Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Do you want to lose weight fast without sacrificing flavor? Look no further! Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein and can be cooked in countless ways to create delicious, healthy meals. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering chicken breast recipes that are not only quick and easy to make but also packed with nutrients.
From grilled and baked dishes to skillet-cooked and slow-cooker recipes, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick lunch or a health-conscious individual seeking a nutritious dinner option, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and support your weight loss goals. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started and discover the delicious world of healthy chicken breast recipes!
Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon and the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade, coating both sides evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crispy crust, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
– Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken Breast
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of slow cooking with the bold flavors of salsa, resulting in juicy chicken breasts that are perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup salsa (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, diced onions, and sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together salsa, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker and coat with the salsa mixture.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Air Fryer Chicken Breast with Herbs
This recipe yields juicy and flavorful chicken breasts with a crispy exterior, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With the help of herbs and spices, you’ll get a rich aroma that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Place the chicken in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 12-14 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spicy Grilled Chicken Breast with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of avocado with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, hot sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
6. Serve grilled chicken with avocado salsa spooned on top. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Chicken Breast Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Get ready to enjoy a nutritious and delicious stir-fry dish that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. This recipe 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 mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breast pieces and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the vegetables and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return the chicken breast pieces to the skillet and stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breast
Add a tangy twist to your chicken with this simple and flavorful recipe. Greek yogurt provides moisture while the marinade infuses the chicken with a delicious blend of herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Breast Stuffed with Spinach and Feta
A classic Greek-inspired dish that combines the tenderness of chicken breast with the richness of spinach, feta cheese, and creamy flavors. This recipe yields a delightful main course perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix spinach, feta cheese, garlic, 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 spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Chicken Breast Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional wraps, these lettuce wraps are a great option for low-carb dieters or anyone looking to cut down on carbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Optional toppings: avocado, tomato, bacon bits
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cream cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each breast.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare lettuce leaves by washing and drying them thoroughly.
6. Once chicken is done, slice into thin strips and place onto a lettuce leaf.
7. Add desired toppings and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Breast and Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the tender juiciness of chicken breast, all wrapped up in a flavorful bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breast with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Combine cooked quinoa and chopped cilantro (if using) in a bowl.
5. Slice the cooked chicken breast and place on top of the quinoa.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Skinny Chicken Breast Fajitas
Looking for a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional fajitas? This recipe uses lean chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions to create a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the fajitas by placing the chicken and vegetable mixture onto the tortillas and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Breast with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This recipe combines the rich flavor of chicken breast with the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a well-balanced and nutritious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast Brussels sprouts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
6. Place chicken breasts on a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Roast chicken breasts in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with roasted Brussels sprouts.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Healthy Chicken Breast and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious combination that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place on a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast chicken in the oven for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and top each breast with chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Breast with Zucchini Noodles
This quick and flavorful recipe combines the tender taste of chicken breast with the nutritious goodness of zucchini noodles, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 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. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and minced garlic. Season with basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked chicken to the creamy sauce and toss to coat.
6. Serve the chicken breast on top of the zucchini noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Breast Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with the tenderness of chicken breast. This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breast in the bowl and coat with the mixture.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
6. Slice cooked chicken breast into strips and add to the salad.
7. Drizzle with lemon juice and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Breast and Broccoli Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect combination of juicy chicken breast, tender broccoli, and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy golden crust. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and broccoli in butter until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, mix soup, milk, paprika, and garlic powder. Pour over the chicken and broccoli mixture.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and French-fried onions.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Breast with Cauliflower Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken breast with a creamy sauce and a nutritious cauliflower rice dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this meal is both delicious and healthy.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, steam cauliflower florets in the microwave for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk together with heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Serve chicken breasts with cauliflower rice and top with creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Breast and Black Bean Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this simple recipe combining the tender juiciness of chicken breast, the richness of black beans, and the crunch of fresh toppings. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Roast chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat black beans with onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing cooked chicken, adding black bean mixture, and topping with cheese and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Healthy Chicken Breast and Mushroom Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines tender chicken breast, savory mushrooms, and aromatic herbs in a delicious skillet meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 4-5 minutes).
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir for 1 minute.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has almost completely reduced.
6. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Breast with Asparagus and Lemon
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic chicken breast dish, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and brush with the lemon mixture.
5. Arrange asparagus spears alongside the chicken.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to shake up your meal routine with these 20 delicious and healthy chicken breast recipes! Whether you’re looking for quick and easy options or more complex dishes, this collection has got you covered. From grilled favorites like Lemon Garlic Chicken Breast and Spicy Grilled Chicken Breast with Avocado Salsa, to baked and air-fried treats like Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast and Air Fryer Chicken Breast with Herbs, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes are low-carb, gluten-free, or vegetarian-friendly, making them perfect for those on a diet or following specific dietary restrictions.
