21 High Protein Dinners 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. Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon
Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT35M · Total: PT40M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 chicken breasts’]
This Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon recipe is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s a lazy dinner anyone can make, filled with flavors of barbecue and pineapples. It’s high protein and requires very little prep time.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts (skinless and boneless, pick thinner ones)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (low sugar)
- 1 cup pineapple (diced)
- 6 strips bacon (cooked and diced)
- ¼ red onion (sliced)
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Pineapple (diced)
- Green onion (diced)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F. Prepare a baking dish and spray it with oil.
- Place the chicken breasts (use thinner ones) on a baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Cover the chicken breasts with BBQ sauce, using a spoon. Then top with pineapple chunks.
- Cover with diced bacon and slices of red onion.
- Finally, top up with mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Broil for 3-4 minutes to crispen up the cheese. Top up with diced pineapple and green onions before serving.
2. High Protein Broccoli Cottage Cheese Soup
High Protein Broccoli Cottage Cheese Soup is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT24M · Total: PT34M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]
Creamy, velvety soup combining broccoli, cheddar, and cottage cheese for a comforting, balanced meal. High in fiber and protein, perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion (diced)
- 2 large carrots (peeled and diced)
- 1 stalk celery (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups broccoli (chopped)
- 2 cups milk (1%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup low fat cottage cheese (blended)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Place a large pot over medium-high heat. Add in the olive oil
- Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add in the garlic and continue cooking for another minute.
- Add the smoked paprika and flour, and coat the vegetables with the flour.
- Add in the vegetable broth and broccoli, and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes until the broccoli softens.
- For the final step, lower the heat and add milk, cheddar cheese, and cottage cheese. Stir until the cheese melts, but be careful not to heat the milk too high, as the milk will curdle. It should take around 5 minutes on low heat.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup gently.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste before serving.
3. Baked Salsa Chicken
Baked Salsa Chicken is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT35M · Total: PT50M · Yield: [‘8’, ‘8 plates’]
Juicy chicken baked with rice, black beans, corn, and gooey cheese in a flavorful salsa. This one-pan dinner is great for a high-proten, gluten-free option.
Ingredients
- 4 small chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 15 oz can corn (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups basmati rice (cooked)
- 1 4 oz can mild green chiles (diced)
- 2 cups thick and chunky salsa (divided)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Monterrey Jack cheese (shredded)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1.5 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1/2 avocado (diced)
- Cilantro (chopped)
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F. Prepare a 9×13 casserole dish.
- Pound chicken breasts to thin them out a little bit and make sure they’re more or less even in thickness.
- In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients.
- Place chicken breasts on a plate, drizzle with olive oil, and then sprinkle with half of the seasoning. Rub it into the chicken, flip, and sprinkle with the rest of the seasoning, covering both sides of the chicken well.
- Add black beans, corn, cooked basmati rice, green chiles, 1 cup chunky salsa, and chicken broth. Stir to combine inside the casserole dish and level out.
- Add seasoned chicken inside to the casserole dish, cover with the remaining 1 cup of salsa.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. The thinner the chicken breasts, the quicker they’ll cook, so cook for an extra 10 minutes or so if needed.
- Remove the casserole dish from the oven, sprinkle with cheddar and Monterrey Jack cheese. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.
- Garnish with avocado, cilantro, and sour cream.
4. Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake
Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT25M · Total: PT35M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 plates’]
This salsa fresca chicken features zesty salsa fresca, melty cheese, and a hint of spice to make the perfect meal if you’re craving Mexican flavors. Low carb, high protein, gluten-free and low in calories!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (diced)
- 1 medium white onion (chopped)
- 1 large jalapeño (chopped)
- A bunch of cilantro (chopped)
- 1/2 lime (juiced)
- 1/2 tsp salt (divided)
- 2 lbs chicken breast (boneless and skinless, diced)
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red chili pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F. Prepare a 9×13 casserole dish and spray it with oil.
- In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, chopped onion, jalapeno, cilantro, lime juices and 1/4 tsp salt.
