In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to get caught up in a cycle of inflammation, which can have serious consequences for our overall health. Fortunately, incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet is a great way to combat this issue. And what better protein to focus on than chicken? Not only is chicken an excellent source of lean protein, but it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare in a variety of dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious anti-inflammatory chicken recipes that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also support your body’s natural healing processes. From flavorful stir-fries to comforting soups, each recipe has been carefully selected to incorporate ingredients with potent anti-inflammatory properties. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a nutritious meal prep option, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes!
Turmeric and Ginger Glazed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this aromatic and flavorful Turmeric and Ginger Glazed Chicken recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp turmeric powder
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together turmeric powder, ginger, honey, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and place in a roasting pan.
5. Toss asparagus with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
6. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Anti Inflammatory Chicken and Quinoa Bowl
This flavorful bowl is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients, including turmeric, ginger, and omega-rich chia seeds. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that will leave you feeling nourished and comforted.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, kale, and arugula)
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together turmeric, ginger, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breast.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a separate pan, toast the quinoa according to package instructions.
6. Combine the cooked quinoa, mixed greens, and red bell pepper in a bowl.
7. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add on top of the quinoa mixture.
8. Sprinkle chia seeds over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Chicken with Sweet Potatoes
Experience the bold flavors of Morocco with this aromatic and spicy dish, featuring tender chicken and sweet potatoes infused with cumin, coriander, and paprika.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the sweet potatoes on one half of the sheet. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Place the chicken on the other half of the sheet.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken with Spinach
This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the warm, aromatic spices of curry powder, all wrapped up in a delicious and healthy package. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Add onions, garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and paprika to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Return chicken to the skillet and cook until coated with sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Kale Soup with Turmeric
This hearty soup combines the flavors of tender chicken, nutritious kale, and warm turmeric for a comforting and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups kale leaves (curly or lacinato), stems removed and discarded
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the kale, turmeric, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Stir in the coconut milk (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Chicken with Rosemary and Olive Oil
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe yields juicy chicken breasts infused with the earthy aroma of rosemary and the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush the rosemary mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these easy-to-make chicken skewers, served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 bamboo skewers
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat; season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes grilling time)
Anti Inflammatory Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli
This recipe combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger with the protein-rich chicken and nutrient-dense broccoli, creating a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together ginger, turmeric, garlic, and salt.
2. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the ginger-turmeric mixture. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Lentil Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in, this slow cooker recipe combines tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices to create a deliciously flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, lentils, vegetables, garlic, thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure that all ingredients are covered.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, combining succulent grilled chicken with a creamy and tangy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro (if using) in a bowl.
6. Squeeze lime juice over the salsa and stir to combine.
7. Serve grilled chicken with Avocado Salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken and Brown Rice Pilaf with Turmeric
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the warmth of turmeric with the comfort of chicken and brown rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the ground turmeric and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked brown rice, mixed vegetables, and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Healthy Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crunchy vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a wok or large skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell pepper strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, broccoli, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and honey. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Anti Inflammatory Chicken and Vegetable Soup
This nourishing soup is packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and omega-3 rich flaxseeds, making it perfect for a relaxing and rejuvenating meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup flaxseeds
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper in a little bit of olive oil until tender.
2. Add the minced garlic, ground turmeric, and ground ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken, flaxseeds, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A flavorful and healthy meal that combines the savory taste of chicken with the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast Brussels sprouts in a separate baking sheet with 1-2 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Toss Brussels sprouts halfway through the cooking time (10-12 minutes).
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Pan Chicken with Bell Peppers and Onions
Savor the flavors of this effortless one-pan dish, packed with juicy chicken, sweet bell peppers, and caramelized onions. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet; cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet with garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Ginger Chicken with Bok Choy
This Asian-inspired dish combines the spicy kick of ginger and chili flakes with the tender juiciness of chicken, all wrapped up in a flavorful stir-fry with bok choy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups bok choy, stems removed and leaves chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together grated ginger, cumin, chili flakes, and garlic.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
5. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and stir-fry the bok choy for 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
6. Serve the chicken with the bok choy and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Dressing
This salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a quick and healthy meal or snack. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy chickpeas, and tangy lemon dressing will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Discover the power of chicken in combating inflammation! This collection of 18 delicious anti-inflammatory chicken recipes showcases the versatility and health benefits of this lean protein. From turmeric-glazed chicken to Moroccan-spiced chicken with sweet potatoes, each dish incorporates ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Whether you’re looking for a quick stir-fry or a hearty stew, these recipes will inspire healthy eating habits. With options ranging from comforting soups to flavorful skewers, there’s something for everyone in this anti-inflammatory chicken recipe book.
