Skip to Content

41 Healthy Low-Calorie Chicken Breast Recipes

Looking to spice up your low cal chicken dinners? These low calorie chicken breast recipes are incredibly nutritious and delicious and will keep you in your caloric deficit!

Chicken breast is one of the best proteins on the market today. It’s lean, affordable, and tastes good when treated right! Best of all, it’s ideal for low-calorie meals.

Boneless chicken breasts are packed full of protein to keep you going for longer. The breast, in particular, has much less fat than the rest of the bird.

That means a chicken dish is ideal for lean high-protein meals.

low calorie chicken breast recipes

If you’re watching how many calories you consume, having a few healthy chicken recipes in your back pocket is essential. That’s where this list comes in!

Explore forty-one simple, low-calorie chicken recipes to make your life much easier (and tastier).

1. Baked Chicken Cutlets

baked chicken cutlets

Source: allnutritious.com

Let’s kick things off with one of my own juicy chicken recipes! This is a super easy recipe for weight loss that yields a healthier version of your usual chicken cutlets.

Rather than battering and frying them, we coat them with simple ingredients like breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning and bake them.

That creates super tender chicken with a delicious crust! What could be better? This really is one of the best chicken recipes for a delicious dinner that will wow your taste buds.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 291

• Fats: 8g

• Protein: 30g

• Carbs: 23g

• Fiber: 2.3g

• Sugar: 2.2g

2. Mexican Grilled Chicken

Mexican grilled chicken

Source: thedizzycook.com

Next up, we have a punchy Mexican grilled chicken you can use in many different ways. From salads to sandwiches, this tender chicken breast with a great taste will suit them all.

This healthy dinner would be ideal for chicken meal prep recipes or a delicious weeknight meal.

It’s packed with flavor and easy to assemble in bulk. Best of all, the low-calorie coating means you can hit all your targets!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 233

• Fats: 11g

• Protein: 30g

• Carbs: 2g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

3. Greek Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner

Greek sheet pan chicken

Source: allnutritious.com

Low-calorie living can be both easy and delicious. This recipe proves that! I reach for this sheet pan recipe on busy weeknights when I need something healthy and tasty in a pinch.

Greek flavors inspire this sheet pan recipe. So, if you’re a fan, this recipe is for you.

This recipe is packed with flavor from the fresh herbs, fresh veggies, red onions, and lemon juice, all without the added calories.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 284

• Fats: 12g

• Protein: 29g

• Carbs: 15g

• Fiber: 3.4g

• Sugar: 5.3g

4. Honey and Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts

Honey and mustard baked chicken breast

Source: kopiaste.org

Honey and mustard is a flavor match made in heaven. The earthy mustard and sweet honey are best friends, especially brushed onto a chicken breast.

This is the ideal hero for a Sunday roast. Instead of roasting an entire chicken, enjoy the same flavors in much less time! Serve with all your favorite roast fixings for a proper Sunday treat.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 224

• Fats: 22g

• Protein: 1g

• Carbs: 6g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 5g

5. Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps

Source: allnutritious.com

I’m a massive fan of this next recipe. Not to toot my own horn, but this is pretty good. The teriyaki chicken in these lettuce wraps is tender, juicy, and mouthwatering.

You might think that lettuce and chicken would be boring, but it’s not! The crunch of fresh lettuce against the sweet chicken is out of this world.

Don’t forget to use low sodium soy sauce for that delicious sauce!

If wraps are your idea of a perfect lunch, these low calorie wraps are sure to satisfy you!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 161

• Fats: 4.5g

• Protein: 22g

• Carbs: 7.1g

• Fiber: 0.7g

• Sugar: 3.8g

6. Keto Kung Pao Chicken

keto kung pao chicken

Source: theshortordercook.com

Low-calorie recipes can taste amazing, and this recipe is proof. This recipe proves you can enjoy all the same flavors of your favorite takeout without the calorie bump.

This is a super healthy keto take on Kung Pao Chicken. Trust me; this tastes like it hopped straight off a takeout menu (but it doesn’t feel like it).

