Add variety and flavor in a low calorie way!
Forget “tastes like chicken.” We prefer “tastes like healthy.” Chicken is an easy, nutritious addition to your menu—but don’t let it hog your table. Pair it with one of these 8 healthy sides for chicken recipes.
Healthy Sides for Chicken
Dieting can be a toughie, and choosing chicken over beef can be a better choice for those who are restricting their calorie intake or hoping to cut instead of bulk. Restrictive calorie-cutting doesn’t mean that you need to be without a little zest and spice in your life. After all, eating chicken and broccoli most nights doesn’t sound appealing at all. This leaves more room to include healthy side dishes for chicken and makes Sunday night meal prep a lot more fun.
However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t incorporate these fabulous side dishes into everyday life, regardless of whether you’re dieting or not, be it simple family dinners, ensuring you’re eating clean even at work, or even sharing recipes with friends. These simple and healthy sides for chicken will leave even the most avid fried food lover satiated. And the best part? Most of the ingredients in these add-ons are readily available in most grocery stores, and you won’t have to bust out expensive food processors or anything of the sort. You just need what’s already in the kitchen so come as you are! These healthy sides for chicken dishes are a great tool for anyone looking to cook healthy and delicious meals, and it is sure to help you stay motivated during your next meal.
Chicken is a fantastic food choice when you’re looking for a high-quality protein that satisfies the appetite. Chicken meat contains essential amino acids and is naturally low in sodium. We love chicken because it’s super-versatile. Incorporate it into comfort foods, ethnic cuisine, or create your own signature recipe—no matter how you serve it, chicken is an excellent foundation for so many healthy dishes.
For chicken entrée ideas, check out these 13 of Our Most Popular Chicken Recipes
We’ve chosen versatile side dishes that pair well with many recipes. Like all the meals on SkinnyMs., these healthy sides for chicken recipes use clean-eating superfoods that nourish your body with antioxidants and vitamins without sacrificing flavor.
1. Balsamic Roasted Carrots
Serve up a side of healthy goodness with this fresh take on ho-hum carrot recipes. We’ve seasoned them with balsamic vinegar, fresh thyme, and more.
Get the recipe: Balsamic Roasted Carrots
2. Parmesan Zucchini
You’ll love pairing this tender five-ingredient side dish with your favorite chicken recipes.
Get the recipe: Parmesan Zucchini
3. Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes
Ditch the comfort food guilt with healthy sides like this one. The dish yields tender, lightly seasoned taters.
Get the recipe: Slow Cooker Baked Potatoes
4. Green Bean and Tomato Salad
Surprise your family with clean eating flair! This delicious salad is packed with antioxidants.
Get the recipe: Green Bean and Tomato Salad
5. Lentils and Pea Risotto
Made with extra virgin olive oil, this side dish for chicken recipes is a light, healthy alternative to traditional risotto recipes.
Get the recipe: Lentils and Pea Risotto
6. Herbed Couscous with Arugula and Pistachios
The combination of whole wheat couscous and herbs like cilantro and mint makes this a fresh dish to serve with your favorite entrées.
Get the recipe: Herbed Couscous with Arugula and Pistachios
7. Crispy Oven Fries
A family favorite! These crisp oven fries are one of those healthy sides for chicken recipes like sandwiches and hoagies.
Get the recipe: Crispy Oven Fries
8. Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
With 49 calories per serving, flavorful mashed cauliflower is a nutritious and delicious alternative to mashed potatoes.
Get the recipe: Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Loving our recipes? You might also like to try:
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