21 Day Fix Chicken Recipes | The Ultimate 2023 Guide

Welcome to your ultimate guide on 21 Day Fix Chicken Recipes. If you’re on a journey to a healthier lifestyle, you’ve probably heard about the 21 Day Fix program. This revolutionary program, designed by fitness and nutrition experts, is all about promoting healthy eating habits and regular exercise. But, let’s be honest, sticking to a diet plan can be challenging, especially when it feels like you’re eating the same meals over and over again. That’s where we come in!

In this guide, we’re going to focus on chicken recipes that are not only delicious but also align perfectly with the 21 Day Fix program. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein and can be prepared in countless ways, making it a staple in many diet plans. But, we’re not talking about plain, boring chicken breasts here. We’ve scoured the internet and tested these recipes ourselves to bring you a variety of flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make chicken dishes that will keep your taste buds excited and your diet on track.

Whether you’re a seasoned 21 Day Fix participant or just starting your journey, these chicken recipes are sure to add a dash of creativity and a whole lot of flavor to your meal plan. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of 21 Day Fix chicken recipes together!

Remember, variety is the spice of life, and this holds true for your diet as well. Eating a wide range of foods not only ensures you’re getting a balanced diet, but it also keeps your meals interesting and enjoyable. And when you enjoy what you’re eating, you’re more likely to stick with your diet plan and achieve your health and fitness goals.

Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the 21 Day Fix program, explore the benefits of including chicken in your diet, and share some of our favorite 21 Day Fix-approved chicken recipes. Let’s make your 21 Day Fix journey deliciously rewarding!

Key Takeaways

• In your 21 Day Fix journey, remember the importance of variety. It keeps your meals exciting and ensures you get a wide range of nutrients.
• Chicken is a fantastic choice for this program due to its nutritional benefits and versatility. It’s a lean protein that can be cooked in numerous ways to suit your taste buds.
• We’ve shared some exciting chicken recipes that you can try, from the comforting Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta to the zesty Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa. These recipes not only taste great but also align with the 21 Day Fix program’s nutrition guidelines.

Remember, every step you take on this journey brings you closer to your health goals. Keep exploring, keep cooking, and most importantly, keep going! You’ve got this! For more guidance, don’t forget to check out our meal plan and workout schedule.

Understanding the 21 Day Fix Program

The 21 Day Fix program is a unique diet and fitness regimen created by Autumn Calabrese, a celebrity fitness trainer and national-level bikini competitor. The program was designed with the aim of making weight loss and healthy living achievable for everyone, regardless of their fitness level or busy schedule. The beauty of the 21 Day Fix lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s not just about losing weight, but about adopting a healthier lifestyle that you can maintain in the long run.

The program revolves around two key components: a simple eating plan and effective workouts. The eating plan uses color-coded containers to help you control portions and eat the right amount of each food group. Each color represents a different type of food:

• Green for vegetables
• Purple for fruits
• Red for proteins
• Yellow for carbs
• Blue for healthy fats and cheeses
• Orange for seeds and dressings

You’re allowed a certain number of each container per day based on your calorie needs, which you can calculate using the 21 Day Fix Calorie Calculator. This system eliminates the need for tedious calorie counting and makes meal planning a breeze.

Portion control is a crucial aspect of the 21 Day Fix program. It’s easy to overeat, even when you’re consuming healthy foods. The color-coded containers ensure that you’re eating the right amounts of each food group, helping you achieve a balanced diet without overeating.

The 21 Day Fix also includes a workout program that consists of seven 30-minute workouts, one for each day of the week. The workouts are designed to target different areas of the body and include a variety of exercises such as cardio, upper and lower body strength training, Pilates, and yoga. You can find more details about the workouts on the 21 Day Fix Workout Calendar.

The 21 Day Fix program is not a quick fix or a fad diet. It’s a lifestyle change. It encourages you to eat clean, whole foods, control your portions, and exercise regularly. It’s about creating healthy habits that you can maintain beyond the 21 days.

