Sri Lankan Spiced Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Salsa

This light and flavorful Sri Lankan-inspired recipe is perfect for weight loss, combining lean protein with fresh, tropical flavors. Grilled chicken is marinated in a blend of Sri Lankan spices, paired with a zesty pineapple salsa, and served with whole-grain roti or a side of steamed greens. It's a healthy, low-calorie meal that satisfies your taste buds while supporting your weight loss goals.

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Weight loss based ingredients

  • Skinless chicken breast (lean protein, low in fat)
  • Fresh pineapple (low-calorie, rich in vitamin C and fiber)
  • Red onion (low-calorie, high in antioxidants)
  • Lime juice (boosts metabolism and adds flavor without extra calories)
  • Fresh cilantro (adds flavor without added fat or sugar)
  • Garlic and ginger (metabolism-boosting spices)
  • Turmeric (anti-inflammatory and weight loss-friendly)
  • Whole-grain roti or steamed greens (high-fiber, low-calorie base)

Cooking Methods (Instructions) Focused for Weight Loss

1. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a bowl, combine minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Coat the chicken breast evenly with the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the fridge.

2. **Grill the Chicken:** Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly brush the grill with a small amount of coconut oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly charred. Avoid overcooking to retain moisture.

3. **Prepare the Pineapple Salsa:** Dice fresh pineapple, red onion, and cilantro. Mix in a bowl with lime juice and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. **Serve:** Slice the grilled chicken and serve with the pineapple salsa. Pair with a small whole-grain roti or a side of steamed greens like spinach or kale for a balanced meal.

Weight Loss Tips & Advice

1. **Portion Control:** Stick to one serving of chicken (about 100-120g) and a small portion of roti or greens to keep the meal light.

2. **Avoid Added Sugars:** Use fresh pineapple instead of canned to avoid added sugars and preservatives.

3. **Stay Hydrated:** Drink a glass of water before your meal to help control hunger and prevent overeating.

4. **Incorporate Exercise:** Pair this meal with a 30-minute walk or light workout to maximize calorie burn.

Conclusion

This Sri Lankan Spiced Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Salsa is an excellent choice for weight loss, especially for Sri Lankans. It incorporates local flavors and ingredients while keeping the meal low in calories and high in nutrients. The lean protein from the chicken helps build muscle and keeps you full, while the pineapple salsa adds a refreshing, low-calorie twist. By focusing on fresh, whole ingredients and healthy cooking methods, this recipe supports sustainable weight loss and overall health.