10+ Quick High Protein Dinner Easy Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Making dinner can sometimes feel like a chore, especially after a long day. Many people want meals that are not only quick but also packed with protein to keep them satisfied and healthy. Easy high-protein dinner recipes will help you prepare nutritious meals in no time.

In this article, you’ll find a variety of simple recipes that you can whip up quickly. These meals are designed to be both delicious and fulfilling, ensuring you get the protein you need without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy cooking and savoring these tasty dishes that fit perfectly into your busy lifestyle.

1) Grilled Pasta Salad with Chicken

Grilled Pasta Salad with Chicken is a tasty and easy dinner option. You can have it ready in no time. This dish combines grilled chicken, pasta, and fresh vegetables for a healthy meal.

Start by cooking the pasta until it’s al dente. While the pasta cooks, grill your chicken breasts. This adds flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.

Chop up your favorite vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes for a fresh crunch.

Once everything is ready, mix the pasta, chopped vegetables, and sliced chicken together. Add a light dressing to enhance the flavors. You’ll have a colorful and satisfying meal that packs a protein punch.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked pasta
• 1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
• 1 cucumber, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup Italian dressing

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. Grill the chicken breasts until they reach 165°F (75°C).
3. Chop cucumbers and halve cherry tomatoes.
4. Combine pasta, chicken, and vegetables in a bowl.
5. Drizzle with Italian dressing and mix gently.

2) One-Pan Enchilada Skillet

The One-Pan Enchilada Skillet is a quick and delicious meal you can whip up in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken.

This dish is packed with flavor and protein. Top it with cheese, guacamole, or sour cream for extra taste. It’s a family-friendly recipe that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can enchilada sauce
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Olive oil for cooking

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the bell pepper and cook until soft.
3. Stir in the chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn.
4. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Sprinkle cheese on top and cover.
6. Let it cook for another 5 minutes until the cheese melts.

3) Protein-Packed Chicken & Edamame Salad

This Protein-Packed Chicken & Edamame Salad is a fantastic choice for a quick dinner. It’s not only delicious but also loaded with protein to keep you satisfied.

You’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Just toss together fresh ingredients like chicken, edamame, and crunchy vegetables for a colorful meal. The flavors mix beautifully, making each bite enjoyable.

This salad is also great for meal prep. You can make a big batch and have it ready when you’re hungry.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1 cup chopped cabbage
• 1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
• 1/4 cup chili yogurt dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, edamame, chopped cabbage, and quinoa.
2. Add chili yogurt dressing.
3. Toss everything together until well mixed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4) Baked Tacos with Black Beans

Baked tacos with black beans are a tasty and easy dinner option. They are quick to prepare and full of protein. You can have them ready in about 20 to 30 minutes!

For the filling, you can use canned black beans, which saves time. Mix the beans with some spices for extra flavor. Then, fill your taco shells and sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake the tacos at 400°F (200°C) until they are crispy. You’ll enjoy a healthy meal that’s satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 can of black beans
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Taco shells
• Shredded cheese
• Optional toppings (lettuce, salsa, avocado)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Drain and rinse the black beans.
3. Mix the black beans with cumin and paprika.
4. Fill the taco shells with the bean mixture.
5. Top with shredded cheese.
6. Place in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

5) One-Pan Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry

This One-Pan Beef & Broccoli Stir Fry is a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy nights. You’ll love how easily it comes together in one pan.

Start with tender beef, broccoli florets, and a savory sauce. This dish is rich in protein and packs great flavor. It’s ideal for families or anyone wanting a delicious dinner in a flash.

You can serve this stir fry over rice or noodles. It’s a great way to get your protein and veggies in one meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 grams) beef, sliced thin
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add sliced beef to the pan. Cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add broccoli and stir-fry for another 5 minutes.
5. Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce. Mix well.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 more minutes.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy!

6) Crispy Chilli Turkey Noodles

Crispy Chilli Turkey Noodles make for a quick and tasty dinner loaded with protein. This dish features turkey mince cooked in a spicy chili sauce paired with udon noodles. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious in just 20 minutes.

The turkey mince is stir-fried until crispy, then combined with a flavorful chili, soy, and garlic sauce. The noodles are ready in minutes and give the meal a satisfying base. You can add fresh vegetables like carrots and spring onions for extra crunch.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) turkey mince
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (225g) udon noodles
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Optional: sliced carrots and spring onions for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
3. Add turkey mince and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, chili sauce, and garlic; cook for 2 more minutes.
5. Combine turkey with noodles; mix well.
6. Serve with optional carrots and spring onions on top.

7) Veggie Protein Chilli

Veggie protein chilli is a delicious and filling meal that you can whip up quickly. It’s packed with protein from beans and lentils, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner.

You can use a mix of veggies like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to add flavor and nutrients. Serve it with a side of quinoa for even more protein and a tasty grain.

This recipe can be easily modified with your favorite spices or any leftover vegetables you have on hand. It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans
• 1 can red kidney beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
2. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the bell peppers; cook for a few minutes.
4. Add the beans, tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes on low heat.
6. Serve warm with quinoa if desired.

8) One-Pan Chicken & Quinoa with Tex-Mex Spices

This one-pan chicken and quinoa dish brings a burst of Tex-Mex flavor to your dinner table. It’s quick to make and packed with protein, making it a great choice for busy nights.

You will use seasoned chicken breasts, quinoa, and fresh veggies. The addition of chili powder and cayenne gives it a nice kick.

Cooking everything in one pan not only saves time but also makes cleanup easy. Enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with minimal effort!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup black olives
• 1 bell pepper
• 1 onion
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in chicken breasts and cook until browned.
4. Add quinoa, tomatoes, olives, chicken broth, and spices.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
6. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

9) Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers

Philly cheesesteak stuffed peppers are a tasty way to enjoy this classic dish with less carbs. You will use bell peppers as the base and fill them with delicious ingredients.

Start with thinly sliced steak, onions, and sautéed mushrooms. Mix them together with spices for flavor. Add some provolone cheese for that creamy goodness.

Bake these stuffed peppers at 375°F (190°C) until the peppers are tender. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready to go.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 pound thinly sliced steak
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
3. Sauté onions and mushrooms in olive oil until they soften.
4. Add the steak and cook until it browns.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers.
7. Top with provolone cheese.
8. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes.

10) Lemon Tahini-Marinated Chicken

Lemon tahini-marinated chicken is a flavorful and protein-rich dinner option. The combination of tahini, lemon juice, and garlic gives the chicken a tasty twist. This recipe is simple and perfect for a quick meal.

Start by marinating the chicken in a mix of tahini, lemon juice, soy sauce, garlic, and a little water. Let it soak for about 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Grill or bake the chicken until it’s fully cooked. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve it with your favorite veggies or over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup water

Cooking Instructions

1. Mix tahini, lemon juice, soy sauce, garlic, and water in a bowl.

2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for 30 minutes.

3. Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).

4. Cook the chicken until it reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Serve with vegetables or rice.