Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! We’ve got a collection of mouth-watering and nutritious chicken recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, we’ve got you covered.
From classic grilled lemon herb chicken to spicy quinoa bowls, these 20 healthy chicken recipes are perfect for every meal of the day. With a range of flavors and textures, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes can be easily customized to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these delicious and easy-to-make recipes! In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through some of the tastiest and healthiest chicken dishes out there. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your grilled chicken with this simple and delicious recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this simple and satisfying recipe that combines the pungency of garlic, creaminess of parmesan cheese, and crunch of breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the garlic-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm, comforting meal. With tender chicken, a variety of vegetables, and aromatic spices, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped onion at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Add the chicken, garlic, carrots, potatoes, peas, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper on top of the onion.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir gently to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Avocado Chicken Salad Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, these wraps combine the creaminess of avocado with the tender bite of cooked chicken and crisp lettuce, all wrapped up in a whole wheat tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Lettuce leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken-avocado mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
4. Top with lettuce leaves and wrap up tightly.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with spicy chicken and crunchy vegetables, making it a nutritious and filling meal option. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this bowl is packed with protein, fiber, and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Optional: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha, honey, and red pepper flakes. Pour sauce over chicken and stir to coat.
4. Add mixed vegetables to the pan with chicken and stir-fry until tender.
5. To assemble bowls, place quinoa at the bottom, followed by chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that’s ready in under 20 minutes. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked brown rice or whole wheat noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and broccoli to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture into the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked brown rice or whole wheat noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Skewers
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Skewers: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Grilled Chicken
These flavorful skewers are perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner. The Greek yogurt marinade adds a tangy and creamy element to the chicken, while the lemon and oregano provide a bright and herbaceous flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Bake
This hearty one-pan dish combines tender chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and crispy vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a single pan. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sweet potatoes, bell pepper, onion, and garlic; stir to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired additional seasonings.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of chicken, spinach, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked chicken, spinach, cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-spinach mixture, filling to the top.
5. Brush the tops with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Low-Carb Chicken Zucchini Noodles
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal with this simple recipe that combines tender chicken, nutritious zucchini noodles, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the chicken into thin strips and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through. Set aside.
4. Using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler, create zucchini noodles. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the zucchini noodles and sprinkle with minced garlic.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
7. Combine cooked chicken and zucchini noodles. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Coconut Chicken Curry
Warm up with this flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired curry made with tender chicken, rich coconut milk, and the brightness of turmeric. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let curry simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders
Get ready for a game-changing snack that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe yields tender, juicy chicken strips coated in a crispy exterior that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and finally into the olive oil.
4. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Lettuce Wraps
These flavorful wraps are a great twist on traditional sandwiches. Juicy chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and crispy bacon all come together in a refreshing lettuce wrap.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 heads of lettuce, leaves separated
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to caramelize.
3. Stir in the crumbled bacon and season with salt and pepper.
4. Warm the lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing about 1/2 cup of the chicken-mushroom mixture onto each lettuce leaf, drizzle with olive oil, and fold.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the classic Mediterranean flavors of olives, tomatoes, and herbs with juicy chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top each chicken breast with sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, and chopped oregano leaves.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with sautéed chicken, bell peppers, onions, and a hint of cumin. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chicken mixture over brown rice and top with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the zesty goodness of lemon with the pungency of garlic. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the simplicity of chicken and rice with the added nutrition of cauliflower. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken and onion until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add the cauliflower, garlic, cream of chicken soup, milk, and thyme to the skillet. Stir until the cauliflower is tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked rice and the chicken-cauliflower mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Veggie Foil Packets
Ready in just 30 minutes, these foil packets are a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Fresh pesto adds a vibrant twist to classic chicken and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves and 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for pesto)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Place one chicken breast in the center of a large piece of foil. Brush with pesto mixture.
4. Top with sliced bell pepper and zucchini.
5. Fold foil to form a packet, leaving room for steam to escape.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Chicken Tortilla Soup
A delicious and nutritious twist on traditional tortilla soup, this recipe adds lean chicken and flavorful spices to create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, no salt added
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Add tortilla strips to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they are slightly softened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal with this recipe! This dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of chicken, black beans, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cumin, then add chicken and black beans; cook until heated through.
5. Split cooked sweet potatoes open and fill with the chicken and bean mixture.
6. Top each potato with shredded cheese and any desired toppings (sour cream, salsa, cilantro).
7. Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour
Summary
Discover a world of delicious and healthy chicken recipes, perfect for every meal! This article features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. From classic favorites like Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken to international-inspired dishes such as Turmeric Coconut Chicken Curry, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these healthy chicken recipes will inspire your culinary creativity and keep you coming back for more.