Low-calorie chicken recipes don’t need to be bland or boring. From crispy baked tenders to herby grilled thighs, these light chicken meals are packed with flavor.
1/55
Chicken with Florentine Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's my very favorite chicken Florentine recipe. A creamy topping and pretty presentation make it elegant enough for company, but it’s also fast to fix on busy weeknights! —Julie Fitzgerald, St. Louis, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 223 calories, 15g fat (10g saturated fat), 58mg cholesterol, 434mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
2/55
Chicken Creole
From the Recipe Creator:
I like food that has a little zip to it, and this Creole chicken recipe hits the spot every time. It’s especially good served over rice. —Dolly Hall, Wheelwright, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 265 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 553mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 2 vegetable.
Also, check out these best low-calorie recipes.
3/55
Larb Gai
From the Recipe Creator:
Larb gai (Thai chicken salad) is a dish made with ground chicken, chiles, mint and basil. Serve it as a main dish or as an appetizer in lettuce cups. For a heartier version, serve it with rice. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup: 262 calories, 16g fat (3g saturated fat), 75mg cholesterol, 1211mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 0 fiber), 20g protein.
4/55
Margarita Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Marinated in flavors of garlic and lime, this tangy margarita chicken is ready to go whenever the coals are hot! Serve it with roasted corn on the cob and lemonade. —Kelly Bruneman, Cedar Park, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 250 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 230mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 starch.
5/55
West African Peanut Stew
From the Recipe Creator:
I really love African flavors, but you don't really encounter them much in the U.S. Here the combination of native African ingredients, all of which can be found in the States, transports you to a new culinary place. —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 275 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 636mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch, 1 fat.
6/55
Easy Coq au Vin
From the Recipe Creator:
I love being able to fix a fancy gourmet dish in such a short amount of time and still have it turn out so delicious. To reduce fat, use chicken tenderloin pieces or skinless chicken breasts. This recipe is really fabulous served with rice. —Judy VanCoetsem, Cortland, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 255 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 648mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
7/55
Chicken Korma
From the Recipe Creator:
Chicken korma is a spiced Indian dish. It's not spicy-hot, but it's very flavorful from ingredients like cloves and ginger. Serve it with rice to soak in all the sauce. —Jemima Madhavan, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 313 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 665mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch.
8/55
Tropical Chicken Cauliflower Rice Bowls
From the Recipe Creator:
This tropical favorite is a delicious and healthy dinner with tons of flavor! You can substitute regular rice for the cauliflower rice if desired. —Bethany DiCarlo, Harleysville, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 325 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 529mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 4g fiber), 38g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 fruit, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
9/55
Spicy Chicken Pumpkin Pizza
From the Recipe Creator:
Think pizza and pumpkin can’t go together? This chicken pumpkin pizza will change your mind. The sweetness of the pumpkin paired with the spice of the chipotle peppers makes for a delicious, balanced sauce. I love that this recipe incorporates healthy ingredients in a fun, family-friendly way. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 225 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 37mg cholesterol, 504mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
10/55
Spanish-Style Paella
From the Recipe Creator:
If you enjoy cooking ethnic foods, this hearty rice dish is wonderful. It's brimming with generous chunks of sausage, shrimp and veggies. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 237 calories, 7g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 543mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein.
11/55
Chicken Chimichangas
From the Recipe Creator:
I developed this quick and easy recipe through trial and error. I used to garnish it with sour cream, but I eliminated it in order to lighten the recipe. My friends all love it when I cook these chimichangas, and they're much healthier than deep-fried. —Rickey Madden, Clinton, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 chimichanga: 269 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 613mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
12/55
Texan Ranch Chicken Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
Every time I serve this creamy chicken casserole, it gets rave reviews. The recipe was passed down to me and is so good! It is really easy to make, freezes well and has just a touch of heat. If your family likes more heat, add some jalapenos! —Kendra Doss, Smithville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 329 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 719mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
13/55
Cilantro-Lime Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
As a working mom and home cook, I strive to have fabulous flavor-packed dinners that make my family smile. Nothing is more awesome than a slow-cooker recipe that makes it seem as though you've been cooking in the kitchen all day! —Mari Smith, Ashburn, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh: 253 calories, 17g fat (4g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 390mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein.
14/55
Pineapple Chicken Casserole
From the Recipe Creator:
I’m always looking for one-dish dinners that save time and cleanup. I love to cook, but with teaching school, playing handbells at church, and juggling my husband’s and teenage twins’ schedules, I have little time in the kitchen. This recipe saves the day! —Susan Warren, North Manchester, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 335 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 65mg cholesterol, 1010mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein.
