High Protein Recipes Dinner Low Carb

Highlighted under: Light & Wholesome

I love discovering new ways to make my dinners not just delicious but also packed with protein and low in carbs. This recipe has been a game changer for me, combining flavors and textures that keep me satisfied without weighing me down. I enjoy creating dishes that make me feel good, and this high-protein, low-carb meal does just that. Whether I'm in a rush or have time to spare, it’s versatile enough to fit my schedule while delivering on nutrition.

Rowena Clarke

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:46:12.038Z

As I've experimented with various high-protein, low-carb recipes, I've found that grilling or baking proteins enhances their natural flavors while keeping them tender. This method works wonderfully with chicken, turkey, or tofu. I particularly enjoy marinating the protein beforehand, which really brings out the flavors. A great tip is to let the protein rest for a few minutes after cooking, allowing the juices to redistribute.

One notable variation I’ve tried is adding various herbs to the marinade. Fresh rosemary or thyme elevates a plain piece of grilled chicken to a new level! Always remember that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your protein, so a meat thermometer can really help you achieve the perfect doneness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Packed with nutrients to keep you feeling energized
  • Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
  • Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners

Unlocking Flavor with Marinades

Marinating the chicken in olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder not only enhances its flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Allowing it to rest for at least 15 minutes—ideally, up to an hour—lets the spices penetrate more deeply. If you're short on time, however, even a quick marinate can make a difference. Experimenting with different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, can create a distinct flavor profile without complicating the process.

When preparing your marinade, ensure you create enough to coat the chicken evenly. A good visual cue is until the chicken pieces are glossy with the oil and spices. Using a resealable plastic bag makes it easy to completely coat the chicken. Just squeeze out the air, seal it, and give it a gentle massage to distribute the marinade evenly.

The Perfect Sauté

Sautéing the vegetables right after cooking the chicken is a great way to incorporate the residual flavors from the pan. Make sure your pan is hot enough—medium heat is generally ideal for getting that delightful sear without burning. Adding a splash of water or broth at the end can help deglaze the pan, lifting those flavorful bits and adding depth to the sautéed veggies.

For a vibrant dish, consider using a mix of bell peppers in different colors. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds varied nutrients. If you want to amp up the protein even more, you can toss some chickpeas or edamame into the vegetable mix during the last minute of cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a satisfying dinner.

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your meal.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, wash and chop the broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate pan, sauté the vegetables in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the chicken and serve it over the sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy your high-protein, low-carb dinner!

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Pro Tips

  • For extra flavor, try adding spices like paprika or cumin to the chicken marinade. You can also substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option!

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This high-protein, low-carb meal is excellent for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator, ready to cook when you need it. Cooked chicken can be stored in airtight containers for up to four days in the fridge, making it easy to reheat and enjoy with steamed veggies or in salads throughout the week.

If you're looking to make a larger batch, cooked chicken freezes well for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool down completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, and then warm it in a skillet on low heat until it’s heated through. This delicate reheating will help maintain its texture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or even mushrooms can make delightful substitutes and add their unique tastes. Just remember that firmer vegetables will require a longer sautéing time, while softer ones like zucchini should be added later to prevent them from becoming mushy.

You can also play around with the seasoning. Adding a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a spicy kick to the dish. If you want a creamier texture, consider topping the chicken and veggies with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, fish, or tofu, adjusting the cooking time as necessary.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep! Just store the cooked chicken and vegetables in airtight containers in the fridge.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to add any low-carb vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or green beans.

→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is a great tool for this.

High Protein Recipes Dinner Low Carb

I love discovering new ways to make my dinners not just delicious but also packed with protein and low in carbs. This recipe has been a game changer for me, combining flavors and textures that keep me satisfied without weighing me down. I enjoy creating dishes that make me feel good, and this high-protein, low-carb meal does just that. Whether I'm in a rush or have time to spare, it’s versatile enough to fit my schedule while delivering on nutrition.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Rowena Clarke

Recipe Type: Light & Wholesome

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  4. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. 1 cup broccoli florets
  7. 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
  8. 1 zucchini, sliced

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 02

While the chicken marinates, wash and chop the broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini.

Step 03

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.

Step 04

In a separate pan, sauté the vegetables in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 05

Slice the chicken and serve it over the sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Extra Tips

  1. For extra flavor, try adding spices like paprika or cumin to the chicken marinade. You can also substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 45g