Hey there, fitness friends! Are you on the hunt for lunch ideas that pack a protein punch to fuel your active lifestyle? Look no further! We’ve rounded up 20 delicious high-protein lunch recipes that are as tasty as they are nutritious. From quick fixes to meal prep heroes, these dishes are sure to keep you energized and satisfied. Let’s dive in and discover your next favorite lunch!
Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad
Looking for a light yet satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and flavor? This Grilled Chicken and Quinoa Salad is your go-to dish for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Brush chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with 1/2 tsp salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and remaining 1/2 tsp salt. Pour over salad and toss to combine.
- Top salad with sliced grilled chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.
The combination of smoky grilled chicken with the fresh, zesty quinoa salad creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s both refreshing and filling.
Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of toasted almonds before serving.
Turkey and Avocado Wrap
Looking for a quick, nutritious lunch that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Turkey and Avocado Wrap is your go-to, packed with creamy avocado, lean turkey, and a hint of spice for that perfect bite.
Ingredients
- 1 large whole wheat tortilla (10-inch)
- 1/2 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/2 cup sliced roasted turkey breast
- 1/4 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- 2 tablespoons diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon sriracha sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Lay the whole wheat tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Layer the sliced roasted turkey breast over the avocado, followed by the shredded romaine lettuce and diced tomatoes.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha sauce. Drizzle this mixture over the vegetables and turkey.
- Sprinkle the salt and black pepper evenly over the fillings.
- Starting from one end, tightly roll the tortilla, tucking in the fillings as you go. Slice the wrap in half diagonally and serve immediately.
The combination of creamy avocado and spicy sriracha gives this wrap a delightful kick, while the whole wheat tortilla adds a wholesome touch.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add a handful of alfalfa sprouts or cucumber slices before rolling.
Salmon and Sweet Potato Bowl
Dive into the perfect balance of flavors and textures with this Salmon and Sweet Potato Bowl, a dish that promises a delightful dinner with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the sweet potatoes roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with paprika and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook for 4 minutes per side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- In a small saucepan, bring the quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- To assemble the bowls, divide the quinoa among two bowls. Top with roasted sweet potatoes, salmon fillets, and avocado slices. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with cilantro.
The contrast between the crispy-skinned salmon and the creamy avocado makes every bite a mini adventure. Plus, the quinoa soaks up all the delicious flavors, tying the bowl together beautifully.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top before serving.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
Craving a quick and flavorful dinner? This Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry is a weeknight hero, combining tender beef with crisp broccoli in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
- Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the skillet. Stir in garlic and broccoli, cooking for 2 minutes until broccoli is bright green.
- Return beef to the skillet. Pour sauce over, stirring to coat. Cook for 2 more minutes until sauce thickens.
- Drizzle with sesame oil and serve hot over rice.
The magic of this dish lies in the quick sear of the beef, ensuring it stays juicy while the broccoli retains a satisfying crunch.
Tip: For even thinner slices, freeze the beef for 20 minutes before cutting.
Egg and Spinach Scramble
Start your morning with a fluffy and nutritious Egg and Spinach Scramble that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the spinach and sauté for 2 minutes until just wilted.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the spinach in the skillet. Let it sit for a few seconds before gently stirring with a spatula.
- Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until the eggs are softly set.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt for about 1 minute before serving.
The magic of this scramble lies in the perfect balance of creamy eggs and the slight crunch of spinach, all brought together with a hint of melted cheddar.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture before cooking.
Tuna and White Bean Salad
Looking for a light yet satisfying meal that comes together in minutes? This Tuna and White Bean Salad is a protein-packed delight that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, flake the tuna with a fork.
- Add the white beans, red onion, and parsley to the bowl with the tuna.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the tuna and bean mixture, then gently toss to combine.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The crispness of the red onion and the freshness of the parsley make this salad a refreshing choice for any day of the week.
Tip: For an extra crunch, add a handful of chopped celery or cucumber just before serving.
Chickpea and Spinach Curry
Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Chickpea and Spinach Curry, a dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the spinach, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
The magic of this curry lies in the balance of spices and the freshness of the spinach, creating a dish that’s vibrant and satisfying.
Tip: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk before serving.
Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup, a comforting bowl that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the spinach, lemon juice, and salt, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
The smoky depth of paprika paired with the freshness of lemon juice gives this soup a uniquely vibrant flavor that stands out in every spoonful.
Tip: For an extra creamy texture, blend half of the soup before adding the spinach.
Greek Yogurt and Berry Parfait
Start your morning with a burst of freshness and creaminess with this Greek Yogurt and Berry Parfait, a delightful layering of tangy yogurt and sweet, juicy berries.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup granola
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
- Take a clear glass and start layering: first add a spoonful of the yogurt mixture, then sprinkle a layer of granola, and top with a handful of mixed berries.
- Repeat the layers until the glass is full, finishing with a drizzle of 1 tbsp honey on top.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving for a cooler treat.
The contrast between the creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and fresh berries creates a symphony of textures and flavors that’s irresistibly delicious.
Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a mint leaf or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry
This Shrimp and Asparagus Stir Fry is a quick, vibrant dish that brings a restaurant-quality meal to your weeknight dinner table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Stir in garlic, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together for another minute until heated through.
