Some days, cooking feels like an impossible task. Whether you’re drowning in a hectic schedule or simply lacking the motivation to spend hours in the kitchen, you still need a meal that’s satisfying, nutritious, and packed with protein.
For many, the easy solution is dialing up their favorite takeout spot—but what if you had quick, effortless, and protein-rich options right at your fingertips?
No complicated steps, no endless prep—just simple, delicious meals that keep you on track without the hassle.
That’s exactly what this list is for. These lazy high-protein meals are perfect for the days when you want maximum nutrition with minimal effort.
1. Instant Pot Chicken Stew
This Instant Pot Chicken Stew is the ultimate cozy meal—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Tender chicken, vibrant carrots, and baby potatoes simmer in a rich, herb-infused broth, creating a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
With just one pot and a handful of wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a nourishing, soul-warming dinner ready in no time. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds the perfect finishing touch—pure comfort in every bite!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 454
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 45g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 8g
2. Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
This lemon chicken orzo soup is pure comfort in a bowl! The tender chicken, hearty orzo, and vibrant veggies come together in a light yet cozy broth with a refreshing hint of lemon.
It’s easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients and is sure to warm you up on a chilly day. A family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again!
Discover more healthy high protein lunch ideas for work!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 298
- Fats: 8g
- Protein: 29g
- Carbs: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
3. Grilled Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
These grilled boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a breeze to prepare and perfect for summer cookouts.
Coated in a sweet and spicy dry rub, they’re packed with flavor. Juicy and tender, they cook up in under 15 minutes—ideal for a quick meal.
Plus, they’re great for meal prep, easily added to salads, soups, sandwiches, or wraps for a delicious lunch or dinner.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 148
- Fats: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 3g
4. Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta
Did you know you can boost the protein content of your pasta by adding cottage cheese? Yes, it’s that easy!
I created this pasta dish to prove it. It’s lightly creamy, surprisingly satisfying, and packed with protein — even though it’s still pasta.
Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make. Anyone can whip it up! Check out more high protein casserole recipes here.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 722
- Fats: 19g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbs: 97g
- Fiber: 7.7g
- Sugar: 14g
5. Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
This Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole features tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich, homemade cheesy sauce.
Finished with a golden, buttery Ritz cracker topping and an extra sprinkle of cheese, this hearty weeknight dish is comforting, full of flavor, and sure to please the whole family!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 534
- Fats: 24g
- Protein: 33g
- Carbs: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
6. Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This Parmesan-Crusted Chicken recipe showcases tender, pan-fried chicken cutlets with a crispy, golden-brown coating made from a flavorful blend of parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
Juicy on the inside and crunchy on the outside, it’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 510
- Fats: 32g
- Protein: 29g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
7. Creamy Dijon Pork Chops
These creamy Dijon pork chops bring together tender, golden-browned pork chops, crispy bacon bits, and a rich, velvety Dijon sauce — all cooked in a single skillet.
Not only is this dish irresistibly delicious and sure to please everyone at the table, but it’s also quick to make and minimizes cleanup.
Who knows? It might just become your husband’s new favorite dinner! Discover more easy high protein crockpot recipes.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 618
- Fats: 55g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 6.1g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Sugar: 2.3g
8. Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is a simple and comforting dinner, featuring tender chicken and mixed vegetables in a rich, savory gravy, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
It’s a perfect way to use up leftover chicken or mashed potatoes!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 522
- Fats: 15g
- Protein: 41g
- Carbs: 87g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
9. French Bread Pizza
This oven-baked French Bread Pizza offers the perfect balance of crispiness and rich flavor. A secret buttery garlic herb spread enhances the bread’s texture, ensuring a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Topped with a generous layer of mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a flavorful pizza sauce, it delivers a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your home.
Customize it with your favorite toppings for a quick yet gourmet meal.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 775
- Fats: 46g
- Protein: 33g
- Carbs: 61g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 9g
10. Lemon Pepper Wings
These Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are the perfect balance of crispy, zesty, and downright irresistible.
Lightly coated in flour and fried to golden perfection, they deliver that satisfying crunch with every bite. The rich, buttery lemon pepper sauce takes them to the next level—bold, tangy, and packed with flavor.
Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these wings will have everyone reaching for more!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 548
- Fats: 39g
- Protein: 33g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
11. Chicken Scampi
This vibrant chicken scampi recipe makes for a quick and effortless dinner!
The chicken tenders are incredibly juicy and packed with flavor, while the buttery garlic sauce is rich and creamy, enhanced with a touch of white wine and cream.
It’s a restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to earn a spot in your regular meal rotation!
Check out more easy high protein chicken meal prep ideas here!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 778
- Fats: 33g
- Protein: 51g
- Carbs: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
12. Classic Chicken Chili
This classic chicken chili is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with rich flavors.
The combination of ground chicken, tender sweet potatoes, and a blend of chili powder and cumin creates a satisfying, mildly spiced dish.
Plus, it’s easy to make on a busy weeknight and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for an extra layer of indulgence!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 529
- Fats: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 69g
- Fiber: 17g
- Sugar: 19g
13. Pork Fried Rice
This homemade pork fried rice is a game-changer! Tender cubes of pork, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and vibrant veggies come together in a flavorful, satisfying dish.
The best part? It’s a delicious way to turn leftovers into something extraordinary. One bite, and you may never go back to takeout again!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 502
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 31g
- Carbs: 54g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 8g
14. Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage
This slow cooker corned beef and cabbage is the ultimate comfort food. The corned beef turns out melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the potatoes, carrots, and cabbage soak up all the delicious flavors.
A touch of butter, garlic, and parsley brings everything together beautifully. Just set it and forget it—then come back to a hearty, home-cooked meal!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 564
- Fats: 29g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
15. Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry
This shrimp and broccoli stir fry features tender shrimp and crisp broccoli coated in a simple, sweet-and-savory sauce. It’s a wholesome dinner choice that’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ideal for busy evenings, this quick and flavorful dish comes together in just 20 minutes!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 242
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 31g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
