Chicken is one of the most reliable dinner staples in our family. No matter what kind of mood my husband or kids are in, I know if I cook chicken they’re going to eat it. But, it’s the side dishes, like these Spaghetti Squash Recipes, that often trip me up, especially when we’re trying to eat healthy.
Most of the side dishes I usually make for chicken are carb-heavy, such as macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, and dirty rice. And I still make those pretty often. But when I want something a bit lighter for my family, I try to make one of these low calorie side dishes for chicken. And everyone loves them! Check these out and add a few to your family meal plan!
Need more inspiration for making delicious sides? Stop by to see this list of over 100 side dish recipes!
Are you tired of serving the same old side dishes with your chicken dinners? Looking to add some variety and flavor to your meals? You’re in the right place! In this blog post, we will explore a wide range of low-calorie side dishes that are perfect for pairing with chicken. Whether you’re a teacher or a homeschooler, these delicious and healthy options will surely impress your taste buds and make your next chicken dinner a hit!
Why Choose Low Calorie Side Dishes?
When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, watching your calorie intake is crucial. Opting for low-calorie side dishes is a smart choice as they offer numerous benefits for your overall well-being.
One of the primary reasons to choose low-calorie side dishes is that they allow you to enjoy a satisfying meal without compromising on flavor. Contrary to common misconceptions, low-calorie dishes can be incredibly delicious and fulfilling. With the right combination of ingredients and seasonings, you can create mouthwatering dishes that satisfy and nourish you.
In addition to being flavorful, low-calorie side dishes are packed with essential nutrients. Many of these dishes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which contribute to improved digestion, enhanced energy levels, and overall better health. By incorporating nutrient-dense ingredients into your meals, you can get a wide range of vital nutrients your body needs to function optimally.
Moreover, low-calorie side dishes are an excellent choice for those looking to shed a few pounds or maintain their weight. Reducing calorie intake while enjoying delicious and satisfying meals can create a calorie deficit that supports healthy weight loss or weight management. Incorporating low-calorie sides into your meals allows you to control your portion sizes and make healthier choices without sacrificing taste.
Choosing low-calorie side dishes also encourages a balanced and well-rounded approach to eating. By filling your plate with nutrient-rich vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. This balance helps to regulate blood sugar levels, maintain satiety, and support overall health and well-being.
Opting for low-calorie side dishes is a smart choice for anyone aiming to maintain a healthy lifestyle. These dishes offer a range of health benefits, including flavor, nutrition, and support for weight management. By incorporating these dishes into your meals, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying food while nourishing your body with the essential nutrients it needs.
Olive Oil: The Perfect Healthy Fat
One ingredient that features prominently in many of our low-calorie side dishes is olive oil. This heart-healthy fat adds a rich and flavorful touch to your dishes. It’s a great alternative to butter or other oils and can be used in a variety of cooking methods, from sautéing to roasting.
Olive oil is a perfect healthy fat to incorporate into your dishes, especially when looking for flavorful and nutritious options. Olive oil is high in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, making it beneficial for your health. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
When it comes to cooking, olive oil can be used in various ways. For example, if you’re preparing chicken breasts, drizzling them with olive oil before seasoning and grilling them can enhance their flavor and keep them moist. To add a touch of sweetness, consider tossing in some thinly sliced red onions while sautéing the chicken.
If you’re in need of healthy side dishes, look no further than the versatility of olive oil. Roasted Brussels sprouts, for instance, can be taken to the next level by tossing them in olive oil, sprinkling them with salt and pepper, and roasting them until they develop a crispy texture. The natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts are complemented by the richness of the olive oil.
By incorporating olive oil into your cooking, you can elevate your meals to new heights. Its health benefits, rich flavor, and versatility make it a perfect choice for creating tasty and nutritious sides that pair perfectly with chicken and other main courses.
