Healthy Low-Calorie Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Craving a delicious takeout favorite without the guilt? This healthy low-calorie sweet and sour chicken is the perfect solution. It’s a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy sauce, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner.

Imagine a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps your calorie count in check. This recipe is all about balancing flavor and health, allowing you to indulge without compromise. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip it up whenever the mood strikes!

This sweet and sour chicken is not just low in calories; it’s loaded with vibrant colors and textures that make for a visually appealing meal. The combination of crispy chicken, fresh bell peppers, and a luscious sauce creates a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious.

A Guilt-Free Take on a Classic

This healthy version of sweet and sour chicken combines tender chicken pieces with a vibrant mix of bell peppers and pineapple.

The dish is light and refreshing, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without the extra calories.

The glossy sauce adds a burst of tangy flavor, perfectly complementing the chicken and veggies.

This meal not only satisfies cravings but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Colorful Ingredients for a Bright Presentation

The appeal of this dish begins with its colorful ingredients.

Using a variety of bell peppers—red, yellow, and green—adds visual interest and nutritional value.

These vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing the health benefits of this meal.

Pineapple chunks introduce a natural sweetness that balances the tangy sauce.

Together, the combination of chicken, vegetables, and pineapple creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Preparing this dish is straightforward and quick, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

The entire process, from prep to serving, takes about 25 minutes, allowing for minimal time in the kitchen and maximum enjoyment at the table.

Simply season the chicken, stir-fry it until it’s golden brown, and then add the vegetables and sauce.

With just a few steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready at home!

Served with a Healthy Side

This sweet and sour chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy brown rice or quinoa.

These whole grains not only complement the dish but also provide additional fiber and nutrients, making your meal even more satisfying.

Garnishing with sesame seeds and fresh green onions adds a layer of flavor and a pop of color, making your plate truly inviting.

It’s a simple touch that enhances the overall presentation.

A Nutritious Choice

With only 280 calories per serving, this dish allows you to indulge without the guilt.

Packed with 28 grams of protein and minimal fat, it supports a healthy lifestyle while delivering on taste.

Its balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats makes it a well-rounded meal option for various dietary needs.

Enjoying a plate of this sweet and sour chicken is a step towards mindful eating.

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

This healthy low-calorie sweet and sour chicken is not only delicious but also practical for busy nights.

Its quick preparation time and minimal cleanup make it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family, this dish promises to please everyone at the table.

Prepare to enjoy a nutritious meal that feels like a treat!

A Guilt-Free Take on a Classic

Healthy sweet and sour chicken with bell peppers and pineapple on a plate with brown rice.

This low-calorie sweet and sour chicken features tender chicken pieces stir-fried with a medley of colorful bell peppers and a tangy sauce. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, offering a satisfying meal without the extra calories.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
1/2 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned (in juice, drained)
1/4 cup low-sugar ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
2 teaspoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked brown rice or quinoa for serving (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Stir-Fry: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for another minute.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch mixture. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the vegetables and stir well.
Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and stir everything together until the sauce has thickened and coats the chicken and vegetables, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Serve the sweet and sour chicken over cooked brown rice or quinoa if desired. Enjoy your healthy meal!