The magic of this dish lies in the sweet and spicy glaze that coats the shrimp and asparagus, creating a perfect balance of flavors with every bite.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
This Black Bean and Corn Salad is a vibrant, no-cook dish that brings a burst of color and flavor to any table, perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen and thawed, or canned and drained)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The crunch of fresh vegetables paired with the creamy black beans and zesty lime dressing makes this salad a refreshing side or a light main dish.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl
Whip up this hearty Chicken and Brown Rice Bowl for a nutritious meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 1 minute more.
- Divide the cooked brown rice between two bowls. Top with the chicken and vegetable mixture, and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
The combination of savory soy sauce and sweet honey creates a glaze that perfectly coats the tender chicken and crisp vegetables, making every bite a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps
These Egg Salad Lettuce Wraps are a light, refreshing take on the classic egg salad, perfect for a quick lunch or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 8 large lettuce leaves (such as Bibb or Romaine)
Instructions
- Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then cover and remove from heat. Let stand for 12 minutes.
- Drain the eggs and transfer to a bowl of ice water. Let cool for 5 minutes, then peel and chop the eggs.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Add the chopped eggs, celery, red onion, and dill. Stir gently to combine.
- Spoon the egg salad onto the lettuce leaves, dividing evenly. Fold the leaves around the filling to form wraps.
The crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, tangy egg salad, making every bite a delight.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the egg salad mixture.
Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie
Start your day with a creamy, dreamy Peanut Butter and Banana Smoothie that’s packed with protein and perfect for on-the-go mornings.
Ingredients
- 1 large ripe banana, peeled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup ice cubes
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the sliced banana, 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of vanilla yogurt, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds.
- Add 1 cup of ice cubes to the blender and pulse until the ice is completely crushed and the smoothie is thick, about 15-20 seconds more.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
The magic of this smoothie lies in the perfect balance of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana, creating a decadent treat that’s surprisingly wholesome.
Tip: For an extra protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the blender.
Turkey and Cheese Roll Ups
These Turkey and Cheese Roll Ups are the perfect quick lunch or snack, packed with protein and flavor, and ready in just minutes!
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 8 slices deli turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Layer 2 slices of turkey, 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup of baby spinach leaves on top of the cream cheese mixture on each tortilla.
- Roll up each tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, to form a log.
- Slice each log into 1-inch pieces and serve immediately, or wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
The combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors in these roll ups makes them irresistibly delicious, and their pinwheel presentation is sure to impress at any gathering.
Tip: For a warmer option, place the rolled tortillas seam side down on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes before slicing.
Quinoa and Black Bean Burgers
These Quinoa and Black Bean Burgers are a hearty, flavorful twist on the classic burger, perfect for those seeking a nutritious yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork until mostly smooth but some chunks remain.
- Add the cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, beaten egg, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.
The combination of quinoa and black beans not only packs these burgers with protein but also gives them a delightful texture that’s both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, serve these burgers with a slice of avocado and a dollop of salsa.
Grilled Salmon and Kale Salad
Grilled Salmon and Kale Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that brings together the smoky flavors of grilled salmon with the earthy tones of fresh kale, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt, divided
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Brush the salmon fillets with 1 tbsp of olive oil and season with 1/4 tsp of salt and the black pepper.
- Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the grill and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 tbsp of olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and remaining 1/4 tsp of salt to create the dressing.
- Add the kale to the bowl with the dressing and massage the leaves with your hands for 2-3 minutes until they soften and darken in color.
- Toss in the sliced almonds and cherry tomatoes with the kale.
- Divide the salad between two plates and top each with a grilled salmon fillet.
The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the crispy, charred edges of the salmon and the tender, massaged kale, creating a symphony of textures in every bite.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, let the salmon rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
Cottage Cheese and Pineapple Bowl
Start your day with a refreshing and protein-packed Cottage Cheese and Pineapple Bowl, a delightful combination that’s both sweet and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
- A pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup cottage cheese and 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon honey and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract over the cottage cheese and pineapple mixture, gently stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon chopped almonds and a pinch of cinnamon on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve immediately for a fresh and creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy pineapple and crunchy almonds.
Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness and color, add a few pineapple chunks on top before serving.
Chicken and Veggie Skewers
These Chicken and Veggie Skewers are a breeze to throw together and pack a punch of flavor, making them perfect for your next backyard BBQ or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken and veggies, tossing to coat evenly.
- Thread the chicken and veggies onto skewers, alternating between the different ingredients.
- Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender with a slight char.
The smoky paprika and soy sauce marinade gives these skewers a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist, while the colorful veggies add a fresh crunch.
Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Protein Packed Oatmeal with Almonds
Start your morning with a bowl of Protein Packed Oatmeal with Almonds, a hearty and nutritious option that keeps you full and energized.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Stir in 1 cup rolled oats and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add 1/2 cup almond milk and 1/2 tsp cinnamon to the oatmeal. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the oatmeal is creamy and has reached your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp almond butter until fully incorporated.
- Divide the oatmeal into bowls and top with 1/4 cup sliced almonds and drizzle with 1 tbsp honey.
The combination of creamy almond butter and crunchy sliced almonds gives this oatmeal a delightful texture contrast, while the honey adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Tip: For an extra protein boost, stir in a scoop of your favorite vanilla protein powder with the almond butter.
Conclusion
We hope these 20 high-protein lunch recipes inspire your fitness journey with delicious, nutritious options. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking on the fly, there’s something here for every taste. Try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and don’t forget to pin this roundup on Pinterest for your next kitchen adventure. Happy cooking!