15 Quick and Easy Healthy Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Did you know that on average, busy families spend only about 30 minutes preparing dinner on weeknights? If you’re looking to whip up delicious meals without sacrificing time or health, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog, we’ll explore 15 quick and easy healthy chicken recipes that are perfect for those hectic evenings, allowing you to enjoy flavorful dishes like Minute Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry and Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Chicken in no time. Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners into a breeze!

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Minute Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

Minute Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the bright taste of lemon and the aromatic punch of garlic. This recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 3 minutes, until they start to brown.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

4. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2 minutes.

5. Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and cook for 1 more minute until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender-crisp.

Tips:

• Customize the mixed vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season.
• For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Serve over quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.

Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Chicken and Veggies

Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Chicken and Veggies is a delightful one-pan meal that combines succulent chicken with vibrant vegetables, all coated in a tangy honey mustard sauce. This recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also offers a nutritious and easy way to enjoy a wholesome dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.

3. Place the chicken breasts on the sheet pan and brush them generously with the honey mustard marinade.

4. In a large bowl, toss the broccoli, baby carrots, and sliced bell pepper with the remaining marinade until well coated.

5. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken on the sheet pan.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

7. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, then enjoy your delicious sheet pan meal!

Tips:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for an hour in the refrigerator before baking.
• Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day as a healthy lunch.

One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa

Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with this One-Pot Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa recipe, featuring aromatic herbs, tender chicken, and nutritious quinoa. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a wholesome, balanced meal in a single pot.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

3. Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme, then add them to the pot.

4. Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side.

5. Stir in the quinoa, chicken broth, cherry tomatoes, and red bell pepper.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the chicken is tender.

7. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the quinoa with a fork.

8. Serve topped with fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese.

Tips:

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken with the herbs for a few hours before cooking.
• You can substitute quinoa with brown rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.

Quick Asian Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

These Quick Asian Teriyaki Chicken Bowls are a delightful blend of savory teriyaki sauce, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables, making them not only flavorful but also wholesome and satisfying. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

2. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add the broccoli and bell pepper to the skillet, stirring frequently until vegetables are tender, about 3-5 minutes.

5. Pour in the soy sauce and teriyaki sauce, stirring to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.

6. Serve the chicken mixture over cooked rice or quinoa, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or snap peas.
• This dish can be easily doubled for meal prep or larger families.

Speedy Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken

Speedy Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances juicy chicken with the creamy, tangy flavors of feta cheese and fresh spinach. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute.

3. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

4. In a bowl, combine the cooked spinach, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

5. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff them with the spinach and feta mixture.

6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the chicken broth around them.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add some red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture.
• Make sure not to overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent bursting during cooking.
• This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Easy Chicken Tacos with Avocado Slaw

These Easy Chicken Tacos with Avocado Slaw are a deliciously vibrant meal that combines tender chicken with a creamy, zesty slaw. The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a feast for the senses that is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp honey

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.

2. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

3. Season the chicken breasts with the spice mixture and place them in the skillet.

4. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.

5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

6. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, diced avocado, cilantro, lime juice, and honey to make the avocado slaw.

7. Warm the corn tortillas in the skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.

8. Assemble the tacos by placing chicken strips on the tortillas topped with avocado slaw.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors!

Tips:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Feel free to add your favorite toppings like salsa, cheese, or hot sauce.
• These tacos can be easily made ahead and stored in the fridge for a quick meal.

Zesty Balsamic Chicken Caprese

Indulge in the vibrant and fresh flavors of Zesty Balsamic Chicken Caprese, a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken, tangy balsamic glaze, and creamy mozzarella. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a healthy option for your dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

4. While the chicken is cooking, combine balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic powder in a small bowl.

