Healthy Dinner Recipes with Simple Ingredients

Name: Healthy Dinner Recipes with Simple Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts; 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, sliced; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup corn; 1 avocado, diced; 2 tablespoons lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Inspiration

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-03T07:13:34.869Z

These healthy dinner recipes are designed for those who want to enjoy nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Using simple ingredients, you can whip up delicious dishes that are satisfying and wholesome.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious ingredients that support a healthy lifestyle
Versatile recipes that can be customized to your taste

      

The Benefits of Grilled Chicken Salad

Grilled chicken salad is not just a meal; it's a powerhouse of nutrients. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and the vibrant colors of mixed greens and vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals. This dish supports weight management and muscle maintenance, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals.

Moreover, preparing grilled chicken salad is simple and quick, allowing you to whip it up even on the busiest of weeknights. The freshness of the ingredients, combined with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken, creates a satisfying dish that doesn’t compromise on taste or health.

Customization is another benefit of this salad. You can easily add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This flexibility makes it a perfect dish for experimenting with flavors and textures, ensuring you'll never get bored.

Why Choose a Quinoa Veggie Bowl?

Quinoa veggie bowls are a fantastic way to incorporate whole grains into your diet. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a great option for vegetarians and vegans. This nutty grain not only boosts your energy levels but also keeps you feeling full longer, thanks to its high fiber content.

The combination of colorful vegetables in a quinoa veggie bowl adds an array of nutrients that are vital for a balanced diet. From the antioxidants in bell peppers to the healthy fats in avocados, every bite contributes to your overall health and well-being.

Additionally, quinoa veggie bowls are incredibly versatile. You can swap out vegetables based on the season or your preferences, and add different proteins like beans or grilled tofu. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy a nutritious meal no matter what ingredients you have on hand.

Meal Prep Made Easy

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started.

For Grilled Chicken Salad

2 chicken breasts
4 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For Quinoa Veggie Bowl

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup corn
1 avocado, diced
2 tablespoons lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your healthy dinner.

Prepare the Grilled Chicken Salad

Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Grill the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it.
In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Top the salad with grilled chicken slices and drizzle with additional olive oil if desired.

Cook the Quinoa Veggie Bowl

In a medium saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil.
Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed.
In a skillet, sauté bell pepper, zucchini, and corn until tender.
Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and mix in the sautéed vegetables.
Top with diced avocado and drizzle with lime juice.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious dinner!

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken, start by choosing high-quality chicken breasts. Marinating them for at least 30 minutes can enhance flavor and moisture. If you're short on time, simply seasoning with olive oil, salt, and pepper can still yield delicious results.

Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high before placing the chicken on it. This will help create a nice sear and prevent sticking. Using a meat thermometer can also be helpful; chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling is crucial. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final product.

Exploring Flavor Combinations

Both recipes can benefit from additional flavor enhancements. For the grilled chicken salad, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or toasted nuts for added crunch and richness. Fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro, can also elevate the dish and add freshness.

In the quinoa veggie bowl, feel free to mix in roasted vegetables or different types of beans for extra protein. A dash of your favorite hot sauce or a spoonful of hummus can also provide a flavor boost, personalizing the dish to your taste.

Experimenting with spices can also lead to delightful discoveries. Try adding cumin or smoked paprika to the quinoa as it cooks for a warm, earthy flavor, or incorporate a touch of garlic powder into your salad dressing for an extra kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for convenience. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, both recipes are gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth.

→ How can I meal prep these recipes?

You can prepare the chicken and quinoa in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble salads just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can substitute quinoa with brown rice or couscous if preferred.