Chicken Recipe For Losing Weight

Weight loss and protein intake are closely associated. Many experts talk about the importance of protein for weight loss. That is because protein helps build and repair muscles. It also supports the immune system and keeps you full and satisfied after meals, reducing the likelihood of overeating. In addition, when you consume protein, your body works harder to break it down, increasing your metabolism and promoting fat burning.

Chicken is a fantastic source of protein because it is lean and low in saturated fat, making it a healthy option for those trying to lose weight. Chicken is also a versatile and tasty protein source that can be prepared in many ways, making it suitable for a healthy and balanced diet. 

Please note that how one prepares chicken can significantly impact its nutritional value. For example, frying or cooking it in rich gravies made with butter and cream can add extra calories and fat. Therefore, choosing healthy cooking methods and pairing them with nutrient-dense vegetables and whole grains for a balanced meal is essential. In addition, chicken does not increase your risk of high cholesterol and other metabolic disorders. 

According to a study, increasing the daily protein intake to the recommended level when in a calorie deficit can dramatically impact weight loss. One must be careful when selecting the type of chicken and the cooking method to lose weight.

The sections below will discuss how chicken helps in weight loss and mouth-watering recipes to try.

Best Cuts of Chicken for Weight Loss

There are several cuts of chicken, including drumsticks, thighs, wings, and breasts.

Depending on your fitness and health objectives, you should eat different cuts of chicken. All chicken pieces are excellent protein sources, but some are leaner than others. In addition, the extra fat in the thighs, wings, and drumsticks can aid in some goals while hindering others.

Chicken breast is the best cut of chicken to eat if you are aiming to lose weight. As the leanest component, it has the fewest calories but the most protein.

Nutritional Value of Chicken

According to USDA, 100 grams of chicken breast contain the following nutrients.

• Energy – 120 kcal
• Protein – 22.5 g
• Carbohydrate – 0 g
• Total lipid (fat)- 2.6 g
• Calcium – 5 mg
• Iron – 0.37 mg
• Sodium – 45 mg
• Cholesterol – 73 mg

Benefits of Chicken for Weight Loss

The variety of essential elements in chicken makes it a great supplement to a balanced, healthy diet.

It Is Protein-Rich

The most crucial nutrient for weight loss is protein. Chicken is one of the finest sources of protein. A high-protein diet speeds up metabolism and increases calorie burning in the body. According to a study, protein also delays digestion, which aids in lowering appetite, elevating the sense of fullness, and so regulating your calorie intake.

A diet high in protein helps you lose weight without losing muscle. According to another study, protein encourages muscle growth with resistance training. In addition, you burn more calories while at rest when you consume protein.

It is Low in Fat

Skinless, boneless chicken breast is a relatively lean source of protein. In addition, it contains relatively low amounts of fat compared to other protein sources like red meat and paneer. Therefore, chicken is an excellent option for those trying to lose weight, as it can provide satiating protein without adding excessive calories or unhealthy fats.

It Provides High Satiety

Chicken can also help lose weight because protein is more satiating than carbohydrates or fats. Eating protein-rich foods like chicken can help you feel fuller for extended periods. It may reduce the overall amount of food you consume. Hence, it can make it easier to stick to a calorie-controlled diet. Additionally, protein digestion requires more energy than digesting other macronutrients, which can boost metabolism and promote weight loss.

It is Low in Calories

It is essential to be in a state of calorie deficiency if you want to lose weight. It would help if you tried to burn off more calories than you take in. Because chicken has low calories, it can be an excellent weight-loss food option. Raw chicken is a fantastic dietary option for people trying to reduce weight because 100 grams only have 120 calories.

Summary

The essential elements in chicken make it a great addition to a balanced weight-loss diet. In addition, chicken is low in calories yet a good source of lean protein that gives your body all the vital amino acids it requires and helps you meet your daily protein requirements. It also keeps one satiated for longer and has low fat content. 

Ways to Add Chicken to a Weight-Loss Diet

Chicken is a highly versatile meat. One can prepare it in numerous ways. 

