10 Delicious Recipes with Prunes and Chicken for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Weeknight dinners can often feel like a chore, especially when you're juggling work, family, and countless other responsibilities. But dinner doesn't have to be complicated to be delicious. The combination of prunes and chicken might sound unusual at first, but this pairing creates meals that are both flavorful and nutritious. Prunes add a natural sweetness and moisture to chicken dishes, while also providing fiber and essential nutrients. Let's explore ten mouthwatering recipes that will transform your weeknight dinner routine.

Why Prunes and Chicken Make a Perfect Pair

The sweet, tangy flavor of prunes complements the savory taste of chicken beautifully. Prunes also help keep chicken moist during cooking, preventing that dreaded dry texture that can happen with lean meat. Additionally, prunes are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.

For those with sensitive digestive systems, it's worth noting that prunes can be part of a gut-friendly diet when consumed in moderation. If you're following a low FODMAP diet or have digestive concerns, you might consider pairing these meals with digestive support products like Casa de Sante's digestive enzymes, which can help break down food more effectively and reduce potential discomfort after eating.

Mediterranean-Inspired Chicken Dishes

Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Prunes

This North African classic combines tender chicken with the sweetness of prunes and a blend of warm spices. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a dish that's both comforting and exotic.

Title: Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Prunes

Description: A fragrant, low FODMAP version of the classic North African dish featuring tender chicken thighs, sweet prunes, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic-infused oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup low FODMAP chicken broth
• 1 cup pitted prunes
• 1/4 cup green olives
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown chicken on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Add garlic-infused oil to the pot. Add all the spices and toast for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Return chicken to the pot and add prunes and olives.
6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 45 minutes until chicken is tender.
7. Stir in lemon juice and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Cuisine: Moroccan

Spanish Chicken with Prunes and Olives

This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the saltiness of olives with the sweetness of prunes for a perfectly balanced flavor profile. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in a tomato-based sauce infused with Spanish paprika.

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can be easily adapted to fit a low FODMAP diet by using garlic-infused oil instead of garlic cloves and ensuring your tomato sauce is onion-free. Pairing this protein-rich meal with a scoop of Casa de Sante's low FODMAP certified protein powder in a side smoothie can make for a complete, gut-friendly dinner option that supports muscle recovery after a long day.

Asian-Inspired Chicken and Prune Recipes

Sticky Honey-Prune Glazed Chicken

This Asian-inspired dish features chicken pieces glazed with a sweet and tangy sauce made from honey, prunes, and soy sauce. The result is a caramelized exterior with juicy, flavorful meat inside—perfect for serving over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables.

Title: Sticky Honey-Prune Glazed Chicken

Description: Tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet, tangy glaze with Asian-inspired flavors and the natural sweetness of prunes.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup pitted prunes
• 1/4 cup water
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free tamari or soy sauce (check for FODMAP content)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• 2 green onions (green parts only), sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine prunes and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Transfer prunes and liquid to a blender. Add honey, tamari, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. Cut chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces and season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes.
5. Pour the prune sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in cornstarch mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Slow Cooker Chinese Five-Spice Chicken with Prunes

This set-it-and-forget-it recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The aromatic Chinese five-spice powder pairs wonderfully with prunes, creating a complex flavor profile that will make your kitchen smell amazing. Simply combine all ingredients in your slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious dinner that's ready to serve.

For those with sensitive digestive systems, the slow cooking process helps break down proteins, making the meal easier to digest. Consider adding a Casa de Sante probiotic & prebiotic supplement to your daily routine to support gut health while enjoying these flavorful meals.

One-Pan Chicken and Prune Dishes

Sheet Pan Chicken with Prunes and Root Vegetables

This easy sheet pan dinner combines chicken thighs with prunes and seasonal root vegetables for a complete meal with minimal cleanup. The prunes caramelize slightly in the oven, creating little pockets of sweetness throughout the dish.

Title: Sheet Pan Chicken with Prunes and Root Vegetables

Description: A simple, hands-off dinner featuring golden chicken thighs, sweet prunes, and caramelized root vegetables all cooked on one pan.

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 carrots, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 parsnips, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed (limit to 1/2 cup per serving for low FODMAP)
• 1 cup pitted prunes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots, parsnips, and butternut squash with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread vegetables on a large rimmed baking sheet.
4. In the same bowl, mix remaining olive oil, thyme, rosemary, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard.
5. Add chicken thighs to the bowl and coat with the mixture.
6. Place chicken thighs on top of vegetables, skin side up.
7. Scatter prunes around the chicken and vegetables.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
9. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Yield: 4-6 servings

Cuisine: American

Skillet Chicken with Prunes and Bacon

This one-pan wonder combines the smokiness of bacon with the sweetness of prunes for a dish that's bursting with flavor. The chicken thighs become incredibly tender as they simmer in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

Chicken and Prune Comfort Food

Chicken and Prune Stew

This hearty stew is perfect for cooler evenings. The combination of tender chicken, sweet prunes, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. Serve with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

For those with digestive sensitivities, this gentle stew can be particularly soothing. If you find that your digestive system needs additional support, Casa de Sante's herbal laxative can be a natural complement to your gut health regimen, especially when incorporated into a balanced diet featuring easily digestible meals like this stew.

Chicken and Prune Casserole

This comforting casserole combines chicken, prunes, and a creamy sauce for a dish that's perfect for family dinners. The prunes add bursts of sweetness throughout, balancing the savory elements beautifully.

Quick and Easy Chicken and Prune Recipes

15-Minute Chicken and Prune Stir-Fry

When time is of the essence, this quick stir-fry delivers big on flavor. The combination of chicken, prunes, and colorful vegetables creates a nutritious meal that comes together in minutes. The sweet and savory sauce ties everything together perfectly.

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Prune Glaze

These flavorful skewers feature chunks of marinated chicken alternated with prunes, all brushed with a delicious glaze. They cook quickly on the grill or under the broiler, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you want something a little special without a lot of effort.

Making These Recipes Work for Your Dietary Needs

All of these recipes can be adapted to suit various dietary requirements. For those following a low FODMAP diet, be mindful of portion sizes with prunes (about 1-2 prunes per serving is typically well-tolerated) and consider using Casa de Sante's personalized meal plans to ensure your meals are balanced and gut-friendly.

If you're looking to boost the protein content of these meals, adding a scoop of Casa de Sante's low FODMAP certified protein powder to a side dish or dessert can help meet your nutritional goals without compromising on taste or digestive comfort.

With these ten delicious recipes in your repertoire, weeknight dinners will never be boring again. The combination of prunes and chicken offers endless possibilities for creating meals that are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition. From one-pan wonders to comforting stews, there's something here for every night of the week.