After a long day, sometimes the last thing you want is a complicated dinner. This low calorie grilled chicken with steamed vegetables fits perfectly into those evenings when you want nourishment without the fuss. It’s a dinner that feels light but leaves you content, without weighing you down before bedtime.
I remember the first time I tried this combo — the chicken had just the right hint of smoky paprika and garlic, and the vegetables were tender, not mushy, with their natural colors popping on the plate. I was half-distracted by a phone call, so I didn’t time the steaming perfectly; the carrots ended up a touch softer than I usually like, but it was still completely satisfying. Sometimes those little imperfections make it feel more like a home-cooked meal than something from a magazine.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Quick prep and cook times mean dinner is on the table without dragging out the evening.
- The balance of protein and fresh vegetables keeps it light but filling.
- The flavors are straightforward — it’s simple, and that’s kind of the point.
- It’s versatile enough to work as a weekday dinner or a casual weekend meal.
- Leftovers are easy to store and reheat, though I usually prefer it fresh.
If you’re someone who worries about meals feeling bland when going low calorie, this one proves you can still have bold flavors without extra calories or complicated sauces.
PrintLow Calorie Grilled Chicken with Steamed Vegetables
A healthy and flavorful low calorie chicken dinner featuring grilled chicken breast paired with a medley of steamed vegetables. Perfect for a light and nutritious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
1 cup broccoli florets
1/2 cup cauliflower florets
1/2 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
Brush the marinade evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
While the chicken is grilling, bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare a steamer basket.
Add the sliced zucchini, carrot, broccoli florets, and cauliflower florets to the steamer basket.
Steam the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
Serve the grilled chicken breasts with the steamed vegetables on the side.
Squeeze fresh lemon wedges over the chicken and vegetables for added flavor.
Kitchen Notes:
Using a grill pan or outdoor grill works just as well, so no need for fancy equipment. I’ve found that serving this with a squeeze of lemon right before eating adds a bright freshness that really lifts the whole dish. Sometimes I swap the veggies for whatever’s in season or on hand — asparagus or green beans can work nicely, though I haven’t tested all combinations. Occasionally I’ll add a sprinkle of fresh herbs after cooking for a bit more aroma, but it’s good without any fuss.
FAQ:
Can I make this ahead? Yes, but it’s best to keep the chicken and vegetables separate and reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken or overcooking the veggies.
What if I don’t have a grill? A grill pan or even a regular skillet with a bit of oil will do the trick. The char adds flavor, but it’s not mandatory.
Can I add more seasoning? Absolutely. If you want more kick, a pinch of chili powder or cayenne can be added to the marinade.
Ready to try a dinner that’s straightforward, colorful, and feels like a small victory after a busy day? Give this low calorie grilled chicken with steamed vegetables a go and see how simple healthy eating can be.