Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further! Kale and chicken are a match made in heaven, and when combined in various recipes, they create a culinary experience like no other. From hearty casseroles to refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone on this list of 20 flavorful kale and chicken recipes.
In the following pages, we’ll explore a wide range of dishes that showcase the versatility of these two ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole or a quick and easy stir-fry, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the incredible taste combination that is kale and chicken!
Garlic Butter Chicken with Sautéed Kale
Satisfy your cravings with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter chicken with the earthiness of sautéed kale. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Season the chicken breasts with thyme, salt, and pepper. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Dot the top of each chicken breast with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Stir in chicken broth and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken and Kale Salad
A refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of kale for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toss kale with a pinch of salt and massage with your hands until tender.
7. Serve grilled chicken atop the kale salad, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Kale Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, rich cream, and nutritious kale for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and dried thyme.
5. Combine the cooked chicken mixture with the cream mixture, then pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Kale and Chicken Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry that combines the nutrients of kale with the juiciness of chicken, all wrapped up in a spicy package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add kale and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour into skillet with kale and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Chicken Thighs with Roasted Kale
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple and flavorful combination of baked chicken thighs and roasted kale.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the top of each thigh with the olive oil mixture.
4. Roast the kale: Toss the kale leaves with 1 tablespoon of chicken broth on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and slightly caramelized.
5. Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish with chicken thighs in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-42 minutes
Kale and Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Savor the flavors of a nutritious and delicious meal with this simple recipe that combines tender chicken, healthy kale, and sweet bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, kale, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-kale mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and return to oven for 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Kale Pasta
Quickly cooking up a flavorful and nutritious meal has never been easier! This one-pot wonder combines juicy chicken, tender kale, and al dente pasta in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Kale Soup with Quinoa
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of protein-packed chicken, nutritious kale, and fiber-rich quinoa. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the kale, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the kale is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
8. Stir in cooked quinoa and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Chicken Breast with Kale Pesto
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines tender pan-seared chicken breast with a vibrant kale pesto sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, combine kale, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve chicken breasts with kale pesto sauce spooned on top. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kale and Chicken Quesadillas with Avocado
Elevate your quesadilla game with this flavorful combination of sautéed kale, shredded chicken, and melted cheese wrapped inside a crispy tortilla, finished with creamy avocado slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shredded chicken and stir to combine with the kale.
4. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with cheese and the chicken-kale mixture.
5. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately with sliced avocado on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Kale Stew
A hearty and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight. This stew is packed with tender chicken, curly kale, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups chopped kale (curly or lacinato)
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on both sides, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened. Add them to the slow cooker along with the chopped kale.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and add the thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken and Kale Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of roasted chicken, kale, and spices, making for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and cook until chicken is cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, slice them open lengthwise and top each with the chicken and kale mixture.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Kale and Chicken Fried Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, kale, and rice for a nutritious and delicious meal that’s perfect for any time of day. With its Asian-inspired flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken, kale, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until the kale is wilted and the mixture is well combined.
5. Push the ingredients to one side of the pan. Crack in 2 eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the other ingredients. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the rice is heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad with Kale
Experience the classic flavors of a traditional Caesar salad elevated by the addition of nutritious kale and grilled chicken. This refreshing dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with Caesar dressing until well coated.
4. Top grilled chicken with chopped kale mixture, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Kale Meatballs with Marinara
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the tender texture of chicken with the nutritional benefits of kale, all wrapped up in a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup chopped kale
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, kale, breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
6. Serve meatballs with warm marinara sauce and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kale and Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of kale with juicy chicken and crunchy lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, massage the kale leaves with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat the chicken over medium-high heat until warmed through.
4. Assemble the wraps by placing a spoonful of chicken on each lettuce leaf, followed by a handful of massaged kale.
5. Top with feta cheese (if using) and fold the lettuce leaves to enclose.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Kale Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of chicken, kale, and mashed potatoes for a satisfying twist on traditional shepherd’s pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken, kale, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add flour, chicken broth, and milk to the skillet; stir until thickened.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kale and Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the bold flavors of chicken, kale, and lime crema for a deliciously healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 tacos shells
– Lime crema (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sliced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat tacos shells according to package instructions.
5. Chop grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to tacos shells along with kale.
6. Drizzle lime crema over top and add desired toppings.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Chicken and Kale Quiche with Goat Cheese
A savory pie that combines the flavors of chicken, kale, and goat cheese, perfect for a weekend brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and crumbled goat cheese.
5. Pour the chicken-kale mixture into the pie crust, followed by the cream-goat cheese mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kale and Chicken Stir-Fry with Sesame Ginger Sauce
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of sesame oil with the spiciness of ginger, creating a harmonious balance of East meets West flavors. Savor the tender chicken and crisp kale in this quick and easy stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add ginger and garlic; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped kale and cooked chicken; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until kale is wilted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 delicious kale and chicken recipes! From classic comfort food like creamy casserole and hearty soup, to international-inspired dishes like quesadillas and stir-fry, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find healthy twists on traditional favorites, such as grilled chicken salads and baked thighs. With a variety of cooking methods and flavors to choose from, you’re sure to find new favorite recipes to add to your repertoire.
