12 Easy Chicken Dinner Recipes for Weight Loss Under 400 Calories

If you're looking to whip up delicious dinners that won't derail your weight loss goals, these chicken recipes have got you covered. Each dish is packed with flavor yet keeps your calorie count under 400, making mealtime both satisfying and healthy. Easy to prepare, these ideas will help you stay on track while enjoying tasty meals that you and your family will love.

Tangy Balsamic Glazed Chicken

Tangy Balsamic Glazed Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner that won't break your calorie bank. The vibrant colors of the grilled veggies make it not just tasty but visually appealing too!

The chicken is grilled to perfection, with beautiful grill marks and a caramelized glaze that adds depth to the flavor. Surrounding the chicken are colorful bell peppers and zucchini, which not only add nutrition but also a pop of color to your plate. This dish is under 400 calories, making it a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Ready to whip up this easy recipe? Here’s what you need:

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it heats up, toss the sliced zucchini and bell peppers in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Brush with extra marinade while grilling for added flavor.
4. Grill the Veggies: In the last few minutes of cooking, add the veggies to the grill. Cook until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken with the grilled veggies on the side. Drizzle any remaining balsamic glaze over the top for an extra kick!

Spicy Sriracha Honey Chicken Skewers

These Spicy Sriracha Honey Chicken Skewers are a perfect choice for a light dinner. They pack a punch with their sweet and spicy flavors, making them a delightful treat. The skewers are beautifully presented, showcasing juicy pieces of chicken coated in a glossy sauce. Topped with sesame seeds and green onions, they look as good as they taste!

To make these skewers, you’ll need some simple ingredients. The combination of Sriracha and honey creates a balance of heat and sweetness that’s hard to resist. Pair them with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal under 400 calories.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Green onions, chopped, for garnish
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot!

One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken And Veggies

This One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Veggies is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables, like broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, make this dish as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. The lemon and garlic bring a bright flavor that perfectly complements the tender chicken.

Cooking everything in one pan not only saves time on cleanup but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can easily customize the veggies based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick, healthy, and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade.
3. On a baking sheet, arrange the chicken breasts in the center. Surround them with broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots.
4. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the vegetables. Toss them gently to coat.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your healthy, one-pan meal!

Savory Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Teriyaki chicken stir-fry is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a sweet-savory sauce. The image showcases a colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and green onions, all perfectly cooked and glistening with teriyaki sauce. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, this meal is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.

This recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick dinner, especially when you're looking to keep things under 400 calories. The combination of protein from the chicken and fiber from the vegetables makes it a balanced option that satisfies without weighing you down.

Making this dish is straightforward. Start by marinating your chicken in teriyaki sauce, then stir-fry it with your favorite veggies. The result is a tasty meal that’s ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with teriyaki sauce. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the broccoli and bell peppers. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
5. Finish with Green Onions: Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve: Spoon the stir-fry over cooked brown rice and enjoy!

Sweet And Sour Chicken Stir-Fry

Sweet and sour chicken stir-fry is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant colors and bold flavors. The image showcases tender pieces of chicken, bright bell peppers, and juicy pineapple chunks, all tossed together in a glossy sauce. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice, this meal is not only visually appealing but also satisfying and healthy.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients. The combination of sweet pineapple and tangy sauce creates a balance that everyone will love. Plus, it’s under 400 calories, making it a great option for those watching their intake.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), sliced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups cooked white rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and cornstarch. Stir until smooth.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, and pineapple. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
4. Combine: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Serve: Spoon the stir-fry over cooked rice and enjoy your delicious, healthy dinner!

Classic Italian Chicken Piccata

Chicken Piccata is a classic Italian dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a zesty lemon and caper sauce, making it both light and satisfying. The image shows a beautifully plated Chicken Piccata, served alongside a portion of spaghetti, garnished with fresh parsley and a slice of lemon. It's a perfect choice for a weight loss dinner, as it keeps the calories under 400 while still being delicious.

To make this dish, you’ll need simple ingredients that pack a punch. The combination of lemon juice and capers adds a tangy twist that elevates the chicken. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge them in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing it to soak up the flavors.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken, spoon the sauce over it, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Enjoy with a side of spaghetti or your favorite vegetable.

Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken

Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken is a delightful dish that packs a punch. The chicken is marinated in a zesty chipotle lime sauce, giving it a smoky and tangy flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, especially when you want something healthy and under 400 calories.

The image showcases beautifully grilled chicken breasts, garnished with fresh lime wedges and cilantro. The vibrant colors of the dish are not only appealing but also hint at the fresh ingredients used. Served alongside a colorful corn salad, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. The combination of spices and lime juice creates a marinade that enhances the chicken's natural flavors. Plus, grilling the chicken gives it that perfect charred texture.

Here’s how to whip up this tasty meal:

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chipotle powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure it's well-oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

Peach Glazed Grilled Chicken

Peach glazed grilled chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of peaches and the savory flavor of grilled chicken. This meal is perfect for a light dinner, especially during warm months when peaches are in season. The vibrant colors of the grilled chicken and the peach slices make for an appealing presentation on your plate.

The juicy chicken breast is grilled to perfection, creating a nice char that enhances its flavor. The peach glaze adds a sweet and tangy touch, making each bite a burst of flavor. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you have a meal that is not only delicious but also under 400 calories!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup peach preserves
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh greens for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix peach preserves, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
4. Grill the Peaches: While the chicken is grilling, place peach slices on the grill for about 2-3 minutes until they have grill marks.
5. Serve: Plate the grilled chicken with the grilled peaches and fresh greens. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top for extra flavor.

Baked Pesto Chicken With Tomatoes

Baked Pesto Chicken with Tomatoes is a delightful dish that’s perfect for a light dinner. The vibrant colors of the fresh tomatoes and the rich green pesto create a feast for the eyes. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The juicy chicken breast is topped with creamy mozzarella and fresh basil, making it a satisfying meal under 400 calories.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The combination of pesto and tomatoes adds a fresh twist that elevates the chicken. It’s easy to prepare and can be on your table in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate lean protein and veggies into your diet.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the chicken.
4. Top with halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Lemon Dill Chicken With Asparagus

Lemon Dill Chicken with Asparagus is a delightful dish that’s both light and satisfying. This meal is perfect for those looking to enjoy a delicious dinner while keeping their calorie count in check. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh dill complement the tender chicken, making it a standout choice for any weeknight dinner.

In the image, you can see a beautifully plated chicken breast, seared to a golden brown, served alongside vibrant green asparagus and a side of fluffy rice. The lemon slices add a pop of color and hint at the zesty flavor that awaits. This meal not only looks appealing but is also packed with nutrients.

Cooking this dish is simple. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and dill. Sear it in a hot pan until golden, then finish it off with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The asparagus can be sautéed or roasted, adding a nice crunch to the plate. Serve it all with a side of rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 1 cup cooked rice

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dill.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. In the last minute of cooking, add lemon slices to the pan to infuse flavor.
4. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, sauté the asparagus in a little olive oil until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Serve the chicken with asparagus and a side of rice. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the top for added flavor.