15+ Health Chicken Recipes for a Wholesome Meal Plan

15+ Health Chicken Recipes for a Wholesome Meal Plan

ByCook Maniac Team Reading Time: 12 minutes

Eating healthy does not have to be boring or complicated. Chicken is a versatile protein that can be prepared in many delicious ways, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal. With the right recipes, you can enjoy tasty dishes that are both nutritious and satisfying.

A colorful array of fresh vegetables surrounding a platter of grilled chicken breasts, garnished with herbs and spices

Whether you are looking to lose weight, maintain a healthy lifestyle, or simply try something new, there are countless healthy chicken recipes to fit your needs. These meals can be loaded with flavor while keeping the calories in check. You can easily incorporate fresh ingredients and spices to create a variety of tasty options for your table.

1) Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

A sizzling grilled lemon herb chicken on a clean, white serving platter with fresh herbs and lemon slices scattered around it

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a tasty and healthy dish. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs make it perfect for any meal. It’s easy to prepare and great for summer grilling.

To make this dish, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, olive oil, fresh garlic, and your choice of herbs like thyme or rosemary. The lemon juice adds a tangy kick that enhances the chicken’s flavor.

Once marinated, you should grill the chicken on medium heat until it reaches 165°F (75°C). Enjoy it with a side of salad or veggies for a well-rounded meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
  2. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
  4. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
  5. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

2) Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry

A sizzling skillet of honey garlic chicken stir fry with colorful vegetables and a savory sauce

Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry is a quick and tasty dish that makes dinner easy. It features juicy chicken and colorful vegetables, all tossed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. It’s healthier and more satisfying than takeout!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) chicken breast, sliced
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes.
  4. Pour in the honey and soy sauce. Stir until everything is coated.
  5. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for another minute.
  6. Serve hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy!

3) Spicy Orange Chicken

A sizzling skillet of orange chicken surrounded by vibrant, fresh ingredients like sliced oranges, red chili peppers, and green onions

Spicy Orange Chicken is a tasty dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors. This recipe is quick and can be made in just 30 minutes.

To make this dish, you’ll need chicken breast, which you pan-fry until crispy. Then, you toss it in a delicious sauce made from fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and chili flakes for that kick.

This meal is not only flavorful but also can be healthier than takeout versions. Serve it with steamed rice or vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, diced
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat the avocado oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken and cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes.
  4. Pour the sauce over the chicken, stirring to combine.
  5. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

4) Crispy BBQ Chicken Tenders

A plate of golden-brown BBQ chicken tenders with a side of fresh vegetables and a dipping sauce

Crispy BBQ chicken tenders are a tasty choice for anyone looking for a healthier meal. These tenders are easy to make and packed with flavor. You can enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce.

To prepare, start by coating your chicken tenders in BBQ sauce and a little seasoning. Baking them in the oven gives them a nice crunch without using oil. You can also use an air fryer for an even crispier texture.

You can find more recipes online, like the ones from Skinnytaste or Allrecipes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders
  • 1 cup (240 ml) BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Coat chicken tenders in BBQ sauce.
  3. Dip each tender into breadcrumbs.
  4. Place tenders on a baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

5) Balsamic Chicken with Roasted Veggies

A sizzling balsamic chicken breast surrounded by colorful roasted vegetables on a rustic wooden platter

Balsamic chicken with roasted veggies is a simple and delicious meal. This dish combines tender chicken thighs with a mix of colorful vegetables. The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that makes everything taste great.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, marinate your chicken in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor. Spread your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots on a baking sheet.

Add the marinated chicken to the veggies. Bake everything for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The result is a tasty and healthy meal that’s perfect for any night.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary)
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs for 15 minutes.
  3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet.
  4. Place the marinated chicken on top of the veggies.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

6) Healthy Chicken Alfredo

A colorful kitchen scene with fresh ingredients like chicken, whole grain pasta, and creamy alfredo sauce being prepared in a skillet

Healthy Chicken Alfredo is a great way to enjoy a creamy dish without the extra calories. You can make it quicker by using just one pan. It usually tastes just as delicious as the traditional version.

For your recipe, use whole grain pasta for added fiber. You can swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt to keep it light and creamy. This way, you get all the flavor while watching your calories.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz (about 225 g) whole grain fettuccine
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add cubed chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  4. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  6. Stir in Greek yogurt, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix well.
  8. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot.

7) Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

A plate of buffalo chicken lettuce wraps with colorful vegetables and a side of dipping sauce

Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are a tasty and healthy option. They are quick to make and perfect for a fun meal. You can whip them up in just 30 minutes.

Start with cooked chicken coated in buffalo sauce. Use lettuce leaves to wrap it up for a low-carb choice. You can add toppings like shredded carrots or celery for extra crunch.

These wraps are great for parties or game days. They offer the satisfying flavor of buffalo chicken without the extra carbs from bread.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1/4 cup ghee or butter, melted
  • Lettuce leaves for wrapping
  • Optional toppings: shredded carrots, celery, light blue cheese dressing

Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken breast and shred it.
  2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and buffalo sauce.
  3. Melt the ghee or butter and combine it with the chicken mixture.
  4. Spoon the buffalo chicken into lettuce leaves.
  5. Add optional toppings, if desired. Enjoy!

