21 High Protein Lunch Ideas Under 500 Kcal
When you want a dependable set of recipes without searching through dozens of pages, this collection brings the ideas together in one place. The recipes are arranged in a new order, and each entry includes ingredients and step-by-step instructions so you can choose what fits your kitchen and schedule.
1. Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup
High Protein Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT21M · Total: PT31M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]
High protein tomato soup infused with basil and fresh herbs, made creamy with protein-rich cottage cheese. This gluten-free comfort food is also low-calorie and vegetarian.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 28 oz can peeled tomatoes
- 5 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tsp sea salt
- A pinch black pepper
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 cup basil (finely chopped)
- 4 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
- Fresh basil (chopped)
Instructions
- Place a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the olive oil and onion. Cook for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the garlic, and cook for another 30s.
- Add the rest of the ingredients to the pot, except for the cottage cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Once it’s done, pour the soup into the blender with parts of the cottage cheese. Blend until smooth. You’ll need to do it a couple of times, so it’s best to have 2 different soup pots to pour the soup in. If you have an immersion blender, just blend all the ingredients together, including the cottage cheese, inside the pot.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
2. Keto Chicken Salad
Keto Chicken Salad Recipe is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT40M · Total: PT55M · Yield: [’12’, ’12 salad leaves’]
With just 1g net carbs, this chicken salad is super delicious, nutritious, and most important keto-friendly. It’s a lovely lunch or dinner meal that could be easily meal prepped. While it’s ketogenic, the salad is refreshing and filling.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 boiled eggs (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 cup greek yogurt
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 stalk celery (diced)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- pinch salt and black pepper
- Sweet gem lettuce (for serving)
Instructions
- Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Place your chicken on a baking tray and season it with salt and pepper. Then, cover it in olive oil.
- Bake the breasts in the oven for 30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Once the chicken cools down, shred it with a fork.
- Salad
- Add the rest of the ingredients except for sweet gem lettuce leaves into a bowl. Mix in the chicken and combine all the ingredients.
- Fill the lettuce leaves with the chicken salad and enjoy it!
3. Sweet Potato Black Bean Rice Bowl
Sweet Potato Black Bean Rice Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT35M · Total: PT55M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]
Enjoy a zesty Sweet Potato Black Bean Rice Bowl! This creamy dish is loaded with fiber and plant-based protein. It’s vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, nut-free, and low-calorie.
Ingredients
- 2 medium size sweet potatoes (cut into 1″ cubes)
- 1 tbsp + 1 tsp olive oil (divided)
- 15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup white basmati rice (uncooked)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 lime (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 lime zest (from the juiced lime)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Avocado (cubed)
- Red onion (sliced)
- Cilantro (chopped)
- Lime (sliced into wedges)
Instructions Sweet Potato
- Preheat the oven to 400F and prepare a large baking sheet.
- In a bowl, drizzle cubed potatoes with 1 tsp of olive oil and toss to coat.
- Place them on the baking sheet and spread them out so they evenly cook. Roast for 12-15 minutes until they’re soft.
Rice
- Place a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Once it’s hot, add in the white basmati rice and garlic. Stir and cook for 1 minute or so.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, squeeze out the lime juice, and add salt. Reduce the heat, cover and let the rice simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Stir in the lime zest once the rice has fully cooked.
Final Assembly
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add in the roasted sweet potatoes and black beans. Cover with the seasonings. Mix to coat the vegetables.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add in the cooked rice, stir well, and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until everything has heated up.
- Serve in a bowl with the toppings.
4. Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl
High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT8M · Total: PT18M · Yield: [‘1’, ‘1 meal prep container’]
This creamy, high-protein cottage cheese pizza bowl is packed with bold pepperoni flavor, herbs, and spices. Low-carb, gluten-free, and 43g of protein per bowl!
Ingredients
- 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese (smooth or blended)
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp almond flour
- 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1/4 red onion (sliced)
- 1/8 cup black olives (chopped)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup light mozzarella cheese (grated)
- 4-5 pepperoni slices
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan (grated)
- Fresh basil (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F.
- In an oven-safe bowl, combine cottage cheese, marinara sauce, almond flour, red bell peppers, red onion, black olives, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Level out the mixture and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Top up with pepperoni slices.
- Bake in the oven for 5-8 minutes until the cheese melts, the sides of the container are bubbling, and the pepperoni crisps up.
