Are you looking for a way to upgrade your chicken game without sacrificing flavor or health? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 favorite clean eating chicken recipes that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and free from processed ingredients. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes showcase the versatility of chicken as a healthy and satisfying protein source.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meal prep ideas or a health-conscious foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered with our collection of clean eating chicken recipes. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover why chicken is the ultimate canvas for creative culinary expression!
Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your dinner plate with these flavorful and aromatic lemon garlic baked chicken thighs. With a simple marinade and minimal prep time, you’ll have a deliciously moist and savory dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each thigh.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Grilled Herb-Marinated Chicken Breast
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful recipe that combines the simplicity of chicken breast with the brightness of fresh herbs. With a zesty marinade and a smoky grill, you’ll be rewarded with juicy, aromatic chicken breasts perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Clean Eating Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This quick and easy recipe is a healthy twist on the classic stir-fry, packed with protein-rich chicken, colorful vegetables, and flavorful herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper slices (any color)
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (low-sodium)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, broccoli, bell pepper, and snow peas to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir in the grated ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Kale
Slow Cooker Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Kale Recipe
This comforting and nutritious slow cooker recipe combines the flavors of chicken, sweet potatoes, and kale for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken, sweet potatoes, kale, onion, and garlic in a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Avocado Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this moist and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of avocado with the tenderness of chicken breast. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together mashed avocado, cream cheese, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the avocado mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
Experience the perfect blend of spicy and sweet with this mouthwatering grilled chicken recipe, paired with a refreshing mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl.
7. Serve grilled chicken with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Clean Eating Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A fresh twist on traditional wraps, these lettuce-wrapped chicken bites are a healthy and flavorful meal option. With only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a nutritious lunch or dinner in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the yogurt mixture and toss to coat.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing cooked chicken onto a lettuce leaf, adding optional toppings as desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Roasted Chicken with Brussels Sprouts
One-Pan Roasted Chicken with Brussels Sprouts: A flavorful and easy-to-make main course that combines the juiciness of roasted chicken with the earthy sweetness of caramelized Brussels sprouts, all cooked to perfection in just one pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Place the chicken in the skillet, breast side up.
6. Arrange the Brussels sprouts around the chicken, cut side down.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the Brussels sprouts are caramelized.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Baked Chicken with Quinoa and Spinach
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, quinoa, and spinach for a healthy and satisfying meal. With minimal preparation time and cooking, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bag fresh spinach leaves (5 oz)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together chicken breasts, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top each chicken breast with fresh spinach leaves.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot with quinoa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Clean Eating Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
This recipe is a nutritious and delicious twist on traditional casserole, packed with protein-rich chicken and fiber-filled broccoli. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup whole wheat pasta, broken into small pieces
– 1 cup low-fat shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, broccoli, onion, and garlic in olive oil until cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked chicken mixture, pasta, and shredded cheese.
5. Top with Greek yogurt and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Rosemary Grilled Chicken Skewers
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and the herbaceousness of rosemary. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss until coated.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Clean Eating Chicken Zucchini Noodle Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect way to get your daily dose of veggies and lean protein. The zucchini noodles add a delightful twist to the classic chicken noodle soup, making it a great option for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken breast or thighs and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the zucchinis, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
A flavorful and healthy bowl filled with chicken, cauliflower “rice,” and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite toppings (e.g., avocado, salsa, feta cheese)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
7. Serve chicken on top of cauliflower mixture, with your favorite toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Clean Eating Chicken Fajita Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the bold flavors of chicken fajitas with a bed of crunchy greens. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 avocado, diced (optional)
– Salsa, for serving (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, bell peppers, onions, garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens and cooked chicken mixture.
5. Top with diced avocado, if using. Serve with salsa on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with juicy chicken and a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the balsamic glaze mixture.
4. Roast chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss bell pepper, squash, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
6. Roast vegetables in the same oven as the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve chicken with roasted vegetables and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Clean Eating Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to get your protein and veggies in while keeping it light and healthy. Made with lean chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of ginger, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Fresh green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the pan; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the ginger and stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and add the chicken broth. Stir-fry until the liquid has reduced slightly and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Kebabs
Add a tangy twist to your kebab game with this simple and flavorful recipe. Tender chicken, infused with the creamy richness of Greek yogurt and the brightness of lemon, makes for a perfect summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Clean Eating Chicken and Black Bean Tacos
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the protein-packed power of chicken with fiber-rich black beans, all wrapped up in a crunchy corn tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the black beans and cook for 1 minute.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a warmed tortilla, and topping with desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Pesto Grilled Chicken with Asparagus
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of grilled chicken and asparagus. A flavorful pesto sauce brings everything together for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Grill asparagus for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
7. Serve grilled chicken with roasted asparagus and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Clean Eating Chicken and Brown Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf is a great way to get your daily dose of whole grains and lean protein. Made with brown rice, chicken breast, and a variety of vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked brown rice
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, along with the brown rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering clean eating chicken recipes perfect for a healthy lifestyle. From baked to grilled, stir-fried to slow-cooked, these flavorful dishes cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Try Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs, Grilled Herb-Marinated Chicken Breast, or Spicy Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa, among many others. These easy-to-make recipes feature wholesome ingredients, minimal processing, and plenty of nutrition. Whether you’re a busy professional, fitness enthusiast, or health-conscious parent, these clean eating chicken recipes will help you fuel your body without sacrificing taste.