15/55
Goat Cheese and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
This spinach-stuffed chicken breast recipe is special to me because it has so much flavor, yet not too many calories. I love Italian food, but most of the time it is too heavy. This is a healthy twist on an Italian dish! —Nicole Stevens, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed chicken breast: 347 calories, 14g fat (4g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 532mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 39g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 7 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
16/55
Basil Chicken Spirals with Mango Salsa
From the Recipe Creator:
I love this recipe! It is one of my favorites to impress a crowd. Most of its wow factor comes from the fresh ingredients. I always pick up herbs, garlic, cucumbers and hot peppers—as well as honey and onions—at my local farmers market. All those ingredients give this dish a punch of flavor. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with about 1/2 cup salsa: 278 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 370mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 36g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
17/55
Kung Pao Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves the kung pao chicken from our favorite Chinese restaurant. But in less time than it takes for the delivery guy to arrive, we can be digging in to a steaming platter of this copycat recipe. —Jennifer Beckman, Falls Church, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 285 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 857mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 26g protein.
18/55
Chicken Avocado Wrap
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this chicken avocado wrap while trying to figure out what to make for lunch one day. The recipe is now a favorite at my house. —Shiva Houshidari, Plano, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 wrap: 329 calories, 14g fat (2g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 416mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 2 fat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable.
19/55
Ginger-Curry Chicken Tacos
From the Recipe Creator:
I love tacos (who doesn't?), but I wanted to put my own unique twist on them by incorporating some Indian flavors. These ginger-curry versions hit the spot! —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, California
Nutrition Facts:
2 tacos: 335 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 68mg cholesterol, 768mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch.
20/55
Chicken with Mushroom Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
It looks impressive, but this mouthwatering chicken and mushroom sauce comes together in no time. I think its flavor rivals that of many full-fat entrees found in fancy restaurants. —Jennifer Pemberton, Muncie, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 225 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 541mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
21/55
Chicken Veggie Skillet
From the Recipe Creator:
I invented this chicken and veggie dish to use up extra mushrooms and asparagus. My husband suggested I write it down because it's a keeper. —Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 228 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 384mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat, 1 vegetable.
22/55
Spicy Lemon Chicken Kabobs
From the Recipe Creator:
When I see Meyer lemons in the store, I know it must be spring. I like using them for these easy chicken kabobs, but regular grilled lemons still add the signature smoky tang. —Terri Crandall, Gardnerville, Nevada
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 182 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 55mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
23/55
Oven-Fried Chicken Drumsticks
From the Recipe Creator:
This fabulous recipe uses Greek yogurt to create an amazing marinade that makes the chicken incredibly moist. No one will guess that it's been lightened up and not even fried! —Kim Wallace, Dennison, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
2 chicken drumsticks: 227 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 498mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
24/55
Honey Chicken Stir-Fry
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm a new mom, and my schedule is very dependent upon our young son, so I like meals that can be ready in as little time as possible. This all-in-one chicken stir-fry recipe with a hint of sweetness from honey is a big timesaver. —Caroline Sperry, Allentown, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup stir-fry: 249 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1/2 starch.
25/55
Italian Chicken Tenderloins
From the Recipe Creator:
My friend made this meal for my husband and me after our first child was born. Since chicken tenderloin recipes can be so caloric, I trimmed down the fat and carbs, but we love it just the same. —Beth Ann Stein, Richmond, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
4 ounce-weight: 163 calories, 3g fat (0 saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 287mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
26/55
Chicken Sausages with Polenta
From the Recipe Creator:
I get a kick out of serving this chicken sausage dish—everyone's always on time for dinner when they know it's on the menu. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup sausage mixture with 2 slices polenta: 212 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 628mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
27/55
Chicken Chalupa
From the Recipe Creator:
I wanted an easy alternative to deep-fried chalupas, so I bake them with the filling on top. —Magdalena Flores, Abilene, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 chalupa: 206 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 400mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
28/55
Chicken Thighs and Spinach
From the Recipe Creator:
What could be better than an entree that comes with its own creamy vegetable side? This healthy supper goes together in no time flat and makes an eye-catching presentation. —Genna Johannes, Wrightstown, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 1/4 cup spinach mixture: 223 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 360mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 vegetable.