Per Serving:

• Calories: 300

• Fats: 14.2g

• Protein: 37g

• Carbs: 7.5g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

7. Chicken Zucchini Pasta

chicken zucchini pasta

Source: allnutritious.com

Zucchini pasta is a great way to enjoy your favorite pasta dishes without the extra calories. This clever recipe uses a spiralizer to create onion and zucchini noodles that soak up the flavor.

The secret to this recipe is my super simple sauce. It’s punchy and bold, adding a ton of flavor without adding any calories. How good is that?

You’ll love these other low calorie pasta recipes as well.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 327

• Fats: 16g

• Protein: 19g

• Carbs: 29g

• Fiber: 3.6g

• Sugar: 20g

8. Coconut Lime Chicken

coconut lime chicken

Source: thefreshcooky.com

Let’s touch down in Thailand for a second! This recipe uses fragrant ingredients like coconut and lime juice to tenderize the chicken breast. Paired with coconut rice, there’s nothing better!

This recipe would be great for meal prepping. Use it for sandwiches, salads, or even on its own.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 237

• Fats: 9g

• Protein: 33g

• Carbs: 5g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

9. Keto Chicken Salad

keto chicken salad

Source: allnutritious.com

A chicken salad is a classic potluck recipe! That’s why having this recipe in your back pocket is so essential. It lets you enjoy this potluck favorite without compromising on your lifestyle choice.

Scooped into a crispy lettuce cup, this salad tastes fantastic!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 88

• Fats: 3.4g

• Protein: 12g

• Carbs: 1.3g

• Fiber: 0.3g

• Sugar: 0.9g

10. Healthy Chicken Fritters

healthy chicken fritters

Source: healthytasteoflife.com

Craving some fried chicken? Get it the healthy way with these tasty chicken fritters. The best part about these fritters is how easy it is to tweak the seasoned flour.

With this recipe, you can create the perfect fried chicken to suit any palate. Give your spice cabinet a workout and create your signature blend.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 67.28

• Fats: 2.4g

• Protein: 6.82g

• Carbs: 5.43g

• Fiber: 0.8g

• Sugar: 1.93g

11. Grilled Blackened Chicken

grilled blackened chicken

Source: biscuitsandburlap.com

Blackened chicken tastes so good when you do it right. The char on the chicken creates an addictive smokiness you can’t ignore! That’s where the power of this recipe lies.

This is a well-seasoned dish you can use in everything from salads to tacos. Have to love the versatility!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 243

• Fats: 8g

• Protein: 39g

• Carbs: 3g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

12. Asian Baked Chicken Breasts

Asian baked chicken breast

Source: theroastedroot.net

Baking your chicken breast is one of the best ways to enjoy it. The result is tender, juicy, and flavorful with the right marinade! This recipe is sweet, sticky, and super fragrant.

As the oven cooks your chicken, it also reduces the marinade to an addictive sticky sauce. Serve this over your favorite salad for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 280

• Fats: 8g

• Protein: 40g

• Carbs: 11g

• Fiber:

• Sugar: 3g

13. Parmesan Chicken Tenders

parmesan chicken tenders

Source: masalaherb.com

Chicken tenders are a staple when you’re a kid. But who says it has to stop there? These parmesan chicken tenders are a low-calorie way of enjoying your favorite crispy chicken tenders.

These baked tenders come together in less than half an hour. With no breading, they’re perfect as a keto-friendly lunch or snack!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 93

• Fats: 3g

• Protein: 14g

• Carbs: 1g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

14. Baked Caprese Chicken

baked caprese chicken

Source: pumpkinnspice.com

Caprese salad is a classic Italian appetizer that celebrates fresh ingredients. In this case, that salad sits on top of a delicious baked chicken breast.

This is a great recipe for busy weeknights or rushed weekends. It’s quick, easy, and healthy. Best of all, it tastes fantastic!

