I'll be honest: whether I'm trying to eat healthy or not, baked or roasted chicken is a protein source I'm unlikely to gravitate toward when presented with other options. It's often just so boring and bland, am I right? But I'm eventually swayed when I come across a healthy chicken recipe that happens to be unique and packed with delicious flavors and healthy ingredients.
Here we've rounded up 25 variations on baked chicken, from healthy takes on favorites like fried chicken and wings to different versions of simple baked and roasted recipes. You'll be clearing your plate faster than you can say "winner winner, chicken dinner."
If chicken parm is one of your favorite Italian splurge meals, you'll love this lightened up baked version.
The key to making baked chicken delicious and not boring is making sure it has enough flavor. This lemon pepper recipe is just the ticket.
As an added bonus to being delicious and crunchy like their fried counterparts, these
baked chicken tenders are also gluten-free.
When you're craving a Southern classic like fried chicken, this healthier baked version will leave you feeling satisfied without wrecking your weight-loss goals.
This baked lemon chicken with asparagus doesn't just deliver a delicious main; you've got your whole meal covered with just one pan.
If you've specifically got a soft spot for fast-food fried chicken, this copycat recipe will satisfy without making you cheat on your diet plan.
If buffalo wings are one of your favorite game day eats, rest assured you can still make them healthy if you try this flavor-packed recipe.
If you want an easy yet satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup, you'll be happy with this hearty, one-pan meal.
For a healthier take on spaghetti and meatballs, combine the ingredients of another favorite (chicken parm) and bake to deliciousness in the oven.
Indian food lovers can rejoice: this restaurant-quality recipe is as healthy as it is tasty.
Lavender adds sweet and savory notes to spice up this spin on lemon chicken.
These spicy marinated drumsticks pack traditional Korean flavors in a low-carb meal.
This simple baked chicken recipe proves that sometimes a smaller number of ingredients truly goes a long way.
Rosemary is one of those go-to spices that can instantly make baked chicken a lot less boring and a lot more flavorful.
Simple spices like salt, pepper, paprika, and onion and garlic powders make this simple baked chicken recipe pop with flavor.
The crispy, garlicky crust on these roasted chicken thighs will have you craving this recipe for dinner again and again.
For a more exciting take on lemon chicken, dress up the recipe with asparagus and cheese.
If you're on the hunt for a healthier take on chicken wings and prefer yours on the mild side, these baked lemon pepper wings are sure to please.
Honey mustard, along with simple ingredients like olive oil and salt and pepper, make this chicken dish a surefire favorite for those who prefer sweet flavors.
Spring vegetables like radishes and purple carrots make this roast chicken meal almost too pretty to eat.
If you've got a hankering for a Chipotle burrito bowl but want something slightly healthier and homemade, this roast chicken meal is packed with familiar flavors.
Whether you serve them as an appetizer or on top of a healthy pasta dish, these healthy chicken meatballs are sure to be a hit anytime.
If you're in the mood for unique Mediterranean flavors, hummus, orzo, and feta make for a quick meal that's both tasty and convenient.
Sweet pomegranate combined with tangy goat cheese will make this superfood-loaded chicken recipe a definite hit.
If you're a lover of that famed spicy rooster sauce, you'll go crazy for this zesty baked chicken at dinnertime.