84 Healthy High-Protein Low-Calorie Recipes

If you’re looking for high-protein low-calorie recipes, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve rounded up 84 calorie deficit recipes, perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Each one has under 500 calories and at least 30 grams of protein per serving.

Whether you’re in a calorie deficit to lose weight or just looking for recipes that fit your macros, you’ve got tons of options here. There really is something for everyone.

From breakfast bakes to chicken salads, pasta salads, air fryer bowls, and chilis and stews, these recipes are anything but boring.

In today’s world, there is SO much information available on nutrition and weight loss. You can find dozens of different protocols at just a click of a button, which can be pretty confusing.

However, it really doesn’t have to be complicated.

Eating between 1,500 and 1,800 calories a day will lead to healthy, consistent weight loss. This, of course, varies by person, but if you hit somewhere within this range, you’ll likely see weight slowly start to come off.

A good rule of thumb is to multiply your ideal body weight in pounds by 12 to find a target for your daily calorie consumption. So if your ideal body weight is 150 pounds, you should be eating around 1800 calories per day to stay in a calorie deficit.

But humans aren’t robots, and it can feel unnatural to track your exact calorie consumption every day (and it’s a bit of a pain in the ass).

A really easy solution?

Eat three balanced meals all around 500 calories, plus one or two low-calorie snacks or desserts. In total, you’ll be eating between 1,500 and 1,800 calories without obsessing over a specific number, meal times, or how many grams of fat are in your protein bar.

Free 7-day high-protein meal plan: the cover, this week's menu and the shopping list

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Struggling to eat enough protein? I'll send you a full week of meals with the shopping list.

You'll also get my new meal plan every Saturday. Unsubscribe anytime.


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High-Protein Low-Calorie Breakfast Recipes

From overnight oats to chia puddings and yogurt parfaits, all of these breakfasts are simple, packed with protein, and stay within your 500-calorie target range.

