If you’re looking for a healthy yet flavorful dinner, the Lean Green Chicken Recipe is a must-try. As someone who loves creating meals that are both delicious and nutritious, I can confidently say this dish hits all the right notes.
Tender chicken breasts are topped with a creamy, vibrant green sauce made from fresh spinach, basil, and Greek yogurt.
It’s packed with protein, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a fantastic choice for anyone trying to eat clean without sacrificing flavor.
Meal prepping or cooking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. I’ve p erfected this dish to be both easy to make and satisfying, ensuring you’ll enjoy every bite.
How To Prepare Lean Green Chicken Recipe?
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Fusion
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: Serves 4
Equipment Needed
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Blender or food processor
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Green Sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup parsley leaves
- 1 clove garlic
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Garnish
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh herbs
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
2. Make the Green Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine and Serve
Once the chicken has rested for a few minutes, pour the green sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side as a dip. Garnish with sliced avocado or fresh herbs if desired.
Special Notes
1. Use Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
The freshness of your greens plays a significant role in the flavor of the dish. Spinach, basil, and parsley should be bright, vibrant, and free of any wilting or discoloration.
If you’re using lemon juice, freshly squeezed lemon provides a tangier, more aromatic punch than bottled varieties.
2. Pound the Chicken for Even Cooking
To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning. This step helps avoid overcooking thinner portions while thicker parts are still underdone.
3. Taste and Adjust the Sauce
While blending the green sauce, taste it midway and adjust the seasoning. You can add more lemon juice for tanginess, extra garlic for boldness, or a touch of red pepper flakes for heat. Customizing the sauce to your liking ensures a flavor profile that suits your palate.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
When cooking the chicken, ensure enough space between each piece in the skillet. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, causing the chicken to steam instead of sear. A good sear locks in the juices and gives the chicken a golden-brown crust.
5. Keep the Sauce Separate for Meal Prep
If you’re making this recipe for meal prep, store the green sauce in a separate container. Adding the sauce right before serving keeps it fresh and prevents the chicken from becoming soggy. You can also use the leftover sauce as a dip, spread, or salad dressing throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts Lean Green Chicken Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Amazing Serving Ideas
This Lean Green Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and complements any meal plan. Serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up the vibrant green sauce.
For a low-carb option, try it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrients and color.
If you’re entertaining, slice the chicken and serve it on a platter with a drizzle of sauce and garnishes like sliced avocado or fresh herbs.
It’s equally delightful in wraps, stuffed into pita bread with crunchy greens, or chopped into a hearty salad. The possibilities are endless, making this dish versatile and crowd-pleasing!
Best Variations of Lean Green Chicken Recipe
1. Avocado Green Sauce Twist
Add ripe avocado to the green sauce for an ultra-creamy and rich texture. The avocado not only enhances the sauce’s creaminess but also boosts the dish’s healthy fat content.
Blend it with the spinach, basil, and parsley for a luxurious green sauce that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Kick
If you love a bit of heat, add a fresh jalapeño or green chili to the sauce. Remove the seeds for mild heat or keep them for extra spice.
This variation balances the creamy yogurt and herbs with a zesty, fiery edge, making it a hit for spice enthusiasts.
3. Mediterranean-Inspired Variation
Infuse a Mediterranean vibe by adding a handful of sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese to the green sauce.
You can also toss in some olives for a salty punch. Serve with a side of couscous or warm pita bread for a full Mediterranean meal.
4. Coconut Lime Fusion
For a tropical twist, swap the Greek yogurt in the sauce for creamy coconut milk and replace the lemon juice with fresh lime juice.
This variation brings a subtle sweetness and citrusy brightness to the dish, pairing well with jasmine rice or coconut rice.
5. Dairy-Free and Vegan Option
Transform this recipe into a vegan-friendly dish by substituting the chicken with firm tofu or seitan and replacing the Greek yogurt with unsweetened coconut yogurt.
This version retains all the vibrant flavors and creamy texture while accommodating plant-based diets. It’s an excellent option for sharing with a crowd with diverse dietary needs.
Healthy Nutrition Benefits
The Lean Green Chicken Recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to a healthy lifestyle. The chicken provides a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety.
The vibrant green sauce, made with spinach, basil, and parsley, is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and antioxidants that boost immunity and support overall health.
Greek yogurt adds a dose of probiotics for gut health and calcium for strong bones. With minimal fat and carbs, this dish is perfect for weight management or low-carb diets.
It’s a wholesome, balanced meal that nourishes the body while delivering incredible flavor, proving that healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying.
Conclusion
The Lean Green Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal that’s both simple to prepare and packed with nutrients.
The combination of tender chicken and a vibrant green sauce makes it a satisfying option for any day of the week.
Looking to boost your protein intake or add more greens to your diet, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s versatile enough to be paired with various sides or enjoyed on its own.
I hope you give it a try and experience how delicious healthy eating can be. Feel free to get creative with the variations and make this dish your own!
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Lean Green Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Sharp knife
- Blender or food processor
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Green Sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup parsley leaves
- 1 clove garlic
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Garnish
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh herbs
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
Make the Green Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
- Once the chicken has rested for a few minutes, pour the green sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side as a dip. Garnish with sliced avocado or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
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