13 Quick Chicken Breast Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Searching for quick and easy dinner ideas? These 10 chicken breast recipes are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. From simple stir-fries to flavorful bakes, you'll have dinner on the table in no time!

Deliciously Simple Lemon Garlic Chicken

When you're short on time but still want a tasty meal, this lemon garlic chicken is a winner. The bright flavors of lemon and garlic come together to create a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet delicious.

This dish pairs wonderfully with green beans, making it a complete meal that’s easy to whip up. The chicken is juicy, and the lemon adds a nice zing that lifts the whole dish. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make, even if you’re not a kitchen pro!

Here’s how to make this delightful lemon garlic chicken:

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
4. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving. Enjoy your meal!

One-Pan Creamy Spinach Chicken

One-Pan Creamy Spinach Chicken is a fantastic dish for busy weeknights. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts cooked in a creamy spinach sauce, all in one pan. It’s simple, quick, and packed with flavor. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the chicken, making it a comforting meal that everyone will love.

In the image, you can see beautifully seared chicken breasts nestled in a creamy spinach sauce. The dish is served with a side of fluffy rice, making it a complete meal. The vibrant green spinach adds a pop of color, while the golden-brown chicken looks mouthwatering. This dish is not just easy to prepare; it also looks impressive enough for guests!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to heat through.
6. Serve the creamy spinach chicken over rice or pasta, and enjoy!

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and green beans make it visually appealing. The chicken is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that brings everything together. This meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a hit for the whole family.

To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The combination of honey and garlic creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully when cooked. Toss in some fresh vegetables, and you have a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the honey and soy sauce, stirring to coat the chicken evenly.
5. Incorporate the bell peppers and snap peas, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Quick And Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki chicken skewers are a fantastic option for busy weeknights. They're quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The image shows beautifully grilled chicken skewers, glistening with a rich teriyaki glaze. Topped with green onions and sesame seeds, they look as good as they taste!

These skewers are perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. You can easily whip them up in under 30 minutes. Just marinate the chicken, thread it onto skewers, and grill until perfectly cooked. Serve them with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Cover and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
4. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

Zesty Mediterranean Chicken Wraps

These Zesty Mediterranean Chicken Wraps are perfect for busy weeknights. They are quick to prepare and packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The image showcases a delicious wrap filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a hint of Mediterranean flair.

To make these wraps, start with a soft tortilla. Layer it with grilled chicken slices, crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. A drizzle of tangy dressing ties everything together, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.

These wraps are not only easy to assemble but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite veggies or sauces. They are great for lunch or dinner and can even be made ahead for meal prep!

Ingredients

• 2 large tortillas
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
• 1 cup fresh spinach or lettuce
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons tzatziki sauce or dressing of choice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread tzatziki sauce evenly over the tortilla.
3. Layer the spinach, chicken slices, diced tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese on top.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Roll the tortilla tightly, folding in the sides as you go.
6. Slice the wrap in half and serve immediately or wrap in foil for later.

Lemon Basil Pesto Chicken Bake

This Lemon Basil Pesto Chicken Bake is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It combines juicy chicken breasts with vibrant basil pesto, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. The colors in the dish are as appealing as the flavors, making it a feast for the eyes and the palate.

The chicken is baked to perfection, allowing the pesto to infuse every bite with its aromatic goodness. Fresh basil leaves and slices of ripe tomatoes add a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the cheese and pesto. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

To make this recipe, gather your ingredients and follow the simple steps below. You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the chicken breasts.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and arrange the cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
5. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for added flavor.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Quick And Hearty Chicken And Broccoli Casserole

This chicken and broccoli casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The golden, cheesy topping adds a delightful crunch, making it a hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy sauce creates a comforting meal that’s sure to please. Serve it with a simple salad on the side for a complete dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup crushed crackers (for topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture.
5. Top with crushed crackers for added crunch.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Simple Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken is a staple for busy weeknights, and this lemon herb version is both quick and delicious. The image shows beautifully grilled chicken breasts, perfectly charred and garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices. This dish is not just easy to make, but it also brings a burst of flavor that everyone will love.

The marinade is simple, using ingredients you likely have on hand. Lemon juice adds brightness, while herbs like rosemary and thyme bring in a fresh taste. This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, making it versatile for any meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish.

Simple Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

When you’re short on time but still want a delicious meal, garlic butter chicken thighs are a perfect choice. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. The golden-brown crust on the chicken thighs, combined with the rich garlic butter sauce, makes for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

In the image, you can see perfectly seared chicken thighs, glistening with garlic butter and garnished with fresh herbs. The warm, inviting colors of the dish make it look as delicious as it tastes. Pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 7-8 minutes, basting with the garlic butter.
5. Once cooked through, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Flavor-Packed Chicken Tacos In A Snap

These chicken tacos are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. They come together quickly and are bursting with flavor. The image shows three soft tacos filled with perfectly seasoned chicken, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese. A side of salsa and lime wedges adds a nice touch, making it a complete meal.

To make these tacos, start with cooked chicken breast. You can grill, bake, or sauté it with your favorite spices. Then, layer the chicken in warm tortillas and top with your choice of fresh ingredients. The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite delightful.

These tacos are not just quick to prepare; they are also customizable. You can add avocado, corn, or even your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 6 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving
• Salsa for dipping

Instructions

1. Heat the shredded chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle with taco seasoning and stir until well combined and heated through.
2. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until soft.
3. Assemble the tacos by placing a portion of the seasoned chicken in each tortilla.
4. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and cilantro if using.
5. Serve with lime wedges and salsa on the side for dipping. Enjoy your quick and tasty chicken tacos!

One-Pan Chicken And Vegetable Stir-Fry

One-Pan Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with colorful vegetables, making it not only quick to prepare but also visually appealing. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and onions adds a fresh crunch, while the chicken provides a hearty protein boost.

Cooking everything in one pan means less cleanup, which is a win for any weeknight meal. The stir-fry method keeps the chicken tender and the veggies crisp, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, you can easily customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.

This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something healthy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Just chop, toss, and let the pan do the work!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add the bell peppers and broccoli, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce and vegetables. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles, and enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Quick And Easy Chicken Caesar Salad

Chicken Caesar Salad is a classic that never disappoints. It combines tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a rich Caesar dressing. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

The image shows a vibrant bowl filled with fresh romaine lettuce topped with slices of grilled chicken, croutons, and shavings of Parmesan cheese. The colors pop against the light green background, making it look inviting and delicious.

Making this salad is simple and takes just a few minutes. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing to your taste. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for grilling

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing. Toss until the lettuce is well coated.
4. Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad, followed by croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick and easy Chicken Caesar Salad!

Spicy Chicken Quesadillas In No Time

Spicy chicken quesadillas are a fantastic option for busy weeknights. They’re quick to make and packed with flavor. The image shows perfectly golden quesadillas, filled with tender chicken and melted cheese. They are served with a side of salsa and sour cream, making them even more delicious.

This recipe is all about simplicity. You can whip these up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic evenings. Just grab some cooked chicken, tortillas, cheese, and your favorite spices. The result is a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salsa and sour cream for serving

Instructions

1. Mix the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the spices.
2. Assemble the Quesadillas: Place a tortilla in a skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle half of the tortilla with cheese, add a portion of the spiced chicken, and top with more cheese. Fold the tortilla in half.
3. Cook: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Cook the quesadilla for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve: Cut the quesadilla into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream on the side.