29/55
Tandoori-Style Chicken with Cucumber Melon Relish
From the Recipe Creator:
We all need a quick meal that's deliciously healthy. I marinate the chicken before I leave for work, and when I get home, I grill the chicken and make the relish. My husband loves the spicy flavor. To amp up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without almonds): 247 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 332mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 38g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
30/55
Chicken-Stuffed Cubanelle Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a different take on traditional stuffed peppers. I substitute chicken for the beef and use Cubanelle peppers in place of the green peppers that are usually featured in such a dish. —Ron Burlingame, Canton, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 230 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 125mg cholesterol, 661mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch.
31/55
Artichoke Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Rosemary, mushrooms and artichokes combine to give chicken a wonderful savory flavor. I've served this dish for a large group by doubling the recipe. It's always a big hit with everyone—especially my family! —Ruth Stenson, Santa Ana, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 235 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 773mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 3g fiber), 24g protein.
32/55
Garlic Herb Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
The key to this savory chicken is the combination of garlic, fresh rosemary and thyme. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty Italian bread. —Jan Valdez, Lombard, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 2 tablespoons cooking juices: 203 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 346mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
33/55
Skillet Chicken with Olives
From the Recipe Creator:
While I was visiting my cousin Lilliana in Italy, she made this heavenly chicken for lunch. Now it's a family favorite stateside too. —Rosemarie Pisano, Revere, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving (calculated without capers): 237 calories, 15g fat (3g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 571mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 fat.
34/55
Asian Glazed Chicken Thighs
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone goes for this super moist, garlicky chicken, including my fussy kids. For your holiday buffet or family gathering, serve it with rice or noodles. —Carole Lotito, Hillsdale, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 247 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 735mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
35/55
Strawberry Mint Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
I handpick wild strawberries for this saucy chicken dish. We love it with fresh spring greens and a sweet white wine. —Alicia Duerst, Menomonie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 1/4 cup sauce: 224 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 94mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 35g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
36/55
Peach Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
I throw this sweet and savory chicken dish together in no time on a weeknight. With a side of broccoli and rice, it's a healthy meal that my whole family enjoys. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 1 tablespoon sauce: 249 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 427mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat, 1 starch.
37/55
Grilled Chicken Chopped Salad
From the Recipe Creator:
Layered desserts always grab my family’s attention, but salads? Not
so much. I wondered if I could get everyone on board by presenting
a healthy salad in an eye-catching way. I’m happy to say that it worked. —Christine Hadden, Whitman, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
3 cups: 239 calories, 5g fat (0 saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 276mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 5g fiber), 32g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
38/55
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
From the Recipe Creator:
This satisfying soup with a hint of cayenne is brimming with vegetables, chicken and noodles. The recipe originally came from my father-in-law, but I made some changes to give it my own spin. —Norma Reynolds, Overland Park, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 199 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 73mg cholesterol, 663mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
39/55
Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes
From the Recipe Creator:
Relax after work with a cold drink while this savory chicken marinates in an herby tomato blend for an hour, then toss it on the grill. It tastes just like summer. —Laura Lunardi, West Chester, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 177 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 171mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
40/55
Spicy Apricot-Glazed Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for a new chicken idea? Save yourself a trip to the store and check the fridge first. I found out chili sauce, mustard and apricot preserves create a sweet, hot flavor. —Sonya Labbe, West Hollywood, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half : 209 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 476mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein.
41/55
Spicy Barbecued Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
This spicy, saucy chicken is great served with basil-buttered grilled corn on the cob and fresh coleslaw. —Rita Wintrode, Corryton, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half : 179 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 293mg sodium, 10g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
42/55
Baked Chicken Tenders
From the Recipe Creator:
These strips are designed for kids but tasty enough for company. The tender strips are moist and juicy and would also be great on a salad. —Becky Oliver, Fairplay, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken: 194 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 518mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
43/55
Grilled Brown Sugar-Mustard Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
I came up with this recipe in college and it's been a household staple ever since. It's a snap to throw together with ingredients I have on hand. —Kendra Doss, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh with 1-1/2 teaspoons mustard mixture: 224 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 597mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
44/55
Carolina-Style Vinegar BBQ Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
I live in Georgia, but I appreciate the tangy, sweet and slightly spicy taste of Carolina vinegar chicken. I make my version in the slow cooker. After the tempting aroma
fills the house, your family is sure to be at the dinner table on time! —Ramona Parris, Canton, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1/2 cup (calculated without buns): 134 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 228mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
45/55
Spicy Shredded Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
I love Mexican food, but not the high calorie count that often comes with it. This easy dish is healthy, delicious and a definite crowd-pleaser! I like to serve the chicken with warm tortillas, rice, beans and salsa. For an equally awesome dish, you can substitute beef or pork for the chicken. —Heather Walker, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 202 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 436mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
46/55
Orange-Spiced Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Five ingredients are all you need for this fast and extremely flavorful marinade. With one taste, it’ll become your most-requested chicken recipe! —Debra Stevens, Lutz, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half: 234 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 643mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 0 fiber), 30g protein.
