooked slowly to get lots of nutrients and collagen for a healthy soup.
- Vegetable broth: A lighter choice that’s still full of savory flavor.
Freezing Instructions
This comfort food recipe freezes well, making it easy for meal prep. Let the soup cool, then put it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It stays good in the freezer for up to 3 months. To eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it.
With just a few ingredients and some simmering time, you can make this cozy soup. Enjoy its comforting aroma and nourishing taste whenever you need a warm meal.
Thai-Inspired Coconut Curry Chicken-diced chicken recipes
Spice up your dinner with Thai-inspired coconut curry chicken. It’s easy to make and full of vibrant flavors. The dish combines creamy coconut milk with Thai spices for a taste of Thailand at home.
To get the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and savory, choose your ingredients carefully. Start by cooking diced chicken with garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. Then, add red curry paste for a spicy kick.
For that Thai taste, use coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Coconut milk makes it creamy, fish sauce adds depth, and brown sugar balances the heat with sweetness.
After cooking the chicken, add colorful veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, and baby corn. They make the dish nutritious and pretty.
Enjoy your Thai-inspired coconut curry chicken over jasmine rice or noodles. Top it with cilantro, green onions, and a lime squeeze for a real Thai touch.
Try this chicken curry recipes for a quick, tasty dinner. It’s like a trip to Bangkok’s streets without leaving your kitchen.
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps-diced chicken recipes
Craving a delicious and low-carb meal? Try these mouthwatering buffalo chicken lettuce wraps. They’re packed with juicy chicken in tangy buffalo sauce. This is a healthier choice than high-carb dishes.
Sauce Variations
While buffalo sauce is a favorite, you can change it up. Try different hot sauces, from mild to hot. Add honey or maple syrup for a sweet touch.
Low-Carb Side Dishes
- Roasted cauliflower florets
- Shredded cabbage slaw with a creamy dressing
- Grilled or steamed broccoli
- Cucumber and tomato salad with a tangy vinaigrette
These sides go great with buffalo chicken lettuce wraps. They make a balanced and satisfying meal. Enjoy tender chicken, crisp lettuce, and tasty sides for a healthy low-carb chicken recipes experience.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Diced Chicken Breast | 2 lbs |
Buffalo Sauce | 1 cup |
Romaine Lettuce Leaves | 16-20 leaves |
Celery Sticks | 8-10 |
Blue Cheese Crumbles | 1/2 cup |
“These buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are a game-changer for healthy meal options. The bold flavors and satisfying crunch make it easy to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.”
Quick and Easy Chicken Fried Rice-diced chicken recipes
Craving a delicious, Asian-inspired dish that’s quick and easy to prepare? Look no further than chicken fried rice! This versatile recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables, creating a satisfying meal in minutes.
The key to perfecting chicken fried rice lies in the diced chicken. By cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, you can ensure it cooks through evenly and integrates seamlessly with the other ingredients. Combined with fragrant spices, fresh veggies, and a flavorful sauce, this chicken stir fry recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice, chilled or at room temperature
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
With these simple ingredients, you can create a delectable chicken fried rice dish that’s bursting with Asian-inspired flavors. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this quick and easy meal.
How to Make Chicken Fried Rice
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the onion, carrots, and peas to the skillet and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Push the chicken and vegetables to the sides of the skillet, then add the garlic to the center. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and use a spatula to break up any clumps. Stir to combine the rice with the chicken and vegetables.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to fully incorporate the flavors.
- Serve the chicken fried rice hot, garnished with chopped green onions, if desired.
With this quick and easy recipe, you can enjoy a delicious, Asian-inspired meal in no time. The diced chicken and flavorful sauce make it a family-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your homemade chicken fried rice!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta-diced chicken recipes
Make your chicken pasta recipes better with a garlic Parmesan chicken pasta dish. It has tender chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and lots of Parmesan cheese. It’s a tasty and fulfilling dinner.
Pasta Selection Guide
Choose a medium pasta shape that holds sauce well. Penne, farfalle (bowtie), or cavatappi (corkscrew) are great. They match the chicken and Parmesan flavors and look good too.
Sauce Thickness Tips
Getting the garlic Parmesan sauce right is important. Simmer it until it’s creamy but still pourable. If it’s too thin, add cornstarch or heavy cream. If it’s too thick, use pasta water or chicken broth.
Pasta Variety | Sauce Pairing | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Penne | Creamy, chunky, or tomato-based | 10-12 minutes |
Farfalle (Bowtie) | Creamy, pesto, or light olive oil-based | 12-14 minutes |
Cavatappi (Corkscrew) | Creamy, chunky, or cheese-based | 11-13 minutes |
With the right pasta and sauce, your chicken pasta recipes will impress everyone. Serve it with a salad or garlic bread for a full Italian meal.
BBQ Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner-diced chicken recipes
Make your weeknights easier with a tasty BBQ chicken sheet pan dinner. It’s a one-stop meal that combines chicken and veggies, packed with flavor. It’s quick, easy, and loved by all.
Sheet pan meals are a breeze to make. Just put chicken and veggies on a big pan, add BBQ sauce, and bake. The oven makes everything taste great, with a sweet and savory mix.
Here are some tips to make your BBQ chicken sheet pan dinner a success:
- Use a mix of veggies like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts for color and texture.
- Marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce or your own spice mix for extra taste.
- Check the chicken and veggies often to make sure they’re cooked right.
Sheet pan dinners offer endless options. Try different proteins like shrimp or tofu, and choose your favorite veggies. It’s all about finding new flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Upgrade your weeknights with a BBQ chicken sheet pan dinner. Enjoy tender chicken and veggies, all in one dish. It’s quick, easy, and a hit with your family.
Greek-Style Chicken Pita Pockets-diced chicken recipes
Make your lunchtime better with these tasty Greek-style chicken pita pockets. They have tender chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce. Each bite is full of Mediterranean flavors.
Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
The secret to these pockets is the tangy tzatziki sauce. You’ll need:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before making your pita pockets.
Assembly Instructions
To make your Greek-style chicken pita pockets:
- Split open pita bread pockets and warm them in the oven or toaster oven for a few minutes.
- Spoon a generous amount of the diced chicken sandwich recipes into each pita pocket.
- Top with a dollop of the creamy tzatziki sauce, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of Mediterranean cuisine flavors in every bite.
These chicken pita pockets are perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner. You can change the fillings to your liking. Enjoy a delicious, easy meal on the go.
Southwestern Chicken Quinoa Bowl-diced chicken recipes
Try a Southwestern chicken quinoa bowl to spice up your meals. It’s a mix of protein from chicken and quinoa’s fiber. This makes for a filling and healthy meal.
The dish starts with tender chicken, seasoned with Southwestern spices. It’s cooked with quinoa, making a flavorful base. The bowl is then topped with fresh veggies like tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion.
A creamy avocado dressing adds richness. It brings everything together, making the chicken bowl recipe even better. You can drizzle it over or use it as a dip.
This Southwestern chicken quinoa bowl is perfect for any meal. It’s full of healthy meal options and keeps you satisfied and energized.
“This Southwestern chicken quinoa bowl is a game-changer for my meal prep routine. It’s so easy to make, and the combination of flavors is out of this world!”
Conclusion-diced chicken recipes
This article has shown many ways to use diced chicken in cooking. It’s great for making quick and tasty meals. You can make everything from stir-fries to salads with it.
Using diced chicken saves you time in the kitchen. You can make delicious meals fast. Try out different recipes to see what you like best.
Feel free to change these diced chicken recipes to fit your taste. These quick meals are easy to customize. You can make them your own and enjoy them even more.