30 Healthy Dinner Ideas With 25-35G Protein
Ending your day with a high-protein dinner can help with muscle repair and growth overnight, and it can also help you feel more satiated, reducing the chances of late-night snacking. This article provides 30 delicious and healthy dinner recipes, each packed with 25-35 grams of protein to help you meet your daily protein goals.
1. Sheet Pan Chicken Bacon Ranch
A simple and flavorful one-pan meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Protein: 35g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large sheet pan, toss the chicken, bacon, broccoli, and bell peppers with the ranch seasoning.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
2. Easy Crock Pot Pork Roast With Potatoes and Carrots
A classic comfort food meal that is made easy in the slow cooker.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 2 lb pork roast
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 1 lb carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- Instructions:
- Place the pork roast in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Add the potatoes, carrots, and onion.
- Pour the beef broth over everything.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
3. Easy Ham And Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for a cold day.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb navy beans, soaked overnight
- 1 ham bone or 2 cups chopped ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine all ingredients.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Crockpot Chicken Fajitas Burrito Bowl
A deconstructed burrito bowl that is made easy in the slow cooker.
- Protein: 34g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 packet of fajita seasoning
- Serve with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings.
- Instructions:
- Place the chicken, onion, and bell peppers in a slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with fajita seasoning.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
- Shred the chicken and serve.
5. Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
A low-carb and high-protein twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 2 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 6 oz thinly sliced steak
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 slices provolone cheese
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, cook the steak, onion, and mushrooms until the steak is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Fill the pepper halves with the steak mixture and top with provolone cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
6. Air Fryer Fish Taco Bowls
A quick and easy dinner that is full of flavor and protein.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz cod fillet
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/4 avocado, sliced
- Instructions:
- Season the cod with chili powder and cumin.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Flake the cod and serve over a bed of shredded cabbage with salsa and avocado.
7. Grilled Chicken Caprese
A simple and elegant dinner that is perfect for a summer evening.
- Protein: 35g
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz grilled chicken breast
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves
- Instructions:
- Combine the chicken, tomatoes, and mozzarella in a bowl.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and top with fresh basil.
8. Steak with Beans and Rice
A hearty and satisfying dinner that will keep you full all evening.
- Protein: 35g
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz grilled steak, sliced
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup brown rice, cooked
- Salsa and cilantro for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine the steak, beans, and rice in a bowl.
- Garnish with salsa and cilantro.
9. Baked Ziti Casserole
A classic comfort food made healthier with whole-wheat pasta and lean ground turkey.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz whole-wheat ziti, cooked
- 2 oz ground turkey, cooked
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small baking dish, combine the ziti, turkey, ricotta, and marinara sauce.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly.
10. Big-Batch Turkey Barley Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for meal prep.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 8 cups chicken broth
- Instructions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground turkey.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until tender.
- Add the barley and chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the barley is tender.
11. Peanut Chickpea Protein Bowls
A vegetarian dinner option that is packed with protein and flavor.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup peanut sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and toss to combine.
12. Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti
A lighter version of the classic baked ziti that is still packed with protein.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz whole-wheat ziti, cooked
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small baking dish, combine the ziti, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly.
13. High-Protein Marry Me Chicken
A creamy and delicious chicken dish that is sure to impress.
- Protein: 35g
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz chicken breast, pounded thin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the chicken in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the basil and return the chicken to the skillet.
14. White Bean & Smoked Sausage Skillet
A quick and easy one-pan meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 (15 oz) can of cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the sausage until browned.
- Add the beans, spinach, and chicken broth.
- Cook until the spinach is wilted and the sauce has thickened.
15. Sweet & Sour Tofu
A vegetarian take on the classic Chinese-American dish.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) block of extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce
- Instructions:
- Toss the tofu with cornstarch.
- In a skillet, cook the tofu in olive oil until golden brown.
- Add the pineapple, bell peppers, and sweet and sour sauce.
- Cook until the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are tender.

16. Mexican chicken stew with quinoa & beans
A hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for a cold day.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is browned.
- Add the beans, quinoa, chicken broth, and chili powder.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
17. Vegetarian enchiladas
A delicious and satisfying vegetarian dinner.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (10 oz) can of enchilada sauce
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fill each tortilla with beans and cheese.
- Roll up the tortillas and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour the enchilada sauce over the tortillas and top with more cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly.
18. Kibbeh
A Middle Eastern dish made with bulgur, minced onions, and finely ground lean beef, lamb, or goat with Middle Eastern spices.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
- 1 lb lean ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp allspice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Soak the bulgur in water for 10 minutes, then drain and squeeze out any excess water.
- In a bowl, combine the bulgur, ground meat, onion, and spices.
- Knead the mixture until it is well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small football-shaped balls.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
19. Chicken stroganoff
A creamy and delicious chicken dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the chicken in olive oil until browned.
- Add the onion and mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt.
20. Chicken satay curry
A flavorful and aromatic curry that is perfect for a special occasion.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Instructions:
- In a skillet, cook the chicken until browned.
- Add the coconut milk, curry paste, peanut butter, and soy sauce.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened.
21. Curry Chicken Potpie
A comforting and flavorful twist on the classic chicken potpie.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine the chicken, vegetables, soup, and curry powder.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with the puff pastry and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
22. Cheesy Ground Beef & Cauliflower Casserole
A low-carb and cheesy casserole that is perfect for a family dinner.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef.
- Steam or boil the cauliflower until tender.
- In a baking dish, combine the beef, cauliflower, cheddar cheese, and milk.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly.
23. One-Skillet Cheesy Ground Chicken Pasta
A quick and easy one-pan meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 8 oz pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Instructions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground chicken.
- Add the pasta, chicken broth, and marinara sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
- Stir in the mozzarella cheese.
24. One-Pot Lentil & Vegetable Soup
A hearty and healthy soup that is perfect for a cold day.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine all ingredients.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
25. Summer Skillet Lasagna
A lighter and quicker version of the classic lasagna.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 yellow squash, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) container of ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Instructions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey.
- Add the zucchini and squash and cook until tender.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese and marinara sauce.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
26. Harissa Chicken and Farro Salad
A flavorful and satisfying salad that is perfect for a healthy dinner.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz grilled chicken breast, chopped
- 1 cup cooked farro
- 1/4 cup harissa paste
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Instructions:
- In a bowl, toss the chicken with the harissa paste.
- Combine the chicken, farro, cilantro, and feta cheese in a bowl.
27. Ropa Vieja
A classic Cuban dish of shredded beef in a flavorful tomato-based sauce.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (15 oz) can of crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Instructions:
- In a slow cooker, combine all ingredients.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred the beef and serve with rice and beans.
28. Sea Bass with Roasted Vegetables
A simple and elegant dinner that is perfect for a special occasion.
- Protein: 30g
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz sea bass fillet
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
- Season the sea bass with salt and pepper and pan-sear for 3-4 minutes per side.
29. Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip
A healthier version of the classic party dip that can be enjoyed as a meal.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a small baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly.
- Serve with celery sticks or whole-grain crackers.
30. Shrimp-Vegetable Quinoa Fried Rice
A quick and easy one-pan meal that is packed with protein and flavor.
- Protein: 25g
- Ingredients:
- 4 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 large egg, scrambled
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the shrimp until pink.
- Add the quinoa, peas and carrots, and egg.
- Stir in the soy sauce and cook until heated through.
References
[1] 15 Meal Ideas with 30g of Protein – Strong with Sarah
[2] High Protein Dinners (30 Grams Or More) – The Real Food Dietitians
[3] 30 High-Protein Dinners with 400 Calories or Less – EatingWell
[4] 21 High-Protein Dinner Recipes – Nourish Move Love
[5] 35 High-Protein Meals That Are Filling and Easy To Make – Good Housekeeping
[6] 5 Delicious Recipes With 30 Grams of Protein – MyFitnessPal Blog
[7] 40 High-Protein Recipes That Are Easy, Filling & … – Delish
[8] 94 High-Protein Recipes – BBC Good Food
[9] 24 High-Protein Dinners the Whole Family Will Love – EatingWell
[10] 28 Easy High-Protein, High-Fiber Meals – Good Housekeeping
[11] Easy High Protein Meals and Recipe Ideas – Easy Home Meals
[12] 22 15-Minute High-Protein Dinner Recipes – EatingWell

