Are you tired of the same old routine when it comes to your weekday meals? Look no further! We’ve got a delicious solution that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor: chicken breast meal prep recipes. In this article, we’re sharing 20 mouth-watering ideas that will keep your taste buds happy and your belly full.
From classic comfort food to international twists, these recipes are perfect for busy days when you need a reliable and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with simple instructions and plenty of inspiration. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of flavorful chicken breast meal prep!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy recipe that combines juicy chicken breast with a medley of roasted vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup garlic butter (softened)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic butter and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Roast the vegetables in a separate baking dish with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
5. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through. Add the roasted vegetables to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breast with Quinoa
A bright and citrusy twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs with the nutty goodness of quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary. Brush mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
6. Serve grilled chicken atop quinoa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes
Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken Breast with Sweet Potatoes: A sweet and spicy twist on classic comfort food!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the honey glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a separate baking sheet.
6. Roast chicken and sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Breast Stir-Fry with Broccoli
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Asia-inspired teriyaki chicken paired with crisp broccoli in this quick and easy stir-fry recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and garlic.
3. Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and pour in teriyaki sauce mixture. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, coating chicken evenly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pesto Chicken Breast with Cherry Tomatoes and Zucchini
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of pesto sauce with the freshness of cherry tomatoes and zucchini. Perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with protein and vitamins.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto sauce and chicken breasts until coated evenly.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Arrange cherry tomatoes and zucchini slices around the chicken breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Seasoned Chicken Breast with Black Beans and Rice
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with tender chicken breast, savory black beans, and flavorful rice for a one-pot meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and diced bell peppers for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add black beans, rice, and water to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Serve chicken breast with black bean and rice mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped scallions and diced bell peppers if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Breast with Asparagus
Elevate your meal with this flavorful combination of tender chicken breast and crispy asparagus, all wrapped up in a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and mustard.
4. Place chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the balsamic glaze evenly over each breast.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Toss asparagus with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Spread on a separate baking sheet. Roast alongside chicken for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
7. Serve chicken breasts with roasted asparagus and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Breast with Couscous
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken breast, this recipe combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the comfort of warm couscous. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook couscous according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
7. Serve the chicken breast with warm couscous and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Breast Wraps with Avocado
Elevate your lunch game with this spicy and satisfying recipe. Crunchy tortillas wrapped around juicy buffalo chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies make for a perfect combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce and butter. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or bake chicken for 15-20 minutes, until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by slicing grilled chicken, adding avocado slices, red bell pepper strips, and shredded cabbage.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Chicken Breast with Corn and Green Beans
A classic summer combination, this recipe brings together the smoky flavor of grilled chicken, sweet corn, and crunchy green beans for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While chicken is cooking, toss corn kernels with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill alongside the chicken for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly charred.
6. Toss green beans with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill alongside the chicken and corn for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
7. Serve grilled chicken breast with roasted corn and green beans, drizzled with BBQ sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breast with Feta and Spinach
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this deliciously simple recipe, featuring tender chicken breast stuffed with a savory mixture of feta cheese, fresh spinach, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the feta-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Breast with Rice Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a creamy peanut sauce, all wrapped up in a convenient and delicious package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. Grill or bake the chicken breasts until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Serve the chicken with the peanut sauce spooned over the top, accompanied by cooked rice noodles. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Breast and Mushroom Skillet with Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, and creamy cauliflower for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken; add mushrooms and garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-6 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the skillet and stir in any accumulated juices.
5. Meanwhile, pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles mashed potatoes.
6. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat; add cauliflower and Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy and tender.
7. Serve chicken and mushroom mixture atop garlic mashed cauliflower.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jerk Spiced Chicken Breast with Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering combination of tender chicken breast and sweet mango salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or a lively gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
7. Serve jerk spiced chicken breast with mango salsa alongside.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Breast Fajita Bowls with Bell Peppers and Onions
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the skillet.
3. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked chicken mixture onto tortillas, adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Balsamic Drizzle
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast with Balsamic Drizzle is a flavorful and visually stunning dish that combines the best of Italy’s flavors. Tender chicken breast is stuffed with creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil, then drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the Caprese mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet and place stuffed chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While chicken is cooking, warm balsamic glaze in a small saucepan over low heat.
8. Serve chicken breast topped with balsamic drizzle.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Breast and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
Satisfy your pasta cravings with this rich and flavorful dish featuring chicken breast, steamed broccoli, and a decadent Alfredo sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breast with butter, garlic, and salt until cooked through; transfer to a plate.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; whisk until smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli in the saucepan; toss with Alfredo sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chimichurri Chicken Breast with Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the brightness of Argentinean chimichurri sauce with the comfort of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Brush both sides with chimichurri sauce.
4. Roast potatoes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Grill or bake chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve chicken with roasted potatoes and spoon any remaining chimichurri sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes.
Chicken Breast Tikka Masala with Basmati Rice
Discover the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this simple and delicious recipe for Chicken Breast Tikka Masala served with fluffy Basmati Rice.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp cumin powder
– 1/2 tsp coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
For the Basmati Rice:
– 1 cup Basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt, to taste
For the Tikka Masala Sauce:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook Basmati rice according to package instructions.
4. Grill or bake the marinated chicken until cooked through.
5. In a pan, sauté onions and garlic. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and spices. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve the grilled chicken with Tikka Masala sauce over Basmati rice.
Cooking Time: approximately 45 minutes
Sesame Ginger Chicken Breast with Stir-Fried Veggies
A flavorful and healthy dish that combines the savory taste of sesame oil with the spicy kick of ginger, served alongside a colorful medley of stir-fried vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed stir-fry vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the sesame-ginger mixture evenly on both sides.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve chicken breasts with stir-fried vegetables and garnish with chopped scallions and garlic.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of the same old lunch routine? Look no further! This collection of 20 flavorful chicken breast meal prep recipes will keep your weekdays exciting and satisfying. From classic garlic butter to international flavors like teriyaki and jerk, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Try pairing baked chicken with roasted veggies, grilling with quinoa, or making wraps with avocado. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes have got you covered!
Leave a Reply