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17 Chicken Recipes That Let You Eat Well Without Cleaning Out Your Calorie Budget by 7 p.m.

Weeknights felt easier when 17 chicken recipes made dinner light enough to keep calories in check without skipping on comfort. Even second helpings stayed within reason, so there was no guilt about finishing every bite. Busy evenings turned smoother with meals that filled plates without adding stress

Three pieces of chicken smothered in a creamy, orange-hued sauce topped with chopped herbs, served on a white rectangular plate.
Chicken Paprikash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts

Grilled lime-garlic chicken breasts with visible char marks on a white rectangular plate, with vine tomatoes in the background.
Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Fire up the grill for something quick yet full of depth. Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts stand out thanks to their bold marinade, giving them a vibrant flavor and juicy texture. This dish pairs well with nearly any side, making it incredibly versatile for weeknight meals. Whether for dinner or meal prep, it’s a smart, low-calorie choice that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Lime Garlic Chicken Breasts

Chicken Lettuce Cups

A plate of chicken lettuce wraps filled with minced meat, shredded carrots, and cucumber slices, with a small pitcher of sauce in the background.
Chicken Lettuce Cups. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Want a meal without feeling weighed down? Chicken Lettuce Cups offer a crisp bite while staying filling. Packed with elements that come together perfectly, they’re an excellent low-carb option. You’ll appreciate how versatile they can be, working both as a quick snack and a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lettuce Cups

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Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you’re craving comfort in a bowl, this hits the mark perfectly. Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup blends simplicity with hearty warmth. It’s the type of dish that feels like home and works whether it’s cold outside or you’re just looking for something satisfying. No need to think twice when this is on the menu!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken served on a white rectangular plate.
Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re looking for something tender and packed with robust inspiration, this stands out. Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken delivers depth without overcomplicated prep. It’s perfect for pairing with simple sides or enjoying solo while still sticking to your calorie plans. A win-win for chicken lovers looking for something flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Slow Roasted Chicken

Chicken Zoodle Soup

A person holding a bowl of chicken and zucchini soup.
Chicken Zoodle Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Light but comforting summed it up. Chicken Zoodle Soup reimagines a traditional favorite in a healthier way without losing any of its appeal. Swapping in creative alternatives makes this feel fresher and less heavy while retaining the warmth you love from classic soups. It’s a go-to for lighter meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Zoodle Soup

Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

A plate of chicken wings on a white plate with a slice of mango.
Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re in the mood for something smoky and sweet, these are a no-brainer. Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings bring new excitement to a well-loved classic. Coated in balanced flavors, this option is made to share or keep entirely to yourself. Either way, it’s worth every bite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mango-Chipotle Chicken Wings

Chinese Chicken Salad

A bowl of Chinese chicken salad with shredded chicken, snap peas, carrots, and peppers, accompanied by a bottle of dressing on the side.
Chinese Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Tired of boring salads? Chinese Chicken Salad brings a refreshing twist with crunch and variety in every bite. It’s an option that offers a balance of fresh and savory without being heavy. Perfect for lunches or light dinners, it keeps things exciting while fitting into your calorie plans.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad

Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Close-up of a hand holding a fork with a bite of copycat Alice spring chicken.
Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Fans of restaurant-inspired meals will love this take. Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken brings together bold, layered flavors with a balance of hearty and light. It’s indulgent enough to feel special but crafted to fit into any cleaner-eating framework. A great choice to bring variety to meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Alice Spring’s Chicken

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken on a white plate.
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Want to bring Italian vibes to dinner without the heaviness? Grilled Bruschetta Chicken checks all the boxes with its balance of freshness and smokiness. It’s a lighter option perfect for warm evenings or busy weeknights. You won’t miss the carbs with this flavor-packed dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Lemon Chicken Broccoli Orzo Skillet

Lemon Chicken Broccoli Orzo Skillet, diced tomatoes, lemon slices, and parsley garnish.
Lemon Chicken Broccoli Orzo Skillet. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you prefer one-pan meals that keep things simple, this one tops the list. Lemon Chicken Broccoli Orzo Skillet blends staples with subtle brightness. It keeps things efficient without sacrificing what you want from a dinner, the balance between ease and hearty satisfaction. Great for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Broccoli Orzo Skillet

Chicken Scampi

A white plate with Chicken Scampi and green beans resting in the center.
Chicken Scampi. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Wanting to lean into lighter versions of well-loved dishes? Chicken Scampi offers all the coziness of a traditional pasta-based dish but skips the overdressed extras. It stays within healthy boundaries while still providing rich appeal and dinner-worthy satisfaction. Great for pasta lovers, cutting back!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Scampi

Chicken Parmesan Lettuce Wraps

Two chicken parmesan lettuce wraps on a cutting board.
Chicken Parmesan Lettuce Wraps. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Chicken-based recipes don’t always need bread to feel complete. Chicken Parmesan Lettuce Wraps reinvent a regular classic into something fresh and handheld without going too far off track. It’s all about enjoying lighter twists while still sticking to calorie-conscious options. Keeps the experience fun and flavorful!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Lettuce Wraps

Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce

Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce on a white square plate.
Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

If you’re looking for casual yet feel-good choices, this nails it. Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce put a lighter spin on something traditional. By skipping the fryer and leaning on grilling, it keeps wings you love but trims the unnecessary extras. Always a great party or solo snack idea.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A balanced mix of protein and light carbs never goes out of style. Chicken Fried Rice reinvents comfort food staples with calorie limits in mind. It keeps things wholesome without skimping on flavor or feeling lackluster. Great for lazy day cooking or meal prepping ideas!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Three pieces of Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions on a white rectangular plate.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for something crispy without the oil overload? Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs give you a great blend of crunchy texture with a lighter take on indulgent flavors. Using an air fryer makes it easy to stay within limits while enjoying the extras. Simple but memorable!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken in a bowl on a wooden table.
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Soup lovers will appreciate how filling this feels without leaning heavy. Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken embraces flexibility, comfort, and heartiness, all while steering clear of calorie-packed choices. It’s wholesome and gives variety with its approach, perfect for a cold night or weekly meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

Al pastor chicken quesadillas pulled apart.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Love quesadillas but want something different? Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas shake things up with fresh, bold-inspired flavor while sticking to reasonable calorie choices. It’s not extravagant but adds excitement to your regular meal plan with these handheld bites. Great for fast, flavorful options during busy nights!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas

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