- Place diced chicken on the baking sheet and cover with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, red chili pepper flakes, and black pepper. Make sure the chicken is covered well with all the seasonings.
- Finally, cover the chicken with the tomato mix and top up with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake in the oven uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken has fully cooked.
- Garnish with extra cilantro before serving.
5. Mexican Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet
Mexican Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT25M · Total: PT35M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]
This Mexican Chicken is a quick, healthy, high-protein, gluten-free meal with Mediterranean notes and bold Mexican flavors—perfect for a nutritious dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 sweet potato
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breasts (skinless and boneless, diced)
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 15 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 4 oz can diced green chiles
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 lime (juiced)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (grated)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all of the spices.
- Cut the sweet potato in a half, lengthwise. Poke the halves with a fork on both sides. Then, add them to a plate and fill it with water. Microwave for 4-7 minutes on high until the sweet potato has become more tender but not fully cooked.
- Set aside to let the sweet potato cool down.
- Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil.
- Once the skillet has heated up, add in the diced chicken, cover it with the half of the spice blend and then spread it into a single layer, so the chicken has a chance to cook.
- Cook the chicken for 3 minutes and add in the onion. Give the skillet a stir, flip your chicken breasts, so all sides can cook.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the onion softens and the chicken has completely cooked through. You might want to stir and give the chicken a few flips during that time.
- While the chicken is cooking. Peel the sweet potato and dice it.
- Lower the heat and add in the remaining half of the spice blend. Now, add in the diced sweet potato, tomatoes, black beans, green chiles and salsa.
- Stir well to combine all of the ingredients. Let it cook until all the ingredients heat up – about 3-4 minutes.
- Finally, squeeze the lime juice all over the skillet and top up with cheddar cheese. Place a lid on the skillet and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese has completely melted.
- Garnish with cilantro before serving.
6. Creamy Pesto Chicken
Creamy Pesto Chicken is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT6M · Cook: PT24M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 plates’]
Meditarennean flavors all packed in one skillet but without the carbs (13g carbs in total). Creamy, flavorful but also high in protein and gluten free.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 lb chicken breasts (skinless and boneless, cut into strips)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 large white onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 2 bell peppers (cut into thin strips)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 3 tbsp pesto
- Fresh basil (chopped)
- Parmesan (grated)
Instructions
- Place a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil to it.
- Season chicken with Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt and black pepper.
- Add the chicken into the skillet and cook for 7-8 minutes until the chicken has cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Add the rest of the olive oil, then chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until translucent. Then, add in the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes or so.
- Add in bell peppers and continue cooking for 4-5 minutes until tender.
- While the bells are being cooked, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, and pesto in a small bowl. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer. It will take about 3-4 minutes.
- Now, return the chicken back into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the chicken has heated up and the sauce has thickened.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Garnish with basil and parmesan before serving.
7. Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT15M · Total: PT35M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 stuffed sweet potatoes’]
These Taco Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a combination of savory and sweet. Filling, comforting spicy and creamy. Full of flavors and nutrition. The dinner is high protein and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 white onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp ground paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 1/2 cup water
- 4 sweet potatoes
- Shredded mozzarella
- Diced tomatoes
- Mashed avocado
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Poke holes all over your sweet potatoes with a fork. Then, add them to a bowl or a plate with some water. Pop into the oven and microwave for 10 minutes on a high setting. If not cooked after, give it another 5 minutes to cook. In case your microwave is too small, you’ll have to cook these potatoes two at a time.
- While the sweet potatoes are being microwaved, heat up a skillet to medium-high heat. Add in ground beef, onion, and garlic – stir and cook until brown. It will take 5-7 minutes. Drain the grease.
- Add all of the spices and seasoning, salsa and water. Give it a good stir and cook on low heat for about 5 minutes.
- When the potatoes are cooked, let them cool down a little, but cut lengthwise to open them up without cutting through completely.
- Stuff the potatoes with cooked beef mixture. Top up with mozzarella, tomatoes, mashed avocado, and sour cream. Enjoy!
8. Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan
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
- Preheat the oven to 350F. Spray a large baking sheet with oil.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Remove from the oven; garnish with fresh lime juice, sesame seeds, and cilantro before serving.
