Introduction: Why Choose Chicken for Breakfast?
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and with the right ingredients, it can also be the most satisfying. If you’re looking for a protein-packed and delicious way to fuel your morning, chicken breakfast recipes are the perfect solution. From hearty omelettes to savory casseroles, chicken can be used in various breakfast dishes that are not only nutritious but also incredibly tasty. In this article, we’ll explore 10 mouth-watering chicken breakfast recipes that are quick to prepare and guaranteed to make your mornings easier and more delicious.
Chicken and Avocado Breakfast Burrito
A chicken and avocado breakfast burrito is a savory, filling way to kickstart your day. Packed with lean protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the avocado, and fiber from the whole grain tortilla, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s simple to make, customizable, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to enjoy on the go, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings.
How to Make Chicken and Avocado Breakfast Burrito
- Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 2 eggs, scrambled
- 1 whole-wheat tortilla
- Salsa (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Cook the Chicken: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, season the chicken breasts with your favorite spices (like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper), and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they’re fully cooked through. Once cooled, shred the chicken using a fork.
- Scramble the Eggs: In a non-stick skillet, scramble the eggs over low heat. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.
- Assemble the Burrito: Place the scrambled eggs, shredded chicken, and avocado slices in the center of the tortilla. You can also add a spoonful of salsa or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
- Wrap it Up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly into a burrito.
- Tips for a Perfect Wrap:
- Warm the tortilla before filling it to make it more pliable.
- If you prefer a bit of crunch, add some fresh greens or sautéed onions.
- Experiment with different salsas, such as mango or pineapple salsa, to add a sweet and tangy twist.
Chicken and Veggie Breakfast Skillet
A chicken and veggie breakfast skillet is an easy, one-pan meal that is perfect for those who love savory breakfasts. It combines lean chicken with colorful vegetables, giving you a balanced meal packed with vitamins and minerals. This dish is perfect for a slow, relaxed breakfast, whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group.
A Simple and Flavorful Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup spinach
- Olive oil for cooking
- Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
- Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and zucchini, and sauté until they’re soft and slightly caramelized.
- Combine Chicken and Veggies: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, and stir everything together. Add spinach and cook until it wilts. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve the skillet hot, and enjoy a hearty, nutritious breakfast.
- Cooking Tips:
- You can mix and match your veggies based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Mushrooms, tomatoes, or even sweet potatoes would work well.
- To make it extra filling, top it with a fried egg for added protein.
Chicken and Egg Breakfast Muffins
If you’re looking for a meal prep-friendly breakfast, chicken and egg breakfast muffins are a great option. These muffins are packed with protein and can be made in advance to ensure you have a nutritious breakfast ready to go every morning. Plus, they’re portable, making them a perfect choice for busy individuals.
How to Make Chicken and Egg Muffins
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped herbs (such as parsley or thyme)
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs to the mixture.
- Assemble the Muffins: Evenly distribute the shredded chicken into the muffin tin. Pour the egg mixture over the chicken, filling each muffin cup about 3/4 full. Sprinkle cheese on top if desired.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the eggs are fully set and lightly browned on top.
- Cool and Store: Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Storage and Meal Prep Tips:
- These muffins can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.
- Add different vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to change up the flavor.
Chicken Sausage Breakfast Hash
If you love a hearty and comforting breakfast, chicken sausage breakfast hash is the way to go. This dish combines homemade chicken sausage with crispy potatoes and veggies, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a filling weekday breakfast. Plus, it’s loaded with protein and flavor, making it a great way to start the day.
Making Chicken Sausage from Scratch
- Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Chicken Sausage: In a food processor, pulse the chicken breasts until finely ground. Transfer the ground chicken to a bowl and add fennel seeds, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.
- Cook the Chicken Sausage: Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Form the seasoned chicken mixture into small sausage patties or crumble it directly into the skillet. Cook the sausage for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Hash: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and cook the diced potatoes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and crispy. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook until softened.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet with the veggies and potatoes. Stir to combine and cook for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Top with a fried or poached egg for extra protein.
- For a bit of extra flavor, drizzle with hot sauce or a spoonful of sour cream.
Chicken Breakfast Quesadilla
A chicken breakfast quesadilla is a quick and easy way to enjoy a flavorful breakfast. With its crispy exterior and cheesy, savory filling, this dish is sure to satisfy your morning cravings. Plus, you can customize the fillings to suit your taste, whether you prefer spicy salsa, creamy avocado, or fresh cilantro.
How to Cook a Crispy Chicken Breakfast Quesadilla
- Ingredients:
- 2 tortillas (flour or whole wheat)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- Salsa or sour cream (optional)
- Olive oil for frying
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Assemble the Quesadilla: Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla. Add half of the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and sliced green onions.
- Top and Cook: Place the second tortilla on top of the filling. Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Slice and Serve: Once the quesadilla is done, remove it from the skillet and slice it into wedges. Serve with salsa or sour cream if desired.
- Customizing Your Quesadilla:
- Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or even scrambled eggs to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, include some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Grilled Chicken and Spinach Breakfast Wrap
For a light yet filling breakfast, a grilled chicken and spinach wrap is an excellent choice. This healthy, protein-packed wrap features grilled chicken paired with fresh spinach and a simple dressing, all wrapped up in a whole grain tortilla. It’s a perfect option for those who prefer a lighter but satisfying start to the day.