8) Mediterranean Chicken Skillet

A colorful skillet with Mediterranean chicken, tomatoes, olives, and herbs sizzling over a stove flame

The Mediterranean Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and simple dish that you can prepare in around 30 minutes. It combines chicken with delicious ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and artichokes. The creamy lemon sauce adds a bright kick that makes this meal satisfying.

To make it, start by cooking your chicken until golden brown. Then add the sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes. Pour in the creamy sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. Serve it warm, and enjoy the tasty combination!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in cherry tomatoes and artichokes.
  4. Add capers, heavy cream, and lemon juice.
  5. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then serve.

9) Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

A golden-brown chicken breast coated in crispy Parmesan crust, surrounded by fresh herbs and colorful vegetables on a white plate

Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simple and tasty dish. It has a crispy coating and juicy chicken inside. This meal is great for dinner any night of the week.

To make this recipe, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The chicken is coated with a mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for flavor. Baking it keeps it healthy without losing the crunch.

Serve this dish with a side salad or your favorite vegetables. It’s a perfect way to enjoy chicken while keeping it healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free or whole wheat)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or olive oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and herbs in a bowl.
  3. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  4. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Place on a baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through. Enjoy!

10) Chicken and Quinoa Salad

A colorful bowl filled with fresh green lettuce, sliced grilled chicken, fluffy quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and vibrant bell peppers, drizzled with a light vinaigrette

Chicken and quinoa salad is a delicious and healthy choice. It combines protein-rich chicken with nutritious quinoa and colorful vegetables.

You can add your favorite veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. This makes the salad not only tasty but also vibrant.

A light dressing, such as lemon juice or olive oil, enhances the flavors. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

You can meal prep this salad too. Just store it in the fridge, and it stays fresh for several days.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa and diced chicken.
  2. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Toss gently until mixed well. Enjoy!

11) Mango Salsa Chicken

A colorful plate of grilled chicken topped with vibrant mango salsa, surrounded by fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime, and diced tomatoes

Mango Salsa Chicken is a tasty and healthy dish that’s great for busy nights. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, topped with a fresh mango salsa. This recipe is simple and uses ingredients that are easy to find.

You can serve it over rice or with a side of vegetables. The sweet and spicy mango salsa adds a delicious twist. It’s perfect for summertime dinners or any time you want something light and refreshing.

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  3. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
  4. In a bowl, mix mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  5. Top grilled chicken with mango salsa and serve.

12) Herb Roasted Chicken Breasts

A golden-brown roasted chicken breast surrounded by fresh herbs and vegetables on a rustic wooden cutting board

Herb roasted chicken breasts are a simple and tasty meal that you can easily prepare. This dish is juicy and tender, making it perfect for any night of the week. You can use fresh or dried herbs, depending on what you have on hand.

The chicken cooks in the oven, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. You might enjoy serving it with vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub the herb mixture onto the chicken breasts.
  4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.

13) Szechuan Style Chicken

A sizzling wok cooks Szechuan style chicken with vibrant red chilies and fragrant spices. Steam rises as the ingredients are tossed together in the pan

Szechuan Style Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings a kick to your meal. It combines tender chicken pieces with vibrant vegetables and a spicy sauce. The fun of this recipe is the balance of sweet and savory flavors.

To make it, you’ll typically use ingredients like garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppers. The result is a delicious stir-fry that’s quick to prepare and satisfying.

You can customize the spice level to your liking. If you enjoy heat, add more Szechuan peppers or dried chilies.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • Szechuan peppercorns (to taste)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Coat chicken pieces with cornstarch.
  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C).
  3. Add chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
  5. Add bell pepper, broccoli, soy sauce, and sweet chili sauce.
  6. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Enjoy!

14) Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken

A sizzling skillet of lemon garlic butter chicken cooking on a stovetop, surrounded by fresh herbs and colorful vegetables

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken is a tasty dish that’s easy to make. The chicken cooks in a rich lemon butter sauce packed with garlic flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal.

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook them in a hot skillet until they are golden brown. Adding lemon juice and butter gives it a wonderful zesty flavor.

As the chicken cooks, the garlic becomes soft and aromatic. This dish pairs nicely with rice or vegetables. Enjoy a comforting meal that’s both delicious and healthy!

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter.
  3. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Add minced garlic and lemon juice to the pan.
  5. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

15) Zesty Lime Grilled Chicken

A plate of grilled chicken with lime slices and fresh herbs on a wooden cutting board

Zesty Lime Grilled Chicken is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any meal. The bright flavors of lime really make the chicken shine. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

To start, you’ll marinate the chicken in a tangy lime mixture. This helps to infuse the meat with rich flavor. Grilling adds a nice smoky taste that complements the lime perfectly.

Serve this dish alongside grilled vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and tasty dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Mix lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Place chicken in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat your grill to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  5. Serve with fresh cilantro if desired.

Similar Posts