Whether you’re looking to lose weight, tone up, or simply improve your overall health, the 21 Day Fix program can be a great starting point. And the best part? You don’t have to give up your favorite foods. With the 21 Day Fix, you can still enjoy delicious meals like the chicken recipes we’re going to share in this guide. So, let’s move on to the next section where we’ll discuss why chicken is a great choice for the 21 Day Fix program.

Remember, the journey to a healthier you starts with understanding the program and making the commitment to follow through. You’ve got this! For more information about the 21 Day Fix program, check out this 21 Day Fix cardio Fix.

Why Chicken is a Great Choice for the 21 Day Fix

When it comes to choosing proteins for your 21 Day Fix meals, chicken is a fantastic option. Not only is it lean and low in calories, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients. A serving of chicken provides a hefty dose of protein, which is crucial for muscle growth and repair. It’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B6, niacin, selenium, and phosphorus. These nutrients play vital roles in various bodily functions, including energy production, immune function, and bone health.

Chicken is also incredibly versatile. It can be baked, grilled, roasted, slow-cooked, or stir-fried. It pairs well with a wide variety of flavors and can be used in countless recipes, from salads and soups to casseroles and stir-fries. This versatility makes it easy to include chicken in your 21 Day Fix meal plan without getting bored.

Here are a few reasons why chicken is a great choice for the 21 Day Fix:

• Nutrient-rich: Chicken is packed with essential nutrients that support overall health.
• Lean protein: Chicken, especially the breast, is a lean source of protein, which is crucial for muscle growth and repair.
• Versatility: Chicken can be prepared in countless ways and pairs well with a variety of flavors, making it easy to include in your meal plan.

In the 21 Day Fix, a serving of protein is represented by the red container. A serving of chicken fits perfectly into this category, making it easy to incorporate into your meals.

Remember, while chicken is a great choice, it’s important to include a variety of proteins in your diet to ensure you’re getting a range of nutrients. For more ideas on how healthy it is to incorporate chicken into your 21 Day Fix meals, check out the role of meat in diet.

In the next section, we’ll share some of our favorite 21 Day Fix-approved chicken recipes. These recipes are not only delicious but also easy to make and fit perfectly into the 21 Day Fix meal plan. So, let’s get cooking!

Top 21 Day Fix Chicken Recipes

Welcome to the recipe section of our guide! Here, we’ll share 10 of our favorite 21 Day Fix chicken recipes. These recipes are not only delicious and filling, but they also fit perfectly into the 21 Day Fix meal plan. Each recipe includes a list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the corresponding container counts. So, let’s get started!

Chicken Burrito Bowls

This recipe brings all the flavors of a burrito but without the extra carbs from the tortilla. It’s a simple, one-pan dish that’s packed with protein and fiber.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 can black beans
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Cook the chicken breast in a pan until it’s no longer pink in the middle.
2. Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions.
3. In a bowl, layer the rice, beans, corn, salsa, lettuce, and chicken.
4. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Yellow (rice)
• 1 Green (lettuce)
• 1/2 Purple (salsa)
• 1/2 Blue (cheese)
• 1/2 Orange (Greek yogurt)

Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos

These tacos are a hit at any dinner table. The chicken is marinated in a tangy cilantro lime sauce, then grilled to perfection. Serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 head of lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken in the lime juice, cilantro, cumin, and garlic powder for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the chicken until it’s fully cooked.
3. Serve the chicken in lettuce wraps and top with tomatoes, onions, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Green (lettuce, tomatoes, onions)
• 1/2 Orange (Greek yogurt)

Chicken Paprikash with Black Pepper and Herb Dumplings

This hearty dish is a twist on the traditional Hungarian recipe. The chicken is simmered in a rich, paprika-infused sauce and served with fluffy herb dumplings. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• For the dumplings:
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or chives)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken thighs with paprika.
2. In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add the chicken to the pan and brown on both sides.
4. Add the chicken broth, cover, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
5. While the chicken is cooking, mix the dumpling ingredients together and form into small balls.
6. Drop the dumplings into the simmering broth and cook until they’re firm.
7. Stir in the Greek yogurt just before serving.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Green (onion, garlic)
• 1/2 Yellow (dumplings)
• 1/2 Orange (Greek yogurt)

Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Pasta Pie

This recipe is a fun twist on traditional pasta dishes. It’s packed with flavor from the chicken, beans, corn, and cheese, all baked together in a delicious pie.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 2 cups whole wheat pasta, cooked
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, pasta, beans, corn, and salsa.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the shredded cheese.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Yellow (pasta)
• 1 Green (beans, corn, salsa)
• 1 Blue (cheese)
• 1/2 Orange (Greek yogurt)

21 Day Fix Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa

This recipe brings a taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen. The chicken is marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning and grilled to perfection. It’s served with a sweet and tangy mango salsa that perfectly balances the heat of the jerk seasoning.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
• 1 mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. Rub the jerk seasoning all over the chicken breasts.
2. Grill the chicken until it’s fully cooked.
3. While the chicken is grilling, mix together the mango, onion, jalapeno, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
4. Serve the grilled chicken with a generous scoop of mango salsa on top.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Purple (mango)
• 1 Green (onion, jalapeno)

Roasted Vegetable Chicken Chili with Avocado

This hearty chili is packed with vegetables and lean chicken. It’s topped with creamy avocado for a dose of healthy fats. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly day!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and garlic until soft.
2. Add the chicken, tomatoes, beans, chili powder, and cumin to the pot.
3. Simmer the chili for 20-30 minutes, until it’s heated through.
4. Serve the chili with a few slices of avocado on top.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Green (bell pepper, onion, tomatoes)
• 1 Yellow (beans)
• 1 Blue (avocado)

Slow Cooker Maple Mustard Chicken and Potatoes

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and couldn’t be easier to make. The chicken and potatoes are slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy maple mustard sauce, resulting in a flavorful and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1 lb baby potatoes
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken and potatoes in your slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Pour the sauce over the chicken and potatoes.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Yellow (potatoes)
• 1 Orange (maple syrup, Dijon mustard)

Instant Pot Orange Chicken

This recipe is a healthier version of the popular Chinese takeout dish. The chicken is cooked in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, all in the convenience of your Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Juice and zest of 1 orange
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken, orange juice and zest, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger in your Instant Pot.
2. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
3. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and stir in the cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to coat in the sauce.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Purple (orange)
• 1 Orange (soy sauce, honey)

Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta

This recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic Italian dish. The chicken is cooked in a creamy pesto sauce and served over whole wheat pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups whole wheat pasta
• 1/4 cup pesto
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, sauté the chicken in a large skillet until it’s fully cooked.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto and Greek yogurt to make the sauce.
4. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the cooked chicken and pesto sauce, and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 1 Yellow (pasta)
• 1 Blue (pesto, Greek yogurt)

BBQ Chicken Salad

This recipe is a lighter version of a BBQ chicken salad. The chicken is grilled and tossed in BBQ sauce, then served over a bed of mixed greens with a variety of colorful veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 6 cups mixed greens
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Grill the chicken until it’s fully cooked, then toss it in the BBQ sauce.
2. Arrange the mixed greens on a large platter or in individual bowls.
3. Top the greens with the BBQ chicken, bell pepper, and tomato.
4. Sprinkle the cheese over the top of the salad.

Container Counts:

• 1 Red (chicken)
• 2 Green (mixed greens, bell pepper, tomato)
• 1 Blue (cheese)
• 1 Orange (BBQ sauce)

Tips for Success with the 21 Day Fix Program

Embarking on the 21 Day Fix program can be a transformative journey, but like any lifestyle change, it requires commitment and strategy. Here are some tips to help you succeed and make the most of this program.