1
Lemon Poppy Seed Overnight Oats
5 from 2 votes
Bright, creamy, and packed with protein, these overnight oats taste like a lemon poppy seed muffin in a jar. Perfect for meal prep!
Total Time 5 minutes
Calories 415
Protein 34
Carbohydrates 45
Fat 11
SEE FULL RECIPE
2
Pumpkin Overnight Oats with Chia
5 from 1 vote
Creamy, spiced, and protein-packed, these pumpkin overnight oats with chia taste like pumpkin pie in breakfast form. Made with Greek yogurt, protein powder, and real pumpkin puree, they’re a cozy make-ahead breakfast that keeps you full all morning.
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Calories 440
Protein 36
Carbohydrates 51
Fat 11
SEE FULL RECIPE
3
Strawberry Glaze Overnight Oats
5 from 1 vote
Addictingly good high protein overnight oats with a delicious strawberry coconut swirl inspired by Hailey Bieber’s Erewhon smoothie. This high protein overnight oats recipe is packed with 30 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber making it a filling breakfast meal prep idea.
Calories 451
Protein 35
Carbohydrates 44
Fat 16
SEE FULL RECIPE
4
High-Protein Bircher Muesli
5 from 3 votes
This high-protein bircher muesli is made with rolled oats, grated apple, greek yogurt, chia seeds, and vanilla protein powder, all soaked overnight into a creamy no-cook breakfast. Each jar has 30 grams of protein and keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Calories 454
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 59
Fat 13
SEE FULL RECIPE
5
Hot Chocolate Protein Oats
5 from 2 votes
These hot chocolate protein oats are warm, creamy, and rich with deep cocoa flavor, inspired by classic hot cocoa but made to be nourishing and filling. They’re cozy, satisfying, and packed with protein to keep you full and energized throughout the day.
Total Time 10 minutes
Calories 398
Protein 38
Carbohydrates 42
Fat 10
SEE FULL RECIPE
6
Dairy-Free Protein Oatmeal
5 from 2 votes
This creamy dairy-free protein oatmeal is made with rolled oats, non-dairy protein powder, and plant-based milk for a nourishing, high-protein breakfast. Top it with cooked pear, coconut yogurt, pistachio butter, maple syrup, and pecans for a cozy, satisfying start to the day.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 333
Protein 31
Carbohydrates 36
Fat 7
SEE FULL RECIPE
7
Chocolate Blended Baked Oats
No ratings yet
These chocolate high-protein baked oats with Greek yogurt are gooey in the center and crisp around the edges, just like cake for breakfast but packed with over 30 grams of protein and under 300 calories.
Total Time 25 minutes
Calories 293
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 28
Fat 8
SEE FULL RECIPE
8
Pear Cardamom Baked Oat Bars
No ratings yet
These Pear Cardamom Baked Oat Bars are warm, lightly spiced, and naturally sweet from juicy pears. Baked in a tray and cut into six bars, they’re perfect for meal prep with over 32 grams of protein in each serving.
Total Time 45 minutes
Calories 441
Protein 32
Carbohydrates 59
Fat 9
SEE FULL RECIPE
9
Healthy Protein Apple Crisp
5 from 3 votes
This Healthy Protein Apple Crisp is the perfect balance of comfort and nourishment. Made with warm spiced apples and a golden oat topping. It delivers all the cozy flavors of fall with 30 grams of protein per serving.
Total Time 40 minutes
Calories 487
Protein 31
Carbohydrates 55
Fat 19
SEE FULL RECIPE
10
High-Protein Matcha Chia Pudding
5 from 1 vote
High-protein matcha chia pudding with greek yogurt, 36g of protein, 8g of fiber, and the perfect little matcha caffeine lift, all in one jar that takes just 5 minutes to prep.
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Calories 308
Protein 36
Carbohydrates 19
Fat 10
SEE FULL RECIPE
11
Dairy-Free Chia Seed Pudding
5 from 2 votes
This high-protein dairy-free chia seed pudding is creamy, lightly sweet, and easy to prep ahead. Made with chia seeds, dairy-free milk, and your choice of plant-based or collagen protein, it’s a quick breakfast that keeps you full for hours.
Total Time 4 hours 5 minutes
Calories 379
Protein 32
Carbohydrates 25
Fat 17
SEE FULL RECIPE
12
Berry Baked Yogurt
No ratings yet
This single-serve berry yogurt bake is creamy, custardy, and packed with 30 grams of protein in just 225 calories. Made with Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, and fresh raspberries, it’s a quick and easy breakfast that feels like dessert but fuels you for the day.
Total Time 30 minutes
Calories 224
Protein 31
Carbohydrates 15
Fat 5
SEE FULL RECIPE
13
Strawberry Oat Yogurt Parfait
5 from 1 vote
This yogurt parfait with oats is a high-protein breakfast made with Greek yogurt, rolled oats, fresh strawberries, and a peanut butter layer. Assembled in individual jars, no cooking required, and perfect for meal prep.
Total Time 5 minutes
Calories 386
Protein 37
Carbohydrates 36
Fat 11
SEE FULL RECIPE
14
Chia Seed Yogurt Parfait
5 from 2 votes
This high-protein chia seed yogurt parfait has greek yogurt mixed with chia seeds and vanilla, then layered with mixed berries and optional granola and nut butter. Perfect for a high-protein high-fiber breakfast. meal prep
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories 457
Protein 35
Carbohydrates 41
Fat 17
SEE FULL RECIPE
15
Banana Bread Yogurt Parfait
5 from 2 votes
This banana bread yogurt parfait is a simple, high-protein breakfast made with Greek yogurt, fresh banana slices, protein granola, and walnuts. It’s easy to prep ahead in individual jars and perfect for busy mornings.
