High Protein Recipes Dinner Low Carb
Highlighted under: Balanced Living Kitchen
I love discovering new ways to create delicious and healthy meals, especially those that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This recipe has become one of my favorites because it packs a punch in terms of flavor while keeping my diet on track. It’s incredibly versatile, too! Whether I’m making it for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish always satisfies my hunger and keeps my energy levels up. Let’s dive into how this delightful dish is made!
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a search for healthy meal options. After a few tweaks, I found the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make it truly enjoyable. The use of fresh herbs and spices enhances the overall taste, making it a mouthwatering experience every single time.
What I particularly love about this recipe is its nutritional profile. With high protein sources like chicken or tofu, plus plenty of vegetables, it's great for fuel after a workout or anytime I need a satisfying meal. Make sure to season generously!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with lean protein to keep you full longer
- Low in carbs, making it perfect for a keto-friendly diet
- Versatile ingredients that can be substituted as per your taste
- Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
Ingredient Spotlight
The chicken breast is the standout protein in this dish. It cooks quickly, absorbing flavors well, making it a perfect canvas for spices like paprika. I recommend using fresh, high-quality chicken for the best texture and taste. If you're in a hurry, you could use pre-cooked chicken or even rotisserie chicken, which will save on cooking time but still provide a satisfying meal.
Broccoli and bell peppers not only add vibrant color but also contribute essential nutrients. Broccoli is high in vitamins C and K, while bell peppers bring antioxidants to the table. To enhance the flavors, I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. If you prefer different vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference, zucchini and asparagus work great as substitutes too!
Cooking Techniques
When sautéing, make sure your olive oil is hot but not smoking; you want it to shimmer before adding the chicken. Cooking the chicken until it's golden brown on all sides not only improves the taste but also helps lock in moisture, keeping your chicken juicy. Keep the heat at medium for even cooking, and avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to steaming rather than browning.
Once you add the vegetables, stir frequently to establish an even cook. The goal is to have them still crisp and vibrant, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes. If they start to soften too much before the chicken is fully cooked, you can remove the chicken temporarily and finish cooking the veggies, then add the chicken back in to combine before serving.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enjoy your high protein, low carb meal!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Chop the chicken, vegetables, and mince the garlic to ensure everything is ready for cooking.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent. Then, add the broccoli and bell peppers, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Season and Serve
Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well, allowing the flavors to combine for another 2 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pair with a side salad for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different twist. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving adds a lovely creaminess.
Storage and Meal Prep
This dish is excellent for meal prep! After cooking, allow it to cool fully before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I find this meal reheats beautifully in the microwave; just give it a couple of minutes on medium power to warm it through without drying it out.
If you want to freeze it, portion out the chicken and vegetable mix into freezer-safe bags or containers. It's best consumed within 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave to maintain the textures.
Serving Suggestions
This high-protein, low-carb dish can stand alone, but if you’re looking to add more variety, serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice for extra volume without the carbs. Alternatively, a side salad could add freshness and crunch, pairing well with the savory chicken and crunchy veggies.
For a bit of heat, consider drizzling it with a spicy sauce or adding a sprinkle of chili flakes upon serving. If you're feeling adventurous, serving this dish with a sprinkle of feta cheese or fresh herbs like cilantro can elevate the flavor profile!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other protein sources?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, tofu, or even shrimp depending on your dietary preferences.
→ Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prepping.
→ Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorites such as zucchini, carrots, or snap peas.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free seasonings and oil, this recipe is suitable for a gluten-free diet.
High Protein Recipes Dinner Low Carb
I love discovering new ways to create delicious and healthy meals, especially those that are high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This recipe has become one of my favorites because it packs a punch in terms of flavor while keeping my diet on track. It’s incredibly versatile, too! Whether I’m making it for family or meal prepping for the week, this dish always satisfies my hunger and keeps my energy levels up. Let’s dive into how this delightful dish is made!
Created by: Rosie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Balanced Living Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Chop the chicken, vegetables, and mince the garlic to ensure everything is ready for cooking.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent. Then, add the broccoli and bell peppers, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes.
Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well, allowing the flavors to combine for another 2 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different twist. Adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving adds a lovely creaminess.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 65mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 45g