9. 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.
10. Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT20M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘6’, ‘6 bowls’]
This Marry Me Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a rich parmesan garlic cream sauce tossed with pasta. Easy, healthy and high-protein.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breasts (skinless and boneless, diced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 large yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tbsp pesto
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp crushed red chili pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to the packaging instructions until it’s al dente. Then drain and set aside.
- While pasta is cooking, in a small bowl, combine all of the seasonings. Then cover the chicken with them, toss so all of the sides of the chicken pieces are covered.
- While pasta is cooking, place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add in 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add in the chicken and cook for 5-8 minutes until the chicken has fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add another 1 tbsp of olive oil into the skillet. Add the onion and cook until translucent. It should take 3-4 minutes. Then, add in the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 1 minute.
- Now, pour in the heavy cream, add Parmesan cheese and pesto. Keep on stirring to combine all of the ingredients.
- Add in the cooked pasta into the skillet, stir to cover with the sauce and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, let it warm up for 1-2 minutes, and remove the skillet from the stove.
- Garnish with basil leaves before serving.
11. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Asparagus 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’]
These delicious garlic butter chicken bites with asparagus is an easy one pan meal. Gluten-free, high in protein and keto-friendly.
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts (skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 2 bunches of asparagus (rinsed and trimmed)
- 1/2 cup butter (divided)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced, divided)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 1 tbsp parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp Crushed red chili pepper flakes
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp onion powder
Instructions
- Cover chicken with chicken seasoning ingredients and let it sit.
- Place a saucepan filled with water over high heat and bring to boil. Add the asparagus for 2 minutes until it’s blanched. Then, remove them from boiling water and place them in ice-cold water.
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add in 1/4 of cup of butter. Then, add in chicken and stir-fry until the chicken turn golden brown. Should take around 7-10 minutes.
- Lower the temperature and add in 2 minced garlic cloves and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook until garlic is fragrant, it should take around 1 minute.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In case the skillet is too small, brown the chicken in 2 batches.
- Now, add the remaining 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring to simmer. Add the remaining 1/4 cup of butter, squeeze in the juices of the lemon, then add Sriracha sauce, chopped parsley and crushed red chili pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Now, add in the asparagus and toss for 2-3 minutes to cook it up inside the skillet. Push it to the side and add the chicken back into the skillet, cook until it reheats (1-2 minutes).
- Remove from the heat, garnish with lemon slices and serve immediately.
12. Creamy Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Creamy Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT26M · Total: PT31M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 chicken thighs’]
This creamy chicken is made in just one pan. Delicious, creamy, tomatoey and full of flavors. Keto, high-protein and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 chicken thighs (boneless, skinless (or chicken breasts))
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp oregano
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and thinly sliced)
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup Parmesan (grated)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ fresh basil leaves (chopped)
Instructions
- Heat up the skillet to medium-high heat and add olive oil. Brown up the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side. Salt and pepper them. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Now, add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, red pepper flakes and sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream, and add in the parmesan. Add the cornstarch and start whisking immediately to disperse it throughout the cream.
- Add the chicken thighs back into the skillet, cover them with the sauce, lower the heat, and cover with a lid. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken thighs are fully cooked; it will depend on their size. The bigger the chicken thigh, the longer it will take for it to cook. Stir every few minutes to make sure the sauce doesn’t burn to the skillet.
- Once fully cooked, stir in fresh basil leaves and remove from the heat. Serve warm, and make sure to spoon the sauce over each chicken thigh. Sprinkle some parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil on top before eating for the extra flavor.
13. Cottage Cheese Pasta
Cottage Cheese Pasta is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT20M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘6’, ‘6 bowls’]
Looking for a healthy but creamy pasta recipe? This cottage cheese pasta is high protein, satisfying, and incredibly simple to make.
Ingredients
- 3 cups uncooked rigatoni pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 lb chicken mince
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- A pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Fresh basil
Instructions
- Cook your rigatoni pasta according to instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is being cooked, heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, and chopped onion and saute for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds.
