Did you know that chicken breasts can be an important part of your weight-loss diet? Chicken breast meat, as well as many other parts of the chicken, are high in protein and relatively low in calories, so it’s perfect to include as part of your calorie controlled meals. The key is to choose lean chicken breasts and make sure they’re cooked without too much oil or butter added in order to maximize their health benefits. Here are 10 ways to use chicken breasts to lose weight!
1) Try cooking your chicken on the grill
Grilling a whole chicken can be one of the easiest and most delicious ways to cook it. The meat is juicier, has more flavor, and also gets a nice char on the outside. To grill your chicken breast, prepare the grill by heating it up with charcoal or turning on your gas grill to medium-high heat. Next, prepare your chicken breast by cutting off any excess fat and seasoning it with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
2) Marinate your meat before grilling it
Marinating meat before grilling gives it a better flavor, but it can also help make the meat healthier. If you’re worried about adding too much fat to your diet, opt for a marinade made with olive oil or lemon juice. You can also cut down on calories by using yogurt as your marinade base instead of high-calorie sauces like mayonnaise.
3) Don’t be afraid of white meats
White meat is lean and low in fat, making it a great option for those looking to cut calories. Plus, it’s versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Try adding chicken breasts to your diet by serving them with pasta or on top of salad greens as part of a healthy meal plan.
4) Go for Skinless Boneless Breasts
Boneless, skinless breasts are the best option for people who are trying to lose weight. They’re low in fat and high in protein, which will help you feel full without the guilt of eating too much fat. Plus, they can be cooked in a variety of ways that make them more exciting than regular chicken breasts.
5) Add Extra Flavor with a Marinade
A marinade is one of the best ways to make your chicken breasts more flavorful and juicy. To make a simple marinade, combine: 2 tablespoons minced garlic, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Marinate for 30 minutes.
6) Grill, Don’t Fry!
Grilling is one of the healthiest ways to cook chicken breasts, as it’s high in protein and low in calories. It also tastes great with a variety of toppings, like tomato sauce or pesto. Plus, grilling can be done year-round, so you don’t have to avoid your favorite summer dishes just because the weather isn’t cooperating.
7) Don’t Skimp on Healthy Sides
When you’re trying to lose weight, it’s important not to skimp on healthy sides. Luckily, chicken breasts can help by providing lean protein with a low-calorie count that fills you up without the guilt.
Lean protein can be incredibly helpful for people who are working hard to lose weight, because it can help you feel fuller for longer and reduce cravings for junk food. Plus, there are tons of ways to incorporate lean protein into your diet—whether you’re cooking from scratch or hitting up a fast-food joint.
8) Eat Lean Protein All Day Long
Eating lean protein all day long is a great way to keep your hunger levels in check. Protein is the most filling nutrient, so it naturally helps you feel fuller for longer periods of time. Plus, when you’re getting enough protein in your diet (about 25% of total calories), it can help with weight loss and muscle gain.
9) Get Creative with Leftovers
Soup is always a great idea for leftovers, but if you’re looking for something a little more substantial, try mixing your leftover chicken with rice and vegetables. If you have an avocado on hand, add that in as well! You can also roast your chicken breasts instead of frying them to lower the fat content. A roasted chicken breast with veggies on top makes for a delicious lunch or dinner.
10) White Meat is Ideal Post-Workout Meal
White meat, such as chicken breasts, is considered a healthier option for post-workout meals than red meat. Unlike red meat, white meat is lower in fat and higher in protein, meaning that it takes longer for the body to digest it. This slows down the release of sugars into the bloodstream which helps stabilize blood sugar levels and prevents rapid weight gain.