Are you looking for some delicious and healthy meal ideas that combine the flavors of eggplant and chicken? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic dishes like grilled skewers and stuffed peppers, to more international-inspired options like curry and tacos, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of eggplant and chicken, exploring different cooking methods, flavor profiles, and presentation styles. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity and provide some tasty inspiration for your next meal.
Grilled Eggplant and Chicken Skewers
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and paprika. Add chicken and eggplant; toss to coat evenly.
3. Thread 2-3 pieces of chicken, followed by 1-2 slices of eggplant, onto skewers. Repeat until all ingredients are used up.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through and eggplant is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Parmesan Bake
Eggplant and Chicken Parmesan Bake: A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, crispy eggplant, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. In a separate dish, whisk together marinara sauce and chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of eggplant slices. Top with a layer of chicken and marinara sauce. Repeat for two more layers.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top layer.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Eggplant and Chicken Stir-Fry
Savor the bold flavors of this spicy stir-fry, featuring tender chicken, crispy eggplant, and a kick of heat from chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add eggplant and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and chili flakes. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Curry
This vibrant curry combines tender chicken and eggplant with aromatic spices, perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the eggplant slices and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes per side.
6. Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the curry.
8. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Stuffed Eggplant with Ground Chicken
Eggplants make a delicious and nutritious base for this flavorful dish, packed with ground chicken, herbs, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced in half lengthwise
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Stuff each eggplant half with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly.
4. Place the stuffed eggplants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplants and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggplants are tender and the filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Lasagna
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of tender chicken, rich eggplant, and creamy cheese to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté eggplant slices with marinara sauce until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked chicken, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
5. Assemble the lasagna by layering cooked noodles, eggplant mixture, and chicken-cheddar mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of roasted eggplant with juicy chicken, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of mint. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Grill or cook chicken breast until cooked through. Let it cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted eggplant, chopped chicken, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
4. Toss with mixed greens and drizzle with lemon juice to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Casserole
This casserole combines the tender flavors of chicken, eggplant, and cheese with a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add eggplant slices to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheese, breadcrumbs, and oregano.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the eggplant mixture, followed by the chicken mixture, then the cheese topping.
6. Repeat the layers and top with additional grated cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of tender chicken, crispy eggplant, and savory soy sauce for a quick and easy stir-fry that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook the eggplant slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir-fry with the eggplant and sauce until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Kebabs with Tzatziki
Experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures with this refreshing summer recipe, featuring grilled eggplant and chicken kebabs served with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread eggplant, chicken, garlic, and lemon juice onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, and salt in a bowl.
6. Serve kebabs with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Stew with Tomatoes
Eggplant and Chicken Stew with Tomatoes: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight
This stew is a perfect blend of tender chicken, rich eggplant, and sweet tomatoes, all cooked together in a savory broth. It’s an excellent option for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced eggplant and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Eggplant and Chicken Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted peppers with the savory flavors of chicken and eggplant, all wrapped up in a delicious package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 medium eggplant, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with salt. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken, eggplant, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Pizza with Mozzarella
A delicious twist on traditional pizza, this recipe combines the flavors of eggplant, chicken, and mozzarella for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, brush both sides of eggplant slices with olive oil and cook until tender.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Arrange tomato sauce, cooked chicken, and eggplant slices on one half of the dough.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and fold the other half of the dough over to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Tacos with Avocado
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of eggplant, chicken, and avocado. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– Optional toppings: salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and cumin. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a separate pan, cook chicken over medium-high heat, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled eggplant, cooked chicken, and sliced avocado. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Pasta with Pesto
Eggplant and Chicken Pasta with Pesto: A flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the richness of eggplant and chicken with the vibrant taste of pesto sauce, all wrapped up in a comforting pasta meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add eggplant slices in batches and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir together pesto sauce and garlic; add cooked chicken and toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and grilled eggplant in a large serving bowl. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Soup with Herbs
Warm up on a chilly day with this flavorful soup that combines the richness of eggplant, chicken, and aromatic herbs. This hearty recipe is perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, eggplant, and chicken in a little oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Burgers with Feta
This recipe combines the best of both worlds – juicy chicken and tender eggplant, topped with salty feta cheese. The result is a unique and delicious burger that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Form chicken mixture into 4 patties and place on grill.
5. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, grill eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes per side or until tender.
7. Assemble burgers by placing a patty on each bun, topping with grilled eggplant, feta cheese, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Risotto with Parmesan
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the tender juiciness of chicken, the earthy sweetness of eggplant, and the salty nuttiness of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add the eggplant slices to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add the warmed broth, white wine (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy.
6. Combine cooked chicken and eggplant with the risotto mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant and Chicken Fritters with Dipping Sauce
Transform eggplant and chicken into crispy, savory fritters with a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, finely chopped
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine eggplant, chicken, onion, garlic, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Drain fritters on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Serve with fritters.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes (frying time). Prep time is approximately 10 minutes.
Eggplant and Chicken Enchiladas with Cheese
This recipe combines the savory flavors of chicken and eggplant with the creaminess of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a tender tortilla. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté eggplant and onion until tender. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in cooked chicken and enchilada sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, prepare tortillas by warming them in the microwave or oven.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spooning eggplant mixture onto each tortilla, then rolling up and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious combination of eggplant and chicken with these 20 flavorful recipes! From skewers to casseroles, and from stir-fries to soups, this collection has something for every taste. Try Grilled Eggplant and Chicken Skewers for a quick and easy dinner, or go all out with Eggplant and Chicken Lasagna for a satisfying meal. Or why not try Spicy Eggplant and Chicken Stir-Fry for an Asian-inspired flavor? With such a variety of options, you’re sure to find your new favorite dish among these healthy and mouth-watering recipes.