A Light and Healthy Grilled Chicken Wrap
- Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 whole wheat tortilla
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: feta cheese or goat cheese
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Grill the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill them over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Once cooked, slice the chicken thinly.
- Prepare the Spinach: In a small bowl, toss the fresh spinach with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Wrap: Place the grilled chicken and spinach mixture in the center of the whole wheat tortilla. You can add a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese for extra flavor.
- Wrap and Serve: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and roll it up tightly. Slice it in half and enjoy!
- Variations and Tips:
- Add roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for a more colorful wrap.
- Use a low-carb tortilla or lettuce wraps for a lighter version.
Chicken Breakfast Sandwich with Avocado
A chicken breakfast sandwich with avocado combines the savory goodness of chicken with the creamy richness of avocado, all nestled between two slices of whole-grain bread. This sandwich is hearty and satisfying, providing a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you full throughout the morning.
Step-by-Step Chicken Sandwich with Avocado
- Ingredients:
- 1 cooked chicken breast, sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 2 slices whole grain bread
- 1 egg (optional, for extra protein)
- Salt, pepper, and mustard (optional)
- Olive oil for toasting the bread
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Toast the Bread: Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the slices of bread in a little olive oil until golden brown.
- Prepare the Egg: If you’re adding an egg, fry it in a separate pan to your preferred level of doneness.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Layer the sliced chicken, avocado, and fried egg (if using) on one slice of the toasted bread. Season with salt, pepper, and mustard if desired. Top with the second slice of bread.
- Serve: Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a side of mixed fruit or a small salad for a balanced breakfast.
- You can also swap the whole grain bread for a whole-wheat English muffin for a breakfast twist.
Sure! Let’s continue with more delicious chicken breakfast recipes.
Chicken and Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowl
Sweet potatoes are a fantastic addition to any breakfast. When combined with lean chicken, this dish becomes an energy-packed, hearty meal that will keep you satisfied throughout the morning. A chicken and sweet potato breakfast bowl is versatile and easy to make, perfect for a nourishing and fulfilling start to the day.
How to Make a Chicken and Sweet Potato Breakfast Bowl
- Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes, season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using), and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
- Cook the Chicken: If you haven’t already pre-cooked the chicken, dice the cooked chicken breasts and add them to the skillet with the sweet potatoes for the last couple of minutes to warm through.
- Assemble the Bowl: Once the sweet potatoes and chicken are cooked, transfer them to a bowl. Top with a spoonful of Greek yogurt for creaminess, and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve: Enjoy as is, or for an extra flavor boost, drizzle with a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle with your favorite seasoning.
- Customization Tips:
- You can add other veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add chili flakes or jalapeños to the sweet potatoes as they cook.
Chicken and Broccoli Breakfast Casserole
If you love breakfast casseroles but want to keep things light and healthy, a chicken and broccoli breakfast casserole is the perfect solution. This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and is loaded with fiber and nutrients from the broccoli. It’s easy to make in advance and perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick meal.
How to Prepare a Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
- Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 6 eggs
- 1/2 cup low-fat milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing the pan
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish with olive oil.
- Prepare the Casserole Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add in the cooked, shredded chicken and steamed broccoli. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared casserole dish. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the casserole is lightly browned on top.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- This casserole can be made the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.
- You can freeze individual portions for a grab-and-go breakfast later in the week.
Chicken and Pesto Breakfast Flatbread
For those who enjoy a bit of Mediterranean flavor in their meals, a chicken and pesto breakfast flatbread is a great option. This dish features tender chicken and creamy pesto sauce spread over a crispy flatbread, making it both flavorful and filling. It’s perfect for when you want something a little different but equally satisfying.
Making Chicken and Pesto Breakfast Flatbread
- Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 1 flatbread or pita
- 2 tablespoons pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh arugula or spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Flatbread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the flatbread on a baking sheet and bake it for 5-7 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Cook the Chicken: If you haven’t already cooked the chicken, season and cook it in a skillet until fully cooked, then slice it into thin strips.
- Assemble the Flatbread: Spread a thin layer of pesto sauce over the warm flatbread. Add the sliced chicken and top with fresh arugula or spinach for a peppery bite. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Slice the flatbread into wedges and serve immediately.
- Customizing Your Flatbread:
- For extra flavor, add some roasted tomatoes or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- You can also swap out arugula for other leafy greens like kale or mixed greens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken for Breakfast
Is chicken a good breakfast option?
Yes! Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein that pairs well with various breakfast ingredients. Learn more in our article What Makes Chicken a Popular Choice for Breakfast.
Can I eat chicken breast in the morning?
Absolutely! Chicken breast can be grilled, shredded, or diced for a healthy and low-fat breakfast. Check out Can I Eat Chicken Breast in the Morning? for tips.
Conclusion
From savory omelettes and hearty casseroles to refreshing wraps and stir-fries, chicken makes a versatile and delicious addition to your breakfast menu. These 15 chicken breakfast recipes are not only packed with protein but also provide essential nutrients that will help fuel your day. Whether you prefer quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, there’s a recipe here for everyone.
By incorporating lean chicken into your breakfast routine, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that keeps you energized and full until your next meal. So why not give one of these recipes a try tomorrow morning? Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!