My Best Lunch Move Was Making 21 High Protein Recipes

Workdays get a lot easier when lunch is handled with 21 high protein recipes in your back pocket. It saves the scramble of trying to figure out what to eat while also keeping you from falling asleep at your desk after. Each choice keeps the routine moving while still giving you a bit of variety so it never feels stuck on repeat.

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chicken Salad Sandwich

A shredded chicken salad sandwich with lettuce, raisins, and a creamy dressing served in a brioche bun.
Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Chicken Salad Sandwich is a classic that’s not only good for lunch but also filling enough to keep you going for hours. It balances creamy textures and a hint of crunch in every bite. This recipe makes a simple yet satisfying choice for a mid-day meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad Sandwich

Taco Pizza

A close-up of a loaded flatbread pizza topped with avocado slices, diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, seasoned meat, black beans, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
Taco Pizza. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Putting together two favorites, Taco Pizza makes lunch feel less routine. It mixes a familiar format with a different twist, which keeps it interesting. The protein keeps it hearty enough to stand alone without needing much else on the side. It’s a choice that makes a casual lunch feel like something worth looking forward to.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pizza

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs.
French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

There’s something about French Onion Casserole that makes a midday meal feel a little more complete. It carries enough protein to keep hunger away until dinner while still being easy to enjoy in one dish. The layers bring a nice change from typical lunch options. It’s a smart pick for when you want a warm, filling break in the day.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Grilled Pork Chops

A grilled pork chop garnished with chopped parsley is served on a plate.
Grilled Pork Chops. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sitting down with Grilled Pork Chops at lunch feels like a bold choice, but it works surprisingly well. The protein makes it more than enough to power through a long day. It’s simple, straightforward, and gives a break from the usual lighter meals. It’s proof that lunch can be both hearty and convenient.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pork Chops

Blackened Chicken Clubs

A grilled chicken sandwich with lettuce, tomato, bacon, and mayonnaise on toasted bread, served with potato chips on a white plate.
Blackened Chicken Clubs. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Picking Blackened Chicken Clubs for lunch makes it clear you’re going for something filling but not over the top. The sandwich style makes it easy, while the protein load makes it strong. It adds a little character to the midday break compared to the standard options. It’s a balanced way to keep things both tasty and practical.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Clubs

Zucchini Boats

Four zucchini boats topped with ground meat, tomato sauce, melted cheese, and chopped parsley on a white plate.
Zucchini Boats. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A plate of Zucchini Boats brings a fresh idea to lunch without losing the protein that matters. They’re light enough not to slow you down, but still strong in what they deliver. The shape and style make them fun to eat compared to the usual midday meal. Choosing them keeps lunch practical yet far from boring.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Boats

Chicken Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with minced meat, spinach, sliced scallions, half a soft-boiled egg, and noodles in broth, garnished with sesame seeds and pepper.
Chicken Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chicken Ramen is a high-protein bowl of goodness that keeps you full longer. The broth, paired with the protein, makes this an all-around satisfying meal. It’s ideal when you’re looking for something that feels like eating out but at home. Light yet rich, this dish might just become your lunch regular.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Ramen

Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

A white plate holds grilled shrimp and vegetable skewers with mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Shrimp Kabobs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Protein-packed Grilled Shrimp Kabobs are light yet filling, making them an ideal lunch option. They’re quick and easy to prepare, yet they taste like a special dish. Great for keeping things simple while getting plenty of nutrients from your meal. A great way to switch up your protein choices without missing out on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Kabobs

Butter Chicken

A bowl of creamy curry with chicken pieces served over white rice, garnished with cilantro, and accompanied by flatbread.
Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Lunch feels like less of a rush when Butter Chicken is part of it. The protein gives it weight, while the sauce makes it feel a bit more special than standard midday meals. It’s filling enough to keep you set until dinner without needing much else. It’s a smart way to keep lunch interesting yet functional.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bang Bang Shrimp delivers bold bites without feeling too heavy. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a standout choice for lunch. It’s a great way to enjoy shrimp with a twist, along with a natural dose of protein. Quick to enjoy, this dish is perfect for busy days and keeps you full.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Philly Cheesesteak

