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21 Can’t-Go-Wrong Dinner Ideas

Ever find yourself stuck in a dinner rut, circling through the same few meals every week? We’ve all been there. That’s why I’m excited to share some super easy dinner ideas that are perfect for anyone, especially if you’re just getting the hang of this whole cooking thing. These 21 dinner ideas are total game-changers; they’re so simple and tasty, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try them sooner.

Think about it — no more boring meals or complicated recipes that leave your kitchen in chaos. We’re talking about straightforward, delicious dinners that won’t have you stressing over the stove. These ideas are all about making your life easier and your dinners better. So, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a bunch of friends, get ready to whip up something awesome with minimal fuss. Let’s make dinner something to look forward to!

Low angle shot of a bowl of kung pao chicken.

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Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Cooking was a chore until I tried Air Fryer Sesame Chicken. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, and the sesame adds such a lovely, nutty kick to the crispy chicken. Plus, the air fryer means less oil and easy cleanup. It’s a perfect choice for a fuss-free, delicious dinner.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sesame Chicken

Mongolian Chicken

Mongolian Chicken is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. It’s got this fantastic sweet and savory sauce that coats the tender chicken beautifully. Pair it with some fluffy rice or noodles, and you’ve got a quick, can’t-go-wrong dinner that feels gourmet with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Mongolian Chicken

Fried salt and pepper chicken in a black bowl lined with parchment paper.
Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken

I love keeping things simple, and Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken is as simple as it gets. Just season and let the air fryer do its magic. The result? Perfectly juicy chicken with a lovely crisp. It’s my go-to when I want something tasty but don’t feel like doing much.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken

Chicken Egg Foo Young

Chicken Egg Foo Young is such a versatile and comforting dish. It’s this delightful blend of chicken and eggs, usually served with a savory sauce that ties it all together. It’s one of those easy, satisfying meals that work for any time of the day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Foo Young

Overhead shot of karaage chicken with noodles on the side.
Chicken Karaage. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Karaage

Have you tried Chicken Karaage? It’s this Japanese-style fried chicken with a light, crispy coating that’s just out of this world. It’s surprisingly simple to make and always a hit at my dinner table. A little squeeze of lemon on top, and it’s perfection.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Karaage

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Cooking a whole chicken sounds intimidating, right? But in an air fryer, it’s surprisingly straightforward. The skin gets so crispy, and the meat stays juicy. It’s a hassle-free way to feed the family, and the leftovers make fantastic sandwiches!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

A plate of tandoori chicken with a side dish of cooked rice, shot from a low angle.
Tandoori Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori Chicken is a showstopper with its vibrant colors and flavors. The mix of spices and yogurt makes the chicken so tender and tangy. It’s a great way to add some excitement to your dinner routine, and it’s easier to make than you’d think.
Get the Recipe: Tandoori Chicken

Air Fryer Taquitos

Taquitos in the air fryer are a lifesaver for a quick meal. They come out crispy on the outside, with a tasty chicken filling inside. They’re perfect for a laid-back dinner or as a snack on game night. Seriously, you can’t go wrong with these.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Taquitos

low angle shot of pollo pibil taco on a grey plate.
Pollo Pibil. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pollo Pibil

Pollo Pibil is a traditional Mexican dish that’s all about slow cooking and deep flavors. The spices and citrus create this tender, flavorful chicken that’s hard to resist. It’s a fantastic choice for a weekend dinner when you want something special but easy.
Get the Recipe: Pollo Pibil

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a classic that never disappoints. It’s got the perfect balance of spicy and sweet, with crunchy veggies and peanuts. It’s an easy way to bring some zing to your dinner table without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Fried chicken pieces in orange sauce garnished with sesame seeds in a black bowl with chopsticks and a green and white napkin.
Air Fryer Orange Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Orange Chicken

If you’re into sweet and tangy flavors, Air Fryer Orange Chicken is a must-try. The air fryer makes the chicken so crisp, and the orange sauce is just divine. It’s always a hit in my house, especially for those who like a little sweetness with their meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Chicken 65

For spice enthusiasts, Chicken 65 is a real treat. It’s this Indian dish with a serious kick, deep-fried to perfection. It’s great as a snack or part of a meal, and it’s surprisingly straightforward to make.
Get the Recipe: Chicken 65

overhead shot of gochujang chicken with herbs and lettuce.
Gochujang Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Gochujang Chicken

Gochujang Chicken brings those bold Korean flavors right to your kitchen. The chili paste gives it a unique heat and sweetness that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking to try different cuisines, this one’s a can’t-miss.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken

Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup

There’s nothing like a comforting bowl of Chicken Pot Pie Soup, especially when it’s made in an Instant Pot. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a fun twist on the classic pot pie. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a warm, easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Pancit noodles on a plate with veggies and chicken.
Pancit Bihon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pancit Bihon

Pancit Bihon is a Filipino noodle dish that’s both light and filling. It usually has a mix of veggies and chicken, making it a nutritious and quick meal option. It’s a great choice when you want something different but easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Pancit Bihon

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Chicken Adobo in the Instant Pot is a revelation. It’s a Filipino dish with this amazing blend of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s so easy to make, especially on busy days, and it always turns out delicious.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Overhead shot of two white bowls with chicken hot and sour soup.
Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

I love starting my meal with Chicken Hot and Sour Soup, or just having it as a light dinner. It’s got this great balance of spicy and sour flavors that just hits the spot. It’s especially comforting on cooler evenings, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Hot and Sour Soup

Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

Korean Fried Chicken in the air fryer is a game-changer. It comes out both crispy and juicy, with those unique Korean flavors really shining through. It’s perfect for when you’re in the mood for something different and don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

Low angle shot of 3 chicken kathi rolls wrappedin foil on a wooden plate with fresh mint leaves.
Chicken Kathi Rolls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chicken Kathi Rolls

Kathi Rolls are these amazing Indian street food wraps. They’re filled with flavorful chicken and veggies, and they’re just perfect for a quick, on-the-go meal. They’re also a great casual dinner option when you’re not in the mood for something too formal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Kathi Rolls

Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

Bringing Middle Eastern flavors home, Chicken Shawarma in the Instant Pot is both easy and packed with spices. It’s great in wraps or served with rice. It’s one of those dishes that make you feel like a pro in the kitchen with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma

A hand holding a crispy fried chicken drumstick.
Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Buttermilk Fried Chicken in the air fryer is my go-to for comfort food without the guilt. The buttermilk keeps the chicken so moist and tender, and the air fryer gives it that perfect crispiness. It’s an easy, healthier way to enjoy fried chicken.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken

By on January 29th, 2024
Photo of Robin Donovan

About Robin Donovan

Robin Donovan is the creative force behind All Ways Delicious. She's a writer, recipe developer, photographer, and cookbook author with more than 40 books to her name, including the bestselling Ramen for Beginners, Ramen Obsession, and Campfire Cuisine. Her work has been featured in major publications, both print and digital, including MSN, Cooking Light, Fitness, Buzzfeed, and Eating Well. → More about Robin

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