30 Easy High-Protein Lunches Under 20 Minutes
These fast high-protein lunches are built around cooked or quick-cooking ingredients. Prep grains and proteins ahead when possible so each meal can be assembled in 20 minutes or less.

The recipes use olive oil rather than seed oils and contain no soy or tofu. Ingredient labels vary, so choose certified gluten-free products when needed.
Before you begin
Cooking times are estimates. Poultry and ground meats should reach 165°F, whole cuts of beef and pork at least 145°F with rest time, and fish 145°F. Adjust seasoning for your dietary needs.
Jump to a recipe
- 1. Chicken Salad Wrap
- 2. Tuna Rice Bowl
- 3. Turkey Lettuce Cups
- 4. Egg Salad Bowl
- 5. Shrimp Quinoa Bowl
- 6. Cottage Cheese Toast
- 7. Chicken Grape Salad
- 8. Chicken Avocado Bowl
- 9. Greek Chicken Wrap
- 10. Turkey Taco Bowl
- 11. Salmon Chickpea Salad
- 12. Cottage Cheese Lunch Plate
- 13. Tuna Cucumber Bowl
- 14. Shrimp Rice Bowl
- 15. Turkey Hummus Plate
- 16. Chicken Caesar Bowl
- 17. Egg and White Bean Salad
- 18. Salmon Rice Bowl
- 19. Chicken Fajita Bowl
- 20. Turkey Meatball Bowl
- 21. Tuna Stuffed Avocado
- 22. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
- 23. Shrimp Corn Bowl
- 24. Cottage Cheese Tomato Bowl
- 25. Chicken Quinoa Salad
- 26. Turkey Cucumber Bowl
- 27. Egg Potato Bowl
- 28. Salmon White Bean Salad
- 29. Chicken Broccoli Bowl
- 30. Tuna Chickpea Salad
1. Chicken Salad Wrap
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 8 corn or gluten-free tortillas
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
2. Tuna Rice Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
3. Turkey Lettuce Cups
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the protein until safely done, add the vegetables and seasonings, and cook until crisp-tender. Stir in the prepared base and heat through.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
4. Egg Salad Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 cup fruit or chopped breakfast vegetables
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
5. Shrimp Quinoa Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds peeled shrimp
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
6. Cottage Cheese Toast
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 cup fruit or chopped breakfast vegetables
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
7. Chicken Grape Salad
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
8. Chicken Avocado Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
9. Greek Chicken Wrap
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 8 corn or gluten-free tortillas
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the protein until safely done, add the vegetables and seasonings, and cook until crisp-tender. Stir in the prepared base and heat through.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
10. Turkey Taco Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
11. Salmon Chickpea Salad
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (about 5 ounces each)
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
12. Cottage Cheese Lunch Plate
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
13. Tuna Cucumber Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
14. Shrimp Rice Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds peeled shrimp
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
15. Turkey Hummus Plate
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
16. Chicken Caesar Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
17. Egg and White Bean Salad
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 cup fruit or chopped breakfast vegetables
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
18. Salmon Rice Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (about 5 ounces each)
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
19. Chicken Fajita Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
20. Turkey Meatball Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
21. Tuna Stuffed Avocado
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Combine the prepared ingredients in a lightly oiled baking dish or muffin pan. Bake at 375°F until set and the protein reaches a safe internal temperature, 20 to 40 minutes depending on the dish.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
22. Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 cup fruit or chopped breakfast vegetables
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
23. Shrimp Corn Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds peeled shrimp
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
24. Cottage Cheese Tomato Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
25. Chicken Quinoa Salad
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
26. Turkey Cucumber Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds lean ground turkey
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
27. Egg Potato Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 cup fruit or chopped breakfast vegetables
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
28. Salmon White Bean Salad
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (about 5 ounces each)
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
29. Chicken Broccoli Bowl
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
30. Tuna Chickpea Salad
Servings: 4 Prep: 10–15 minutes Cook: 15–40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
- 4 cups chopped vegetables appropriate to the dish
- 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes or 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
Instructions
- Wash and cut the produce. If using a cooked grain, prepare it according to the package directions. Keep raw meat and its utensils separate from ready-to-eat ingredients.
- Cook any raw protein in a skillet over medium heat until safely done. Divide the base among four containers, add the remaining ingredients, and finish with the dressing or lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the lemon or lime juice. Divide evenly into four servings.
- Cool meal-prep portions promptly and refrigerate in covered containers for up to four days. Reheat cooked dishes until steaming hot.
Easy variation: Swap in another vegetable you already have, while keeping the protein and overall quantities similar.
Meal-prep tips
- Cook one grain and chop several vegetables at the start of the week.
- Store sauces separately when possible.
- Refrigerate cooked food within two hours and use refrigerated portions within four days.