- Garnish with parmesan and basil before serving.
5. Crockpot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Crockpot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT390M · Total: PT400M · Yield: [‘6’, ‘6 bowls’]
Cozy one-pot lemon chicken orzo soup with tender shredded chicken, soft pasta, and bright citrus flavors. It’s high protein, made in the crockpot for easy weeknight dinners, comforting, healthy, and minimal cleanup required!
Ingredients
- 4 medium chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
- 2 large carrots (peeled and diced)
- 2 sticks celery (diced)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 4 bay leaves
- 1 cup orzo (uncooked)
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1 handful fresh parsley. chopped
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Add chicken breasts, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, vegetable broth, onion powder, dried basil, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves into a crockpot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- When you only have 30 minutes left, remove the bay leaves from the crockpot and take the chicken out of the slow cooker.
- Shred the chicken with 2 forks or a food processor and return the chicken to the crockpot. Add in orzo, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
- Make the heat is on high and cook for another 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent orzo from sticking to the bottom of the crockpot.
- Once orzo is fully cooked, your soup is finished. Salt and pepper it to taste and serve immediately.
6. Chicken Taco Soup
High Protein Chicken Taco Soup is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT25M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]
A flavorful chicken taco soup with shredded chicken, black beans, and corn in a spiced broth. High-protein, gluten-free, and ready in 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless & skinless)
- 14 oz can tomato sauce (low salt)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low salt)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp oregano
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 15 oz can black beans (drained & rinsed)
- 1 12 oz can corn (drained)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 lime (cut into quarters)
Instructions
- Place a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the olive oil, yellow onion, and saute for 3 minutes. Then, add in the garlic and saute for another 1 minute.
- Add in the chicken breasts, tomato sauce, chicken broth, paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, black pepper, black beans, and corn.
- Stir all the ingredients together and cover the pot with a lid. Now, increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Once the ingredients have fully cooked, remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks and return it back into the pot.
- Stir to combine and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and squeeze in a quarter of a lime juice before serving.
7. Italian Chicken Pasta Salad
Italian Chicken Pasta Salad is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT10M · Total: PT40M · Yield: [‘8’, ‘8 bowls’]
This Italian chicken pasta salad is bursting with fresh herbs and a zesty touch of lemon. It’s light, satisfying, and packed with protein!
Ingredients
- 1 lb dry rotini pasta
- 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup shredded Rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz whole milk mozzarella (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- ½ English cucumber (diced)
- 1 red onion (sliced)
- 1/2 cup olives (deseeded and halved)
- ½ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp paprika powder
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rotini pasta according to packaging instructions until it’s al dente.
- Drain the pasta, add 1 tsp of olive oil and toss to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Let the pasta cool down to room temperature.
- Add the pasta to a large bowl with the rest of the pasta salad ingredients. Toss to combine.
- In a bowl, combine all of the Italian dressing ingredients. Mix them well.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves when serving.
8. Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Sauce
Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Sauce is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT15M · Total: PT27M · Yield: [‘1’, ‘1 meal prep containers’]
Juicy salmon and crips asparagus topped with a lemon sauce—this low-carb, high-protein meal is perfect for easy gluten-free meal prep in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 2 bunches of asparagus (rinsed and trimmed)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth (low-sodium)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tbsp parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 small red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Slices of lemon
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Season salmon fillets with salt and black pepper and let them sit.
- Place a pot of water over medium-high heat, bring water to boil and add in the asparagus. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes and then submerge them into iced water. Drain and set aside.
- Place a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add in the olive oil and cook salmon both sides until golden brown. Will take around 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Add garlic to the same skillet followed by vegetable broth. Bring to simmer. Then, add in the butter, squeeze in the lemon, add hot sauce and parsley. Stir to combine.
- Now, add in the asparagus and toss it for 2-3 minutes to let it cook. Add the salmon back into the skillet and let it reheat for 1-2 minutes.
