Recipes

8 easy chicken recipes with 5 ingredients or less: quick, healthy, and delicious

Nutritious, kid-approved meals that prove healthy eating doesn’t have to be hard.

By Iraide Almudí, Carolina Urquiola

SEPTEMBER 22, 2025 11:36 AM EDTSEP 22, 2025, 11:36 AM EDT

Chicken is one of the most versatile ingredients found in kitchens around the world. Its mild flavor pairs beautifully with a wide variety of vegetables, spices, and sauces, making it the perfect base for quick, easy, and tasty recipes. From grilling and baking to stir-frying, chicken adapts to any cooking skill level.

Beyond its versatility, chicken is also a nutritious option. It’s a lean source of high-quality protein, rich in essential B vitamins like B3 and B6 that support the nervous system. Especially when prepared with the breast, chicken is naturally low in fat, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Here are 8 chicken recipes made with 5 ingredients or less (not counting basics like salt, oil, spices, or herbs).

Simple, fuss-free, and full of flavor, these dishes are perfect for busy days when you want something both wholesome and delicious.

1/8

Lemon Chicken Thighs

A classic, light dish that’s full of flavor. Marinating the chicken before baking makes it tender and juicy, while the lemon adds a refreshing, zesty finish. Pair with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

8 chicken thighs
2 lemons
2 garlic cloves
A splash of white wine
2 teaspoons mixed herbs

Preparation:

Peel and grate the garlic, juice one lemon, and slice the other.
Place chicken thighs in a baking dish, season, and add garlic, lemon juice, wine, olive oil, and herbs. Marinate for 1 hour.
Bake at 400 °F (200 °C) for 35 - 40 minutes until golden and crispy.
Serve with your favorite side.

2/8

Grilled Chicken with Broccoli, Zucchini, and Carrots

A colorful plate packed with vegetables. Grilling keeps it light while maintaining flavor, making this dish a great option for a balanced dinner.

Ingredients

3 chicken breasts
9 oz broccoli
2 zucchini
3 carrots

Preparation:

Boil sliced carrots for 15-20 minutes; cook broccoli florets separately for 6 minutes.
Grill chicken medallions and zucchini slices with olive oil.
Serve a portion of each vegetable alongside the chicken.

3/8

Chicken with Broccoli, Walnuts, and Soy Sauce (Wok Style)

A quick stir-fry packed with flavor. Cooking in a wok keeps vegetables crisp while reducing oil, for a nutrient-rich dish ready in minutes.

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts
1 small broccoli
1 spring onion
1 garlic clove
1 handful walnuts
4 tbsp soy sauce

Preparation:

Cook the broccoli for 5 minutes, then cool it in ice water.
Cube the chicken, season it, and stir-fry it in a wok with oil.
Add broccoli, then garlic, onion, and soy sauce.
Stir-fry on high heat, add walnuts, and cook 3 minutes. Serve immediately.

4/8

Classic Chicken Nuggets

Crispy and golden, these nuggets are a family favorite. You can fry them for a traditional version or bake them for a lighter take.

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
2 eggs
Bread crumbs

Preparation:

Grind chicken (or use ground chicken). Shape into nuggets.
Dip in beaten egg, coat with bread crumbs.
Fry until golden, or bake for a healthier version.
Serve with ketchup, yogurt sauce, or barbecue sauce.

5/8

Chicken and Bell Pepper Skewers

Perfect for the grill or barbecue, these skewers combine juicy chicken with red and yellow peppers for a colorful, tasty dish.

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts
1 red bell pepper
1 yellow bell pepper
1 tsp turmeric
1 tbsp rosemary

Preparation:

Cube chicken and peppers. Marinate in oil, turmeric, rosemary, and salt for 3 hours.
Thread onto skewers and grill until golden.
Serve with salad or your favorite sauce.

6/8

Honey Soy Chicken Wings with Paprika

A twist on classic wings, this version combines sweet honey, savory soy, and smoky paprika for an irresistible glaze.

Ingredients:

20 chicken wings (halved)
Olive oil
Honey
Soy sauce
Hot paprika

Preparation:

Mix honey, soy, olive oil, and paprika into a marinade.
Brush wings, then microwave covered for 10 minutes at 800 W.
Bake at 400°F (200 °C) for 10 minutes until crispy.
Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.

7/8

Cheesy Chicken Sandwich with Leftovers

The ultimate comfort food and a smart way to use roast chicken leftovers. Gooey cheese and crispy bread make this sandwich irresistible.

Ingredients:

2 slices of sandwich bread
2 slices of mozzarella
2 slices of cheddar
Roast chicken (leftovers)
Butter

Preparation:

Shred chicken. Butter bread slices in a skillet.
Layer mozzarella, cheddar, and chicken.
Grill until the bread is golden and the cheese is melty.
Serve hot.

8/8

Grilled Chicken with Avocado and Salad

A fresh, healthy option full of nutrients. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish balances lean protein with healthy fats and greens.

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
2 avocados
1 bag mixed salad greens
12 cherry tomatoes
1 tbsp whole grain mustard
Vinegar, olive oil, sesame seeds

Preparation:

Make a vinaigrette with mustard, vinegar, and olive oil.
Grill seasoned chicken breasts, then slice into medallions.
Toss salad greens with tomatoes and vinaigrette.
Plate with chicken and half an avocado, sprinkle sesame seeds.