5. Once the chicken is browned, pour the balsamic mixture over the chicken and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

6. Bake for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

7. In the last 5 minutes of baking, add the sliced mozzarella and halved cherry tomatoes on top of the chicken.

8. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips:

• For an extra zesty flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar for a few hours before cooking.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Serve with a side of quinoa or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Air Fryer Crispy Garlic Chicken Bites

Air Fryer Crispy Garlic Chicken Bites are a delectable treat that combine the rich flavors of garlic and herbs with the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried bite-sized chicken. This healthier take on fried chicken delivers all the taste without the extra oil!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and add olive oil.

4. Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.

5. Place the coated chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.

6. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Tips:

• For extra crunch, spray the chicken bites lightly with olive oil before air frying.
• Feel free to add your favorite spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a personal touch.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking.

Minute Chicken and Broccoli Skillet

Minute Chicken and Broccoli Skillet is a quick and delicious way to enjoy nutritious ingredients in one pan. The vibrant flavors of garlic and soy sauce combine beautifully with tender chicken and crisp broccoli for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season them with black pepper and red pepper flakes, if using. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

5. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, and ground ginger. Pour this sauce over the chicken and broccoli, stirring to combine well.

6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly before serving.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and honey for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for more variety.
• Serve over quinoa or noodles for a different twist on this dish.

Fast and Flavorful Chicken Fajita Wraps

This Fast and Flavorful Chicken Fajita Wraps recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you crave something delicious and satisfying. With a vibrant blend of spices, bell peppers, and juicy chicken, these wraps bring an exciting burst of flavor to your dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 large tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup sour cream (optional)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat evenly.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, and add the coated chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

5. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.

6. To assemble, place a portion of the chicken and vegetable mixture on each tortilla, top with cheese, salsa, and sour cream if desired. Wrap tightly and serve warm.

Tips:

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Feel free to customize the veggies with your favorites, such as zucchini or mushrooms.
• These wraps can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick lunches.

Minute Honey Soy Glazed Chicken

Minute Honey Soy Glazed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with taste that will please the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Pour the honey soy mixture over the chicken and stir to coat well.

5. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until cooked through.

6. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Tips:

• Serve with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
• You can substitute boneless skinless thighs for a juicier chicken option.

Simple Spicy Chickpea and Chicken Salad

Simple Spicy Chickpea and Chicken Salad is a vibrant and protein-packed dish that bursts with flavors. The combination of spicy chickpeas, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables makes it a delightful meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chickpeas, shredded chicken, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.

2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.

3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until well combined.

4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors before serving.

Tips:

• For extra crunch, add some diced celery or carrots.
• This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste.

Quick Lemon Dill Chicken Kebabs

These Quick Lemon Dill Chicken Kebabs are a delightful combination of zesty lemon and fresh dill, making them not only flavorful but also a healthy choice for your next meal. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick dinner, they come together in no time!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.

2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes.

3. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.

5. Grill the kebabs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

6. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
• Serve with a refreshing yogurt dip or a simple salad for a complete meal.
• Feel free to add mixed vegetables to the skewers for a colorful addition.

Rapid Red Curry Chicken with Vegetables

Rapid Red Curry Chicken with Vegetables is a quick and vibrant dish that brings together the bold flavors of red curry paste, coconut milk, and fresh vegetables, making it a delightful and healthy meal option.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.

5. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

6. Stir in the soy sauce and lime juice, adjusting seasoning as needed.

7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Tips:

• For extra heat, add sliced chili peppers when cooking the chicken.
• Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability.

Easy Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash

Easy Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, creating a satisfying meal perfect for any time of day. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients makes this recipe not only nutritious but bursting with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 2 large eggs (optional, for topping)

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

3. Season the chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then add it to the skillet with the sweet potatoes.

4. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.

5. Add the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.

6. If desired, fry the eggs in a separate pan to serve on top of the hash.

7. Serve the chicken and sweet potato hash hot with a fried egg on top, if desired.

Tips:

• For a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
• Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey or use leftover roasted chicken for a quicker meal.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.