- Divide the salmon, asparagus, and tomato mix into the meal prep containers. Garnish with lemon slices. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
9. Spicy Pineapple Chicken Meal Prep
Spicy Pineapple Chicken Meal Prep is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT20M · Total: PT50M · Yield: [‘3’, ‘3 meal prep bowls’]
A quick, sweet, spicy pineapple chicken stir-fry you can meal prep! It’s a lovely, delicious, Asian-inspired meal prep recipe.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 4 tbsp pineapple juice (from can)
- 1 tbsp chilli sauce
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 lb chicken thighs (skinless & boneless (cubed))
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 white onion (sliced)
- 1 jalapeño (sliced)
- 14- ounce can pineapple chunks (drained)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp green onion (sliced)
Instructions
- Drain the can of pineapples, leaving out the juice. Combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, chili sauce, garlic, ginger, and pepper flakes in a bowl.
- Cube the chicken thighs and add them to the marinade. Make sure all of it is covered, marinate in the fridge for 20 minutes or so.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the onion, jalapeno. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add in the chicken with the marinade. Afterward, turn up the heat and cook for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Finally, add in pineapple and salt. Cook for another 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle with green onion before serving.
- For meal prep:Serve with rice of your choice. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
10. Southwest Chicken Salad
Southwest Chicken Salad is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT25M · Total: PT25M · Yield: [‘6’, ‘6 bowls’]
This high-protein Southwest chicken salad is bursting with smoky, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors, finished with a refreshing citrus twist. High protein and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken (shredded)
- 1 can (15.5 oz black beans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (15.25 oz corn, drained)
- 1 fresh jalapeño (deseeded, finely chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (cut into quarters)
- 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 fresh limes (juiced)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine all of the dressing ingredients.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeno, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and pumpkin seeds.
- Now, cover with the dressing and stir to combine.
- Serve immediately.
11. Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup
Creamy Chicken Pasta Soup is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT36M · Yield: [‘8’, ‘8 bowls’]
Rich and creamy one-pot chicken pasta soup that’s ready in under an hour. It’s high protein and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 large white onion (chopped)
- 2 medium carrots (diced)
- 1 medium celery stalk (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast (shredded)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups ditalini pasta (uncooked, or any other pasta)
- 2 cups spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Place a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, white onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Add in the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Add cooked chicken and continue cooking for another 3 minutes.
- Then, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Give it a stir.
- Cover the Dutch oven and bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Now, add in the cheddar cheese, pasta, and simmer until the pasta is cooked. Ditalini usually takes another 10 minutes to fully cook.
- Finally, add spinach and simmer for a couple of minutes until it wilts.
- Remove from heat, add sea salt and black pepper. Stir it in.
- Garnish with parmesan cheese when serving.
12. Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 bowls’]
This cottage cheese chicken salad is creamy, satisfying, and loaded with 38g of protein. A high-protein, low-carb, and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup rotisserie chicken (chopped into small chunks)
- 1/4 cup jarred banana peppers (drained and diced)
- 1 celery stick (diced)
- 1/2 red onion (diced)
- 1 green onion (thinly sliced)
Instructions
- Add cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and black pepper into a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rotisserie chicken, banana peppers, celery, red onion, green onion and blended cottage cheese. Mix well and season with salt and black pepper.
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge.
13. Chicken Corn Rice Bowls
Chicken Corn Rice Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT10M · Total: PT25M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]
This flavorful bowl features juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice with a zesty dressing. A high-protein, low-calorie meal that’s also gluten-free!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast (skinless and boneless, diced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp paprika powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp lime zest (grated)
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice
- 1 15 oz can whole kernel corn (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
- 1 lime (cut into wedges)
Instructions Chicken
- Place a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil to it.
- Once hot, add in the chicken, cover with paprika powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt and black pepper.
- Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until it has fully cooked. Flipping the chicken throughout. Remove from heat.
Dressing
- In a small bowl mix together all of the dressing ingredients.
Assemble Rice Bowls
- Divide rice into 4 bowls. Top up with corn, cooked chicken and then feta cheese.
- Drizzle with the dressing, garnish with cilantro and lime wedges on top.
- Serve warm or cold.
14. Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl
Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT10M · Total: PT15M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 bowls’]
This Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl delivers spicy buffalo flavor with creamy cottage cheese—high in protein, low in carbs, and keto-friendly!
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
- 4 tbsp Buffalo wing sauce
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 small stalks celery (diced)
- 1 carrot (shredded)
- 4 tbsp Ranch dressing
- Green onion (chopped)
Instructions
- Add chicken breasts to a saucepan, submerge them in water, and place the pan over medium-high heat. Bring the water to a boil and lower the heat, boiling until the chicken is fully cooked. It should take around 10 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the saucepan and shred it with two forks.
