You want a dinner that doesn’t taste like cardboard, keeps you full, and doesn’t require a PhD in meal prep. Good news: this low carb, high protein dinner is your ticket. No weird ingredients, no 3-hour cook time, and no sad, flavorless chicken breasts.
Just real food that works. If you’re tired of “healthy” meals that leave you hangry by 9 PM, this one’s for you. Let’s fix your dinner game.
Why This Recipe Slaps
This isn’t just another sad salad or bland grilled chicken situation.
The combo of high protein and low carbs means you’ll stay full without the sugar crash. Plus, it’s packed with flavor—because life’s too short for boring food. It’s also stupidly easy to make, so you won’t bail after one attempt.
And if you’re tracking macros, this fits like a glove.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless—or keep the skin if you’re feeling wild)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, we don’t judge)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil, if you’re fancy)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (because fresh garlic is for overachievers)
- 1 tsp paprika (for that smoky vibe)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, or just eyeball it like a rebel)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan (optional, but highly recommended)
How to Make It: Step-by-Step
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Or just turn it on and guess. We’re not scientists.
- Toss the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Massage it in like you’re pretending to care about self-care.
- Spread the chicken on a baking sheet. Give it space—no one likes a crowded pan.
- Add the broccoli around the chicken. Drizzle with a little more oil and season if you’re feeling extra.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway if you remember. If not, pray.
- Sprinkle with parmesan. Because cheese makes everything better.
How to Store It (So It Doesn’t Go Gross)
Throw leftovers in an airtight container and stash them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven—just don’t nuke it into rubber. For longer storage, freeze it, but FYI, the broccoli might get a little sad. Still edible, though.
Why This Recipe Is a Game-Changer
This meal keeps you full without the carb coma.
The protein helps with muscle repair (or just surviving your desk job), and the low carbs mean no energy crashes. Plus, it’s loaded with nutrients from the broccoli—because adulting means eating vegetables sometimes. And it’s flexible: swap ingredients, adjust portions, and still win.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken. Dry chicken is a crime.
Use a meat thermometer if you’re paranoid—165°F (74°C) is the magic number.
- Skipping the seasoning. Bland food is why people hate “healthy” meals. Spice it up.
- Crowding the pan. Steamed chicken is not the goal. Give it space to crisp up.
Alternatives for Picky Eaters
Not a chicken person?
Use salmon or tofu. Hate broccoli? Try zucchini or cauliflower.
Cheese not your thing? (Weird, but okay.) Skip the parmesan or swap for nutritional yeast. The point is: make it work for you.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Sure, but thighs are juicier and harder to mess up. Breasts dry out faster, so adjust cook time (or just embrace thighs).
Is this keto-friendly?
Yep.
Low carb, high protein, and fits most keto macros. Just watch the parmesan if you’re strict.
Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely. Double the recipe, portion it out, and you’ve got lunches or dinners sorted for days.
What if I don’t have an oven?
Pan-sear the chicken and steam the broccoli.
Same result, just more dishes to wash. Congrats.
Final Thoughts
This low carb, high protein dinner is the no-BS solution to eating well without hating your life. It’s easy, customizable, and actually tastes good.
Stop overcomplicating dinner—make this, eat it, and get on with your night. You’re welcome.