High Protein Low Calorie Dinners

Name: High Protein Low Calorie Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Discover delicious and satisfying high protein low calorie dinners that will keep you full and energized without the extra calories.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:18:38.313Z

This collection of high protein low calorie dinners is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Each recipe is crafted to deliver a satisfying meal while keeping the calorie count low.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to keep you feeling full longer
Low in calories, making it great for weight management
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Nutritional Benefits

High protein, low-calorie dinners are an excellent choice for those seeking to maintain or lose weight while ensuring they get the nutrients their bodies need. Protein plays a crucial role in muscle repair and growth, making it essential for active individuals. Incorporating lean proteins, such as chicken breast, into your meals not only helps in building strength but also keeps you satiated for longer periods, reducing the likelihood of unhealthy snacking.

In addition to protein, this dish is loaded with vibrant vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients support overall health, boost immunity, and contribute to a well-rounded diet. Opting for low-calorie dinners like this one can help you achieve your health goals without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Meal Prep Friendly

One of the best aspects of high protein low calorie dinners is their versatility and ease of preparation, making them ideal for meal prepping. You can cook a larger batch of this dish and store it in the refrigerator for quick and nutritious meals throughout the week. Simply divide the quinoa, chicken, and veggies into individual containers, and you'll have a healthy option ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

Meal prepping not only saves time during busy weekdays but also helps in controlling portion sizes, ensuring you stick to your dietary goals. This recipe can easily be customized with different vegetables or proteins, allowing you to switch things up and keep your meals exciting while remaining aligned with your health objectives.

Flavor Variations

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients before you start cooking.

Ingredients for High Protein Low Calorie Dinners

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dinner.

Cook Quinoa

In a saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Add Broccoli and Bell Peppers

Add broccoli and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Combine and Serve

Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and serve it on plates. Top with the sautéed chicken and vegetable mixture.

Enjoy your healthy, high protein, low calorie dinner!

Quick Cooking Tips

To ensure your chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy, cut it into uniform pieces before sautéing. This not only helps with cooking time but also ensures that every bite is tender and flavorful. Additionally, preheating your skillet before adding the olive oil can help create a nice sear on the chicken, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

When cooking quinoa, rinsing it before adding it to the broth helps remove any bitterness, resulting in a nuttier flavor and better texture. Remember to keep an eye on it as it cooks, as overcooking can lead to mushy quinoa.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your high protein low calorie dinner with a side of fresh greens or a light salad to complement the dish. A simple vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty quinoa and chicken, making for a more balanced meal. Alternatively, a dollop of Greek yogurt can add creaminess while keeping the calorie count low.

For those looking to add a bit of crunch, consider topping your dish with sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds. These toppings not only enhance the texture but also provide additional healthy fats and nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I meal prep these dinners?

Yes! These dinners can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ What can I use instead of quinoa?

You can substitute quinoa with brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce when sautéing the chicken.