Introduction
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. If you’re searching for quick and nutritious lunch options, skillet low calorie Asian chicken recipes are a fantastic choice. Packed with flavors, these meals are not only easy to make but also allow you to enjoy the delicious tastes of Asian cuisine while keeping your calorie count in check. In this article, we will share several mouthwatering recipes that are perfect for a busy lifestyle.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa (for serving)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine chicken pieces, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- If desired, drizzle honey or agave syrup over the mixture for added sweetness and stir well.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot over cooked brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
More Delicious Skillet Low Calorie Asian Chicken Recipes
To keep things exciting, let’s explore more variations of this basic recipe. Each of these options has its unique twist while remaining low in calories.
1. Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
For a sweet and savory dish, use homemade teriyaki sauce. Substitute the soy sauce with a mix of soy sauce, honey, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables.
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into strips
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch until well combined.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add chicken. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and let simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
2. Spicy Szechuan Chicken
If you love a little heat, try making Szechuan chicken. Use chili paste and fresh chili peppers to bring the spice. Serve with steamed jasmine rice for a fragrant meal.
Spicy Szechuan Chicken Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Red chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with soy sauce and chili paste for 10 minutes.
- Heat oil in a skillet and add the chicken. Stir-fry until cooked through, about 7 minutes.
- Add bell pepper and broccoli, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and red chili flakes before serving.
3. Lemon Ginger Chicken
Brighten your meal with a zesty lemon ginger sauce. This refreshing option is perfect for spring and summer lunches.
Lemon Ginger Chicken Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, lemon juice, and ginger in a bowl. Marinate chicken for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add chicken. Cook for 7-10 minutes.
- Add asparagus and bell peppers, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are these recipes really low calorie?
Yes! Each recipe is designed to be low in calories while still delivering rich flavors and satisfying portions.
2. Can I meal prep these recipes?
Absolutely! These skillet meals are perfect for meal prep. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to four days.
3. What sides pair well with these dishes?
These chicken recipes pair beautifully with brown rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
4. How can I make these recipes vegetarian?
You can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same cooking instructions for a delicious vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Skillet low calorie Asian chicken recipes are a wonderful solution for anyone looking for quick healthy lunches. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these flavorful meals in no time. Whether you prefer a classic stir-fry or a spicier dish, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy these recipes as part of a balanced diet, and feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables and sauces. Happy cooking!
