Are you looking for delicious and healthy ways to incorporate more protein into your diet? Look no further! Chicken is a great source of lean protein, and when cooked with the right ingredients and techniques, it can be both nutritious and flavorful. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering low cholesterol chicken recipes that are perfect for anyone looking to make healthy choices without sacrificing taste.
From classic dishes like grilled lemon herb chicken breast and baked garlic parmesan chicken thighs, to international-inspired creations like spicy lime grilled chicken skewers and chicken and black bean tacos with fresh salsa, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meal ideas or a health-conscious individual seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to impress.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing and flavorful recipe. With the perfect blend of citrusy lemon, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken breast, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
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
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with the lemon herb mixture.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
A flavorful twist on classic chicken thighs, this recipe combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of roasted garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the garlic-oil mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs over the chicken, making sure they stick to the meat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Vegetable Stew
Looking for a comforting and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare? This slow cooker chicken and vegetable stew is a perfect solution. With minimal effort, you’ll get a deliciously flavorful dish packed with protein-rich chicken, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, red bell pepper, and canned tomatoes.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory taste of chicken and quinoa. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa and set aside.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-quinoa mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers
Add a burst of flavor to your grilling routine with these zesty chicken skewers, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stir-Fry with Brown Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tender spinach, and savory brown rice for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this stir-fry is packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, garlic, and spinach. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the chicken and spinach mixture over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that yields crispy and juicy chicken tenders infused with a blend of aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss chicken strips with the herb mixture until coated evenly.
4. Dip each coated strip into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange chicken tenders in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Avocado Salad Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these refreshing wraps, packed with juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, avocado, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper.
3. Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 1/2 cup of the salad mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and thyme. Pour over the casserole mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Top with panko breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Steamed Broccoli
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and flavorful dish! This recipe combines the tanginess of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the tenderness of chicken, served alongside a burst of green steamed broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch of broccoli, trimmed into florets
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, steam broccoli florets in a pot of boiling water for 4-6 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve chicken breasts alongside steamed broccoli.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto with Arborio Rice
This classic Italian dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy risotto, all wrapped up in a rich Arborio rice. A perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
7. Add warmed broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
8. If using wine, add after 3 cups of broth have been absorbed.
9. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until rice is creamy and tender.
10. Serve with Parmesan cheese and enjoy!
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Tacos with Fresh Salsa
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the richness of chicken and black beans with the brightness of fresh salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh salsa (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the black beans and cook until heated through.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the tacos by spooning the chicken and bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a dollop of fresh salsa.
Fresh Salsa Recipe:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl; stir to combine. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Sesame Seeds
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a perfect combination of protein-packed chicken, crunchy asparagus, and nutty sesame seeds. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or minced garlic for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add the asparagus and cook until tender, about 4-6 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour the mixture over the asparagus and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the asparagus and sauce.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and cook for an additional 30 seconds to allow them to toast slightly.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Sauce
This recipe combines juicy chicken, tender zucchini noodles, and a creamy pesto sauce for a light and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the chicken breast for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until slightly tender.
5. Slice the cooked chicken breast into thin strips.
6. Combine the pesto sauce with the cooked zucchini noodles and chicken strips. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Kale Soup with Barley
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that’s packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. This recipe combines tender chicken, curly kale, and chewy barley for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup pearled barley
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, then add the broth and water. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add the barley and kale to the pot. Simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the barley is tender and the kale has wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Chicken and Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
This creamy and aromatic curry is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors, featuring chicken, chickpeas, and the richness of coconut milk. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add chickpeas and coconut milk. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Bell Pepper Fajitas with Whole Wheat Tortillas
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet bell peppers, and crunchy whole wheat tortillas for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until chicken is cooked through (5-7 minutes).
3. Add cumin and paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing cooked chicken mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Tomato Basil Soup with Fresh Herbs
This recipe brings together the classic combination of chicken, tomatoes, and basil, elevated by the freshness of herbs from your garden. Perfect for a comforting and nourishing meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in chopped basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 delicious and healthy low cholesterol chicken recipes! From grilled and baked options like Lemon Herb Chicken Breast and Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs, to slow cooker stews and stir-fries like Chicken and Vegetable Stew and Chicken and Spinach Stir-Fry, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes are packed with nutritious ingredients like quinoa, sweet potatoes, and avocado. With options ranging from tacos to casserole, you’ll never get bored with the same old chicken dishes again! Try one out today and enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal.
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