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These 15 Make-Ahead Chicken Recipes Won’t Let Busy Weeks Beat You

Busy weeks can be a nightmare, but having a stash of make-ahead chicken recipes keeps stress at bay. No one wants to scramble in the kitchen after a long day, and these recipes make sure that’s a thing of the past. Think of coming home, opening the fridge, and pulling out a delicious chicken dish waiting to be reheated. Sounds like a dream, right? It’s like having a personal chef who preps everything ahead of time. The secret is in the planning, and making these recipes means more time to relax and less panic over dinner.

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Monterey Chicken for One

Chicken dish with vegetables in a square pot.
Monterey Chicken for One. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Need a quick, delicious meal? Monterey Chicken for One is a perfect solution. It combines chicken with a mouthwatering mix of flavors and is easy to prepare in advance—just reheat when you’re ready for a meal. This recipe ensures you have an enjoyable dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It is ideal for solo diners needing a no-fuss option.
Get the Recipe: Monterey Chicken for One

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Two bowls of creamy chicken & wild rice soup on a wooden table.
Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for comfort food? Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup offers a hearty meal that can be made ahead for those hectic nights. Its rich texture and filling ingredients make it a go-to for those seeking warmth in a bowl. Just heat it, and it’s ready to serve. The meal makes you look forward to dinner on cold, busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a taste of elegance, Chicken Piccata is a winning choice. Ready to impress even when time is tight, this dish offers a burst of heartwarming flavors. You can easily prepare it in advance, making for a convenient heat-and-eat option. Perfect for turning any weeknight into a special occasion. Say goodbye to last-minute cooking stress.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Kale and tortellini soup in a bowl on a wooden table.
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a comforting bowl of soup? Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken is an excellent option that you can make ahead. Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice to warm you up. Having it prepped in the fridge means a stress-free mealtime. This soup promises a pleasurable dinner without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Three pieces of Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions on a white rectangular plate.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Seeking a quick yet flavorful dinner? Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs offer a semi-healthy, pre-prepared meal solution. With minimal prep work and fast cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeks. Pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to eat. The result is a dish that feels both effortless and indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you need a classic with a twist, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is your recipe. This make-ahead meal delivers all your love flavors in a convenient casserole form. Ready to bake at your convenience, it frees up your weeknight routine. Just heat and serve for a pleasant experience. It is ideal for family dinners and special occasions alike.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate.
Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Amp up your snack game with Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. These wings bring a tangy twist to your chicken repertoire and are perfect for make-ahead preparation. Just marinate and smoke them when you find a free moment. Reheat, and they’re ready to go. They make a unique, flavorful addition to any meal or gathering.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Need simplicity? 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is ideal for effortless yet delicious meals. Using just four ingredients, this recipe minimizes prep time. It’s perfect when you want something tasty but can’t think about dinner. Set it and forget it, freeing you up for other tasks.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Looking for a lighter option? Chicken Zoodle Soup offers a healthy, low-carb choice that’s still filling and ready to go. Zoodles replace traditional noodles, keeping the meal nutritious. Make it ahead, and dinner is just a quick reheat away. This is perfect for those who want to eat well without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For an easy yet flavorful option, Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken delivers. By preparing this ahead, you can enjoy a scrumptious meal with minimal effort on busy nights. Simply pop the sheet pan in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It’s neat, tidy, and delicious—a fantastic go-to for those keeping it simple.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Chicken Divan

A fork is lifting a portion of Chicken Divan from one of the bowls.
Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a comforting classic, Chicken Divan is unbeatable. This cheesy, creamy recipe is fantastic for make-ahead preparation. Once assembled, it can easily be stored until you’re ready to cook. It’s a family favorite that redefines convenience. Just bake and serve for an easy and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Experience restaurant-quality from home with Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. This recipe captures the rich taste of a favorite dining spot and can be made in advance. Keep it on hand for those days when you crave something hearty. It reheats beautifully, saving you time and effort. Perfect for bringing gourmet home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Chicken Cacciatore

Chicken Cacciatore on a serving platter.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bring Italian flavors to your table with Chicken Cacciatore. This make-ahead recipe is bursting with bold ingredients that meld beautifully over time. Store it in the fridge, then heat and eat when ready. It is ideal for when you want something unique but have no time. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy a rich and fulfilling meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Need a little spice? Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken offers exciting flavors that you can prepare ahead of time. Slow-roasted for maximum impact, it’s great for busy weekdays. Reheating is all that’s required to enjoy this meal, which is ideal for adding some variety to your weekly menu.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

Chicken Salad with Walnuts and Cranberries in a bowl.
Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your lunch with Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts. This make-ahead recipe is perfect for an easy, nutritious meal. Combining tender chicken with the crunch and sweetness of cranberries and walnuts keeps lunch interesting. Whip it up ahead of time and store it for a quick grab-and-go option. It’s a refreshing break from the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts

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