A sandwich roll filled with grilled steak strips, melted cheese, green bell peppers, and onions on parchment paper.
Philly Cheesesteak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When Philly Cheesesteak shows up at lunch, it turns into more than just a quick meal. The protein gives it staying power, and the mix of textures keeps it from feeling plain. It’s an easy option for those who want something filling without being complicated. It’s a lunch choice that feels both casual and complete.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak

Shrimp Fried Rice

A red plate of shrimp fried rice garnished with chopped green onions, with black chopsticks resting on the side.
Shrimp Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A serving of Shrimp Fried Rice is both quick and dependable for lunch. It brings protein in a simple, one-dish format that’s easy to handle. The mix of textures keeps it from being too predictable. It’s practical, filling, and works well whether you’re eating at home or on the go.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

A bowl of egg noodles topped with creamy beef and mushroom stroganoff, garnished with chopped herbs.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hearty and protein-packed, Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is perfect for those long days when you need a big lunch. It offers tender textures and a rich flavor that feels rewarding. The slow cooker makes it a hands-off option for busy schedules. Perfect for leftovers, too, it only gets better with time.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

A colorful salad with shredded carrots, zucchini, chicken, orange slices, and sesame seeds on a brown plate, garnished with fresh herbs.
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken offers a fresh take on high-protein dishes. It’s easy to enjoy on its own or paired with your favorite sides. The shredded texture gives the dish versatility and makes it ideal for meal prep. A great choice to add variety to your high-protein menu without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

A close-up of a casserole dish featuring tater tots, creamy sauce, ground beef, corn, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Having Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole ready for lunch makes things easier than ever. It’s heavy on protein and holds up well when reheated. The layered format gives it more interest than basic options. It’s an efficient way to keep lunch both filling and easy.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

Tomahawk Steak

Close-up of cooked beef slices on a wooden board, with a fork holding one piece. The meat appears juicy with a seasoned crust.
Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tomahawk Steak is a lunch you won’t forget anytime soon. Its protein-packed nature makes it an easy choice when you need big flavors. This meal is perfect for special occasions or just treating yourself. Great for adding variety to your weekly lineup when chicken isn’t hitting the spot.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

A plate with honey chicken tenders, broccoli florets, and mashed potatoes.
Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Grabbing Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders for lunch makes things simple and quick. The protein makes them reliable while the dipping style keeps it fun. They work well for meal prep or even quick office breaks. It’s a flexible option that never feels out of place.
Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A bowl of Spicy Lasagna Soup turns a regular lunch into something different. It carries the protein you need while giving a soup format that feels more filling than most. The mix of noodles and broth keeps it interesting and balanced. It’s a way to enjoy comfort and strength in one serving.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Stack of golden-brown fritters topped with a red sauce, showing crispy edges and bits of herbs.
Air Fryer Chicken Fritters. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crunchy outside and tender inside, Air Fryer Chicken Fritters are both fun and filling. They’re easy to pair with dips or side dishes, making your lunch break flexible. This dish stands out for being a healthier twist on something fried while still focusing on protein. Perfect for snacking or even a quick meal option.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Fritters

Shrimp Ceviche

A close-up of shrimp ceviche with sliced red onions and chopped cilantro, served in a decorative green bowl.
Shrimp Ceviche. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Choosing Shrimp Ceviche for lunch gives a lighter approach without missing out on protein. It’s refreshing yet filling enough to keep you going. The mix of textures adds something new compared to the standard lunch meal. It’s a simple choice that feels both smart and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Ceviche

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta easily blends protein with just enough spice to keep things interesting. It’s a lunch option that fits well when you want something filling without extra complexity. You can pair it with smaller sides or enjoy it as a main dish depending on your appetite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

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