10 Healthy Chicken Dinner Recipes Under 30 Minutes
Did you know that you can whip up a delicious and healthy chicken dinner in under 30 minutes? In today’s fast-paced world, quick and nutritious meals are essential, and that’s exactly what we’re bringing to your kitchen! Join us as we explore a variety of 10 healthy chicken dinner recipes that are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor, ensuring you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Minute Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry
Minute Lemon Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic with tender chicken. This recipe is not only healthy but also perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Drizzle the soy sauce over the stir-fry and toss to combine. Cook for another minute to heat through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- You can substitute the mixed vegetables with your favorite stir-fry vegetables.
- Serve this dish over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Quick Honey Mustard Chicken with Veggies
Quick Honey Mustard Chicken with Veggies is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the savory flavors of tender chicken with the sweetness of honey and tangy mustard, all while packing in colorful vegetables for a complete meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
4. Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey mustard sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with brown rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Spicy Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
These Spicy Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa are not only quick to prepare but also bursting with zesty flavors that tantalize your taste buds. The combination of spicy chicken and fresh, creamy avocado salsa makes for a delightful and healthy meal option.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well with the spice mixture.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and allow to rest before slicing.
3. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the avocado salsa by combining diced avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic powder in a bowl. Stir gently to combine.
4. Warm the corn tortillas in the same skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or until pliable.
5. Slice the cooked chicken and divide it among the warmed tortillas. Top with the avocado salsa and serve immediately.
Tips:
- For extra heat, add diced jalapeños to the avocado salsa.
- Use whole-wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container and used in salads or wraps.
One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa
One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa is a delicious and wholesome meal that harmoniously blends vibrant Mediterranean flavors with the nutritional benefits of quinoa. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a one-pan solution for easy cleanup.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, spinach, and olives to the skillet, stirring to combine.
4. Pour in the quinoa and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and sprinkle feta cheese on top if using.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or artichokes.
- This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
Teriyaki Chicken Bowls with Brown Rice
These Teriyaki Chicken Bowls with Brown Rice are a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, offering a healthy and satisfying meal. Packed with nutritious ingredients, this recipe makes for a delicious dinner option that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1 cup steamed broccoli
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil to make the teriyaki sauce.
3. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, reduce heat, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve the chicken over brown rice, topped with steamed broccoli, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds.
Tips:
- Adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your preference.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus Skillet
Bring delightful flavors to your dinner table with this Balsamic Chicken and Asparagus Skillet. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar, tender chicken, and crisp asparagus makes for a deliciously satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon honey
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and asparagus, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the asparagus is tender.
4. Pour in the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and honey. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
5. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking.
- You can substitute asparagus with vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- Serve this dish over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Indulge in the wholesome goodness of Creamy Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts, a dish that beautifully marries the rich flavors of creamy spinach and tender chicken. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also delivers a burst of nutrients!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the chopped spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing them horizontally without cutting all the way through.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
7. Pour chicken broth into the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
9. Remove toothpicks, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before stuffing.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.
Garlic Herb Chicken with Roasted Broccoli
This Garlic Herb Chicken with Roasted Broccoli is a delightful combination of juicy chicken and vibrant veggies, enhanced by fragrant garlic and fresh herbs. The balance of flavors makes it a wholesome and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish.
4. Spread the broccoli florets around the chicken in the baking dish.
5. Drizzle the remaining olive oil mixture over the broccoli and toss to coat.
6. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
7. Remove from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the roasting pan.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Zesty Chicken Caesar Wraps
These Zesty Chicken Caesar Wraps bring together the crispness of romaine, the richness of chicken, and the tang of Caesar dressing for a flavorful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, they are sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 whole wheat tortillas
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
3. Grill or cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
4. Slice the chicken into strips.
5. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, Caesar dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss until well coated.
6. Lay a tortilla on a flat surface, add a portion of the dressed romaine mixture and sliced chicken, then wrap it tightly.
7. Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas and serve immediately.
Tips:
- Use grilled chicken leftovers for a quicker meal prep.
- Add other veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Wrap them in foil if taking them on the go to prevent them from falling apart.
Chicken and Black Bean Burrito Bowl
Chicken and Black Bean Burrito Bowl is a vibrant and wholesome dish that combines the savory flavors of seasoned chicken with the earthiness of black beans. Bursting with freshness from the toppings, this bowl is not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Start by seasoning the chicken breast with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken.
3. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through. Remove from heat and shred the chicken using two forks.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
5. Layer the shredded chicken on top of the rice and beans mixture.
6. Top with avocado slices, shredded cheese (if using), and fresh cilantro.
7. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the bowl.
Tips:
- You can customize your bowl by adding your favorite toppings such as sour cream, jalapeños, or salsa.
- To save time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with seasoned tofu or additional beans.
