Type 2 Diabetes
These high-protein plates make the perfect filling meal option for anyone looking to lower their A1C and lose weight.
By
Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDCES
by
Lynn Grieger, RDN, CDCES
Eat the breasts from a whole chicken and remove the skin for a diabetes-friendly main course.
Did you know more chicken is purchased more often than any other food at the center of the plate? In the United States, chicken consumption has increased almost every single year since the 1960s, according to the National Chicken Council. With only 230 calories and 0 grams (g) of carbohydrates per cup, it’s no wonder roasted, skinless chicken breast is a popular source of lean protein among people with diabetes.
Chicken is a beloved main course in many U.S. households, but sitting down to the same-old chicken breast recipe week after week can get boring. Chicken is actually a versatile food. All you need is a little creativity!
Using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, you can prepare juicy, flavorful meals that will please even the pickiest eater. And because chicken is a naturally carb-free choice, it's perfect for developing meals that are not only filling, but can also help promote healthy blood sugar levels.
RELATED: 5 Ways to Lower Your A1C Levels
Whether you’re a fan of roasting, slow cooking, grilling, or using your pressure cooker, these eight chicken recipes make great options for anyone with diabetes.
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Baked Turmeric Chicken Tenders
No matter your age, you never really outgrow your love for chicken tenders. The classic, deep-fried version can be rich in saturated fat, which may be harmful in excess, as well as refined carbohydrates, which can have a negative effect on blood sugar levels. This recipe contains Corn Flakes, which are a heavily processed carb, but they’re baked, not fried, making them a healthier option than fast-food fare, with just 15 g of carbs per serving. Combine that with the added anti-inflammatory benefits that turmeric can offer, and you have a chicken dish you can feel good about indulging in.
Get the recipe at Mitten Dietitian.
539
Miso-Glazed Chicken
Asian-inspired chicken dishes are known for being packed with flavor, but many takeout varieties can be loaded with added sugar, sodium, and refined carbohydrates. If you are looking to satisfy your craving for Asian food, try making this Miso-Glazed Chicken recipe instead. By using only a minimal amount of honey, this recipe provides little added sugar and can be paired perfectly with a side ofnonstarchy, diabetes-friendly steamed vegetables, such as broccoli. And because it can be made in just 30 minutes, there’s no need to call for takeout anymore.
If you are looking for a delicious, one-pot meal that is simple to make, this French Onion Chicken Breast recipe is the perfect solution. Combining the taste and texture of classic French onion soup with the lean protein of the chicken breasts, this filling meal is low in carbs and contains on 385 calories per serving. Pair it with a side salad or a serving of steamed vegetables and you have a crowd-pleasing dinner option that won’t spike your blood sugar.
541
Pulled Chicken With Cherry Chocolate Sauce
If you’re short on time and looking to create a protein-rich meal in a hurry, pressure-cooker meals can be a lifesaver. This pulled chicken recipe is no different. In 20 minutes, you can create a sweet and savory dish that can be enjoyed alone or on top of your favorite salad. The addition of apple cider vinegar to the recipe may help lower postprandial blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, suggests a small randomized crossover trial on plain vinegar that was published in May 2015 in the Journal of Diabetes Research.
542
Slow-Cooker Roasted Chicken
If you love to prepare roasted chicken but struggle to find the time to make it, this recipe is for you. Using a slow cooker, you can cook delicious roasted chicken that can be incorporated into meals all week long with just a few minutes of prep time. Because slow cookers allow your meals to cook themselves while you are off doing what you need to get done, this recipe will free up your time and cut down on the stress of meal preparation.
543
1-Dish Mediterranean Chicken
Love cooking but hate the cleanup? Sheet pan recipes like this Mediterranean chicken are for you. Simply toss together the ingredients, bake, and enjoy. With minimal cleanup, this recipe makes meal preparation a breeze. The flavors from the lemon, capers, and grape tomatoes provide an appetizing dish without the need for added sugar and salt.
RELATED: 10 Sneaky Sodium Bombs to Avoid
544
Quick Thai Chicken Red Curry
Diabetes-friendly Thai food isn’t always easy to come by, so it's nice to be able to prepare it at home. A classic dish of Thai chicken yellow curry contains 31 g of carbs and 1,723 milligrams (mg) of sodium, according toMy Fitness Pal. That’s about three-quarters of your day's worth of sodium! By reducing the amount of soy sauce and added sugar in the standard recipe, this Quick Thai Chicken Red Curry provides the same great taste with about one-third the sodium and only 23 g of carbs.
545
Chicken Pesto Kabobs
Want a simple way to spruce up chicken? Look no further than adding verdant, nutty pesto to this protein. Chicken Pesto Kabobs should fit the bill. With just four ingredients, this dish couldn’t be easier to make, and the minimal carbohydrate content will help to promote healthy blood sugar levels.
Get the recipe at Julie Harrington.
RELATED: 15 Delicious Diabetes-Friendly Dinner Ideas