- Add Buffalo wing sauce to the chicken and toss until the chicken is well coated.
- Divide cottage cheese, celery, carrot, and chicken into 2 bowls. Drizzle with Ranch dressing and sprinkle with chopped green onion. Salt and pepper if needed.
15. Shrimp Buddha Bowls
Shrimp Buddha Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT30M · Cook: PT50M · Total: PT80M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]
These Shrimp Buddha Bowls are so good! Garlickly, naturally sweet, filling and delicious. These bowls are low calorie, high protein, gluten-free and dairy-free.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp (precooked)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 large sweet potato (peeled and cubed)
- 1 tbps olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ lb asparagus (trimmed)
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 4 cups kale (chopped)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp wholegrain mustard
- ½ cup dry quinoa (cooked according to instructions)
- salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions Vegetables
- Preheat the oven to 400F. In a large bowl, combine sweet potato with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tsp garlic powder. Spread them on a baking sheet, leaving some space for asparagus for later, and pop into the oven for 20 minutes.
- Combine asparagus with ½ tbsp olive oil and 1 tsp garlic powder. Put aside.
- Heat up your frying pan. Add in the kale, 1 tsp olive oil, and 1 tsp wholegrain mustard. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, mixing throughout. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl.
- After the sweet potatoes have cooked for 20 minutes, take out the baking sheet and add in the asparagus. Pop into the oven for another 15 minutes.
Quinoa
- While cooking vegetables, make quinoa according to instructions with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Takes about 10 minutes to cook in total.
Shrimp
- Heat up the frying pan that had kale in it. Add 1 tsp olive oil, then shrimp, cover with garlic powder and paprika. Let it cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping them midway so they cook throughout.
- Remove from heat.
Dressing
- Combine all the ingredients for the dressing in a small bowl. Give it a good mix.
Meal prep assembly
- Assemble 4 meal prep bowls, starting with quinoa, then kale, sweet potatoes, and asparagus. Top up with shrimp and drizzle with the dressing.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Enjoy cold or reheated.
16. Hawaiian Pizza Chicken Bowls
Hawaiian Pizza Chicken Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT25M · Total: PT40M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 meal prep bowls’]
This Hawaiian pizza chicken meal prep combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in one delicious dish. A high-protein, gluten-free meal you’ll love!
Ingredients
- 4 medium chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup ham (chopped)
- ½ cup pineapple (diced)
- 4 cups steamed broccoli (cut into halves)
- Pineapple (diced)
- Parmesan (grated)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F. Prepare a 9×13 casserole dish and spray it with oil.
- Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Add them to the baking dish. Cover with garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to combine.
- Bake in the oven for 15 minutes, then take the dish out.
- Cover the chicken cubes evenly throughout the dish with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, chopped ham, and ½ cup of diced pineapple.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts and starts to brown and bubble.
- Once the chicken is ready, divide it into 4 meal prep bowls and add in the broccoli. Top up the chicken with diced pineapple and grated parmesan.
17. Honey Garlic Shrimp Meal Prep
Honey Garlic Shrimp Meal Prep is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT17M · Total: PT32M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 meal prep containers’]
Craving a balance between sweet and savory? Our honey garlic shrimp meal prep has got you covered! A perfect meal prep lunch idea anyone can make and pack away for work. It’s a glutenfree recipe as well as a high protein meal prep!
Ingredients
- 1 cup white basmati rice
- 1 lb shrimp
- salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tbsp red chili flakes
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 3 medium carrots (finely chopped)
- 1 head of broccoli (chopped)
- 1 cup corns
- 1 cup snow peas
- salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to the instructions provided on the packaging.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic honey sauce ingredients.
- Pat dry the shrimp, season it with salt and pepper. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the frying pan, heat it up, and add in minced garlic.
- Sear shrimp on high heat for 2-3 minutes on one side and then cook for 2-3 minutes on another side. Remove the shrimp and set it aside.
- Lower the heat to medium-high, add in the carrots, and sauté them for 2-3 minutes. Add a little bit more olive oil if needed. Then add in broccoli and let it sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, add in the corn and snow peas, salt, and black pepper and pour in the sauce. Sauté for 5 minutes until all the veggies are cooked and fully covered with the sauce.
