Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for health when it comes to cooking chicken dishes? If so, you’re in luck! As a person with diabetes, it’s essential to keep your blood sugar levels in check, and one way to do that is by making smart food choices. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 delicious and healthy diabetic chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic comfort foods like baked chicken and grilled chicken skewers, to international-inspired dishes like curry chicken lettuce wraps and Mediterranean chicken bowls, there’s something for everyone in this list. And the best part? Each recipe has been carefully crafted to be low-carb, sugar-free, or simply a healthier take on traditional recipes. Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, these easy and quick recipes are perfect for any mealtime.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the zest of lemon with the savory taste of herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with the lemon herb mixture.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Baked Chicken
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This Garlic Parmesan Baked Chicken is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and breadcrumbs.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the garlic-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each breast.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry
This Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the heat of chili flakes with the savory taste of chicken, bell peppers, and onions. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the chili flakes, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir-fry until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
A flavorful and colorful kebab recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken with the sweetness of vegetables, all in one convenient skewer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, made easy with the help of your slow cooker. Tender chicken and vegetables in a rich tomato sauce – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, onion, garlic, bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Chicken Avocado Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this recipe combines juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If using feta cheese, crumble on top of the salad.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparing ingredients) + 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Mediterranean Chicken Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines juicy chicken, succulent vegetables, and creamy feta cheese, all wrapped up in a warm pita bread. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 pita breads
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, feta cheese, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and coat evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill or bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
6. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
7. Assemble bowls by placing chicken, roasted vegetables, and a dollop of feta cheese on each pita bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Zucchini Boats
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, crunchy zucchini, and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stuff each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture.
4. Top each boat with mozzarella cheese and parsley.
5. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curry Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This recipe combines the spicy warmth of curry with the freshness of lettuce, all wrapped up in a crispy and satisfying package. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these Curry Chicken Lettuce Wraps are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup shredded carrot
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 6-8 whole wheat tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken breast, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook chicken in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Assemble lettuce wraps by placing shredded carrot, red bell pepper, and cooked chicken onto a large lettuce leaf.
5. Drizzle with Greek yogurt and wrap up with tortilla.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Bake
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be on the table in under 30 minutes. With chicken, broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and broccoli in butter until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the milk mixture to the skillet with chicken and broccoli. Stir until combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with thyme.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, featuring juicy chicken mixed with creamy cheese and spices, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of bell peppers. It’s an easy and impressive dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked chicken, rice, cheese, parsley, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Quinoa Soup
This comforting soup recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with tender chicken and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes)
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, quinoa, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the tenderness of chicken with the nutritional benefits of spinach, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the spinach leaves to the pan and stir-fry until wilted, about 1 minute.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Cauliflower Rice Casserole
A comforting and nutritious casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, cauliflower, and creamy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cauliflower florets
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and cauliflower in olive oil until browned and tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cooked rice with heavy cream and thyme.
4. Combine chicken and cauliflower mixture with the rice mixture.
5. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Skillet
A hearty one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch, this Chicken and Mushroom Skillet is loaded with juicy chicken, tender mushrooms, and flavorful herbs. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and add the chicken broth. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Tacos with Low-Carb Tortillas
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this mouth-watering recipe! Crispy chicken, fresh toppings, and a crispy low-carb tortilla come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 low-carb tortillas (6-7 inches)
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breast and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Warm the low-carb tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos with cooked chicken, toppings, and your favorite salsa.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Asparagus Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines juicy chicken, tender asparagus, and savory soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and asparagus. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until asparagus is tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and crispy hash browns.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, cook onion and garlic over medium-high heat until softened. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes and crispy hash browns (optional).
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Kale Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines tender chicken, curly kale, and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chopped kale (curly or lacinato work well)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the broth, add the thyme, and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken and Black Bean Chili
This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy black beans, and rich tomatoes to create a deliciously comforting chili perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 delicious and healthy diabetic-friendly chicken recipes! From grilled favorites like Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken to baked comfort foods like Garlic Parmesan Baked Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Plus, try your hand at international-inspired dishes like Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry or Mediterranean Chicken Bowl. With a variety of flavors and textures, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And with their focus on diabetic-friendly ingredients and portion control, you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
Leave a Reply