When life gets busy, it’s easy to turn to takeout or microwave meals, but let me tell you, easy chicken dinner recipes healthy are a game changer! This recipe is not just quick to whip up, but it’s also bursting with flavors and packed with nutrients. Imagine tender chicken breasts, vibrant broccoli, and juicy cherry tomatoes all coming together in one dish. Perfect for those hectic weeknights, this meal is not only satisfying but also aligns with your health goals. Plus, with just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a delicious dinner that feels special without the fuss. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients List
Gather up these simple yet essential ingredients to create a delightful chicken dinner:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil works great, adding richness and helping the spices adhere.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a savory depth without the hassle of fresh garlic.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: A must for that sweet onion flavor, blending seamlessly into the dish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Opt for smoked paprika if you want an extra layer of flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste, but don’t shy away from making it flavorful!
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen both work, just make sure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These add a burst of sweetness and color to your plate.
- 1 lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish beautifully.
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven nice and hot! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your chicken cooks evenly and develops a lovely golden-brown color. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than undercooked chicken, so don’t skip this step!
Prepare the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This spice mixture is where the magic happens! Once it’s well mixed, coat the boneless, skinless chicken breasts thoroughly in the mixture, making sure every inch is covered. If you have time, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or even overnight. It really amps up the flavor and tenderness!
Arrange the Vegetables
Now, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the center of the sheet. Then, arrange the broccoli florets and halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Make sure they’re evenly spaced to allow for even roasting. Squeezing the lemon juice over the veggies and chicken at this point adds that zesty touch, enhancing all those wonderful flavors!
Baking Process
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the center. The broccoli should be tender yet vibrant, and the tomatoes will have softened beautifully. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overcooking!
Plating and Serving
Once your dish is out of the oven, it’s time to impress! Transfer the chicken and veggies to a serving platter, arranging them nicely. For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. You can even sprinkle some feta cheese for a delightful finish. Serve it hot and watch everyone dig in with delight!
Nutritional Information
This easy chicken dinner recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy choice! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 150mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions used. Enjoy this wholesome meal guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this easy chicken dinner recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the broccoli and cherry tomatoes for other veggies you love. Zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or even green beans work wonderfully! Just keep in mind that different vegetables may have varying cooking times, so you might need to adjust the timing slightly. Just make sure whatever you choose is cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re craving a little heat, you can easily spice things up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture or incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the veggies. For a smoky kick, consider using chipotle powder instead of paprika. Trust me, these additions can take this healthy chicken dinner to a whole new level!
What sides pair well with this dish?
This chicken dinner is delicious on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, I have some great side dish ideas! A light quinoa salad or a refreshing cucumber salad can complement the flavors beautifully. You could also serve it alongside some whole grain rice or even a creamy cauliflower mash for a low-carb option. Whatever you choose, it’ll make your dinner feel complete and satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy ingredients packed with nutrients and flavor.
- Versatile recipe that allows for customization with different veggies.
- One-pan meal means easy cleanup—score!
- Deliciously satisfying without feeling heavy.
- Perfect for meal prep—great for leftovers!
Tips for Success
To ensure your chicken dinner turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, or even overnight if you can swing it—this really boosts the flavor and tenderness. Make sure to let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking; this helps it cook evenly. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give everything enough space to roast properly. Finally, always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is your magic number for juicy chicken. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re in the mood to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this easy chicken dinner recipe! For a fresh twist, swap out the herbs and spices; try using Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch. You could also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or honey for a sweet and tangy glaze. If you want to switch the cooking method, consider grilling the chicken for a smoky flavor or using an air fryer for a crispier texture. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftovers properly is key to enjoying this delicious chicken dinner again! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe container; they’ll last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, you can pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be sure to cover it to prevent drying out!
Check out this chicken and broccoli casserole recipe for another delicious option!
For more quick chicken dinner ideas, click here!
Explore healthy chicken recipes on Healthline for more inspiration!

Easy Chicken Dinner Recipes Healthy for Busy Cooks’ Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Healthy
Description
A healthy and easy chicken dinner recipe packed with flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts in the mixture.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Arrange broccoli and cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking.
- You can substitute vegetables based on your preference.
- Try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving for extra taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: easy chicken dinner recipes healthy