- Add in the chicken mince, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, some salt, and black pepper. Gently break the mince apart with a spatula, coat with the seasonings, and cook until the chicken is fully cooked. It will take about 6-8 minutes.
- While you’re cooking the chicken, blend marinara sauce and cottage cheese together. It should come out smooth and creamy.
- Once the chicken has fully cooked, pour the blend into the skillet, add in cooked rigatoni, and stir all the ingredients to combine well. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until all the ingredients warm up.
- Garnish with parmesan cheese and basil before serving.
14. Lemon Chicken Piccata
Lemon Chicken Piccata is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT20M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 chicken breasts’]
This creamy coated lemon chicken piccata is tangy, refreshing and flavorful. Made in just one pan in 30 minutes, it makes for a perfect keto, high protein and gluten-free dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp salted butter (divided)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup capers (drained)
- 2 lemons
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Wash your chicken breasts, cut them in half horizontally lengthwise to make sure the breasts are extra thin, and pat dry with paper towels. Season your chicken with salt and black pepper.
- Prepare a shallow plate and cover with almond flour. Place the chicken breasts on the almond flour to coat them on both sides and shake off the excess.
- Heat up a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 2 tbsp butter. Once the pan is hot, add in the chicken breasts and cook for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. When the chicken has fully cooked, set aside.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream and capers to the pan. Squeeze the juice out of the lemons. Stir everything together. Increase the heat to bring to a simmer, and add in the rest of the butter, salt, and pepper to the taste.
- Bring the chicken breasts back into the pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat, top up with chopped parsley, and grate the zest of the squeezed-out lemons onto the pan.
15. Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash
Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT15M · Total: PT20M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 salmon fillets’]
This Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash is a perfect, easy dinner recipe that tastes gourmet! Simple to make yet bursting in flavors. This easy dinner is gluten-free, dairy-free, Whole30, and low-carb. Enjoy this fish dinner and add it to the list of your best recipes!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 avocados (mashed)
- 1 lime zest (grated)
- 1 lime juice
- salt to taste
- chopped dill
- 1/2 red onion chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F.
- Place salmon fillets on a baking dish. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper, and cover with olive oil.
- Pop into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until fully cooked.
- While salmon is being baked, mash avocados in a bowl. Grate in the lime zest and squeeze in the fresh lime juice. Add in salt and chopped dill. Combine all of the ingredients.
- Once the salmon is baked, cover each salmon fillet with avocado mash mix and sprinkle with chopped onion.
16. Creamy Cajun Chicken
Creamy Cajun Chicken is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT20M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 chicken cutlets with sauce’]
This chicken is packed with Cajun flavor and a creamy sauce—all ready in just 30 minutes. A satisfying high-protein, gluten-free dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (use one that has little to no salt, divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- Parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Cut the chicken horizontally lengthwise, you’ll end up with 4 thinner chicken cutlets.
- Cover the chicken with salt, black pepper, 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Add cornstarch to a shallow plate and spread it around. Now coat each chicken cutlet in cornstarch on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the butter and olive oil, let it melt and once the pan is hot add in the chicken cutlets. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until the cutlets turn golden. Take the chicken out and set aside.
- Add in the garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pan. Stir and bring it to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring throughout and add the remaining 1/2 tbsp of Cajun seasoning.
- Add chicken back into the pan and cook for another 5 minutes until it reheats and the sauce thickens. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley before serving.
17. Creamy Crack Chicken Soup
Creamy Crack Chicken Soup is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT22M · Total: PT27M · Yield: [’10’, ’10 bowls’]
This creamy crack chicken soup is an easy dinner. Flavorful, filling and savory. Low carb, gluten-free and high protein
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon (diced)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 white onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried dill
- 1/2 tsp dried chives
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (grated)
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Fresh dill (chopped for garnish)
- Green scallions (sliced for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook up diced bacon slices. It will take around 5 minutes
- Remove the bacon, but leave the fat inside the bot.
- Add in the butter and diced onion, and sauté until translucent. That will take around 3 minutes.
- Add in the garlic and cook for 20 seconds. Then, pour in the chicken broth and scrape up all the browned bits on the bottom of the pot.
