When it comes to feeding kids, chicken is my secret weapon. It’s easy to cook, delicious, and packed with protein.
But let’s be real—kids can be picky eaters! That’s why I’ve put together this list of 15 simple and quick chicken recipes for kids that are not only tasty but also fun to eat.
Say goodbye to dinnertime struggles and hello to happy little tummies!
1. Crispy Chicken Tenders
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—these homemade chicken tenders will make you forget about the frozen stuff!
I coat the chicken strips in a mix of panko breadcrumbs and a touch of parmesan for that extra crunch. Bake them or air-fry them for a healthier twist.
2. Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas
Who doesn’t love gooey, melty cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla? I shred some cooked chicken, mix it with cheese and a hint of mild taco seasoning, then stuff it inside a tortilla.
A quick toast on a skillet, and bam—an easy chicken dinner that kids (and adults) love. Serve with a little sour cream or guacamole for dipping fun.
3. Mini Chicken Sliders
Little hands need little burgers! I make these bite-sized chicken patties using ground chicken, a pinch of salt, and a dash of garlic powder.
Pan-fry them until golden, then slide them into mini buns with a slice of cheese. Add some lettuce and a dab of mayo for a mini masterpiece.
4. Chicken and Cheese Pinwheels
These are a lifesaver when you need a quick lunch or snack.
Just roll up shredded chicken, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar inside a tortilla, slice them into cute little spirals, and serve.
It’s like a chicken wrap, but way more fun to eat!
5. Chicken and Veggie Nuggets
If your kids turn their noses up at veggies, sneak them into these homemade chicken nuggets. I blend ground chicken with grated carrots and zucchini, coat them in breadcrumbs, and bake.
They get a crispy outside while staying juicy inside. Serve with their favorite dipping sauce, and they won’t even notice the veggies!
6. Chicken Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a classic, but adding chicken takes it to a whole new level!
I toss some shredded rotisserie chicken into creamy, cheesy macaroni, making it an easy thing to make with chicken when you’re short on time.
The best part of it is: it’s a one-pot dish, so you won’t have to do extra dishes as well.
7. BBQ Chicken Pizza
Pizza night just got better! I take a store-bought pizza crust, slather it with BBQ sauce, top it with shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of red onion.
A quick bake, and we’ve got a homemade pizza that tastes better than delivery.
8. Chicken and Rice Bowl
This is my go-to meal when I need something filling yet simple. I mix cooked chicken with fluffy rice, a splash of soy sauce, and steamed veggies.
It’s quick, healthy, and totally customizable—great for those picky eaters who want to pick out the “green stuff.”
9. Creamy Chicken Pasta
A dreamy, creamy pasta dish that kids can’t resist. I make a quick white sauce with butter, flour, and milk, then stir in shredded chicken and cooked pasta.
A sprinkle of parmesan on top, and boom—instant comfort food.
10. Chicken Parmesan Bites
Chicken Parmesan, but make it kid-friendly! I coat bite-sized chicken pieces in breadcrumbs and parmesan, bake them, and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
It’s like a chicken nugget and a mozzarella stick had a baby, and it’s amazing.
11. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Food on a stick is just more fun, right? I marinate chicken in a sweet teriyaki sauce, then grill or bake it on skewers.
It’s a great way to make chicken exciting for kids while sneaking in some bell peppers or pineapples alongside.
12. Chicken Tacos
Taco Tuesday is a favorite in my house! I season shredded chicken with mild spices, then stuff it into soft tortillas with cheese, lettuce, and a little sour cream.
It’s an easy chicken dinner that never fails.
13. Chicken and Cheese Muffins
Yes, you read that right—savory muffins! I mix shredded chicken, eggs, cheese, and a little flour, then bake them into muffin tins for a grab-and-go snack.
They’re packed with protein and totally kid-approved.
14. Honey Garlic Chicken Bites
Sweet and sticky, these chicken bites are like a homemade version of everyone’s favorite takeout. I cook bite-sized chicken pieces in a honey-garlic sauce until they’re perfectly glazed.
Serve with rice or noodles, and watch your kids lick their fingers clean.
15. Chicken Fried Rice
The best way to use up leftover chicken? Turn it into fried rice! I sauté chicken with cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and a handful of frozen veggies.
A splash of soy sauce brings it all together for a quick chicken dinner idea that even the pickiest eaters enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Feeding kids doesn’t have to be a battle. With these 15 simple and quick chicken recipes, you can whip up meals that are tasty, healthy, and stress-free.
So, be it a busy school night or a relaxed weekend lunch, these chicken dinner ideas will keep little bellies full and happy. Happy cooking!