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is an excellent option for weight loss. It is a low-calorie and high-protein dish. Also, one can add nutrient-dense vegetables for added fibre and vitamins. It is also easy to store for a few days in the fridge or freezer for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

• Small cut pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 500g
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp
• Onion, diced: 1
• Carrots peeled and chopped: 2
• Green Beans: 50g
• Low-sodium chicken broth: 4 cups
• Water: 2 cups
• Dried herbs: 1 tbsp
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Start with heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once heated, add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Then, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and beans to the same pot and cook until softened, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, water, herbs, salt, and pepper to the pot and boil.
4. Once boiled, reduce the heat to low. Then, add the chicken back. Let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the chicken gets cooked and the vegetables tender.
5. Serve the soup hot and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Chicken Sandwich

Making a chicken sandwich at home is a healthier substitute for eating fried or spicy food at a restaurant.

Ingredients

• Small cut pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 500g
• Low-fat plain yoghurt: 1 cup
• Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
• Grated ginger: 1 tbsp
• Ground cumin: 1 tbsp
• Ground coriander: 1 tbsp
• Red chilly powder: 1 tsp
• Turmeric: ½ tsp
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Multigrain bread: 8 slices
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced red onion
• Chopped fresh coriander: ¼ cup

Instructions

1. Start by whisking yoghurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, chilly powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper in a big bowl until well combined.
2. Once the mix is ready, add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat in the marinade. 
3. Then, cover the marinade and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
4. After refrigeration is done, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Spread the chicken pieces on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven. Do it for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned.
6. To assemble the sandwiches, toast the slices of multigrain bread lightly.
7. Spread a layer of coriander-yoghurt chutney on each slice of bread.
8. Place a few lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, and sliced red onion on one slice of bread.
9. Add a generous amount of cooked chicken tikka to the vegetables.
10. Sprinkle some chopped coriander over the chicken.
11. Top with the other slice of bread and serve.

This recipe makes four servings. Each serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, 25-30 grams of protein, and 10-12 grams of fat, depending on the chicken breast size and the type of yoghurt used.

Chicken Salad 

Here is a recipe for a weight-loss chicken salad with a tangy vinegar and honey dressing:

Ingredients

• Skinless, Boneless chicken breasts: 2
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Mixed salad greens: 4 cups
• Medium cucumber sliced: 1
• Medium carrot, peeled and grated: 1
• Red onion, thinly sliced: ¼ 
• Slivered almonds: ¼ cup
• Apple cider vinegar: 2 tbsp
• Honey: 1 tbsp
• Dijon mustard: 1 tbsp
• Garlic clove, minced: 1
• Extra-virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp

Instructions

2. Before starting the process, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Now, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, place them on the baking sheet.
4. Next, bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the baking gets over, prepare the salad by combining the mixed greens, cucumber, carrot, and red onion in a large bowl.
6. Whisk apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, honey, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
7. Slowly whisk in the extra-virgin olive oil until the dressing gets emulsified.
8. Once the chicken gets cooked, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
9. Add the sliced chicken to the salad bowl and toss everything with the dressing.
10. Divide the salad into four bowls and sprinkle with slivered almonds.
11. Serve and enjoy!

This recipe makes four servings. Each serving contains approximately 300-350 calories, 25-30 grams of protein, and 15-20 grams of healthy fats, depending on the chicken breast size and the dressing used.

Low-Fat Butter Chicken

Here’s a recipe for a low-fat version of Indian butter chicken. It has all the flavour but no excess fat:

Ingredients

• Small cut pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 500g
• Mustard oil: 1 tbsp
• Medium onion, chopped: 1
• Garlic cloves, minced: 2
• Grated ginger: 1 tbsp
• Chicken masala powder: 1 tbsp
• Ground cumin: 1 tsp
• Ground coriander: ½ tsp
• Ground turmeric: ½ tsp
• Red chilly powder: ¼ tsp
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pureed tomatoes: 2
• Low-fat plain yoghurt: ½ cup
• Chopped fresh coriander
• Butter: 1 tbsp
• Kasuri methi: 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes or until softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes more, until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with chicken masala powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chilli, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices.
5. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned on all sides.
6. Add the pureed tomatoes to the skillet, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Whisk together the low-fat yoghurt, chopped coriander and water in a separate bowl until smooth.
8. Slowly add the yoghurt mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly.
9. Let the chicken and sauce simmer for another 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the chicken gets cooked.
10. Add 1 tbsp butter before closing the lid with some Kasoori methi.
11. Serve the low-fat Indian butter chicken over brown rice or quinoa, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.

