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 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

1. Add cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and black pepper into a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
2. 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.
3. Serve immediately or store in the fridge.

2. Keto Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Keto Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT23M · Total: PT33M · Yield: [‘3’, ‘3 bowls’]

Bring in the Asian flavors into your kitchen with this keto chicken and broccoli stir fry. It’s a flavorful, umami meal that will keep you in ketosis.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breasts (skinless, boneless, cut into strips)
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• ¼ cup Chicken broth
• ½ cup Soy sauce (low sodium)
• 3 tbsp erythritol
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp ginger (grated)
• ¼ tsp xanthan gum
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Add sesame oil and olive oil to a skillet and heat up to medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the heated skillet and cook for 7-10 minutes until the chicken is brown and cooked.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and add in the broccoli florets, reduce the heat, cover and let the broccoli steam until it’s cooked.
4. Add the chicken back to the skillet.
5. In a separate bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients.
6. Pour the sauce all over the chicken and broccoli and stir it in.
7. Cook until the sauce coats the chicken and broccoli.
8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

3. 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

1. Cook the rice according to the instructions provided on the packaging.
2. In a small bowl, mix garlic honey sauce ingredients.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Divide cooked ingredients into 4 different food containers.

4. Mexican Cauliflower Meal Prep

Mexican Meal Prep Bowls with Cauliflower Rice (Low Carb) is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT8M · Cook: PT12M · Total: PT20M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 meal prep bowls’]

Mexican meal prep bowls that are also low carb! Great when you’re craving for Mexican flavors and wanting a low carb high protein meal!

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 can chopped tomatoes (1.5 cup chopped tomatoes)
• 1 tsp ground onion
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp crushed chili flakes
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• pinch of salt
• pinch of black pepper
• 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup wild rocket salad
• 1 avocado

Instructions Shredded Chicken:

1. Get a large pot, add chicken breasts to it, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Cover the chicken with around 1 inch of water.
3. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for around 12 minutes. Remove the chicken from water and shred it using either fork, claws, or a food processor.

Cauliflower Rice:

1. Break apart cauliflower head. Wash, dry, and chop into smaller pieces.
2. Pulse with a food processor until you’ve got cauliflower rice.
3. Heat up a pan, add olive oil, chop green pepper and sauté them for a couple of minutes.
4. Add cauliflower rice, chopped tomatoes, and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Mix in onion, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, crushed chili flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix as well as you can and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Serving:

1. Divide cauliflower rice equally among 4 food containers. Add shredded chicken to each of them as well as wild rocket salad. Slice avocado and top each meal prep bowl with it.

5. 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

1. In a medium bowl, combine all of the dressing ingredients.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeno, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and pumpkin seeds.
3. Now, cover with the dressing and stir to combine.
4. Serve immediately.

6. 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

1. Drain the can of pineapples, leaving out the juice. Combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, chili sauce, garlic, ginger, and pepper flakes in a bowl.
2. 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.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the onion, jalapeno. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add in the chicken with the marinade. Afterward, turn up the heat and cook for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Finally, add in pineapple and salt. Cook for another 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle with green onion before serving.
6. For meal prep:Serve with rice of your choice. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

7. Salmon Stir Fry

Easy Salmon Stir Fry is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT15M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

Umami and sweet this Easy Salmon Stir Fry is gluten-free (with coconut aminos), dairy-free, and high in protein. So easy and delicious!

Ingredients

• 1 lb salmon
• A pinch of salt
• A pinch of black pepper
• 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 carrots (sliced)
• 1 medium red onion (sliced)
• 1 zucchini (sliced and halved)
• 8 mushrooms (halved)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
• ¼ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 3 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 3 green onions (sliced)

Instructions

1. Remove the skin from the salmon and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
2. Chop the veggies.
3. Combine all the ingredients for the sauce.

Salmon

1. Heat a wok to medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add in the salmon and cook for 3-5 minutes until golden. Be gentle to make sure the salmon doesn’t break apart.
2. Gently remove the salmon into a bowl.

Veggies

1. Add the carrots into the wok and let them cook for 2-3 minutes. Then add in the onions, and let them cook for 2 minutes.
2. Finally add in the rest of the vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes.

Sauce

1. Pour the sauce mixture into the wok. Stir to cover all the vegetables. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
2. Gently add in the cooked salmon and toss lightly.
3. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion.

8. 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

1. 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.
2. Remove the chicken from the saucepan and shred it with two forks.
3. Add Buffalo wing sauce to the chicken and toss until the chicken is well coated.
4. 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.

9. Sweet Chilli Chicken Sheet Pan

Sweet Chilli Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT15M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 plates’]

Love sweet chili sauce? Make this healthy sweet chili chicken dinner you can quickly bake in the oven. Gluten-free and dairy-free.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts (cubed into 1-inch pieces)
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 2 red bell peppers (diced)
• 2 tsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves
• 1 lime (sliced into 4 wedges)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp ginger (grated)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients.
2. Preheat the oven to 400F. Oil your baking sheet.
3. In a separate bowl, add in the chicken breast cubes, cover with 1/3 cup of the sauce. Stir the chicken to coat it.
4. Add chicken onto the baking sheet, then spread broccoli and bell peppers around it. Drizzle the remaining sauce all over the veggies.
5. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, cilantro leaves, and top up with lime wedges.

