Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't derail your diet? Look no further! This blog post offers simple, low-calorie rotisserie chicken recipes perfect for busy weeknights. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic base for quick and easy meals, packed with protein and surprisingly versatile. We'll explore several recipes that showcase the best of this healthy and convenient ingredient, turning simple chicken into exciting and satisfying dishes. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients You'll Need (for all recipes)
- 1 rotisserie chicken (approximately 3-4 pounds), shredded
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
Recipe 1: Light & Zesty Chicken Salad
This recipe is a fantastic option for a quick lunch or light dinner. It's packed with flavor and surprisingly low in calories.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine the shredded chicken, celery, and red onion in a medium bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and dill.
- Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve on whole-wheat bread, crackers, or lettuce cups.
Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder.
Recipe 2: Speedy Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry
This vibrant stir-fry is a perfect example of a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight meal. It's packed with vegetables and lean protein.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup sliced carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp.
- Add garlic and stir-fry for another minute.
- Add shredded chicken and stir to combine.
- Stir in soy sauce and rice vinegar.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Serve over brown rice or quinoa.
Tip: Add other vegetables like snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra variety.
Recipe 3: Simple Chicken and Avocado Salad
This is a refreshing and satisfying salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The avocado adds healthy fats and creaminess.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine the shredded chicken, avocado, tomatoes, and red onion in a medium bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and cilantro.
- Pour the lime juice mixture over the chicken mixture and gently stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Tip: Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and richness (this will slightly increase the calorie count).
Nutritional Information (Approximate values per serving, will vary based on ingredients and portion size)
These recipes are generally low in calories and high in protein. Specific nutritional values will depend on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise information.
More Delicious and Easy Recipes to Explore
These simple rotisserie chicken recipes provide a base for many culinary adventures. Feel free to experiment with different spices, vegetables, and sauces to create your own unique dishes. Remember, healthy eating can be fun and delicious! Enjoy your culinary creations!