- Add bay leaves, garlic, onion, dill, chives, salt, and black pepper. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Now add cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Whisk until the cheese has melted and combined with the chicken broth.
- Add the baby spinach and heavy cream and simmer for 3 minutes. Stir throughout.
- Remove from the heat, then remove the bay leaves, add salt and pepper to taste.
- Top up with diced bacon, chopped dill, and green scallions before serving.
18. Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT40M · Total: PT55M · Yield: [‘6’, ‘6 bowls’]
This casserole is filling, comforting, cheesy and herby. The perfect one-pan comfort meal for a crowd. It’ll warm your heart and soul. High protein and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 white onion (chopped)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (cored and diced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (cored and diced)
- 2 cups water
- 1 15- ounce can chopped tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup basmati rice (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a pot, heat up the olive oil and add onion and ground beef. With a spatula, break apart your ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes until the meat is brown.
- Add Italian seasoning, paprika, ground cumin, salt, black pepper and minced garlic. Stir in and let it cook for a minute or so.
- Add red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, water, chopped tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce and uncooked basmati rice. Combine well.
- Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover it with a lid, and let it simmer for 25 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat, stir it up, and cover it with shredded cheese. Cover with the lid and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.
- To top it up with some chopped parsley or any other fresh herbs. The longer the casserole sits, the more flavorful it will get!
19. Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole
Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Casserole is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.
Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT35M · Total: PT45M · Yield: [‘8’, ‘8 bowls’]
This Buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole features the bold spice of buffalo sauce, creamy melted cheese, and tender chicken over riced cauliflower – a perfect low carb, high protein and gluten-free meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs cooked chicken (shredded)
- 5 cups riced cauliflower (raw)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded, divided)
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- Parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F. Prepare a 9×13” casserole dish.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked shredded chicken, riced cauliflower, buffalo sauce, cream cheese and 1 cup cheddar cheese. It will form a very thick mixture.
- Add the mixture into the casserole dish and level it out.
- Cover with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese completely melts and bubbles.
- Garnish with extra buffalo sauce and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
20. Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon
Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon 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 salmon fillets’]
This flavorful salmon is filled with a delicious mix of spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes. A healthy, high protein dinner that’s low-carb and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and roughly chopped)
- 3 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 1 lb sockeye salmon fillet
- Cooking spray
- Sea salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat up a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add in the sun-dried tomatoes and bring them to a sizzle. Add in the baby spinach and cook until wilted. Don’t be afraid to move it around with a spatula.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add in feta cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt. Give it all a very good stir.
- Take the sockeye salmon fillet, pat it dry with paper towels, and cut it into 4 equal-sized fillets. Now, cut each fillet lengthwise without fully cutting through and leaving 1/2 inch of the fillet still attached.
- Spray the salmon fillets with cooking spray lightly. Sprinkle with the sea salt and place on the baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Stuff each salmon fillet with the stuffing mixture.
- Pop into the oven and bake in for 25-30 minutes until the salmon has cooked through. Serve warm.
21. Creamy Chicken in Parmesan Sauce
Creamy Chicken in Parmesan Sauce 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 halves of chicken breasts’]
Cream and cheese, packed with flavor and deliciousness, and made just in one pan. This meal is creamy, high-protein, low-carb, and gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp oregano (divided)
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup Parmesan (grated)
- 1 cup spinach
- Parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and 1 tsp oregano.
- Place a large skillet over high heat and add 2 tbsp of butter to it with some of the oil left after draining the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Add in the chicken breasts and cook for 4 minutes on each side until browned. Once the chicken breasts have fully cooked and are no longer white, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
- To make the sauce, lower the heat and add the remaining 1 tbsp of butter into the same pan. Add in the onion, garlic, the remaining 1 tsp of oregano, and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until onion softens.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix to combine until the sauce is smooth. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, and add some salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add in the spinach, stir, and cook until it wilts. It will take around 2-3 minutes.
- Add chicken breasts back into the pan, cover them with the sauce, and let them cook until they heat up for 3-5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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.


