Are you looking for delicious and healthy ways to incorporate more lean protein into your diet? Look no further! As part of a well-rounded meal, chicken is an excellent choice due to its high-quality protein content and versatility. But what if you’re watching your cholesterol levels or following a specific dietary restriction? Worry not! We’ve got you covered with these 18 mouthwatering low-cholesterol chicken recipes that are both healthy and easy to make.
From classic grilled favorites to hearty stews, and from international-inspired stir-fries to comforting casseroles, we’ve curated a collection of recipes that cater to various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re on the hunt for quick weeknight meals or special occasion-worthy dishes, these low-cholesterol chicken recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your cholesterol levels in check.
Stay tuned for our full list of 18 healthy low-cholesterol chicken recipes, carefully crafted to provide a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to make a positive impact on their health.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing grilled chicken breast recipe, infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 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, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes total
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and satisfying recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the tender juiciness of chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange chicken thighs in a single layer.
4. Brush the garlic-infused oil evenly over the chicken thighs.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and dried oregano over the top of each thigh.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Low Cholesterol Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe is a healthy twist on traditional stir-fries, packed with protein-rich chicken and an array of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, and honey to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken and Quinoa Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew is perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Made with chicken, quinoa, and a medley of vegetables, this slow cooker recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Grilled Chicken Skewers with Pineapple
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these flavorful skewers that combine juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and a kick of heat. Perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add chicken, pineapple, salt, and pepper to the marinade. Mix well.
4. Thread chicken and pineapple onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and crispy recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer. With a blend of fresh herbs and spices, these herb-crusted baked chicken drumsticks are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken for added flavor and visual appeal.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and arrange the chicken drumsticks in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low Cholesterol Chicken and Brown Rice Casserole
A healthy twist on a classic comfort food dish, this casserole is packed with lean protein, fiber-rich brown rice, and flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1/4 cup low-fat cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken and mixed vegetables in olive oil until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked brown rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix well.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the rice mixture, followed by the cooked chicken and vegetables, then top with the remaining rice mixture.
5. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, and bell peppers for a nutritious and delicious meal. With minimal prep time and simple cooking instructions, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, spinach, rice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Healthy Chicken and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the protein-packed power of chicken, all wrapped up in a bed of crisp greens. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both healthy and delicious!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced chicken, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
4. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Low Cholesterol Chicken Fajitas with Whole Wheat Tortillas
Looking for a delicious and healthy twist on traditional fajitas? This recipe combines lean chicken breast, crunchy vegetables, and whole wheat tortillas to create a nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced yellow onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the whole wheat tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the fajitas by placing the chicken and vegetable mixture onto the tortillas. Add your desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chicken and Sweet Potato Curry
This hearty curry recipe combines tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices to create a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add sweet potatoes, garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
Elevate your summer BBQ game with this sweet and savory combination of grilled chicken and fresh mango salsa. The perfect blend of tropical flavors, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or spray for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve grilled chicken with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Low Cholesterol Chicken and Vegetable Soup
This hearty soup is a great way to incorporate lean protein and nutritious vegetables into your diet while keeping cholesterol levels in check. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and healthy meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and green beans)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken breast in a little bit of water until cooked through.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cooked brown rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic stir-fry, using low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the broccoli to the pan and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in the low-sodium soy sauce.
6. Season with salt-free seasoning blend if desired.
7. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Chicken with Rosemary and Garlic
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the savory goodness of rosemary and garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the top of each breast with the garlic-rosemary mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low Cholesterol Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy dinner option. This recipe combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and Arborio rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove chicken from skillet. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice to skillet, stirring to combine with mushroom mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add warmed chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Once rice is cooked, stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a fresh twist on traditional noodles. Zucchini noodles, also known as “zoodles,” replace traditional pasta for a healthier and low-carb alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the chicken breast in a pan with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine the cooked chicken, pesto sauce, and remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Chicken and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines lean chicken breast with fiber-rich black beans, crunchy veggies, and a hint of cumin for a flavorful and nutritious taco filling. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 yellow onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with vegetables.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with bean mixture.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for healthy, low cholesterol chicken recipes? You’re in luck! This collection of 18 delicious recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your cholesterol levels in check. From grilled and baked dishes to stir-fries and slow cooker recipes, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy flavorful and nutritious meals like Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Breast, Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs, and Low Cholesterol Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables. With these easy-to-make recipes, you’ll be cooking up a storm in no time!