Sweet Potatoes: A Nutritious Powerhouse
Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious choice for a side dish. They are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any meal. According to The Pioneer Woman, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.
One great way to enjoy sweet potatoes as a healthy side dish is by making sweet potato fries. Instead of deep frying them, try using an air fryer for a healthier alternative. This cooking method helps to reduce the amount of oil needed for frying while still achieving that crispy texture. Toss the sweet potato fries in a bit of olive oil, sprinkle them with a touch of salt, and air fry until golden brown.
To add even more flavor to your sweet potato fries, you can sprinkle them with parmesan cheese before air frying. The combination of the sweet and savory flavors will elevate these fries to a whole new level. Another option is to serve the sweet potatoes as a main course by topping them with sour cream and red onions. This creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is both nutritious and flavorful.
Whether you’re looking for a great side dish or a main course, sweet potatoes are versatile ingredients that can be enjoyed in various ways. Incorporate them into your weeknight dinners for a healthy and delicious addition to your meal.
Low Calorie Side Dishes for Chicken:
1. These Baked Parmesan Tomatoes are one of my family’s favorite sides! They’re so cheesy!
2. Cut up some carrots and serve them as this Sweet & Spicy Carrots side!
3. This Mediterranean Pasta Salad would be delicious with barbecue chicken!
4. Cut the calories from your side with this recipe for Skinny Mexican Coleslaw!
5. Love french fries? Try these Healthy Butternut Squash Fries!
6. Skip white rice and use vegetables to make this low-carb Parmesan Cauliflower Rice!
7. I still love traditional mac and cheese, but this lighter Pumpkin Mac & Cheese looks delish!
8. Bulk up your starch with plenty of fresh vegetables in this Rosemary Veggie Risotto!
9. This baked Mushroom Gratin Casserole would be so warm and comforting with baked chicken!
10. We love these easy Glazed Pearl Onions in our family!
11. Add some “oomph” to basic broccoli with this recipe for Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli!
12. Serve up this Healthy Pumpkin Cornbread Stuffing with roasted chicken!
13. This easy Five Bean Salad is a great make-ahead dish! Just mix it and refrigerate it!
14. I absolutely love brussels sprouts. I can’t wait to try this recipe for Balsamic Bacon Brussels Sprouts!
15. Pick some fresh veggies to make these Roasted Spring Vegetables!
16. These lovely Asparagus Prosciutto Bundles would be wonderful to serve with oven baked chicken!
17. Serve this simple Parmesan Garlic Spaghetti Squash with a dinner this fall!
18. This Garlic Sauteed Spinach and Mushrooms recipe would be a quick fix on a busy weeknight!
19. Love sour cream and onion chips? These Sour Cream and Onion Smashed Red Potatoes will be a big hit!
20. These Asparagus Spirals go so fast when I make them!
21. This Roasted Whole Cauliflower is just gorgeous. It’d look amazing in the center of the dinner table!
22. Try these Baked Plantain Fries for a lighter side with a taste of the tropics! These would be excellent with baked chicken fingers!
23. Turn zucchini into noodles with this recipe for One-Skillet Garlic Parmesan Zoodles!
24. This low-carb Cauliflower Chorizo Hash recipe is paleo-friendly!
25. Our Simple Carrot Salad is a great cold side dish for a barbecue!
26. Serve these Garlic Lemon Green Beans with fresh beans for a easy, yummy side!
Low Calorie Side Dishes for Chicken Recipe Resources:
Make some yummy low calorie side dishes for chicken in your kitchen with these Amazon affiliate resources!
Theresa
Monday 26th of February 2018
We eat chicken all the time. Thanks for this great list of healthy side dishes. Thanks for sharing it at the Inspiration Spotlight Party@DearCreatives Pinned and sharing.
Sue from Sizzling Towards 60 & Beyond
Saturday 24th of February 2018
Thanks for some delicious and healthy sides which I always find difficult selecting. Great to have you lik up with us at #overthemoon.