Best Healthy Dinner Recipes Using Chicken

If you’re looking for the best healthy dinner recipes, you’ve come to the right place! I remember one night when my son, Jake, decided he wanted to help cook dinner. We ended up with a delicious chicken stir-fry that was not only healthy but also a hit with the whole family. Chicken is such a versatile ingredient, and these recipes will keep your weeknight meals exciting and nutritious.

Table of Contents

Why Youโ€™ll Love It

  • They’re easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • You can customize them with your favorite veggies.
  • They pack a punch of flavor without the guilt.

Pure Comfort

These chicken dinner recipes are pure comfort food. They warm your heart and fill your belly, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

What You Need

  • 1 lb 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil – Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 1 large bell pepper, sliced – Any color works well.
  • 1 1 medium zucchini, sliced – For added nutrition.
  • 1 1 medium yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness to the dish.
  • 3 cloves 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic brings great flavor.
  • 1 tsp 1 tsp dried oregano – Can substitute with Italian seasoning.
  • 1 tsp 1 tsp paprika – For a smoky flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust based on preference.
  • 1 cup 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth – For moisture and flavor.
  • 2 cups 2 cups cooked brown rice – Can substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Time to Cook

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

  1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers and you can smell its rich aroma. This step sets the stage for delicious flavors.
  2. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sautรฉ for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
  3. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You’ll notice the garlic turning golden and fragrant, which is a sign that it’s time to add the chicken.
  4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165ยฐF.
  5. Once the chicken is cooked, add the sliced bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender but still vibrant. This adds a beautiful color to your dish.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The broth will create a lovely sauce that brings everything together.
  7. Finally, serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of cooked brown rice. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like. This dish looks as good as it tastes, and it’s sure to impress your family!

Make It Perfect

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite spices for an hour before cooking.
  • Always taste as you go! Adjust seasonings to your liking.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Mix It Up

  • Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Add other vegetables like broccoli or carrots for more variety.
  • Try different grains like quinoa or farro for a unique twist.

Perfect Partners

  • Serve with a side salad for a refreshing crunch.
  • Pair with a light white wine for a delightful dinner experience.
  • Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day in advance and cook it when you’re ready.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or water with a bit of seasoning as a substitute.

Conclusion

These best healthy dinner recipes using chicken are perfect for easy weeknight meals that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and quick prep, you’ll have a nutritious dinner on the table in no time. So grab your apron and get cooking!

Close-up of chicken stir-fry with veggies over brown rice.

Best Healthy Dinner Recipes Using Chicken

These best healthy dinner recipes using chicken are perfect for easy weeknight meals that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and quick prep, you’ll have a nutritious dinner on the table in no time.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 1 large bell pepper, sliced Any color works well.
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced For added nutrition.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced Adds sweetness to the dish.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic brings great flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Can substitute with Italian seasoning.
  • 1 tsp paprika For a smoky flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste.
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth For moisture and flavor.
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice Can substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Instructions
 

  • Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers and you can smell its rich aroma. This step sets the stage for delicious flavors.
  • Add the diced onion to the skillet and sautรฉ for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
  • Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You’ll notice the garlic turning golden and fragrant, which is a sign that it’s time to add the chicken.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165ยฐF.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, add the sliced bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender but still vibrant. This adds a beautiful color to your dish.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The broth will create a lovely sauce that brings everything together.
  • Finally, serve the chicken and veggies over a bed of cooked brown rice. Garnish with fresh herbs if you like. This dish looks as good as it tastes, and it’s sure to impress your family!
Keyword Chicken, dinner, easy, family, Healthy