5 Healthy Chicken Recipes for Just $5 a Serving

Healthy eating doesn't have to break the bank! With these delicious chicken meal ideas, you can whip up nutritious dinners for just $5 per serving. Perfect for busy weeknights, these recipes are quick to prepare and packed with flavor to keep everyone satisfied.

Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

These zesty lemon herb grilled chicken skewers are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal without breaking the bank. The image captures perfectly grilled chicken pieces, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and fresh zucchini, all beautifully arranged on skewers. The bright yellow lemons in the background hint at the refreshing citrus flavor that elevates this dish.

Each bite offers a burst of flavor, thanks to the marinade made with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, zucchini slices, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating as you go.
3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of flavor.

Hearty Chicken Tortilla Soup With Black Beans

This Hearty Chicken Tortilla Soup is a warm and comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor without breaking the bank. With tender chicken, black beans, and a mix of spices, it’s a wholesome meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. The vibrant colors in the bowl, topped with avocado slices, crispy tortilla strips, and a dollop of sour cream, make it not just delicious but also visually appealing.

The soup is rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling option for lunch or dinner. Serve it with a side of tortilla chips for that extra crunch. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal that feels indulgent. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in under an hour!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup tortilla strips
• Sour cream for topping
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken breasts and cover with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add Ingredients: Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and shredded chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with avocado slices, tortilla strips, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

Flavorful Chicken Tacos With Fresh Salsa

These chicken tacos are a perfect way to enjoy a healthy meal without breaking the bank. Each taco is packed with tender grilled chicken, fresh salsa, and topped with creamy avocado slices. The combination of flavors is delightful and satisfying.

To make these tacos, start with grilled chicken breast, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. The fresh salsa is made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice, adding a refreshing kick. The tortillas are soft and warm, making them the perfect vessel for all these tasty ingredients.

Serve these tacos with a side of lime wedges and maybe some extra salsa for dipping. They are great for lunch or dinner, and you can easily make them in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, grilled and sliced
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Grill the chicken breast until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let it rest and then slice it thinly.
2. In a bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave until soft.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing sliced chicken in each tortilla, topping with fresh salsa and avocado slices.
5. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Creamy Chicken And Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Risotto is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. The image showcases a bowl of rich, creamy risotto, topped with tender chicken pieces and sautéed mushrooms. The vibrant green parsley adds a fresh touch, making it visually appealing. This meal is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, fitting perfectly into the $5 per serving theme.

To make this risotto, you’ll need simple ingredients that pack a punch. The creamy texture comes from Arborio rice, which absorbs the broth beautifully. The chicken adds protein, while mushrooms bring an earthy flavor that complements the dish perfectly. Pair it with a glass of white wine, and you have a meal that feels special without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast slightly for about 2 minutes.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
5. Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the cooked chicken and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad With Balsamic Glaze

Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients in a colorful presentation. The juicy grilled chicken sits atop a bed of vibrant greens, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. The addition of fresh basil adds a fragrant touch, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze ties everything together with a sweet and tangy flavor.

This salad is not just visually appealing; it’s also packed with protein and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal. The combination of flavors is refreshing and satisfying, ideal for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, coming in at just $5 per serving!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Assemble the Salad: On a large plate, arrange the spinach or mixed greens. Top with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and grilled chicken.
4. Add Basil and Glaze: Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
5. Serve: Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Caprese Salad immediately!