High Protein Simple Dinners

Name: High Protein Simple Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 cup quinoa; 2 cups water; 1 can black beans, rinsed; 1 cup corn, cooked; 1 lime, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Discover delicious and easy-to-make dinners that are packed with protein to keep you satisfied and energized.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:34:11.517Z

These high protein simple dinners are perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a nutritious meal that the whole family will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with essential nutrients to fuel your day
Quick preparation keeps dinner hassle-free
Versatile options to suit every taste

      

Nutritious and Satisfying Meals

Finding meals that are both nutritious and satisfying can be a challenge, especially when you have a busy schedule. High-protein dinners not only keep your hunger at bay but also provide essential nutrients that your body needs to function optimally. Incorporating lean meats, legumes, and whole grains into your meals ensures that you are getting a well-rounded diet with each bite.

Protein plays a crucial role in muscle repair and growth, making it especially important for active individuals. By choosing protein-rich ingredients for dinner, you are setting yourself up for a productive evening and a restful night. Plus, these ingredients are often versatile, allowing for a variety of flavor combinations to keep your taste buds excited.

Quick and Easy Preparation

In today’s fast-paced world, time is of the essence. This collection of high-protein dinners is designed with quick preparation in mind, ensuring that you can enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Each recipe features simple steps and minimal prep time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need to whip up something fast.

With just a few ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time. This not only simplifies your cooking process but also allows you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time worrying about the cooking process.

Versatility for Every Palate

One of the best aspects of high-protein dinners is their versatility. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or plant-based proteins, there’s a recipe to suit your preferences. The chicken stir-fry is a great option for those who enjoy meat, while the quinoa salad offers a delightful vegetarian alternative packed with flavor and nutrients.

Feel free to customize these recipes to fit your dietary needs or taste preferences. Swap out vegetables, add different spices, or even switch the protein source to keep your meals exciting and aligned with your health goals.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your high protein dinner.

Chicken Stir-Fry

2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced

Quinoa Salad

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
1 can black beans, rinsed
1 cup corn, cooked
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious dinner.

Prepare the Chicken Stir-Fry

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned. Stir in broccoli, bell pepper, garlic, and soy sauce. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and serve alongside the chicken stir-fry.

Enjoy your high protein dinner and feel satisfied!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Results

When making the chicken stir-fry, ensure that your pan is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat quickly, locking in juices and enhancing flavor. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, which affects the texture.

For the quinoa salad, rinsing the quinoa before cooking is a crucial step. It removes the natural coating called saponin, which can impart a bitter taste. This simple tip ensures that your quinoa will have a light and fluffy texture, making it the perfect base for your salad.

Storage and Meal Prep

Both the chicken stir-fry and quinoa salad are fantastic options for meal prep. They can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This not only saves time during your busy week but also allows you to have healthy meals ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

To store, place the chicken stir-fry in an airtight container and let it cool completely before sealing. The quinoa salad can be kept in the same type of container; just be sure to mix well before serving to redistribute the flavors. These dishes also freeze well, so you can enjoy them even later!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your high-protein dinners, consider pairing them with a light side dish or a refreshing beverage. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the chicken stir-fry beautifully, adding freshness to the meal. For the quinoa salad, a side of sliced avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt can enhance its creaminess and provide additional healthy fats.

To drink, opt for herbal teas or infused water for a hydrating and flavorful accompaniment. These options not only cleanse the palate but also add another layer of health benefits to your meal, making your dining experience both enjoyable and nourishing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use tofu instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Tofu is a great plant-based protein alternative.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of water for quinoa.

→ What can I serve with this meal?

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, both the stir-fry and quinoa salad store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.