15+ High Protein Recipes for Delicious and Nutritious Meals

High protein recipes are a great way to boost your meals while keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Whether you’re looking to build muscle, lose weight, or simply maintain a balanced diet, high protein meals can support your goals. These recipes not only provide essential nutrients but also add variety to your cooking routine.

From quick snacks to hearty dinners, high protein recipes can fit into any part of your day. Experimenting with different ingredients, such as lean meats, legumes, and dairy, can keep your meals interesting and delicious. Get ready to explore a range of tasty options that make it easy to increase your protein intake.

1) Chicken Lo Mein

Chicken Lo Mein is a delicious meal that’s also high in protein. You can easily make this dish at home, which is healthier than takeout options. It’s packed with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, making it both tasty and nutritious.

You can finish this dish in about 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy it as a quick dinner or to impress your friends at a gathering.

Ingredients

• 8 oz lo mein noodles
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Green onions for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
3. Add chicken, ginger, and garlic. Cook until chicken is no longer pink.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Add soy sauce and noodles. Toss everything together and heat through.
6. Serve hot and garnish with green onions. Enjoy!

2) Pan Seared Shrimp

Pan seared shrimp is a quick and tasty dish you can make in about 15 minutes. This recipe is easy to follow and requires just a few ingredients.

Start by heating a pan over medium heat. You can use butter or a butter alternative. Add garlic for flavor before adding the shrimp. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque.

You can serve this shrimp with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. It’s a great addition to any meal, full of protein and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 grams) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter or butter alternative
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon juice (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a pan over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Melt the butter in the pan.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly.
4. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink.
6. Drizzle with lemon juice if desired and serve.

3) Vegetable Crustless Quiche

This Vegetable Crustless Quiche is a tasty way to boost your protein intake. It’s packed with healthy veggies and is great for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. You can enjoy it any time of day!

To make this quiche, you can use vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or mushrooms. These ingredients provide flavor and nutrition without adding a crust. Plus, it’s gluten-free and low-carb.

Ingredients

• 6 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (like spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together.
3. Stir in the chopped vegetables and cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
6. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until set. Enjoy!

4) French Onion Chicken Soup

French Onion Chicken Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that will warm you up. This high-protein dish features tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

To make this soup, you’ll start by caramelizing onions until they are golden brown. Then, add cooked chicken and rich bone broth to create a savory base.

Top the soup with melted cheese for extra goodness. Each serving can offer around 40 grams of protein, making it a great choice for anyone looking to boost their intake.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 large onions
• 4 cups of bone broth
• 1 cup of cheese (such as Gruyère)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Slice the onions and sauté them in olive oil over medium heat until caramelized.
2. Add the cooked chicken and bone broth to the pot.
3. Simmer for about 15 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Serve in bowls and top with cheese.
5. Broil in the oven until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Enjoy!

5) Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Bowls

Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Bowls are a tasty and healthy option for a meal. They are packed with flavor and protein, making them great for lunch or dinner. You can enjoy marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles.

To make this dish, start by marinating chicken thighs in a mix of lemongrass, garlic, and soy sauce. Then, cook the chicken until it’s golden brown.

Cook vermicelli noodles according to the package instructions. In the end, assemble the bowls with noodles, chicken, and your favorite veggies like carrots and cucumber for crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons lemongrass, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 8 ounces vermicelli noodles
• Fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumber)
• Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint)

Cooking Instructions

1. Marinate chicken with lemongrass, garlic, and soy sauce for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Prepare the vermicelli noodles as instructed on the package.
4. In bowls, layer the noodles, sliced chicken, and fresh vegetables.
5. Top with herbs for added flavor. Enjoy!

6) High-Protein Smoothies

High-protein smoothies are a great way to start your day. They are tasty and packed with nutrients. You can easily customize them to suit your taste.

Try a Mango-Almond Smoothie Bowl for a refreshing breakfast. It has almond milk, mango, and a scoop of protein powder. You can find a recipe here.

Another option is the Marvelous Melon, Mango, and Avocado Smoothie. It uses Greek yogurt and low-fat milk to provide protein. Check it out here.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 ripe mango
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 scoop protein powder

Cooking Instructions

1. Add almond milk and mango to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Add Greek yogurt and protein powder.
4. Blend again until mixed well.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

7) Salmon Quinoa Bowls

Salmon quinoa bowls are a delicious and healthy option for any meal. They are packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The combination of salmon, quinoa, and veggies makes them filling and nutritious.

You can easily customize your bowl by adding your favorite toppings. Some great options include avocado, cucumber, and a drizzle of dressing. The flavors blend well together, creating a satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.
4. In a bowl, layer quinoa, salmon, cucumber, and avocado.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice before serving. Enjoy!

8) Sweet & Sour Tofu

Sweet and sour tofu is a tasty dish that’s both easy to make and high in protein. It combines crispy tofu with a flavorful sauce that balances sweetness and tanginess. You can prepare this meal in about 20 to 30 minutes.