If you loved this recipe, you need these other yummy low calorie recipes!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 294

• Fats: 16g

• Protein: 31g

• Carbs: 5g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 2g

15. Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry

chicken cabbage stir fry

Source: masalaherb.com

I’m a huge fan of cabbage. I know it doesn’t get much love, but it should! It’s a super cheap vegetable that can absorb flavor like a sponge. What’s not to love?

This chicken and cabbage stir fry is so tender and juicy. Best of all, it comes together in minutes. Use it as a meal prep recipe or a quick weeknight dinner!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 258

• Fats: 10g

• Protein: 29g

• Carbs: 12g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 5g

16. Air Fryer Chicken Breast

air fryer chicken breast

Source: pumpkinnspice.com

It’s time to bring the air fryer out. You all know this is one of my favorite appliances, and for a good reason! It’s a super easy way to cook your protein without wasting space in the oven.

If you’re looking to whip up a roast quickly, this is how to do it.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 164

• Fats: 7g

• Protein: 24g

• Carbs: 1g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

17. Honey Lime Chicken

honey lime chicken

Source: simplysavourymeals.com

Get family dinner done and dusted with this fantastic recipe. The honey and lime dressing on this chicken ensures it’s super tender and juicy.

Pair that with the spices, and you’ve got a winner! This is amazing over brown rice, helping to keep you fuller for longer.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 233

• Fats: 7g

• Protein: 38g

• Carbs: 3g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 1g

18. Greek Chicken Breasts

Greek chicken breast

Source: theroastedroot.net

This super simple Greek chicken breast will take your chicken breast game to the next level. Eating this dish is like feeling the ocean spray on your face. It’s so refreshing!

Get all the flavors of the Mediterranean on a plate with minimal effort, thanks to this recipe.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 288

• Fats: 15g

• Protein: 36g

• Carbs: 0g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 0g

19. Instant Pot Shredded Chicken

Instant pot shredded chicken

Source: pressurecookrecipes.com

The Instant Pot is one of the best ways to get perfect shredded chicken. This freezer-friendly recipe ensures you have shredded chicken on hand whenever you need it.

This recipe takes no time at all. Plus, you don’t need many ingredients to make it happen!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 200

• Fats: 5g

• Protein: 37g

• Carbs: 1g

• Fiber: 0.05g

• Sugar: 0.04g

20. Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

crockpot chicken fajitas

Source: thecleaneatingcouple.com

There’s another way to use the slow cooking method for crockpot chicken. This Mexican-inspired chicken would be perfect for many kinds of Mexican meals. Fajitas, tacos, even enchiladas: you name it!

I highly recommend using this as a meal prep recipe. The chicken stays juicy for a long time thanks to the extra vegetables and spices so that you can enjoy it all week long.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 250

• Fats: 5g

• Protein: 40g

• Carbs: 10g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 8g

21. BBQ Chicken Breast

BBQ chicken breast

Source: yourguardianchef.com

Next, we have an Italian chicken skewer recipe with no fat added. A gentle marinade of citrus and yogurt imparts a ton of flavor into every bite of these deliciously tender kebabs.

Also called spiedini, these are ideal for bringing along to a potluck or outdoor grill.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 298

• Fats: 6g

• Protein: 54g

• Carbs: 4g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 3g

22. Air Fryer Chicken Breast Without Breading

air fryer chicken breast without breading

Source: loveandotherspices.com

Do you need more time? No problem! This super quick and easy air fryer chicken breast recipe will help you produce a tasty dinner in no time. You can have a healthy meal on the table in just half an hour.

This chicken has a bold yet simple flavor thanks to the spice rub on the outside. It pairs with any vegetables, so choose your favorite sides to complete the meal.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 280

• Fats: 12.4g

• Protein: 38g

• Carbs: 2.9g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 0g

23. 5-Spice Chicken with Mushrooms and Veggies

5 spice chicken with mushrooms and veggies

Source: ourlovelanguageisfood.com

Speaking of spices: what’s better than one spice? How about five? This is a healthy and flavorful recipe you can use in many ways. If you love to meal prep, this is the recipe for you.

