Are you looking for a delicious and filling meal that won't ruin your diet? Look no further than our BBQ chicken pizza, with only 680 calories per serving! This meal is the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and fat, making it a great option for a post-workout recovery or a midday pick-me-up.
Not only is it tasty, but it's also nutritious, containing a variety of vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly. Let's dive into the details of this meal's nutritional information.
In this article, we'll also explore some helpful tips for preparing and serving this dish, as well as its numerous health benefits.
Calories per serving
As mentioned earlier, our BBQ chicken pizza contains only 680 calories per serving. This makes it a great option for those who are trying to maintain a calorie deficit, or for those who are watching their weight. However, keep in mind that the number of calories you need to consume per day varies based on your age, gender, and activity level. Therefore, be sure to consult with a registered dietitian to determine how many calories you should be eating in a day. It's also important to note that while calories are important, they're not the only factor to consider when choosing a nutritious meal. You also need to consider the macronutrient content (carbs, protein, fat) as well as the nutrient density (amount of vitamins and minerals) of your food.
Fat content
Our BBQ chicken pizza contains approximately 28g of fat per serving. While this may seem like a lot, keep in mind that not all types of fat are created equal. The fat in this dish comes from the cheese and olive oil, which are sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats - the healthy kinds of fat that your body needs. However, if you're trying to reduce your fat intake, you can customize this recipe by using less cheese or opting for a low-fat cheese alternative.
Carbohydrate content
At 72g per serving, our pizza contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates. However, most of the carbs come from the crust and tomato sauce, which are sources of complex carbs that provide slow-release energy to your body. Additionally, the chicken provides a source of protein that helps balance out the carbs in this dish, preventing blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Protein content
A serving of our BBQ chicken pizza contains approximately 32g of protein, making it an excellent source of this important nutrient. Protein helps build and repair muscle tissues, supports immune function, and keeps you feeling full and satisfied between meals. If you're looking to increase your protein intake, you can add extra chicken or cheese to this recipe, or pair it with a side of roasted veggies or a mixed salad.
Sodium content
Our BBQ chicken pizza contains approximately 1150mg of sodium per serving. While this is within the recommended daily limit of 2300mg for most adults, it's still a relatively high amount and may be an issue for those with salt-sensitive conditions like hypertension. To reduce the sodium content of this dish, you can use low-sodium tomato sauce and cheese, or omit the added salt and use herbs and spices to flavor the pizza instead.
Sugar content
Our BBQ chicken pizza contains approximately 4g of sugar per serving. Most of this sugar comes from the tomato sauce and BBQ sauce used in the recipe. While this is a relatively small amount, it's important to be mindful of your sugar intake and to limit your consumption of added sugars in your diet.
Vitamin and mineral content
Our BBQ chicken pizza contains a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining optimal health. These include calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, among others. To further boost the nutrient content of this dish, you can add extra veggies like bell peppers, onions, and spinach, which are all rich sources of vitamins and minerals.
Health benefits
Our BBQ chicken pizza provides a variety of health benefits, thanks to its nutrient-dense ingredients. Some potential benefits include:
- Improved muscle recovery and repair from the protein in the chicken
- Better heart health from the healthy fats in the cheese and olive oil
- Increased energy and alertness from the complex carbs in the crust and sauce
- Reduced risk of chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes from the antioxidants in the veggies
Preparation instructions
To make our BBQ chicken pizza, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 premade pizza crust or homemade pizza dough
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced red onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Spoon the tomato sauce and BBQ sauce onto the pizza crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Add the shredded chicken on top of the sauce, followed by the mozzarella cheese and sliced onions.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Serving suggestions
Our BBQ chicken pizza is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions:
- Pair with a mixed salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
- Cut into smaller slices and serve as an appetizer or party snack.
- Add extra toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or pineapple for a flavor twist.
- Use different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese to change up the flavor profile.
"Eating nutritious meals doesn't have to be difficult or boring. Our BBQ chicken pizza is proof that healthy eating can be delicious and satisfying!"
FAQs about BBQ Chicken Pizza
1. How many calories are in one serving of BBQ Chicken Pizza?
One meal of BBQ Chicken Pizza (320g) contains 680 calories.
2. What are the ingredients in BBQ Chicken Pizza?
BBQ Chicken Pizza typically consists of pizza dough, BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, cheese (mozzarella or cheddar), red onions, and sometimes bacon or other toppings.
3. Is BBQ Chicken Pizza a healthy option?
While BBQ Chicken Pizza contains protein from the chicken, it can also be high in calories, carbs, and sodium depending on the ingredients and size of the pizza. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. Can I make a healthier version of BBQ Chicken Pizza?
Yes, you can make a healthier version of BBQ Chicken Pizza by using whole wheat or cauliflower crust, light cheese, and packing in veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, and using a homemade or low-sugar BBQ sauce.
5. Is BBQ Chicken Pizza suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
BBQ Chicken Pizza can be a good option for people with gluten-free or low-carb diets if you opt for a cauliflower crust or other gluten-free options. For those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets, you can substitute cheese with plant-based or lactose-free cheese alternatives.