When it comes to feeding our little ones, it’s essential to provide them with nutritious and delicious meals that are both easy to make and enjoyable to eat. One of the most popular protein sources for toddlers is chicken, and when cooked correctly, it can be a real winner in terms of taste and texture. But how do you ensure that your toddler is getting the tender, juicy bites they crave? The key lies in cooking techniques and pairing chicken with complementary ingredients that complement its natural flavor.
In this article, we’re going to share 20 tender chicken recipes that are perfect for toddlers. From classic comfort foods like baked chicken nuggets and soft chicken stir-fry to international-inspired dishes like mini chicken meatballs and gentle chicken curry, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Baked Chicken Nuggets with Sweet Potato Mash
Elevate your snack game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines crispy baked chicken nuggets with creamy sweet potato mash. Perfect for a quick dinner or as a fun appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip chicken pieces in egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, boil sweet potatoes until tender. Mash with melted butter and serve alongside baked chicken nuggets.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Soft Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare chicken and vegetables with a tender and juicy texture. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable 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. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and broccoli. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and honey. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Chicken Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
A classic comfort food, these bite-sized chicken meatballs are a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with your favorite pasta or as an appetizer for a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are cooking, heat tomato sauce over medium heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the tomato sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Rice Porridge with Carrots
This recipe is a comforting and nutritious twist on traditional porridge, featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and sweet carrots. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, rice, carrots, chicken broth, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the porridge has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
A creamy and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and melted mozzarella cheese with linguine pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and broccoli. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add cooked pasta, chicken, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Chicken and Sweet Corn Soup
This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend lunch. Made with tender chicken, sweet corn, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups frozen sweet corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large slow cooker, combine chicken, sweet corn, chicken broth, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine, then cover the cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in butter until melted and soup is heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken and Spinach Quesadillas
Looking for a tasty and satisfying meal that’s easy to make? Look no further! This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, and cheese in a crispy quesadilla that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 4 large tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, spinach, onion, and garlic.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese (1/2 cup).
4. Add about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture on half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gentle Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
Gentle Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe
Summary: This creamy curry recipe combines the tender flavor of chicken with the richness of coconut milk, making it a perfect dish for a relaxing evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add onions, garlic, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet or Dutch oven and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve warm over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Chicken and Apple Puree for Beginners
Are you looking for a simple and healthy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner? Look no further! This chicken and apple puree is a tasty and nutritious meal that’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest.
5. In the same skillet, add the chopped apples and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
6. Use a fork to mash the apples into a puree-like consistency.
7. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir in the honey until well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Soft Chicken and Pea Risotto
This creamy risotto combines tender chicken with sweet peas and a rich Arborio rice flavor. Perfect as a main course or side dish, it’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned (5-6 minutes). Remove from the pan.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the cooked chicken, peas, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Pumpkin Stew
Cozy up with this hearty and flavorful stew, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups diced pumpkin (about 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chicken, flour, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the diced pumpkin and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 30 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
8. Remove from the oven and stir in heavy cream (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Tiny Chicken and Cheese Muffins
Tiny Chicken and Cheese Muffins: Bite-sized treats perfect for snacks or lunches.
These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a hint of herbs – ideal for little ones and big kids alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup cooked, diced chicken breast
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, melted butter, milk, egg, and salt. Add the cooked chicken, shredded cheese, and parsley; mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
5. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
These Tiny Chicken and Cheese Muffins make perfect grab-and-go snacks or add a few to your little one’s lunchbox for a delightful surprise!
Chicken and Zucchini Fritters
These flavorful fritters are perfect as a snack or appetizer, packed with shredded chicken, zucchini, and a hint of onion. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: your favorite dipping sauce
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, zucchini, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the egg and mix until just combined.
3. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into 8-10 fritters.
4. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Lentil Puree
This comforting puree is a perfect blend of tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices. It’s a great option for a quick and easy meal that’s also packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken, lentils, water or broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the lentils are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Avocado Roll-Ups
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these bite-sized roll-ups combine the creaminess of avocado with the savory flavor of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 8-10 large tortilla wraps
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, avocado, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well.
2. Lay a tortilla wrap flat on a surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken-avocado mixture onto the center of the wrap, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Fold the bottom edge of the wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap tightly to form a compact roll-up.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients and wraps.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chicken and Butternut Squash Bake
This hearty, comforting dish combines tender chicken with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With minimal preparation and just one pan to clean, this recipe is a weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the squash cubes in a single layer. Drizzle with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with thyme.
4. Place the chicken on top of the squash, leaving some space around each piece.
5. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Bites
These bite-sized morsels are a flavorful and nutritious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with chicken, quinoa, and spices, they’re also surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, quinoa, oats, cheese (if using), egg, and spices. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Mash
A comforting, creamy twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe combines tender chicken with roasted cauliflower and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Toss cauliflower florets with butter, flour, and a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
4. Mash the roasted cauliflower with heavy cream to desired consistency.
5. Shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Combine with the mashed cauliflower.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust cooking time based on your preference for chicken doneness.
– For an extra rich and creamy mash, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Chicken and Cauliflower Mash!
Chicken and Pear Puree
This comforting dish combines the tender flavors of chicken with the sweetness of pears, creating a delicious and smooth puree perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breast and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, puree the pears in a blender with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Add the heavy cream and blend until well combined.
6. Once the chicken is done, shred it into bite-sized pieces and add to the pear puree. Mix well to combine.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Whole Wheat Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast game with this unique combination of juicy chicken and fluffy whole wheat pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp melted butter
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Cook chicken in the preheated skillet for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, drop spoonfuls of pancake batter onto the skillet.
7. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
9. Serve chicken with warm pancakes and fresh herbs (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 tender chicken recipes perfect for your little ones. From baked nuggets with sweet potato mash to soft stir-fries and creamy purees, these dishes are sure to delight even the pickiest eaters. These nutritious meals are designed specifically for toddlers, making mealtime a breeze. Learn how to make mini meatballs, cheesy pasta, and more in this comprehensive guide. Say goodbye to tantrums at the table and hello to happy, healthy eating with these easy-to-make chicken recipes for toddlers.