Meal Planning and Preparation

One of the keys to success with the 21 Day Fix is meal planning and preparation. It’s much easier to stick to the program when you have a plan in place and all your meals prepared ahead of time. Spend some time each week planning out your meals and doing some batch cooking. This way, you’ll always have 21 Day Fix-approved meals ready to go when you need them. Check out our meal plan guide for some inspiration.

Importance of Variety

Another important factor is variety. Eating the same meals over and over can get boring, and you’re more likely to stray from the program if you’re not enjoying your food. Try to mix things up as much as possible. Experiment with different recipes, like the chicken recipes we’ve shared in this article, and try to incorporate a wide range of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats into your diet.

Staying Motivated

Finally, staying motivated is crucial. It’s normal to have ups and downs on any health and fitness journey, but try to stay focused on your goals. Remember why you started the 21 Day Fix in the first place, and celebrate your progress along the way. Whether it’s feeling more energetic, fitting into a pair of jeans you love, or seeing changes in your body, there are so many reasons to feel proud and stay motivated.

For more tips on staying motivated, check out our article on how to stay motivated during the 21 Day Fix.

Remember, the 21 Day Fix isn’t just about losing weight – it’s about creating healthier habits and a lifestyle that you can maintain in the long run. With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that starting a new diet plan can come with a lot of questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the 21 Day Fix and incorporating chicken into your meal plan.

Can I eat chicken every day on the 21 Day Fix?

Yes, you can eat chicken every day on the 21 Day Fix as long as you’re varying your other foods to ensure you’re getting a balanced diet. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle recovery and growth. However, remember to incorporate a variety of other proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats into your diet for optimal health and nutrition.

How do I calculate the container counts for these recipes?

Calculating the container counts for these recipes involves understanding the portion sizes and nutritional content of each ingredient. Our calorie calculator can help you determine the appropriate container counts for each recipe.

Can I substitute other meats in these recipes?

Absolutely! While these recipes feature chicken, you can easily substitute other lean proteins like turkey, fish, or tofu. Just be sure to adjust your container counts accordingly.

Can I meal prep chicken for 3 days?

Yes, you can meal prep chicken for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. For longer storage, consider freezing your prepared meals.

How to cook chicken without adding calories?

Grilling, baking, and steaming are all great ways to cook chicken without adding extra calories. Avoid frying or sautéing in large amounts of oil, as this can significantly increase the calorie content.

How to cook chicken for a healthy diet?

Cooking chicken for a healthy diet involves choosing lean cuts (like chicken breast), using healthy cooking methods (like grilling or baking), and flavoring with herbs, spices, and low-calorie sauces instead of high-fat or high-sugar sauces.

How much chicken for meal planning?

The amount of chicken you’ll need for meal planning depends on your individual calorie and protein needs. As a general guideline, a serving of chicken is typically 3-4 ounces.

What is the healthiest way to cook chicken for weight loss?

The healthiest ways to cook chicken for weight loss are grilling, baking, or steaming, as these methods don’t require adding a lot of extra fat or calories. Also, flavoring your chicken with herbs and spices instead of high-calorie sauces can keep your meals flavorful and healthy.

Is it safe to eat chicken 3 times a week?

Yes, it’s safe to eat chicken 3 times a week. In fact, as a lean source of protein, chicken can be a healthy part of your diet every day as long as you’re also eating a variety of other foods to get a balance of nutrients.

Remember, the 21 Day Fix is all about balance and portion control. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out, COMMENT BELOW.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chicken is a versatile and nutritious choice for your 21 Day Fix journey. With a variety of recipes at your disposal, from the zesty Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa to the comforting Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this lean protein.

Remember, success with the 21 Day Fix is all about planning, variety, and staying motivated. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and flavors to keep your meals exciting and satisfying.

We hope this guide has been helpful and wish you the best of luck on your 21 Day Fix journey. Remember, every step you take is a step towards a healthier, happier you. Keep going, and don’t forget to check out our 21 Day Flat Belly Fix Tea Recipe and 10 minute abs workout schedule for more guidance and inspiration. You’ve got this!