10 Quick and Healthy Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknights don’t have to mean sacrificing healthy eating. With these delicious chicken recipes, you can whip up satisfying meals in no time, keeping your taste buds happy and your nutrition on track. From quick stir-fries to easy casseroles, these dishes are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy wholesome, homemade dinners without the fuss.

Quick Lemon Garlic Chicken For A Zesty Dinner

When you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal, this quick lemon garlic chicken is the way to go. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic come together beautifully, making this dish both refreshing and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish features juicy chicken breasts seared to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a light salad for a complete meal.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
3. Add Garlic: Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest. Stir well to combine, letting the sauce simmer for another minute.
5. Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon slices on the side.

Spicy Chicken Tacos With Avocado Crema

Spicy chicken tacos are a fantastic option for busy weeknights. They come together quickly and are packed with flavor. The image shows delicious tacos filled with seasoned chicken, topped with creamy avocado sauce, fresh tomatoes, and cilantro. Lime wedges add a zesty touch, making these tacos irresistible.

To make these tacos, start by marinating your chicken in spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Grill or sauté the chicken until it's cooked through and slightly charred. While the chicken is cooking, whip up the avocado crema by blending ripe avocados with lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Once the chicken is ready, slice it and load it into warm tortillas. Top with the avocado crema, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. These tacos are not only quick to prepare but also a hit with the whole family!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 small garlic clove
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove from heat and let it rest.
3. Make the Avocado Crema: In a blender, combine the avocado, lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet. Place sliced chicken in each tortilla, then drizzle with avocado crema. Top with diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Enjoy the tacos with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry In Under 30 Minutes

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty meal that fits perfectly into busy weeknights. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the tender chicken pieces make this dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. With a rich teriyaki sauce coating everything, it’s a delightful mix of flavors.

This dish is not just about taste; it’s also packed with nutrients. The combination of chicken and fresh vegetables provides a good balance of protein and vitamins. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.

Pair this stir-fry with a bowl of fluffy rice, and you have a complete meal that everyone will love. Grab your chopsticks and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the bell peppers and snap peas, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Pour in the teriyaki sauce and stir to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired, and serve over cooked rice.

Easy Chicken Fajitas With Peppers And Onions

Chicken fajitas are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. They are quick to prepare and full of flavor. The vibrant colors of bell peppers and onions make this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. You can serve them with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for a complete meal.

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients brings a delightful kick to the chicken, making every bite enjoyable.

Here’s how to make your own easy chicken fajitas:

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving
• Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, sour cream

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the sliced peppers and onion, cooking until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken and veggies.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. Serve the chicken and veggies in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken With Roasted Vegetables

This Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Vegetables is a perfect dish for busy weeknights. The chicken is juicy and tender, coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. The roasted vegetables add a colorful and nutritious touch, making this meal both satisfying and healthy.

The vibrant colors of the dish are eye-catching. You can see the golden carrots, bright green broccoli, and red bell peppers, all beautifully arranged around the sliced chicken. The glaze glistens, promising a burst of flavor in every bite. This dish not only looks great on the plate but also fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.

Cooking this meal is simple and quick. You can easily prepare it in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for those hectic evenings. Just toss the veggies with olive oil and seasonings, roast them in the oven, and glaze the chicken in a skillet. It’s that easy!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Reserve half of the mixture for glazing.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the balsamic mixture over them. Let marinate for 10-15 minutes.
4. On a baking sheet, toss broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 20 minutes, until tender.
6. While the veggies roast, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
7. Brush the chicken with the reserved balsamic mixture during the last few minutes of cooking.
8. Serve the chicken sliced, topped with roasted vegetables on the side.

Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl

This Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl is a perfect meal for busy weeknights. It’s colorful, nutritious, and packed with flavor. The combination of grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and quinoa makes it a wholesome choice that everyone will love.

The bowl features tender slices of chicken, vibrant cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and creamy feta cheese, all sitting on a bed of fluffy quinoa. Drizzling some olive oil over the top adds a lovely richness. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that can be prepared in no time.

Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked quinoa
• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup olives (black or green)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa with 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing.
3. Assemble the Bowl: In a large bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, and olives.
4. Finish with Olive Oil: Drizzle some olive oil over the top and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl warm or at room temperature!

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs With Green Beans

Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs with Green Beans is a perfect dish for busy weeknights. The chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, thanks to the garlic butter sauce. Pairing them with fresh green beans adds a nice crunch and color to your plate. This meal is not just quick to prepare; it’s also packed with nutrients.

The image shows beautifully cooked chicken thighs, golden brown and garnished with fresh herbs. The green beans sit alongside, bright and vibrant, making the dish visually appealing. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be made in under 30 minutes.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for about 6-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until fully cooked.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the green beans and olive oil to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic butter and cook for about 5-6 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the garlic butter over the top. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Crispy Chicken Parmesan With Marinara

Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The golden-brown chicken cutlets are topped with marinara and melted cheese, making them a hit with everyone at the table.

In the image, you can see the crispy chicken served alongside a generous portion of spaghetti. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and flavor, enhancing the dish's appeal. This meal not only looks great but also tastes amazing, making it a go-to option for family dinners.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Breading: In one bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese: Once cooked, place the chicken in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve with spaghetti or your favorite side.

Zesty Lime Cilantro Chicken Skewers

These Zesty Lime Cilantro Chicken Skewers are perfect for busy weeknights. They are quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The bright lime and fresh cilantro give the chicken a refreshing twist that everyone will love.

Start by marinating the chicken in a mix of lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cilantro. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy. After marinating, thread the chicken onto skewers with colorful bell peppers for a vibrant meal.

Grilling these skewers brings out the smoky flavor while keeping the chicken tender. Serve them with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into chunks
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken and bell pepper chunks onto the skewers, alternating between chicken and peppers.
3. Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Honey Garlic Chicken With Broccoli

Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli is a quick and tasty dish perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken is coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, making it irresistible. Paired with fresh broccoli, this meal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

In the image, you can see tender pieces of chicken glistening with a rich sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions. The bright green broccoli adds a pop of color and freshness to the plate, while fluffy rice sits alongside, ready to soak up all that flavor.

This dish is a great way to enjoy a balanced meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Stir until smooth.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken. Stir well to coat and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
4. Steam the Broccoli: While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli in a separate pot for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still bright green.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken and broccoli together, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve with cooked rice.