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With Chicken in the Fridge, Dinner Is (Basically) Handled

Plus, our new protein-packed cookbook

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August 7, 2026 6:24am EDT

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America's Test Kitchen: Notes from the Test Kitchen

With Chicken in the Fridge, Dinner Is (Basically) Handled

Jessica Rudolph

Senior Food Editor

There’s a specific kind of relief in knowing that dinner’s handled, especially on the nights when the afternoon slips away and somebody’s already asking what’s for dinner. Chicken is my go-to for exactly those moments: fast and able to take on whatever flavors I’m in the mood for (or have to use up). It’s also how I easily work more lean protein into the week.

If you’ve got 45 minutes, you’ve got chicken dinner. Cutlets are the quickest path, and this summery version comes together in a single skillet with a deconstructed pesto vibe. (If I’m thinking ahead at the store I’ll even spring for pre-sliced chicken cutlets to further trim kitchen time.)

For something with a little more polish, I like to make a sauce. Chicken Breasts with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato and Dill Pan Sauce and Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts with Browned Butter Sauce both turn out restaurant-worthy sauces in about the time it takes to boil water. And to really embrace tomato season, Skillet Chicken Breasts with Burst Cherry Tomato Sauce is exactly what those summer pints are for. Serve any of the above with crusty bread or quick-cooking pasta (I personally love angel hair for its near-instantaneous cooking time) plus a simple green salad and you’re golden.

Bourbon Chicken and Ultimate Cashew Chicken beat the delivery driver to your door even if you make your own pot of rice. And when you want dinner from one pan, Gochujang Chicken and Tortellini delivers deep, savory heat with barely any cleanup.

On busy nights when the family needs to be fed and out the door, I reach for something hearty enough to keep everyone full through the evening. Spicy Peanut Chicken Farro Bowls and Skillet-Roasted Chicken with Garlicky Spinach and Beans both fit the bill.

See what I mean? No matter what the dinner hour looks like, chicken is welcome on the menu.

Hatch a Dinner Plan

Seared Chicken Cutlets with Basil

Air-Fryer Miso-Honey Chicken Wings

Skillet Chicken, Zucchini, and Cheesy Rice

Gochujang Chicken and Tortellini

Ultimate Cashew Chicken

Chicken Milanese Caprese

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What We’re Talking About

Now Available: Our newest cookbook, The Complete High-Protein Cookbook

The weeknight-friendly recipes for meals and snacks in this collection show just how delicious everyday food can be while maximizing protein and increasing fiber. No matter your reason for eating high-protein, this book has what you need, from pack-and-go breakfasts and lunches, irresistible snacks, and sweet treats to fast, delicious dinners with a whole-food focus. Order your copy now.

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