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Low calorie dinner recipe with vibrant vegetables and lean protein plated beautifully.

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low calorie dinner ideas

Recipe by Molina

A bright and satisfying low-calorie dinner that uses the plate method for perfect balance. Lean grilled chicken gets a flavor boost from lemon and herbs, served with tender roasted asparagus and fluffy quinoa for a complete meal under 400 calories.


  • Total Time40min
  • Yield4 servings 1x
  • DietGluten Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (4 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 lb asparagus, tough ends trimmed
  • 1 cup dry quinoa
  • 2 lemons, one juiced, one cut into wedges
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Pinch of pink Himalayan salt
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Rinse quinoa under cold water. Cook according to package directions, usually with 2 cups water, until fluffy. Set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, minced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of pink salt.
  4. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  5. On a baking sheet, toss asparagus with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange in a single layer.
  6. Place asparagus in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, until tender and slightly crisp.
  7. While asparagus roasts, grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
  9. To serve, divide cooked quinoa among four plates. Top with sliced grilled chicken and roasted asparagus. Drizzle any remaining marinade from the bowl over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 30 minutes. Leftovers store well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep chicken moist.

  • Prep Time: 15min
  • Cook Time: 25min
  • Category: dinner
  • Method: grilling, roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 3
  • Sodium: 320
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 2
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 32
  • Fiber: 6
  • Protein: 35
  • Cholesterol: 85