This recipe makes four servings. Each serving contains approximately 300-350 calories, 25-30 grams of protein, and 15-20 grams of healthy fats, depending on the chicken breast size and the amount of oil used. In addition, by using low-fat yoghurt instead of heavy cream, this recipe significantly reduces the fat content of traditional Indian butter chicken without sacrificing flavour.

Grilled Chicken

Serving – 2

Cooking time – 35 minutes

Ingredients

• Chicken – 350gm
• Ginger paste -1/2 tsp
• Red chilli powder – 1/2 tsp
• Cumin powder – 1/4 tsp
• Salt as required
• Hung curd -1/2 cup
• Garlic paste – 1/2 tsp
• Coriander powder – 1/4ts
• Powdered black pepper – 1/4 tsp
• Garam masala powder – 1 tsp

Preparation Method

• Before making this easy chicken dish, clean the chicken pieces and prick them with a fork.
• Now, put the hung curd in a large bowl and add the ginger, garlic, coriander, cumin, black pepper, salt, and garam masala.
• Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
• Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle the masala over them. Marinate the chicken fir atleast 1 hour.
• Preheat the oven to 190°C.
• Place the marinated chicken pieces on a grilling pan and grill it till evenly cooked on both sides.
• Serve warm alongside a salad or dip.

​Chicken Salad Wrap

Serving – 2

Cooking time – 15 minutes

Ingredients

• Chicken – 1½ cups
• Lettuce leaf as required
• Salsa sauce – 1 tbsp
• Onion – ½ cup 
• Tortillas – 3 pieces
• Hung Curd – ½ cup
• Black pepper, as required
• Salt as required

Preparation Method

• To make this delicious dish, boil the chicken and shred it. Next, combine the curd, salsa, salt, pepper, onion, and cooked, shredded chicken in a bowl to make the spread.
• Place lettuce leaves on top of the tortillas. Spread the chicken mixture on the lettuce. Add hung curd and chopped tomatoes.
• Serve the chicken salad wrap with your preferred dip and salad on the side.

Other Quick Recipe Ideas

• Chicken Stir Fry: Stir-frying chicken with vegetables is a wholesome and calorie-efficient way to prepare it. To add flavour, you can use a variety of veggies and seasonings.
• Tandoori chicken: Tandoor is a common way to give it a smokey flavour and crispy texture. For more flavour, marinate the chicken in homemade sauces and spices.
• Baked chicken: Baking chicken is a quick and healthful cooking method. You can add herbs, spices, or a small amount of olive oil for flavour.

Chicken: How Much to Consume?

A balanced diet can benefit significantly from including chicken. Consuming nearly 1 to 1.5 grams of protein per kg of body weight is advised for people who want to lose weight. To counteract the adverse effects of protein, consuming at least three times as much fibre as salads, fruits, and vegetables is crucial. However, protein needs can vary depending on a person’s weight and level of activity, so it is best to speak with a nutritionist to learn about your specific protein requirements and recommended serving sizes.

HealthifyMe Suggestion

Chicken is a staple in kitchens all over the world. One can eat it in various ways with various seasonings, garnishes, and sauces, including roasted, broiled, grilled, poached, added to soups and stews, and served in a variety of different ways. In addition, one can reduce the quantity of additive fat and cooking oil and pair it with complex carbs and vegetables to get the best out of them. 

The Final Word

Chicken is a perfect meal. It is high in protein, which helps to promote satiety and prevent overeating. Also, it is a relatively low-fat option if you choose lean cuts of chicken such as chicken breast. In addition, chicken is a versatile ingredient that one can prepare in various healthy ways, such as grilling, baking, or broiling, without adding excess calories or fat.

Chicken is a fantastic source of essential nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and phosphorus. Overall, incorporating chicken into a balanced, calorie-controlled diet can be a helpful strategy for achieving weight loss goals. In addition, it can help develop lean muscle mass, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and robust metabolism.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is just to disperse knowledge and raise awareness. It does not intend to replace medical advice from professionals. For further information, please contact our certified nutritionists Here.

