Cutting calories slightly while lifting?

I would just add a bit of cardio along with the lifting instead of cutting the calories. If you can burn them off with cardio and burn fat, but still get the nutrition you need, it seems like it might be a bit better. When I was in shape a few years ago, I went through a similar situation where I didn't want to lose my muscle but there were a few stubborn parts on my body. The workout that gave me the best results was ballet. That kicked my behind more than all the lifting I'd ever done. It was enough cardio to burn off those bits of fat, but the strength that it not only required, but helped me build was wonderful. And I never got too big. That might be something to look into.

Are you looking for actual muscle GROWTH, or simply muscle definition? If you want your muscles to grow, unless you're obese or very new to lifting, they won't if you're eating at a deficit. However, if you simply want muscle definition, then eating at a modest deficit will allow you to take in enough to fuel your lifting, while reducing your body fat, which will expose the underlying muscle. My profile pics show me doing the latter. I plan to eat at a surplus in a few months to actually put on new muscle mass. Cardio won't hurt, and yes it will allow you to eat more and therefore maybe hit your targets for protein and fat more easily.

Thank you Just make sure you're eating enough protein (about 1g/lb of lean body mass), and doing your lifting - this will help retain muscle as you lose fat. Good luck!