- Divide cooked ingredients into 4 different food containers.
18. Burger in a Bowl
Healthy Burger in a Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT13M · Cook: PT7M · Total: PT20M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]
This burger in a bowl is a healthier, low carb version of your regular burgers. Just as packed with flavor but without the carbs. Makes for a perfect high protein, low carb, low calorie, gluten-free lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 large head romaine lettuce (chopped)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 4 tbsp sour cream
- 4 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- 1/2 red onion (sliced)
- 2 large pickles (sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
Instructions
- Heat up your skillet and add in beef mince. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt and black pepper. Cook until browned for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove excess liquid and remove from the heat.
- Combine all the sauce ingredients to make burger sauce.
- Assemble your bowls. Add in a layer of lettuce, ground beef, cover with avocado, red onion, pickles and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle the bowls with burger sauce and add a sprinkle of salt and black pepper.
19. Pizza Bowls
Pizza Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT20M · Total: PT40M · Yield: [‘6’, ‘6 bowls’]
This pizza bowl recipe is loaded with melty cheese, savory toppings, and bold flavors. A delicious low-calorie, gluten-free, low-carb and high-protein alternative for pizza lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup leeks (sliced)
- ½ cup chicken mince
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce (low sugar)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup salami slices
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 F. Prepare 6 (8-9 oz) ramekins and spray them with oil.
- Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in olive oil, leeks, chicken mince, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the chicken is covered with seasonings, and cook until the mince is no longer pink. It should take around 5-7 minutes to cook.
- Divide 1 cup of marinara sauce among 6 ramekins. It should be around 2.5 tbsp each. Now, divide the chicken mixture between them.
- Next, divide 1 cup of mozzarella cheese amongst the ramekins (around 2.5 tbsp each) and top up with the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce.
- Add salami slices to each one of them and cover with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven for around 10-15 minutes until the cheese completely melts and turns golden brown.
- Garnish with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
20. Chicken Meatballs Meal Prep
Chicken Meatballs Meal Prep is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT20M · Cook: PT22M · Total: PT42M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 meal prep bowls’]
These chicken meatball bowls are flavorful, slightly spiced and garlicky. Filling, yummy, low carb, high protein, gluten-free and low in calories with just 400 kcal per bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1/2 fresh lemon (juiced)
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 2 medium cauliflower heads (grated into rice)
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon slices
Instructions Cauliflower Rice
- Make cauliflower rice by grating the cauliflower heads or pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor.
- Cover a large plate with the cauliflower rice, add 1 cup of water, and cook on the highest setting in the microwave for about 5-7 minutes. It’ll steam the cauliflower rice.
- Alternatively, you can steam cauliflower florets and then pulse in a food processor to make the rice.
Chicken Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken with cheddar cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt and black pepper. Combine well with your hands.
- Roll up 12 meatballs out of the mince and set aside.
- Heat up a large skillet to medium-low heat. Add 2 tbsp of butter and cook the chicken meatballs for 8-10 minutes on all sides until they have browned and cooked through. While cooking, baste the meatballs with the butter juices so they thoroughly cook through.
- Add the remaining 1 tbsp of butter to the skillet, squeeze in the lemon juice, and pour in the chicken stock and sriracha sauce. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly until some of the water evaporates.
Meal Prep Assembly
- Divide cauliflower rice into 4 food containers. Top each container with 3 chicken meatballs, and pour the sauce over the meatballs and cauliflower rice. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and reheat in the microwave before eating.
21. Buttered Cod
Buttered Cod is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT6M · Total: PT16M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 plates’]
All you need is a pan to make this wonderful buttery cod. It’s garlicky and lemony, and ready in just 16 minutes! Gluten-free, keto, low-carb and high-protein.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs cod fillets (cut into smaller pieces)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- ¾ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and black pepper
- Season the cod pieces with the mixture of seasoning.
- Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tbsp of butter. Add in the cod and cook for 2 minutes.
- Lower the head and gently flip the cod. Add the remaining butter and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Let the butter completely melt and fish cook. Don’t overcook so the cod doesn’t completely fall apart.
- Drizzle the skillet with freshly squeezed lemon juice garnish with parsley and lemon slices.
Save this collection for the next time you need practical meal inspiration. Start with the recipe that best matches your ingredients, then return to try the others throughout the week.