Frequently Asked Question

Q: Is chicken a good protein source for weight loss?

A: Chicken is a rich source of protein for those looking to lose weight. Since chicken is a lean protein source, it is excellent for weight loss. In addition, because it helps to maintain muscle mass, it can boost your metabolism and enable you to burn more calories throughout the day. It also increases satiety and reduces your cravings for junk food.

Q: Can I eat chicken breast every day for weight loss?

A: You can eat chicken breast every day because it is high in protein, low in fat, low in calories, and has no carbohydrates. Without substantially increasing your daily calorie intake, the protein aids in weight loss by keeping you fuller for longer, preventing overeating, and increasing satiety. Portion control, however, should be remembered.

Q: What are some low-fat chicken recipes for weight loss?

A: Many low-fat chicken recipes, including grilled chicken, baked chicken, stir-fried chicken, and roasted chicken, can be incorporated into a weight-loss diet plan.

Q: Can I eat fried chicken for weight loss?

A; If you want to lose weight, fried chicken may be the worst thing to eat. Overall, it raises the dangers of additional dietary-related illnesses. Trans fats increase the risk of heart disease and obesity by lowering HDL cholesterol and raising dangerous (LDL) cholesterol levels.

Q: What are some healthy ways to cook chicken for weight loss?

A: Since chicken is high in protein, eating it will help you feel fuller for longer. It is low in calories and may aid in weight loss when prepared healthily. You can eat chicken as salads, soup, roast, grilled, or stir-fried with veggies. Consider paying close attention to the size of your serving also.

Q: Can I eat chicken skin for weight loss?

A: It is not advised to eat chicken skin if you are attempting to reduce weight because it is high in calories and fat. For example, removing the skin from the chicken breast before cooking is preferable as it becomes the leanest chicken cut for weight loss. 

Q: What are some easy chicken recipes for weight loss?

A; Many delectable and simple chicken recipes, including chicken salad, chicken soup, baked chicken, grilled chicken, chicken kebabs and tikkas, chicken curry, and even chicken wraps, are worth trying for weight loss healthily.

Q: How much chicken should I eat for weight loss?

A: Consuming 1 to 1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight is advised for people who want to lose weight. However, a person’s protein needs can change depending on their weight and level of activity. Therefore, it is best to keep your daily intake of chicken to between 85 and 115 g (between 1/2 and 3/4 cups).

Q: Are there any chicken recipes that can help boost metabolism and aid in weight loss?

A: You can cook the chicken healthily to make it weight-loss-friendly. Using ingredients like herbs, vegetables, lean cuts like skinless breast, and healthy cooking techniques like grilling, baking, and roasting make the dish good for health, improving metabolic health. 

Q: Can I include chicken in a low-carb diet for weight loss?

A: To lose weight, you can eat chicken as part of a low-carb diet. Chicken is an excellent choice for low-carb diets since it is a good source of protein and has relatively fewer calories and fat. However, you should consider the preparation recipes and other added ingredients to ensure they complement a low-carb diet.

Research Sources

1. Leidy HJ, Clifton PM, Astrup A, Wycherley TP, Westerterp-Plantenga MS, Luscombe-Marsh ND, Woods SC, Mattes RD. The role of protein in weight loss and maintenance. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015 Jun;101(6):1320S-1329S. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.114.084038. Epub 2015 Apr 29. PMID: 25926512

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25926512/#:~:text=Collectively%2C%20these%20data%20suggest%20that,or%20all%20of%20these%20health

2. Westerterp-Plantenga MS, Lemmens SG, Westerterp KR. Dietary protein’s role in satiety, energetics, weight loss and health. Br J Nutr. 2012 Aug;108 Suppl 2:S105-12. DoI: 10.1017/S0007114512002589. PMID: 23107521.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23107521/

3. Bosse JD, Dixon BM. Dietary protein to maximise resistance training: a review and examination of protein spread and change theories. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2012 Sep 8;9(1):42. DoI: 10.1186/1550-2783-9-42. PMID: 22958314; PMCID: PMC3518828.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3518828/