The secret to success is plenty of Chinese five-spice powder. It imparts tons of flavor while requiring barely any effort from you.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 271

• Fats: 10g

• Protein: 37g

• Carbs: 9g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

24. Greek Chicken

Greek chicken

Source: foodwineandlove.com

This recipe claims to make the best-tasting Greek chicken, and I can’t help but agree. It’s so simple, but you can’t argue with the results.

This chicken is inspired by the Mediterranean Diet, which encourages you to eat simple, healthy, fresh vegetables. That’s how you know this recipe is low-calorie yet delicious.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 237

• Fats: 12g

• Protein: 28g

• Carbs: 4g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

25. Smoked Pulled Chicken Breasts

smoked pulled chicken breast

Source: whatsmoking.com

This recipe might be for something other than a busy weeknight, but it is worth the extra time and effort. Take a Sunday afternoon to smoke your chicken breast!

This is a skill you can take with you throughout your whole life. The smoked breast is so tender and flavorful.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 210

• Fats: 6g

• Protein: 36g

• Carbs: 1g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 0g

26. Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Breast

grilled honey mustard chicken breast

Source: foodwineandlove.com

Honey and mustard are well-known as among the best flavor combinations. On a smoky grilled chicken breast, it’s even better!

This is a simple recipe you can whip out at your next BBQ or outdoor gathering. Enjoy solo, on a tortilla, or top of a salad for a healthy meal.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 223

• Fats: 8g

• Protein: 13g

• Carbs: 29g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 24g

27. One Skillet of Italian Chicken

one skillet of Italian chicken

Source: theblondcook.com

What’s better than a one-pan meal that only takes thirty minutes? This is the ultimate remedy for busy weeknights. You can feed your whole family with everything in this pan!

Because it cooks in the sauce, the chicken stays moist and tender along with the vegetables.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 298

• Fats: 9g

• Protein: 40g

• Carbs: 16g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 10g

28. Lemon and Herb Chicken Salad

lemon and herb chicken salad

Source: tiffinandteaofficial.com

The ideal low-calorie meal is healthy, but it’s also delicious! This lemon and herb chicken salad is a low-effort meal for the entire family.

This would be a fantastic lunchtime meal prep recipe. The tender marinated chicken is the key!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 251

• Fats: 13g

• Protein: 26g

• Carbs: 9g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 2g

29. Chicken Stir Fry

chicken stir fry

Source: chefsavvy.com

I love stir fry! It’s one of the best weeknight recipes. It’s healthy, simple, and packed with delicious flavors. You can enjoy it on its own or over brown rice as a low-calorie carbohydrate.

Best of all, this stir fry comes together in just thirty minutes with standard pantry ingredients.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 241

• Fats: 14g

• Protein: 20g

• Carbs: 10g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 4g

30. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast

air fryer BBQ chicken breast

Source: gocookyummy.com

Barbecue chicken breast is so good. The thick, punchy sauce offers a great contrast to the juicy, flaky chicken. The problem is that barbecue marinades can often be complicated to make.

But not with this recipe! This super simple marinade is sure to deliver all that bold flavor.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 204

• Fats: 6g

• Protein: 31g

• Carbs: 5g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 4g

31. Salt and Pepper Chicken Bites

salt and pepper chicken bites

Source: fantabulosity.com

On its own, chicken is a super versatile ingredient. If you want to use it in a few different ways, keep the spices to a minimum. But then, how do you make it taste delicious?

That’s where this recipe comes in. Trust me, this salt and pepper chicken tastes much better than it looks!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 166

• Fats: 8g

• Protein: 21g

• Carbs: 0g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 0g

32. Marinated Chicken in Air Fryer

marinated chicken in air fryer

Source: summeryule.com

Enjoy low-calorie fried chicken without the breading thanks to this great recipe. The marinade uses a ton of citrus and spice to tenderize the chicken. It’s light, fragrant, and so tasty!

