10 Quick and Easy High Protein Dinner Recipes

Feeling pressed for time but craving a protein-packed meal? These quick high-protein dinner recipes are just what you need! Packed with flavor and super easy to whip up, they’ll help you fuel your body without a fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

This Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad is a fantastic option for a quick high protein dinner. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The creamy texture comes from Greek yogurt, making it a healthier alternative to traditional mayonnaise-based salads. Adding shredded chicken gives you that protein boost, perfect for a satisfying meal.

The salad is served on a bed of fresh spinach, which not only adds color but also a nice crunch. Toppings like sliced almonds and fresh herbs elevate the dish, making it visually appealing and delicious. This is a great recipe to whip up when you’re short on time but still want something nutritious and tasty.

With minimal prep and cook time, this chicken salad checks all the boxes for a quick high protein dinner easy recipe. Enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or with whole-grain crackers!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 4 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, lemon juice, and dill. Mix well.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
3. On a serving plate, create a bed of spinach.
4. Spoon the chicken salad over the spinach and top with sliced almonds.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.

Spicy Chickpea Stir-Fry

Spicy Chickpea Stir-Fry is a fantastic choice for a quick high protein dinner. This dish is packed with flavor and vibrant colors, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing. The combination of chickpeas and assorted vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers offers a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.

You can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Chickpeas are a great source of protein, making them an ideal ingredient for anyone looking to boost their protein intake without too much effort. Plus, the spice adds a nice kick that elevates the entire dish.

Try this recipe for a simple yet hearty meal that will keep you energized. It’s a wonderful option to have on hand when you’re in need of quick high protein dinner easy recipes.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the broccoli and bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Stir in the chickpeas, soy sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once everything is heated through, remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Lemon herb grilled salmon is a fantastic choice for a quick high protein dinner. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a burst of fresh flavors. The vibrant colors of the salmon, paired with bright yellow lemon slices and fresh herbs, make it visually appealing and mouthwatering.

Grilling the salmon enhances its natural flavors while keeping it moist and tender. The lemon adds a refreshing zing, which is perfect for a light meal. This recipe is great for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the salmon fillets in the mixture for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Place the salmon on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve with lemon slices and fresh herbs on top.

Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These shrimp tacos are a fantastic choice for a quick high protein dinner. They are delicious, colorful, and packed with flavor. The shrimp are perfectly cooked, sitting on warm corn tortillas, and topped with a vibrant avocado salsa. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch, while lime wedges provide a zesty kick that brightens each bite.

This meal is not just tasty; it’s also easy to prepare. You can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for those busy weeknights. Plus, shrimp are a great source of protein, fitting perfectly into your healthy dinner plans.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.
3. While the shrimp cook, mix the avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
4. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the tacos by placing a few shrimp on each tortilla, topping with the avocado salsa. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

These Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers are perfect for a quick high protein dinner. The vibrant colors of the peppers add a cheerful touch to your table, making dinner not just nutritious but also visually appealing. Each pepper is loaded with a delicious mixture of lean turkey, fresh spinach, and gooey melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.

The recipe is simple, and you can have these tasty stuffed peppers on the table in no time. They’re versatile too! You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Serve them with a side salad for a complete meal or enjoy them on their own.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly brush the outside with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft.
4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, mix in the chopped spinach, quinoa or rice, and seasonings. Stir until well combined.
5. Spoon the turkey mixture into each pepper, packing it down gently. Top each filled pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Enjoy!

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad

This vibrant Quinoa and Black Bean Salad is a perfect fit for anyone looking for quick high protein dinner easy recipes. Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s not just tasty, but also incredibly nutritious. The combination of quinoa and black beans provides a solid protein punch, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal.

The salad features fluffy quinoa, colorful tomatoes, creamy avocado, and nutritious black beans. Each bite is fresh and delicious, making it hard to believe it’s so easy to prepare. Toss it all together with a simple dressing, and you’ve got a dish that’s ready in no time.

Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, this salad is sure to impress. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s take a look at how to whip this up!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Egg and Veggie Breakfast Bowl

This Egg and Veggie Breakfast Bowl is a fantastic choice for a quick high protein dinner. Packed with fluffy scrambled eggs and colorful veggies, it’s not only nutritious but also super easy to whip up. The vibrant reds and yellows of bell peppers, along with the earthy mushrooms, make it visually appealing and appetizing.

The addition of shredded cheese on top gives it that creamy finish, making each bite satisfying. Serve it alongside some crusty bread for a heartier meal. This bowl is perfect for those busy nights when you need a healthy option without spending hours in the kitchen.

Here’s a simple recipe to create your own Egg and Veggie Breakfast Bowl:

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup of mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives) for garnish
• Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bell peppers and mushrooms, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with salt and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the veggies.
3. Cook while gently stirring until the eggs are scrambled and set, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, allowing it to melt slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and alongside crusty bread.

Crispy Tofu with Soy Glaze

This crispy tofu dish is a fantastic option for anyone seeking quick high protein dinner easy recipes. The golden, crunchy tofu cubes look irresistible, drizzled with a rich soy glaze that adds a burst of flavor. The sesame seeds sprinkled on top give it a nice finishing touch, while the vibrant green veggies on the side provide a lovely contrast. It’s a simple, yet satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.

Not only is this dish packed with protein, but it also offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. The crispy exterior of the tofu complements the smooth glaze beautifully, making every bite enjoyable. Pair it with your favorite grains or noodles to complete your meal!

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 cup greens (like bok choy or spinach)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Prep the Tofu: Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes.
2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, maple syrup, and rice vinegar. Toss the tofu in the marinade and let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
3. Coat the Tofu: Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss to coat evenly.
4. Cook the Tofu: Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Sauté the Greens: In the same pan, add the greens and sauté until just wilted.
6. Serve: Plate the crispy tofu with the greens on the side. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the tofu and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a fantastic choice for a quick, high-protein dinner. This dish showcases tender strips of beef paired with vibrant broccoli, all cooked in a savory sauce. It’s colorful, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying.

Making this dish is simple and quick, perfect for a busy weeknight. The beef provides a hearty protein boost, while the broccoli adds vitamins and minerals. Together, they create a delicious, balanced meal.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for easy recipes that don’t skimp on flavor. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix beef with soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Stir in garlic and ginger, then add broccoli. Cook for about 5 minutes until bright green and tender.
4. Combine and Sauce: Return the beef to the pan. Add beef broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve: Serve hot over cooked rice and enjoy your quick high-protein dinner!

Lentil and Vegetable Soup

When you want a quick high protein dinner, lentil and vegetable soup is a fantastic choice. It’s hearty, packed with nutrients, and incredibly easy to whip up. The image shows a warm bowl of soup filled with vibrant vegetables and lentils, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The addition of fresh herbs makes it even more inviting.

This soup is not just filling; it also offers a good amount of protein thanks to the lentils. They are a great source of plant-based protein and pair wonderfully with a variety of vegetables. You can easily customize this recipe to fit what you have on hand, making it a flexible option for busy nights.

Pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal that will keep you full. Perfect for anyone looking for easy recipes that don’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread!