Quick Healthy Dinner Recipes

Name: Quick Healthy Dinner Recipes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of quinoa; 1 lb of chicken breast, diced; 2 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots); 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Collection

Discover a collection of quick and nutritious dinner recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. These meals are not only healthy but also easy to prepare.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-03T01:38:39.575Z

These quick healthy dinner recipes are designed for those who want to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with flavor and nutrients, they will satisfy your hunger and nourish your body.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Easy to make in under 35 minutes
Packed with fresh vegetables and lean proteins
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Balanced Meal in Minutes

Finding time to cook a healthy dinner can be a challenge, especially on busy weeknights. This Quick Healthy Dinner recipe prioritizes your time while ensuring you enjoy a nutritious meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a satisfying dish that not only delights your taste buds but also fuels your body with essential nutrients.

Quinoa, a superfood, serves as the base for this meal. It’s packed with protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a filling dinner. Combined with lean chicken breast and colorful mixed vegetables, this dish becomes a powerhouse of health benefits, supporting your dietary needs without compromising on flavor.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This recipe is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts. By preparing a larger batch, you can set yourself up for success throughout the week. Cooked quinoa and sautéed chicken and vegetables store well in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy quick and satisfying meals on-demand. Simply reheat and enjoy when hunger strikes.

Meal prepping not only saves time but also helps you make healthier choices. With a pre-prepared meal waiting for you, you’re less likely to opt for fast food or unhealthy snacks. This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled, making it a perfect option for families or individuals looking to streamline their dinner routine.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best features of this Quick Healthy Dinner recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Zucchini, spinach, and snap peas are excellent alternatives that can add variety to your meals without much additional effort.

Additionally, you can easily alter the protein to suit your preferences. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken. This adaptability not only keeps your meals exciting but also allows you to cater to different dietary needs and preferences, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their dinner.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

Ingredients for Quick Healthy Dinner

2 cups of quinoa
1 lb of chicken breast, diced
2 cups of mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Make sure to wash and chop all vegetables before starting to cook to save time.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious and healthy dinner.

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the quinoa and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Add the Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

Combine and Serve

Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and serve it topped with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your healthy dinner with your family or save leftovers for lunch!

Nutritional Benefits of Quinoa

Quinoa is often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. It is one of the few plant foods that provide complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain muscle mass or support overall health, especially in vegetarian or vegan diets.

In addition to being a great source of protein, quinoa is rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. It also contains important vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, B vitamins, and iron, contributing to a well-rounded diet.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Cooking chicken breast can be tricky, as it can easily become dry if overcooked. To ensure juicy chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Additionally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor and moisture.

For added flavor, marinate the chicken ahead of time with your favorite herbs and spices. This can infuse the meat with delicious flavors and make your meal even more enjoyable. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic can work wonders.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Quick Healthy Dinner, consider serving it with a side salad or whole-grain bread. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the hearty quinoa and chicken dish and add extra nutrients to your meal.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, a sprinkle of seeds or nuts on top of the dish can add texture and healthy fats. Additionally, serving this meal with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of hot sauce can give it an extra burst of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas to make it vegan.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work great and save time on prep.

→ What can I serve with this meal?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or some steamed vegetables.