10. Hawaiian Pizza Chicken

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

1. Preheat the oven to 400F. Prepare a 9×13 casserole dish and spray it with oil.
2. 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.
3. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes, then take the dish out.
4. Cover the chicken cubes evenly throughout the dish with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, chopped ham, and ½ cup of diced pineapple.
5. Return to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts and starts to brown and bubble.
6. 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.

11. 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

1. Preheat the oven to 400F.
2. 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.
3. Level out the mixture and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
4. Top up with pepperoni slices.
5. Bake in the oven for 5-8 minutes until the cheese melts, the sides of the container are bubbling, and the pepperoni crisps up.
6. Garnish with parmesan and basil before serving.

12. 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

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rotini pasta according to packaging instructions until it’s al dente.
2. 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.
3. Add the pasta to a large bowl with the rest of the pasta salad ingredients. Toss to combine.
4. In a bowl, combine all of the Italian dressing ingredients. Mix them well.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves when serving.

13. 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

1. 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.
2. Combine asparagus with ½ tbsp olive oil and 1 tsp garlic powder. Put aside.
3. 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.
4. 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

1. 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

1. 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.
2. Remove from heat.

Dressing

1. Combine all the ingredients for the dressing in a small bowl. Give it a good mix.

Meal prep assembly

1. Assemble 4 meal prep bowls, starting with quinoa, then kale, sweet potatoes, and asparagus. Top up with shrimp and drizzle with the dressing.
2. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Enjoy cold or reheated.

14. 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

1. 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.
2. Add in the chicken breasts, tomato sauce, chicken broth, paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, black pepper, black beans, and corn.
3. 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.
4. Once the ingredients have fully cooked, remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with two forks and return it back into the pot.
5. Stir to combine and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and squeeze in a quarter of a lime juice before serving.

15. 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

1. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and black pepper
2. Season the cod pieces with the mixture of seasoning.
3. Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tbsp of butter. Add in the cod and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Lower the head and gently flip the cod. Add the remaining butter and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
5. Let the butter completely melt and fish cook. Don’t overcook so the cod doesn’t completely fall apart.
6. Drizzle the skillet with freshly squeezed lemon juice garnish with parsley and lemon slices.

16. Healthy 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

1. 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.
2. Remove excess liquid and remove from the heat.
3. Combine all the sauce ingredients to make burger sauce.
4. Assemble your bowls. Add in a layer of lettuce, ground beef, cover with avocado, red onion, pickles and cherry tomatoes.
5. Drizzle the bowls with burger sauce and add a sprinkle of salt and black pepper.

17. 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

1. Make cauliflower rice by grating the cauliflower heads or pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor.
2. 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.
3. Alternatively, you can steam cauliflower florets and then pulse in a food processor to make the rice.

Chicken Meatballs

1. 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.
2. Roll up 12 meatballs out of the mince and set aside.
3. 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.
4. 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

1. 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.
2. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and reheat in the microwave before eating.

18. 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

1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil to it.
2. Once hot, add in the chicken, cover with paprika powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt and black pepper.
3. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until it has fully cooked. Flipping the chicken throughout. Remove from heat.

Dressing

1. In a small bowl mix together all of the dressing ingredients.

Assemble Rice Bowls

1. Divide rice into 4 bowls. Top up with corn, cooked chicken and then feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with the dressing, garnish with cilantro and lime wedges on top.
3. Serve warm or cold.

19. 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

1. 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.
2. When you only have 30 minutes left, remove the bay leaves from the crockpot and take the chicken out of the slow cooker.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Once orzo is fully cooked, your soup is finished. Salt and pepper it to taste and serve immediately.

20. Hawaiian Chicken Bowl

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT35M · Total: PT50M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

This low-calorie, gluten-free, and dairy-free Hawaiian chicken sheet pan meal is naturally sweet, smoky, tangy, and tropical! Loaded with juicy chicken, bell peppers, and sweet pineapple.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp coriander powder
• 2 tsp ginger powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 red onion (cut into chunks)
• ½ cup Hawaiian-style BBQ Sauce (use Primal Kitchen for dairy-free option)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained if canned)
• 1 fresh lime (juiced)
• Sesame seeds
• Cilantro (chopped)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Spray a large baking sheet with oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, coriander, ginger powder, salt and black pepper. Give them a mix. Now, add the chicken and toss until the chicken is fully covered with the spices.
3. Now, add in the bell peppers, red onion, and BBQ sauce. Coat all of the ingredients with the sauce. Use your hands for the best effect.
4. Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet as evenly as possible. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, then remove and top up with pineapple chunks throughout the whole baking sheet. Pop back into the oven for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Remove from the oven; garnish with fresh lime juice, sesame seeds, and cilantro before serving.

21. Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT180M · Total: PT195M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

Easy slow cooker chicken shawarma bowl with bold, savory Middle Eastern spices. High in protein and gluten-free, it recreates restaurant flavors at home, perfect for meal prep without guilt or overspending!

Ingredients

• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 2 lbs chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup dry basmati rice
• 1 red onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat)
• 1/2 lemon (freshly squeezed juice)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the spice mix.
2. Cover the bottom of the slow cooker with sliced onion. Top up with chicken and cover it with the spice mix. Cover with water.
3. Cook on high for 3 hours until the chicken has cooked through. Shred with two forks while the chicken is still inside the crockpot.
4. Boil basmati rice according to instructions on the package. Remove chicken from the crockpot, leaving the leftover water inside the crockpot, and add chicken to the bowl on one side.
5. Divide red onion, cherry tomatoes amongst the bowls. Add Greek yogurt, squeeze over the lemon juice, and cover with chopped parsley.

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.