To start, you will need firm tofu, cornstarch, and a mix of vegetables like bell peppers and pineapple. The sauce typically includes soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar for that sweet and sour kick.

This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stays delicious for days. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

• Firm tofu
• Cornstarch
• Bell peppers
• Pineapple chunks
• Soy sauce
• Vinegar
• Sugar
• Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Press and cube the tofu.
2. Toss tofu in cornstarch until coated.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry tofu until golden brown.
4. Add vegetables and sauté for a few minutes.
5. Mix sauce ingredients and pour over tofu and veggies.
6. Cook until heated through and serve.

9) White Bean & Smoked Sausage Skillet

This White Bean & Smoked Sausage Skillet is a tasty and healthy meal. The combination of smoky sausage, creamy beans, and fresh kale makes it satisfying. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy evenings.

You’ll start by searing the smoked sausage, adding rich flavor. Then, mix in garlic, shallots, and kale for nutrition. Finally, the creamy sauce with cannellini beans ties the dish together.

Serve this with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 cups cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
3. Stir in minced shallot and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
4. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted.
5. Mix in beans, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
8. Serve warm.

10) Tofu Burritos

Tofu burritos are a great way to enjoy a high-protein meal. They combine flavorful tofu with your favorite ingredients, making them delicious and filling.

Start by seasoning tofu with spices like cumin and paprika. Then, cook it until it’s crispy. You can add beans, rice, and veggies for extra texture and taste.

Wrap everything in a tortilla, and don’t forget to toss in salsa or avocado for added flavor. This meal is perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 block of tofu, cut into cubes
• 1 cup black beans
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 4 tortillas
• Salsa or avocado (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tofu with cumin and paprika.
3. Bake the tofu for 25 minutes or until crispy.
4. On a tortilla, layer rice, black beans, and tofu.
5. Add salsa or avocado if desired, then wrap it up.

11) Hummus Bowl With Spiced Lamb

This Hummus Bowl with Spiced Lamb is a delicious and protein-packed meal. It starts with creamy hummus made from canned chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin.

Next, you’ll top the hummus with spiced ground lamb, cooked with herbs and spices. The warm, savory lamb adds great flavor, making this dish satisfying.

Serve it all with whole wheat pita for a complete meal. You’ll enjoy a satisfying mix of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1 garlic clove
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 pound ground lamb
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or mint)
• Whole wheat pita

Cooking Instructions

1. Blend chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin until smooth.
2. Cook ground lamb in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
3. Stir in herbs and spices of your choice.
4. Spread hummus in a bowl and top with the lamb.
5. Serve with warm pita. Enjoy!

12) One-Pot Farro with Chicken

One-Pot Farro with Chicken is an easy and delicious recipe. You will love the combination of tender chicken and hearty farro. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein.

To make it, start by cooking the chicken in a pot until it’s golden. Add farro, chicken broth, and your choice of vegetables for flavor. This meal comes together in about 45 minutes.

The farro will soak up all the savory flavors, making every bite satisfying. Serve it warm for a filling dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup farro
• 1 pound chicken thighs
• 1 cup sliced shallots
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 4 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chicken thighs and cook until golden.
3. Stir in shallots, mushrooms, and cook for a few minutes.
4. Add farro and chicken broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Add tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.

13) Grilled Salmon with Asparagus

Grilled salmon with asparagus is a simple and nutritious meal. Salmon is packed with protein and healthy fats, while asparagus adds fiber and vitamins. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner.

To make it, you’ll need fresh salmon fillets and asparagus spears. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C).

Once the grill is hot, place the salmon on it and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Just before turning the salmon, add the asparagus. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until both are done.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets
• Fresh asparagus
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush salmon and asparagus with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place salmon on the grill, cooking for 4-5 minutes.
5. Add asparagus, then turn the salmon.
6. Cook for another 4-5 minutes.
7. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.

14) Steak Stir Fry with Vegetables

Steak stir fry is a delicious and quick meal packed with protein and colorful vegetables. You can make this in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Start with tender slices of flank steak. Sauté them in a hot pan with a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli. This gives you a tasty and healthy dish.

Add a simple stir fry sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for extra flavor. Serve your steak stir fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Cooked rice or noodles

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C).
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ginger, stirring for 30 seconds.
4. Add vegetables and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and cook for 2 minutes.
6. Serve over rice or noodles.

15) Quinoa Salad with Black Beans

This Quinoa Salad with Black Beans is a tasty and healthy choice. It’s packed with protein, making it a great option for lunch or dinner. The mix of textures and flavors keeps each bite interesting.

You start with quinoa, which is rich in protein. Adding black beans boosts the protein content even more. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and corn add color and crunch.

The salad is easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. You can eat it right away or chill it in the fridge for later. The zesty lime dressing brings everything together.

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 14 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package directions.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, and bell pepper.
3. Add avocado and lime juice.
4. Then, season with salt and pepper and mix gently.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge.