I Got Sick of Chicken, So I Found These 21 High-Protein Meals Instead

ByMandy

Sometimes you stare at your plate and swear that the chicken is judging you. That’s when it hits—there’s got to be more than wings and thighs in the world of protein. Turns out, 21 other high-protein dishes were waiting quietly in the corner like introverts at a party. They’ve been saving dinner without needing feathers.

Roasted lamb leg on a platter with sliced potatoes, lemon, and herbs. A knife is placed beside the dish.
Lamb Shank. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pork Tenderloin

Close-up of roasted pork tenderloin on a white plate, topped with a drizzle of dark sauce. The meat is seasoned with visible spices and has a textured, caramelized surface.
Pork Tenderloin. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Forget your usual protein routine and try Pork Tenderloin for something different. It’s lean, flavorful, and cooks quickly, which is great for weeknight meals. This recipe is packed with protein, making it a smart option for keeping you full. A solid pick if you’re tired of the same old chicken dishes.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin

Marry Me Tortellini

A bowl of creamy tortellini pasta with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a basil garnish.
Marry Me Tortellini. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you want something comforting and rich, Marry Me Tortellini hits the spot. It’s a cheesy, protein-filled pasta dish that doesn’t rely on chicken. Perfect for quick dinners that feel a little fancy without the extra work. It’s a simple switch-up that keeps meals interesting.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

Pizza Casserole

A close-up of a baked pasta dish with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and herbs, showing a serving being lifted, revealing gooey cheese strands.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tired of traditional pizza nights? Make Pizza Casserole and enjoy all the flavors in an easy-to-serve form. It brings in enough protein with a fun twist on a favorite dish. Great for gatherings or when you want to prep something ahead. A clever way to mix up meal planning.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

A close-up of Swedish meatballs covered in a creamy sauce, piled in a wooden bowl.
Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Switch things up and try Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat) if you’re craving something hearty and protein-packed. The signature sauce and texture make this recipe unforgettable. Great for pairing with sides like mashed potatoes or noodles. It’s tasty without feeling too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Meatballs (Ikea Copycat)

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Close-up of a shrimp curry dish with rice, topped with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Break the routine with Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry for vibrant, protein-rich goodness. It’s loaded with shrimp and has bold flavors that stand out. Perfect when you’re looking for something other than your usual chicken or beef. It’s quick and easy but still feels fresh and fun.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

A platter of nachos topped with ground meat, melted cheese, sliced jalapeños, cherry tomatoes, black beans, red onions, cilantro, and dollops of sour cream. Lime wedges are on the side.
Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Need something loaded with flavor and protein? Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos are an easy crowd-pleaser. It packs in beef and layers of bold textures in every bite. Great for sharing or turning snack time into dinner. Plus, there’s almost no cleanup involved afterward.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Beef Enchilada Nachos

Veggie Pizza

Someone taking a slice of veggie pizza.
Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Want something lighter but still fulfilling? Veggie Pizza skips the chicken and still brings a balanced amount of protein. Great way to enjoy your favorite toppings on a crispy base. Simple but versatile for lunch, dinner, or leftovers. Perfect for when you want to try something new.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

Black Bean Burger

A black bean burger in a burger bap with relish oozing out over it.
Black Bean Burger. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skip traditional burgers and go for Black Bean Burger as a high-protein alternative. It’s hearty, filling, and packs a punch in every bite. Perfect if you’re tired of relying on meat as your main protein source. You won’t miss beef after one bite of this fulfilling patty.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Burger

Shrimp Burrito Bowls

A bowl of seasoned shrimp, avocado, corn, black beans, rice, and a dollop of sour cream, garnished with cilantro.
Shrimp Burrito Bowls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Want a fresh yet filling option? Shrimp Burrito Bowls are packed with layers of protein and bold flavors. Shrimp does the heavy lifting here, making this bowl a solid meal without needing chicken. Perfect for a build-your-own dinner that’s simple and quick.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Burrito Bowls

Crunchwrap Supreme

Three folded tortillas filled with seasoned ground meat, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Crunchwrap Supreme. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Step up your usual wrap game with Crunchwrap Supreme, loaded with protein and crunch in every bite. It’s a fresh alternative when you’re too tired of plain chicken wraps. Great for handheld meals that don’t take a lot of work. A fun way to combine textures and keep dinner exciting.
Get the Recipe: Crunchwrap Supreme

Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

A bowl of mixed salad with grilled shrimp, avocado, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing.
Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Try something light yet still protein-packed with Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing. It’s bold, flavorful, and switches up your usual salad routine. With shrimp as the star, you won’t even miss chicken. Easy to prep and keeps you going throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Shrimp Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ditch bite-sized snacks and go for Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls for a bold protein-packed dish. It combines texture and flavor for an addictive appetizer. Perfect for sharing or impressing guests at gatherings. A no-fuss way to enjoy something richer.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Dense Bean Salad

A spoonful of chickpea salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, parsley, and feta cheese being served from a bowl.
Dense Bean Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes simpler is better, and Dense Bean Salad proves it with its high protein load. Packed with beans and bold flavors, this dish skips the chicken and still keeps you full. Great for lunches or quick meals when options seem limited. A reliable choice that doesn’t need the extras.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Sweet and Sour Pork

Close-up of sweet and sour pork with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds and chives.
Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tired of chicken stir-fries? Sweet and Sour Pork is a fantastic replacement that’s full of flavor and easy to enjoy. Pork takes center stage with a balance of sweet and tangy. Great option when you’re in the mood for something memorable without a lot of prep.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

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.

If tacos and pizza are both favorites, Taco Pizza combines them into one protein-packed treat. It skips chicken entirely while still managing to hit the right balance. Perfect for a fun dinner that doesn’t feel repetitive. Creative yet straightforward for families or small groups.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pizza

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Need an easy addition to your meals or snacks? Guacamole is a protein-packed way to bring flavor to any dish. Simple, fresh, and ready in minutes without much effort. Great for pairing with chips or as a topping for bowls and wraps. It’s a staple that shakes up the routine.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible.
Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add variety to mealtime with Ham and Cheese Sliders, loaded with protein and great for sharing. These handheld bites are an upgrade from basic sandwiches. Quick to make and easy to eat, they work for lunches or gatherings. A fun switch if you’re looking for a crowd-friendly favorite.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders

Grilled Tri Tip

Sliced medium-rare steak arranged on a wooden board, topped with a green herb sauce.
Grilled Tri Tip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Skip chicken on the grill and go for Grilled Tri Tip, a lean and protein-rich choice. It’s perfect for cooks who want big flavor without much effort. Great for slicing thin and serving with simple sides. A top option for hearty meals that stay simple yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Tri Tip

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Swap out rice dishes and try Easy Chow Mein for a fresh, protein-filled meal. This option gives you noodles layered with a fulfilling texture and flavor. Perfect for quick meals when you want something lighter. You’ll get a break from chicken-heavy stir-fries without compromise.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Tuna Salad

A bowl of tuna salad mixed with chopped herbs, likely parsley or chives, with a spoon resting inside the bowl.
Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Looking for a simple, protein-heavy meal? Tuna Salad is quick, fresh, and ready in minutes without cooking involved. It’s a great lunch option when time’s tight but you need something filling. Skip chicken this time and enjoy an easy, healthy go-to snack or meal.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

Lamb Shank

Roasted lamb leg on a platter with sliced potatoes, lemon, and herbs. A knife is placed beside the dish.
Lamb Shank. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Change up your dinner routine with Lamb Shank, a flavorful and protein-heavy option. It’s a slow-cooking dish that feels rich without being overwhelming. Perfect for special dinners or days when you want something other than chicken. A bold alternative for red meat lovers.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shank

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