When life gets busy, it can be tempting to sacrifice healthy eating for convenience. However, with the right recipes, you can enjoy nutritious and delicious dinners without spending hours in the kitchen. To help you maintain a balanced diet while keeping up with your schedule, we’ve compiled twenty healthy dinner ideas that can be made in under 30 minutes. Each recipe focuses on wholesome ingredients and quick preparation methods, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal even on your busiest days. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, these quick and healthy dinners will make weeknight meals both effortless and enjoyable.
Flavorful Chicken Fajitas
Flavorful Chicken Fajitas are a delicious and speedy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With juicy, seasoned chicken strips and vibrant bell peppers and onions, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, these fajitas offer a healthy and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and full of bold flavors.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Flour tortillas for serving
Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro
Instructions
1. Season Chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken slices with 1 tbsp olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Combine: Return chicken to the skillet. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir well to combine.
5. Serve: Serve the chicken and vegetables with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.
Spaghetti & Meatball Skillet Supper
Spaghetti & Meatball Skillet Supper is a classic comfort meal made quick and healthy for busy weeknights. This one-pan dish features tender meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce with spaghetti, delivering a hearty and balanced dinner in under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect choice for a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s both simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
8 oz spaghetti, broken in half
2 cups water
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Make Meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
2. Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook Spaghetti: In the same skillet, add marinara sauce, water, and broken spaghetti. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
4. Combine: Return meatballs to the skillet. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy your Spaghetti & Meatball Skillet Supper!
Shrimp Orzo with Feta
Shrimp Orzo with Feta is a light and flavorful dinner option that’s perfect for busy nights. This dish combines tender shrimp with orzo pasta, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese, creating a delicious and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Packed with protein and Mediterranean-inspired flavors, it’s a quick and healthy choice that brings a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Orzo: Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook Garlic & Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened about 2 minutes.
4. Combine: Return shrimp to the skillet, and add cooked orzo, feta, parsley, basil, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy your Shrimp Orzo with Feta!
Herbed Balsamic Chicken
Herbed Balsamic Chicken is a simple yet elegant dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a blend of balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, and garlic, then seared to perfection. This dish is packed with flavor and protein, making it a healthy and delicious option for a quick weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
2. Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
3. Serve: Let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Enjoy your Herbed Balsamic Chicken!
Mediterranean Pork and Orzo
Mediterranean Pork and Orzo is a quick and flavorful dinner that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table in under 30 minutes. This dish combines tender pork with orzo pasta, olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese, offering a satisfying blend of protein and fresh ingredients. It’s an easy, wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, packed with flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, juiced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Orzo: Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Pork: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add pork cubes and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove pork and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return pork to the skillet along with cooked orzo, olives, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and heat through.
5. Finish: Stir in feta cheese, basil, and parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Healthy Chicken with Mushroom Sauce
Healthy Chicken with Mushroom Sauce is a quick and wholesome dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This dish features tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, yet light mushroom sauce made with fresh mushrooms and a hint of garlic. It’s a flavorful and protein-packed option that provides a satisfying and nutritious meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté Mushrooms: Add mushrooms in the same skillet and cook until softened for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Make Sauce: Stir in chicken broth and simmer. Reduce heat and whisk in Greek yogurt until smooth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine: Return chicken to the skillet and coat with sauce. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until heated through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Healthy Chicken with Mushroom Sauce!
Firecracker Shrimp
Firecracker Shrimp is a zesty and speedy dinner option that delivers bold flavors in under 30 minutes. Tender shrimp are coated in a spicy, tangy sauce and quickly cooked to perfection. Packed with protein and a kick of heat, this dish is both satisfying and quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a flavorful, healthy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 egg, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
Instructions
1. Prepare Shrimp: In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge shrimp in the flour mixture, then dip in beaten egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Cook Shrimp: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Make Sauce: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and soy sauce.
4. Combine: Toss cooked shrimp in the firecracker sauce until evenly coated.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Firecracker Shrimp hot, with extra sauce on the side if desired.
Creamy Pasta Primavera
Creamy Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and satisfying dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Featuring a mix of fresh, seasonal vegetables and tender pasta in a light, creamy sauce, this dish offers a healthy balance of protein and fiber. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and cook until softened about 3 minutes. Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Stir in fresh basil.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Creamy Pasta Primavera warm.
Chicken Thighs with Shallots & Spinach
Chicken Thighs with Shallots & Spinach is a quick and nutritious dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Tender chicken thighs are cooked with fragrant shallots and vibrant spinach, creating a flavorful and balanced meal. This dish combines protein and leafy greens in a simple yet delicious way, making it perfect for a health-conscious weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and efficient.
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
3 shallots, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
4 cups fresh spinach
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Cook thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Shallots: In the same skillet, add shallots and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Make Sauce: Stir in chicken broth and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Spinach: Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine: Return chicken thighs to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Serve: Enjoy your Chicken Thighs with Shallots & Spinach warm.
Fresh Corn and Tomato Fettuccine
Fresh Corn and Tomato Fettuccine is a light and flavorful dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This dish features tender fettuccine tossed with sweet corn and ripe tomatoes, creating a delicious and seasonal pasta meal. It’s a quick, nutritious option that combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
8 oz fettuccine pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Pasta: Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add corn and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly caramelized. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Make Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine: Add cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Fresh Corn and Tomato Fettuccine warm.
Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet
Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet is a quick and comforting meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This one-pan dish combines lean ground beef, whole grain macaroni, and a cheesy sauce for a satisfying and wholesome dinner. It’s a healthier take on a classic favorite, delivering both flavor and nutrition with minimal effort and cleanup.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 cup beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook Beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Ingredients: Stir in macaroni, beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Serve: Garnish with chopped pickles and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet warm!
Asian Chicken Rice Bowl
Asian Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Tender chicken is paired with jasmine rice and a mix of crisp vegetables, all drizzled with a savory Asian-inspired sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish offers a balanced blend of protein, fiber, and fresh flavors, making it an ideal quick and healthy dinner option.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup snap peas
1/2 cup shredded carrots
2 green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Flavors: Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, and ginger. Cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Cook Vegetables: Add broccoli, snap peas, and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Assemble Bowls: Divide cooked rice among bowls. Top with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve: Enjoy your Asian Chicken Rice Bowl warm!
Skillet Sea Scallops
Ingredients
1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Season Scallops: Sprinkle scallops with salt and pepper.
2. Sear Scallops: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
4. Combine: Return scallops to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Skillet Sea Scallops warm!
Sausage & Vegetable Skillet Dinner
Sausage & Vegetable Skillet Dinner is a hearty and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With flavorful sausage and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, this one-pan dish is packed with protein and nutrients. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy a balanced dinner without the hassle.
Ingredients
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 yellow squash, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté bell peppers, zucchini, squash, and onion for 5-6 minutes until tender. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 more minute.
3. Combine: Return sausage to the skillet and toss to combine.
4. Serve: Enjoy your Sausage & Vegetable Skillet Dinner warm!
Weeknight Chicken Chop Suey
Weeknight Chicken Chop Suey is a quick and tasty stir-fry that’s perfect for busy evenings. Featuring tender chicken and a medley of crisp vegetables in a savory sauce, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a healthy, high-protein meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with fresh flavors, making it an ideal option for a balanced weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, sliced
2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, celery)
1 cup bean sprouts
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions
1. Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Sauté onion and mixed vegetables for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add Sauces: Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch mixture. Cook until sauce thickens, about 2 minutes.
4. Combine: Return chicken to the skillet and add bean sprouts. Toss everything together until heated through.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Weeknight Chicken Chop Suey over rice or noodles!
California Burger Wraps
California Burger Wraps are a fresh and healthy twist on a classic burger, ready in under 30 minutes. Lean ground beef or turkey is paired with creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, all wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla. This quick and delicious meal offers the flavors of a burger with a lighter, low-carb touch, perfect for a balanced and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 large lettuce leaves (for wrapping)
1 avocado, sliced
1 tomato, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
4 slices bacon, cooked
1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook Patties: Mix ground meat with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 patties. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
2. Assemble Wraps: Place each patty on a large lettuce leaf. Top with avocado, tomato, red onion, and a slice of bacon.
3. Add Mayo: Spread a little mayo on each wrap if desired.
3. Serve: Roll up the lettuce wraps and enjoy your California Burger Wraps!
Pesto Corn Salad with Shrimp
Pesto Corn Salad with Shrimp is a vibrant and refreshing meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy shrimp are tossed with sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, and a bright pesto dressing, creating a delicious and balanced dish. This quick and easy salad is packed with protein and fresh flavors, making it an ideal choice for a healthy and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup basil pesto
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
2. Mix Salad: In a large bowl, combine corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cooked shrimp.
3. Add Pesto: Toss the salad with basil pesto, remaining olive oil, and lemon juice until well combined.
4. Serve: Enjoy your Pesto Corn Salad with Shrimp immediately or chill before serving!
Lemon-Parsley Baked Cod
Lemon-Parsley Baked Cod is a light and flavorful dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Tender cod fillets are baked with a zesty lemon and fresh parsley seasoning, creating a simple yet elegant meal. This dish is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy and quick option for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Cod: Place cod fillets on the baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Season: Sprinkle minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the fillets.
4. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your Lemon-Parsley Baked Cod warm!
Grilled Pineapple Chimichurri Chicken
Grilled Pineapple Chimichurri Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a tangy chimichurri sauce and grilled with sweet pineapple slices, offering a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors. This dish is a quick, healthy option that combines protein and fresh fruits, perfect for a refreshing and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into rings
For the Chimichurri Sauce
1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Make Chimichurri: In a bowl, mix parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Grill Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Grill Pineapple: During the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, add pineapple rings to the grill. Cook until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
4. Serve: Brush chicken with chimichurri sauce. Serve with grilled pineapple and extra chimichurri on the side.
Hawaiian Pork Chops
Hawaiian Pork Chops is a quick and flavorful dinner that brings a tropical twist to your weeknight meals. Juicy pork chops are glazed with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, and then seared to perfection. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish combines protein with vibrant tropical flavors for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both healthy and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
4 boneless pork chops
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple Glaze
1 cup pineapple juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened. Add pineapple chunks if using.
2. Cook Pork Chops: Season pork chops with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook pork chops for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
3. Add Glaze: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, pour the pineapple glaze over the pork chops and let it heat through.
4. Serve: Serve the pork chops with extra pineapple glaze drizzled on top.