9 Summer Recipes With Chicken Breast For Effortless Meals

Summer cooking should be easy and delicious, especially when it comes to chicken breast. This collection of 9 simple recipes makes weeknight meals a breeze, showcasing fresh flavors and quick prep times. Enjoy satisfying dishes that will keep your kitchen cool and your taste buds happy all season long!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Asparagus

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Asparagus is a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer meals. The image shows beautifully cooked chicken breasts seasoned to perfection, resting on a bed of vibrant green asparagus. The golden crust on the chicken hints at a crispy texture, while the fresh lemon slices add a pop of color and a zesty touch.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings together the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. The asparagus adds a healthy crunch, making this dish a well-rounded choice for any weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s quick enough to whip up even on busy days!

Let’s get into the ingredients and steps to make this delicious meal.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture, ensuring they are well covered.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the asparagus around the chicken.
5. Drizzle the asparagus with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

These Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers are perfect for summer gatherings. The image shows perfectly grilled chicken pieces, beautifully charred and garnished with fresh herbs. The bright yellow lemon halves add a pop of color and hint at the zesty flavor that awaits. Grilling is a fantastic way to enjoy chicken breast, keeping it juicy and tender while infusing it with smoky goodness.

This recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues. The combination of lemon and herbs not only enhances the chicken’s flavor but also makes it a refreshing dish for those warm summer days.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Skewers: 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.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl

This Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl is a colorful and nutritious dish that brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The vibrant colors in the bowl make it visually appealing, and the combination of grilled chicken, quinoa, and fresh veggies creates a satisfying meal.

The base of this bowl is fluffy quinoa, which is a great source of protein and fiber. On top, you’ll find perfectly grilled chicken breast, sliced into tender pieces. The addition of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives adds crunch and freshness. A sprinkle of feta cheese ties everything together with a creamy, salty touch.

This bowl is not just easy to make, but it’s also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the quinoa and chicken in advance, then assemble the bowls throughout the week. It’s a great option for lunch or dinner, especially on warm summer days.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a medium pot, combine quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the quinoa cooks, season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Assemble the Bowl: In a bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
4. Serve: Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Quinoa Bowl warm or cold. It’s perfect for a quick meal any time of the day!

Spicy Chicken Tacos with Avocado

These spicy chicken tacos are a perfect summer meal. They are quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of seasoned chicken, creamy avocado, and fresh salsa makes for a delightful bite. Plus, they’re great for gatherings or a simple family dinner.

Start by marinating the chicken in a mix of spices to give it that kick. Once cooked, layer it in soft tortillas with slices of avocado and a sprinkle of cheese. A squeeze of lime adds a refreshing touch that brightens everything up.

These tacos are not just tasty; they are also visually appealing. The vibrant green of the avocado against the warm chicken and colorful salsa creates a feast for the eyes. Serve them up with lime wedges and fresh cilantro for that extra pop!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 cup pico de gallo
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked through and slightly charred.
3. Warm the Tortillas: In another pan, warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until soft.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few pieces of chicken on each tortilla. Top with avocado slices, pico de gallo, and cheese if desired.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Honey Mustard Chicken Wraps

These Honey Mustard Chicken Wraps are perfect for summer days when you want something light and fresh. The image shows delicious wraps filled with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a sweet honey mustard dressing, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. The vibrant colors of the peppers and greens make these wraps not only tasty but also visually appealing.

These wraps are super easy to make and can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. Pair them with some fresh fruit, like apples and oranges, for a complete meal. The combination of flavors is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 4 large tortillas
• 1 cup mixed greens
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear them over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let them rest before slicing.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Assemble the Wraps: Lay a tortilla flat and spread a spoonful of the honey mustard dressing on it. Add a handful of mixed greens, followed by sliced chicken, bell peppers, carrots, and cucumber.
4. Wrap It Up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly from the bottom. Wrap in foil if desired for easy handling.
5. Serve: Cut the wraps in half and enjoy with your favorite side of fruit!

Coconut Curry Chicken Stir-Fry

This Coconut Curry Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. The image showcases perfectly cooked chicken breasts nestled in a creamy coconut curry sauce, surrounded by vibrant bell peppers. The colors pop, making it not just a meal but a feast for the eyes!

The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s perfect for those warm summer evenings when you want something quick yet satisfying. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, and you have a meal that’s ready in no time.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Stir in the coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, and ginger. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the curry sauce. Allow it to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving over rice.

Caprese Chicken Salad

Caprese Chicken Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for summer. The vibrant colors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and grilled chicken make it not only delicious but also visually appealing. This salad is light yet satisfying, making it a great choice for those warm days when you want something easy and tasty.

The combination of juicy tomatoes and tender chicken creates a delightful contrast. Drizzled with a bit of olive oil and balsamic vinegar, it brings out the flavors beautifully. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Here’s how to make your own Caprese Chicken Salad:

Ingredients

• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked. Let them rest before slicing.
2. Assemble the Salad: On a large plate, layer the sliced chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
3. Add Basil: Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top.
4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill for a bit before serving.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Veggies

This Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Veggies is a fantastic summer dish. The chicken is juicy and tender, topped with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. The roasted veggies add a colorful and nutritious touch to your plate. Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and red onions bring a lovely mix of flavors and textures, making this meal not just easy to prepare but also visually appealing.

To make this dish, you’ll want to start with some fresh chicken breasts. The balsamic glaze is simple to whip up, and it really brings the chicken to life. Roasting the veggies alongside the chicken allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed veggies (carrots, Brussels sprouts, red onions)
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the balsamic mixture over them, coating well.
4. Arrange the mixed veggies around the chicken in the dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh rosemary before serving.

Chicken and Pineapple Skewers

Chicken and pineapple skewers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy summer grilling. The combination of juicy chicken and sweet pineapple creates a delightful balance of flavors. These skewers are not only easy to make but also perfect for outdoor gatherings or a simple family dinner.

To prepare these skewers, start by cutting chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Marinate the chicken in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for added flavor. Then, alternate threading the marinated chicken and fresh pineapple chunks onto skewers. This not only makes for a colorful presentation but also allows the pineapple to caramelize beautifully on the grill.

Grill the skewers over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro for a refreshing finish. These skewers are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and olive oil. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
3. Thread marinated chicken and pineapple chunks onto skewers, alternating between the two.
4. Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.