47/55
Slow-Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
From the Recipe Creator:
Treat company to this perfect Italian meal. You will have time to visit with your guests while it simmers, and it often earns rave reviews. I serve it with couscous, green beans and a dry red wine. Mangia! —Martha Schirmacher, Sterling Heights, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
3 ounces cooked chicken with about 1/2 cup sauce: 207 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 410mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
48/55
Dutch Oven Chicken Breasts
From the Recipe Creator:
This braised chicken is a recipe my mom used to make when I was small. It tastes much more complicated than it actually is! —Michelle Collins, Lake Orion, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 1 cup vegetable mixture (calculated without baguette): 247 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 703mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
49/55
Chicken Brunch Bake
From the Recipe Creator:
Chunks of tender chicken add heartiness to this appealing brunch casserole. This was my son's favorite hot lunch meal from high school. —DeLee Jochum, Dubuque, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 233 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 458mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
50/55
Cumin Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
This zesty chicken dish comes together in a flash, so it's perfect for those busy weeknights. But it's so saucy and delicious, it's certainly good enough for company too! —Margaret Allen, Abingdon, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast half with 3 tablespoons sauce: 170 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 377mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 fat.
51/55
Lime-Ginger Chicken Tenders
From the Recipe Creator:
We cook a lot of boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they're low in fat, high in protein and almost always a smart buy at the grocery store. To keep things exciting, I add a few of our favorites to the mix, like jalapenos, lime and fresh ginger. —Samantha Anderson, Fort Worth, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
5 ounces cooked chicken: 226 calories, 8g fat (1g saturated fat), 100mg cholesterol, 368mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 39g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 5 lean meat, 1 fat.
52/55
Mushroom & Herb Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
My easy skillet dish is a comfort food classic. It's also delicious with rice instead of noodles. No one will guess they're eating healthy with this one. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken breast with 1/3 cup sauce (calculated without noodles): 228 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 698mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 4 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
53/55
Slow-Cooker BBQ Chicken
From the Recipe Creator:
Of all the recipes I make in my slow cooker, this is my most treasured. If you enjoy your barbecue sweet with a little spice, this will be your new favorite too. —Yvonne McKim, Vancouver, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 179 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 392mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 0 fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
54/55
Maple-Thyme Chicken Thighs
From the Recipe Creator:
We eat a lot of chicken at our house, and figuring out different ways to serve it gets challenging. My family went nuts for the cozy maple flavors in this recipe, so now I share it at potlucks too. —Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 chicken thigh: 188 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 363mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 0 fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat.
55/55
Chicken Butternut Chili
From the Recipe Creator:
At our house, we just love a good comforting, hearty, tomato-based chili with bold flavors! This unique chili is loaded with veggies and flavor. You can also prepare the recipe in the slow cooker. Just add the ingredients to the crock and cook the chili over high heat for about four hours. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 201 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 591mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 4g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
Low-Calorie Chicken Recipes FAQ
How many calories are in a typical low-calorie chicken recipe?
Typical low-calorie chicken dishes range from 250 to 350 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and cooking method. Grilled chicken breast with herbs and roasted vegetables generally falls on the lower end, while recipes with sauces or grains, such as quinoa, may have a slightly higher calorie count. If you are planning a light but balanced plate, it’s a good idea to check individual nutrition labels and portion sizes.
What sides pair well with low-calorie chicken dishes?
Fresh, fiber-rich sides like roasted vegetables, leafy green salads and whole grains pair well with healthy chicken dinner ideas. They help complete the meal while keeping it light and filling. For a more balanced option, you can pair chicken with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables. You can also enjoy a low-calorie sandwich with chicken for a simple, flavorful meal.
Can I make low-calorie chicken recipes in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make several low-calorie chicken dishes in an air fryer. Try air-fryer chicken tenders with a light spice rub or chicken thighs seasoned with garlic and herbs. These cook fast and crisp up beautifully with minimal oil. For a balanced plate, pair your air-fried chicken with a fresh salad or a tray of roasted vegetables for extra fiber and crunch.
