21 Low-Calorie Meat Dinners That Actually Keep You Full

Busy weeknights call for dinners that satisfy without sinking your calorie budget. Here’s our rule of thumb: a low-calorie dinner typically lands between 300–500 calories per serving, delivers at least 20–30 grams of protein, and piles on high-volume vegetables for sustained fullness. You’ll see that mix across all 21 picks below.

If you’re wondering what “feels like dinner” while staying light, look to lean proteins, fiber-rich sides, and smart cooking methods. Even restaurant benchmarks prove it’s doable—lean picks like grilled salmon, sirloin, and chicken often clock in under about 600 calories when sides and sauces are handled wisely, as shown in a widely cited list of low-calorie restaurant meals.