Chicken lovers rejoice! When it comes to cooking up a storm in the kitchen, few ingredients are as versatile and beloved as good old-fashioned chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option, there’s no denying that chicken is a staple of many cuisines around the world. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering health recipes that showcase the best of what chicken has to offer.
From classic comfort foods like grilled lemon herb chicken and baked garlic parmesan chicken, to international twists like turmeric coconut chicken curry and greek yogurt marinated chicken skewers, there’s something for everyone on this list. And don’t worry – we’ve made sure that each recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and good-for-you ingredients. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
A refreshing twist on traditional grilled chicken, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of herbs for a flavorful and moist dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Summary: This flavorful recipe combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic, resulting in a mouthwatering baked chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and breadcrumbs.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle garlic-breadcrumb mixture evenly.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of each breast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This quick and easy recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables and protein while satisfying your cravings for a flavorful meal. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: serve with brown rice or whole wheat noodles
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 pan.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and garlic to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over brown rice or whole wheat noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Quinoa Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-rich chicken, nutty quinoa, and aromatic vegetables, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s an ideal meal for a chilly day or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, broth, quinoa, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and tomatoes in a slow cooker.
2. Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Avocado Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the richness of avocado with the tenderness of chicken, all wrapped up in a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, chicken, avocado, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Spicy Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful combination of spicy grilled chicken and sweet mango salsa. Perfect for a summer barbecue or quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir gently.
5. Serve grilled chicken with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time)
Skinny Chicken Caesar Wraps
Get ready to wrap up a deliciously healthy snack or meal! These Skinny Chicken Caesar Wraps are a tasty and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup whole wheat tortilla wraps
– 1/4 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken strips to the bowl and toss until coated with the cream cheese mixture.
4. Place wraps on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Assemble wraps by placing 2-3 chicken strips onto each wrap, followed by lettuce and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Bake
A delicious and easy one-pan recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, sweet potatoes, and spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the sweet potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sweet potatoes and spices.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these tangy and flavorful chicken skewers marinated in a refreshing Greek yogurt mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
This classic stir-fry recipe combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and brown rice for a nutritious and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Serve the stir-fry over the cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Low-Carb Chicken Zucchini Boats
Transform ordinary zucchinis into flavorful boats filled with juicy chicken, cheese, and herbs. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a low-carb twist on traditional grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out insides, leaving shells about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix chicken, cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Spray or brush the tops with cooking spray or oil.
6. Grill for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turmeric Coconut Chicken Curry
This aromatic and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices, tender chicken, and creamy coconut milk. A delicious and comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb 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 curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add chicken, turmeric, curry powder, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook until chicken is browned (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in coconut milk and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice, naan, or with your favorite accompaniment.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
Get ready for a game-changing twist on traditional chicken tenders! This recipe combines the crispy texture of air-fried chicken with the tangy sweetness of honey mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken tenders to the mixture and toss until fully coated.
4. Load the coated chicken into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Healthy Chicken Fajita Bowl
This recipe is a twist on traditional fajitas, with lean chicken, colorful bell peppers, and nutritious quinoa. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Serve chicken on top of quinoa with sautéed vegetables. Top with your choice of avocado, sour cream, salsa, or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant and flavorful dish! This recipe combines the simplicity of roasted chicken with the tanginess of lemon and the pungency of garlic, all paired with a side of tender asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the lemon-garlic mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet and roast alongside the chicken for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
This recipe transforms humble portobello mushrooms into a mouthwatering dish, packed with juicy chicken and nutritious spinach. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook chicken over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, spinach, and a pinch of salt; cook until spinach wilts.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the chicken-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Quinoa-Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the juiciness of grilled chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with parsley, feta cheese (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and sprinkle with lemon zest.
6. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Chicken and Kale Soup with White Beans
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the goodness of chicken, kale, and white beans in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, add the kale, beans, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup is hot and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional roasted chicken, this recipe pairs perfectly glazed chicken breasts with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (or 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar + 1 tablespoon honey)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the balsamic mixture.
4. Roast chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and Brussels sprouts with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Spread vegetables on a separate baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve glazed chicken breasts with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce
Satisfy your cravings without sacrificing nutrition with these delicious chicken lettuce wraps, topped with a creamy and nutty peanut sauce. A perfect combination of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill or cook chicken until cooked through.
4. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken on a bed of mixed greens, then drizzle with peanut sauce.
5. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering and healthy chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From grilled delights like Lemon Herb Chicken and Spicy Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa, to baked favorites like Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken and One-Pan Chicken and Sweet Potato Bake, these dishes showcase the versatility of chicken as a main ingredient. Additionally, explore international flavors with recipes like Turmeric Coconut Chicken Curry and Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Skewers. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious and nutritious chicken recipes.