Don’t worry if your chicken changes color slightly while marinating in the citrus. The enzymes in the juice naturally cook the chicken slightly as it soaks.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 204

• Fats: 4.5g

• Protein: 38.3g

• Carbs: 0g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 0g

33. Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

air fryer chicken fajitas

Source: troprockin.com

I can’t tell you how much I love fajitas. They’re one of the quickest, easiest ways to enjoy Mexican cuisine on a weeknight! It leaves you with barely any dishes. Plus, the leftovers can be used in many ways.

This is a sheet pan recipe, which means it’s dead simple. You’ll want to keep this one in your rotation for sure!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 218

• Fats: 9g

• Protein: 20g

• Carbs: 5g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 2g

34. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

air fryer BBQ chicken

Source: summeryule.com

Here’s another take on air fryer barbecue chicken. This is a low-carb and keto-friendly recipe you can use in many ways. The key to keeping it low-calorie is to choose the proper BBQ sauce for the marinade.

Make sure you choose a sauce with low sugar content to ensure your chicken is as healthy as you want it to be.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 234

• Fats: 7.7g

• Protein: 36.1g

• Carbs: 5g

• Fiber: 0.2g

• Sugar:

35. Baked Chicken Breasts

baked chicken breast

Source: julieseatsandtreats.com

Here we have a smoky, spicy baked chicken breast you can enjoy any night of the week. You can have the perfect anchor for a meal ready and on the table in just forty minutes!

The best thing about this chicken is the crust on top. Slowly baking keeps the chicken tender while forming a thick, crunchy crust that keeps you coming back for more.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 83

• Fats: 3g

• Protein: 12g

• Carbs: 1g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g

36. Stuffed Chicken Breast

stuffed chicken breast

Source: hungryhealthyhappy.com

One of the best ways to prepare a chicken breast is to stuff it. The goat’s cheese, spinach, and sundried tomato mixture keep the chicken tender!

However, you don’t have to keep to the recipe! Experiment with your favorite ingredients.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 226

• Fats: 7g

• Protein: 37g

• Carbs: 5g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 3g

37. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

Greek yogurt chicken salad

Source: thecleaneatingcouple.com

Most chicken salads use a ton of mayonnaise, which means they can have high-calorie counts. If you want to keep your meals low-calorie, that’s an issue!

That’s why this Greek yogurt chicken salad is so good. Instead of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt minimizes calories while maximizing flavor.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 184

• Fats: 7g

• Protein: 23g

• Carbs: 7g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 4g

38. Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

crockpot chicken and gravy

Source: 24bite.com

Per Serving:

• Calories: 177

• Fats: 4g

• Protein: 23g

• Carbs: 11g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 3g

39. Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick

Teriyaki chicken on a stick

Source: theshortordercook.com

Are you gearing up for a summer barbecue with your friends and family? This recipe is guaranteed to impress them!

The sticky marinade makes every bite taste sensational. Best of all, it cooks to smoky perfection on the grill in mere minutes.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 310

• Fats: 11.1g

• Protein: 38.1g

• Carbs: 13.3g

• Fiber: 0.5g

• Sugar: 9.6g

40. Greek Lemon Chicken Soup

Greek lemon chicken soup

Source: bellyfull.net

Also called avgolemono soup, this is a buttery and citrusy soup perfect for summer evenings. If you want to try something new this week, this is the recipe to reach for!

This soup is thick enough to keep you full, thanks to the rice and eggs. However, it’s not overwhelming. It’s perfectly balanced.

Stay warm this winter with these other low calorie soup recipes!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 199

• Fats: 8g

• Protein: 9g

• Carbs: 24g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 5g

41. Baked Chicken Katsu

Baked chicken katsu

Source: simplysavourymeals.com

Our final recipe is a Japanese classic done the healthy way. Chicken katsu is usually fried in oil, but this recipe calls for a spell in the oven instead.

You get the same crispy exterior and juicy interior, all without tons of oil to grease the way. Top it with the insanely good katsu sauce, and you have a winning dinner!

Ready for more delicious chicken dinners? Enjoy these other low-calorie chicken recipes!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 308

• Fats: 9g

• Protein: 26g

• Carbs: 30g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 1g