When it comes to midweek dinners, chicken is hard to beat. It’s affordable, versatile and quick to cook – exactly what you want when time and energy are in short supply.

Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for two, these three simple chicken meals are designed to get dinner on the table fast, without sacrificing flavour. From a warming curry bowl to a one-pan wonder, they’re weeknight winners.

Red Curry Chicken and Rice Bowl
Fast, fragrant and great for leftovers.

Ingredients
500g chicken thigh fillets, sliced
2 tablespoons red curry paste
1 can coconut milk
1 tablespoon oil
1 cup cooked jasmine rice
Steamed vegetables (broccoli, beans or capsicum)

Method
Heat oil in a pan and cook curry paste for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chicken and cook until sealed. Pour in coconut milk and simmer for 10–12 minutes until cooked through. Serve over rice with vegetables.

Creamy Chicken Pasta
Comfort food in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients
400g chicken breast, sliced
250g pasta (penne or fettuccine)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
½ cup cream (or cooking cream)
Olive oil
Parmesan, to serve

Method
Cook pasta according to packet instructions. While it cooks, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add chicken and cook until golden. Stir in cream and simmer briefly. Toss through pasta and finish with parmesan.

One-Pan Chicken and Potatoes
Minimal prep, minimal washing up.

Ingredients
4 chicken drumsticks or thighs
500g baby potatoes, halved
1 red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika or dried herbs
Salt and pepper

Method
Preheat oven to 200°C. Place everything in a large baking dish, toss well and season. Roast for 40–45 minutes, turning once, until chicken is golden and potatoes are tender.