Let me tell you, easy chicken dinner recipes that are healthy can be a total game-changer for your weeknight meals! This recipe is not just super simple but also packed with flavor and nutrition. I remember when I first started cooking; I was terrified of making chicken. But trust me, there’s nothing to fear here! With tender chicken breasts and vibrant veggies, you’ll whip up a delicious, wholesome meal in no time. Plus, it’s the perfect dish for beginners. You can just toss everything together and let the oven do the work. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’ll make you feel like a pro in your own kitchen!
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – these are the stars of the dish!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for that lovely, rich flavor and to help the seasonings stick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – it adds a nice depth without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – this gives a subtle warmth and beautiful color.
- Salt and pepper to taste – don’t forget these essentials for seasoning!
- 1 cup broccoli florets – fresh and vibrant, they’re a perfect veggie choice.
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced – any color works here; they add sweetness and crunch!
- 1 cup carrots, sliced – for a touch of sweetness and a great pop of color.
- 1 lemon, juiced – this brightens up the entire dish with a zesty finish.
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden brown color. So, don’t skip this step!
Prepare the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic begins! Take your chicken breasts and coat them generously with the seasoning mixture. Make sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor. You can use your hands if you don’t mind a little mess—it’s part of the fun!
Arrange the Veggies
Now, grab a baking sheet and place the seasoned chicken right in the center. Then, surround the chicken with those colorful veggies—broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. They not only add flavor but also make your dish look fantastic! Lastly, squeeze the lemon juice all over the chicken and veggies. This brightens everything up and adds a zesty kick!
Baking Time
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once it’s cooked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy and tender. Trust me, you’ll want to enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: You can have this meal ready to bake in just 10 minutes!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and colorful veggies, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Easy Cooking Method: Just coat, arrange, and bake—no complicated techniques here!
- Great for Beginners: Perfect for those just starting out in the kitchen; you’ll impress yourself!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. Each serving of this easy chicken dinner contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
It’s a wholesome meal that keeps you satisfied without the guilt!
Tips for Success
Here are a few pro tips to help you nail this dish! First, always check that your chicken is fully cooked—look for that juicy, opaque white color and make sure it reaches 165°F (75°C) inside. If you want to mix things up, feel free to experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or asparagus, or add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. And remember, letting the chicken rest before slicing is key to keeping it tender and juicy. You got this!
Common Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. It helps in even cooking and better texture!
What if I don’t have broccoli? No problem! You can swap in any veggies you have on hand, like green beans or zucchini. Just chop them up and follow the same steps.
Can I add cheese? Absolutely! Sprinkle some grated cheese over the chicken and veggies during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Definitely! It’s great for making ahead and portioning out for the week. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat!
Learn more about quick chicken dinner ideas
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Easy Chicken Dinner Recipes Healthy for a Quick Meal!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Healthy
Description
This easy chicken dinner recipe is healthy and perfect for beginners. It combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots around the chicken.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy your meal!
Notes
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooked; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- You can use any vegetables you have on hand.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: easy chicken dinner recipes healthy
