Are you following a Whole30 diet or just looking for healthy and delicious chicken recipe ideas? Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Whole30 program or simply trying to eat cleaner, incorporating more whole foods into your meals can be a game-changer. One of the easiest ways to do this is by cooking up some flavorful and nutritious chicken dishes that are free from grains, dairy, legumes, added sugars, and processed ingredients.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouthwatering Whole30 chicken recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your dietary goals. From classic grilled chicken to creamy curries and hearty casseroles, these recipes showcase the versatility of chicken and the creativity that’s possible when cooking with a clean ingredient list.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilling game with this refreshing and flavorful Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe! Marinate chicken breasts in a zesty lemon-herb mixture, then grill to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Rosemary Roasted Chicken
A classic combination of flavors, this Garlic Rosemary Roasted Chicken recipe is a simple yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 lemon, quartered
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters and drizzle olive oil over the top of the chicken.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Coconut Curry Chicken
This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the bold flavors of Indian spices, creating a spicy and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken cooked in a creamy curry sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
4. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let sauce thicken (about 10-15 minutes).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or with naan.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Lime Chicken Salad
Brighten up your day with this refreshing salad that combines the creaminess of avocado, zing of lime juice, and tender grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, sliced chicken, and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze lime juice over the salad.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Paleo Chicken Stir Fry
This recipe is a tasty and healthy paleo-friendly twist on traditional chicken stir fry. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful meal that’s free from grains, dairy, and processed foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons paleo-friendly stir-fry sauce (make your own or use store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry sauce; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return chicken to skillet; stir to combine with vegetable mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, and lemon zest.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with garlic and salt.
4. Pour the lemon mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional chicken skewers, these cilantro lime chicken skewers are perfect for a summer barbecue or quick weeknight dinner. Brightened with the citrusy zing of lime juice and the herbaceousness of cilantro, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cilantro, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss 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, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional wraps, these Thai Basil Chicken Lettuce Wraps are perfect for a quick and easy meal. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy lettuce, and aromatic basil is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as lettuce, arugula, and cilantro)
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 large lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.
2. Add chicken breast to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken onto a lettuce leaf, followed by chopped Thai basil leaves and a sprinkle of soy sauce (optional).
5. Cook time: 10-12 minutes.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this mouthwatering one-pan chicken dish, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms), sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add mixed vegetables and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Return chicken to the pan and spoon some of the vegetable mixture over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Zoodle Soup
This classic recipe combines juicy chicken, soft noodles, and a medley of vegetables in a warm, savory broth perfect for a cozy night in. With its easy preparation and gentle flavors, it’s an ideal meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 8 ounces zucchini noodles (zoodles)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the chicken, zoodles, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe featuring sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the tomato mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Get ready to spice up your game day with this unique and delicious twist on traditional stuffed sweet potatoes!
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot works well)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, sour cream, or additional hot sauce for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft when pierced with a fork.
3. Meanwhile, mix cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and blue cheese in a bowl.
4. When sweet potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to make room for filling.
5. Stuff each sweet potato with the buffalo chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the four sweet potatoes.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished as desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines chicken, cauliflower, and creamy rice for a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep work and a short cooking time, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower rice (steamed or cooked)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add cauliflower rice, butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
5. In a separate pot, cook the white rice according to package instructions.
6. Combine cooked chicken mixture with cooked rice in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Whole 30 Chicken Fajita Bowls
Get ready to spice up your Whole30 meal routine with this flavorful and nutritious recipe! Tender chicken, crispy bell peppers, and savory spices come together in a delicious bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced radishes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and mix until coated.
3. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
5. Divide mixed greens among bowls. Top with chicken, bell pepper mixture, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Apple Sausage Hash
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this hearty dish, featuring crispy chicken apple sausage, tender potatoes, and caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken apple sausage, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, spread the onion slices on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
5. To assemble, place the cooked sausage on top of the potatoes and onions. Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken and Veggies
This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a stress-free Sunday evening meal. With just one pan to clean, you’ll love the simplicity of this flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed veggies (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and onions)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken on one half of the pan, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Arrange the mixed veggies on the other half of the pan.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and veggies, then sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Pesto Zucchini Noodles
This summer-inspired recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of a weeknight dinner. Fresh zucchini noodles, juicy chicken, and creamy pesto come together in a dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb 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 375°F (190°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
3. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (if desired). Grill or bake until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pesto sauce and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with the pesto sauce.
6. Serve the chicken on top of the zucchini noodles and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Avocado Stuffed Peppers
Fresh bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of cooked chicken, creamy avocado, and savory spices make for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 bowl, combine chicken, avocado, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-avocado mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 18 flavorful Whole30 chicken recipes! From classic dishes like lemon herb grilled chicken and garlic rosemary roasted chicken, to international-inspired flavors like spicy coconut curry chicken and Thai basil chicken lettuce wraps. You’ll also find healthier twists on comfort foods, such as baked lemon pepper chicken and sun-dried tomato stuffed chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these Whole30-compliant recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet in check.
