7 Healthy Chicken Recipes Under 400 Calories for Effective Weight Loss

Eating healthy doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor, and these chicken recipes show just that! Each dish clocks in under 400 calories, making them perfect for those on a weight loss journey. From zesty marinades to hearty sides, these recipes prove that weight-friendly meals can be satisfying and delicious.

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry For A Quick And Tasty Dinner

This Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is a fantastic option for a quick and tasty dinner. The vibrant colors of bell peppers and snap peas in the image make it look inviting and delicious. The combination of honey and garlic gives the chicken a sweet and savory flavor that’s hard to resist.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also healthy and under 400 calories. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal while keeping an eye on their calorie intake. Plus, it comes together in just a matter of minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

To make this dish, you’ll need some simple ingredients that you might already have at home. Fresh vegetables add crunch and nutrients, while the chicken provides lean protein. The sesame seeds sprinkled on top add a nice finishing touch.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the stir-fry and toss everything together. Serve hot and enjoy!

Savory Mediterranean Chicken Skewers For A Healthy Grilling Option

These Mediterranean chicken skewers are a fantastic choice for healthy grilling. Packed with vibrant veggies and juicy chicken, they make a delicious meal that’s light on calories. The bright colors of bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions not only look appealing but also add a burst of flavor.

Grilling is a great way to prepare chicken while keeping it tender and juicy. The marinade, made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, infuses the chicken with a delightful taste. Pair these skewers with a refreshing yogurt sauce for a complete meal.

To make these skewers, simply thread marinated chicken pieces and veggies onto skewers and grill until cooked through. They’re perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve with a side of yogurt sauce or your favorite dip.

Southwest Chicken Salad For A Refreshing Lunch Option

This Southwest Chicken Salad is a vibrant and satisfying choice for lunch. Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s not only delicious but also under 400 calories, making it perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet. The combination of grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and avocado creates a colorful plate that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

The salad features tender slices of chicken on a bed of crisp greens, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy avocado. A sprinkle of cheese and crunchy tortilla strips adds texture and flavor. Drizzled with a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to refresh your midday meal.

Making this salad is simple and quick. You can easily prepare it ahead of time for a grab-and-go lunch. Whether you’re at home or at work, this salad will keep you energized throughout the day.

Ingredients

• 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup tortilla strips
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens, followed by black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
3. Add Chicken: Place the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad.
4. Top It Off: Sprinkle shredded cheese and tortilla strips over the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and garnish with chopped cilantro.
5. Serve: Toss gently to combine and enjoy your refreshing Southwest Chicken Salad!

Teriyaki Chicken With Broccoli For A Healthy Asian-Inspired Meal

Teriyaki chicken with broccoli is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Asia right to your kitchen. This meal is not only packed with flavor but also stays under 400 calories, making it a great choice for anyone looking to lose weight. The tender chicken pieces are coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, while the broccoli adds a nice crunch and loads of nutrients.

The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing, and it’s easy to prepare. You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy lean protein and veggies in one bowl!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the Broccoli: Stir in the broccoli florets and pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the sauce is heated through.
4. Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve over cooked brown rice or quinoa if desired.

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps For A Low-Calorie Snack

Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are a fantastic low-calorie snack that packs a punch of flavor. These wraps are not only delicious but also easy to make. The combination of spicy buffalo chicken and crisp lettuce creates a satisfying bite without the extra calories. Perfect for a quick snack or a light meal, they fit right into a healthy eating plan.

The image showcases these vibrant wraps, filled with shredded buffalo chicken, fresh tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. The lettuce leaves serve as the perfect vessel, keeping everything light and fresh. On the side, there’s a creamy ranch dip and a bowl of diced tomatoes, adding extra flavor and texture.

To make these wraps, you’ll need some simple ingredients. The buffalo chicken is usually made with shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, giving it that signature kick. Pair it with crunchy lettuce, and you have a delightful snack that won’t weigh you down.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 head of romaine lettuce, leaves separated
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce in a bowl until well coated.
2. Take a lettuce leaf and spoon some of the buffalo chicken mixture into it.
3. Add diced tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese on top.
4. Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
5. Wrap it up and enjoy your tasty, low-calorie snack!

Sesame Ginger Chicken For A Flavorful Asian Twist

Sesame Ginger Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of Asian flavors to your table. This recipe is not only tasty but also fits perfectly into a healthy eating plan, keeping your meal under 400 calories. The combination of sesame oil, ginger, and soy sauce creates a savory sauce that coats tender chicken pieces beautifully.

The image showcases a plate of succulent chicken pieces garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served alongside a colorful vegetable stir-fry. This vibrant presentation makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The noodles in the background add a comforting touch, making this meal feel hearty without being heavy.

Cooking this dish is simple and quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more ginger or chili flakes, depending on your preference. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, and rice vinegar. Add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Add Vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chicken and vegetables before serving.
5. Serve: Enjoy the sesame ginger chicken over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Chili Lime Chicken For A Spicy And Citrus Infusion

Chili lime chicken is a fantastic dish that brings together the heat of chili and the refreshing zing of lime. This combination not only tantalizes your taste buds but also keeps your meals light and healthy. The grilled chicken, with its beautiful char, pairs perfectly with a vibrant salsa made from fresh ingredients.

The image showcases perfectly grilled chicken breasts, sliced and served with lime wedges and a colorful salsa. The bright colors of the salsa, featuring tomatoes, onions, and herbs, add a fresh touch to the plate. This dish is not just visually appealing; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for anyone looking to lose weight without sacrificing taste.

Let’s get into the details of how to make this delicious chili lime chicken at home!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup corn (optional)
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, corn, jalapeño, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
4. Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on a plate. Top with the fresh salsa and garnish with cilantro. Squeeze additional lime juice over the top for an extra kick.