If you’re looking for quick and easy heart healthy dinner recipes, you’ve come to the right place! Just last week, my son Jake asked if we could have a “fancy dinner”. I realized that healthy meals can be both delicious and fun, so I whipped up a colorful stir-fry that made us all smile. Let’s dive into some light dinner ideas that are easy, healthy, and perfect for the whole family.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- These recipes are quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- They focus on heart-healthy ingredients that taste great.
- You can easily meal prep for busy days ahead.
- They’re family-friendly and packed with flavor.
Pure Comfort
Nothing beats a warm, home-cooked meal that brings everyone together. These heart-healthy recipes are not just good for you, they also fill your home with wonderful aromas and make for cozy family dinners.
What You Need
- 1 lb 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed – Substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- 2 cups 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced – Use any color you like for a vibrant dish.
- 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – Red onion can be used for a sweeter flavor.
- 3 cloves 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil – Can substitute with avocado oil.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp paprika – Smoked paprika adds a nice twist.
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Feel free to adjust according to your preference.
- 1 cup 1 cup cooked quinoa – Brown rice is a great alternative.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly. This is the perfect time to add your chicken.
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and starts to brown.
- Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Now, add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. You want vibrant colors on your plate!
- Once everything is cooked, mix in the cooked quinoa. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Cook for another minute just to warm the quinoa through.
- Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve your heart-healthy dinner warm, and enjoy the smiles around the table!
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice before serving.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This dish is great for meal prepping; just keep the quinoa separate until ready to eat.
- Feel free to add any other veggies you have on hand, like zucchini or broccoli.
Mix It Up
- Swap chicken for shrimp or chickpeas for a different protein.
- Try different grains like farro or barley instead of quinoa.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for an Asian twist.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a side salad for added crunch.
- Pair with whole grain bread for a heartier meal.
- A light vinaigrette drizzled over the top can elevate the flavors.
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FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients a day in advance and just cook 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. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
What can I substitute for quinoa?
Brown rice or couscous are great alternatives.
Is this recipe suitable for Whole 30?
Yes, this recipe is Whole 30 compliant as it uses whole ingredients without added sugars.
Conclusion
These quick and easy heart healthy dinner recipes are perfect for busy families looking for nutritious meals. With vibrant colors and delicious flavors, you’ll find that eating healthy can be fun and satisfying. So gather your loved ones, whip up this dish, and enjoy a delightful dinner together!
Quick And Easy Heart Healthy Dinner Recipes
Equipment
- Skillet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed Substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced Use any color you like for a vibrant dish.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced Red onion can be used for a sweeter flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
- 1 tsp paprika Smoked paprika adds a nice twist.
- to taste Salt and pepper Feel free to adjust according to your preference.
- 1 cup cooked quinoa Brown rice is a great alternative.
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly. This is the perfect time to add your chicken.
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and starts to brown.
- Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Now, add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. You want vibrant colors on your plate!
- Once everything is cooked, mix in the cooked quinoa. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Cook for another minute just to warm the quinoa through.
- Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve your heart-healthy dinner warm, and enjoy the smiles around the table!