Are you tired of the same old routine every morning? Do you wish you had more time to cook a delicious breakfast, but your busy schedule just won’t allow it? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 flavorful chicken breast meal prep recipes that are perfect for busy weekdays.
From classic comfort foods to international twists, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and prepare healthy, tasty meals that can be reheated on-the-go. Whether you’re a busy professional, student, or parent, these meal prep ideas will help you save time and energy while still satisfying your cravings. So go ahead, take a look at our top 20 chicken breast recipes below, and get ready to start your day off right!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the tenderness of baked chicken breast, served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Assorted vegetables (such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, and bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each breast.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast assorted vegetables alongside the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
6. Bake chicken for an additional 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breast with Quinoa
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This recipe combines the tanginess of lemon, the aroma of herbs, and the nutty goodness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the lemon mixture.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Serve grilled chicken breast on top of quinoa.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the tender flavor of chicken breast with the sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a tangy honey mustard glaze. A perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey-mustard glaze evenly over each breast.
4. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a separate baking sheet.
5. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Sweet potatoes will take about 45-50 minutes to tenderize.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Breast with Black Beans and Rice
Add a kick of flavor to your weeknight dinner routine with this spicy Cajun chicken breast recipe, served with flavorful black beans and aromatic rice. This hearty dish is perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the chicken is baking, cook the rice according to package instructions.
6. Heat the black beans in a skillet with a little water until warmed through.
7. Serve the chicken breast on top of the black beans and rice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Breast Stir-Fry with Broccoli
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stir-frying, this recipe combines juicy chicken breast with the bold flavors of teriyaki sauce and the crunch of steamed broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and ginger.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. While chicken is cooking, steam broccoli florets until tender.
7. Serve chicken breasts with steamed broccoli and additional teriyaki sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Chicken Breast with Cherry Tomatoes and Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. Pesto chicken breast, cherry tomatoes, and pasta come together in a harmonious blend of creamy and tangy.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pound cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix pesto sauce with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
4. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Toss cherry tomatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Add them to the baking sheet with the chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. Serve chicken breasts on top of pasta, topped with cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken Breast with Corn and Green Beans
A classic summer combination gets a flavorful twist with this easy-to-make recipe. Sweet corn and crispy green beans complement the smoky, tangy BBQ chicken breast for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed green beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss green beans with remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill alongside chicken for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
6. Add frozen corn kernels to grill for the last minute of cooking, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Breast with Olives and Couscous
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and delicious recipe that combines juicy chicken breast, savory olives, and fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the marinade.
4. Top each breast with sliced olives and sprinkle with oregano.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
7. Serve chicken breasts atop a bed of warm couscous.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Breast with Celery and Carrot Sticks
A spicy twist on classic chicken breasts, this recipe combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with crunchy celery and carrot sticks for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 stalks celery, cut into sticks
– 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together buffalo wing sauce and butter until smooth.
3. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with the buffalo sauce mixture.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare celery and carrot sticks by washing and drying them.
7. Serve chicken breasts with celery and carrot sticks on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken Breast with Basmati Rice
This flavorful recipe combines the richness of coconut milk and spices with tender chicken breast, served over aromatic basmati rice. A perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors and classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breasts with curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper until browned on both sides.
3. Add coconut milk and bring to simmer. Reduce heat and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Cook basmati rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
5. Serve chicken breasts over warm basmati rice, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast with Brussels Sprouts
A classic combination of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe is a perfect balance of tangy balsamic glaze and tender chicken breast, paired with the earthy goodness of roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brush the glaze on both sides of the chicken.
4. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss Brussels sprouts with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breast with Tzatziki
This refreshing summer dish is a twist on traditional Greek cuisine, featuring tender chicken breasts marinated in a cooling yogurt mixture and served with a tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
– Tzatziki sauce ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup diced cucumber, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with tzatziki sauce made by mixing all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Breast with Bell Peppers
Add a smoky twist to classic chicken breast with the rich flavor of paprika and sweet crunch of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle with the paprika mixture.
4. Place bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic.
5. Place chicken breasts on top of bell peppers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sesame Ginger Chicken Breast with Snap Peas
This Asian-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of sesame oil and ginger with the crunch of snap peas, all wrapped up in a flavorful chicken breast. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the sesame-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss snap peas with salt and pepper to taste. Add them to the baking sheet with the chicken for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of cheese with the freshness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chimichurri Chicken Breast with Roasted Potatoes
This Chimichurri Chicken Breast recipe combines the bold flavors of Argentina’s national condiment, chimichurri, with roasted potatoes for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chimichurri sauce ingredients.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with chimichurri sauce.
4. Roast potatoes in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender, tossing halfway through.
5. Grill or pan-fry chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken with roasted potatoes and spoon any remaining chimichurri sauce on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Breast with Rice Noodles
A flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired dish that combines succulent chicken breast, creamy peanut sauce, and soft rice noodles. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve grilled chicken breasts with peanut sauce spooned over the top and a side of rice noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Breast with Asparagus
This recipe combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and fresh asparagus to create a delicious and elegant main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and parmesan cheese.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the tops of the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic-parmesan mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
8. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
9. Serve chicken breasts with roasted asparagus.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Maple Dijon Chicken Breast with Roasted Carrots
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this sweet and savory combination of chicken breast, roasted carrots, and a hint of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into sticks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the maple-Dijon glaze on both sides.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast carrots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Grill or bake chicken breasts for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve chicken with roasted carrots and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps with Grilled Breast
Elevate your lunch game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of a classic Caesar salad with the convenience of a wrap. Grilled chicken breast adds protein-packed punch to this tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Slice grilled chicken into strips.
4. Assemble wraps by spreading Caesar dressing on tortillas, followed by lettuce mixture, grilled chicken, and additional cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal prep routine! This article presents 20 delicious and flavorful chicken breast recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic baked and grilled options like Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breast with Quinoa, to international-inspired dishes like Teriyaki Chicken Breast Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Thai Peanut Chicken Breast with Rice Noodles, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and savory or spicy and tangy, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