Total Time 5 minutes
Calories 402
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 33
Fat 17
SEE FULL RECIPE
16
Savory Greek Yogurt Breakfast Bowl
5 from 2 votes
This savory greek yogurt bowl starts with a base of creamy greek yogurt and is topped with eggs (your way), blistered cherry tomatoes, and diced cucumber, all finished with a drizzle of chili oil, everything bagel seasoning, and fresh herbs.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 433
Protein 34
Carbohydrates 24
Fat 23
SEE FULL RECIPE
17
Savory Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl
5 from 3 votes
This savory cottage cheese breakfast bowl has a scoop of creamy cottage cheese, two eggs (your way), seasoned sweet potato, and sliced avocado, finished with everything bagel seasoning and microgreens. Ready in 20 minutes with over 30 grams of protein.
Total Time 20 minutes
Calories 479
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 29
Fat 29
SEE FULL RECIPE
18
Cottage Cheese Bowl with Macerated Strawberries
5 from 1 vote
Creamy cottage cheese topped with sweet macerated strawberries and thinly sliced fresh mint. It's a simple breakfast that feels fancy but is secretly healthy and high-protein.
Total Time 8 hours 5 minutes
Calories 243
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 26
Fat 3
SEE FULL RECIPE
19
Low-Calorie Protein Pancakes
5 from 3 votes
Light, fluffy, and high in protein, these low-calorie pancakes are made with egg whites, greek yogurt and oat flour for a nutritious breakfast that’s under 300 calories. Perfect for meal prep or a quick, satisfying morning meal.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 270
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 25
Fat 5
SEE FULL RECIPE
20
3-Ingredient Protein Waffles
5 from 1 vote
These 3-ingredient protein waffles are fluffy, golden, and packed with 30g of protein from simple, wholesome ingredients — cottage cheese, oats, and egg whites. Perfect for a healthy breakfast in just 10 minutes, with endless topping possibilities.
Total Time 10 minutes
Calories 276
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 30
Fat 4
SEE FULL RECIPE
21
High-Protein French Toast
No ratings yet
This high-protein French toast without protein powder is made with high-protein bread, egg whites, and Greek yogurt for a naturally protein-packed breakfast that’s fluffy, cozy, and ready in under 15 minutes.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 314
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 29
Fat 6
SEE FULL RECIPE
22
French Toast Bread Pudding
No ratings yet
This cozy, sliceable loaf has all the nostalgic flavor of French toast, but with over 30g of protein per serving and zero need for a skillet.
Total Time 50 minutes
Calories 334
Protein 31
Carbohydrates 34
Fat 8
SEE FULL RECIPE
23
Egg Bake with Cottage Cheese & Hash Browns
5 from 1 vote
This high-protein egg bake with cottage cheese and hash browns is a healthy, make-ahead breakfast that delivers over 30 grams of protein per serving. Made with egg whites, turkey bacon, cottage cheese, spinach, and crispy hash browns, it’s the perfect grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
Total Time 45 minutes
Calories 181
Protein 17
Carbohydrates 9
Fat 8
SEE FULL RECIPE
24
Egg White, Turkey Bacon & Cheese Breakfast Sandwich
5 from 1 vote
A 4-ingredient breakfast sandwich packed with 30 grams of protein and under 300 calories — perfect for meal prep or busy mornings.
Total Time 10 minutes
Calories 290
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 26
Fat 7
SEE FULL RECIPE
25
Chicken Apple Breakfast Sausage Patties
5 from 3 votes
These homemade chicken apple breakfast sausage patties are a cozy, high-protein breakfast that’s naturally dairy and egg-free. Made with ground chicken, grated apple, maple syrup, and warm spices, they’re juicy, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep.
Total Time 20 minutes
Calories 100
Protein 10
Carbohydrates 5
Fat 5
SEE FULL RECIPE
26
Mediterranean Breakfast Plate
5 from 1 vote
This Mediterranean breakfast plate layers greek yogurt seasoned with olive oil and za'atar alongside jammy eggs, fried halloumi, persian cucumbers, marinated cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and warm toasted pita. Comes together in 20 minutes, 38 grams of protein.
Total Time 20 minutes
Calories 496
Protein 38
Carbohydrates 28
Fat 26
SEE FULL RECIPE
Free 7-day high-protein meal plan: the cover, this week's menu and the shopping list

Get Your FREE 7-Day High-Protein Meal Plan

Struggling to eat enough protein? I'll send you a full week of meals with the shopping list.

You'll also get my new meal plan every Saturday. Unsubscribe anytime.


High-Protein Low-Calorie Lunch Recipes

Fair warning: I am the self-proclaimed chicken salad queen, and this section proves it. But don’t worry I’ve got some other options too.

27
Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
5 from 2 votes
If you're a pickle person, this one's for you. Tangy, creamy, and loaded with dill pickles, this high-protein dill pickle chicken salad has 35g of protein and 5g of carbs per serving and comes together in 10 minutes. Perfect for meal prep.
Total Time 10 minutes
Calories 326
Protein 35
Carbohydrates 5
Fat 18
SEE FULL RECIPE
28
Buffalo Chicken Salad
5 from 4 votes
Bold, tangy, and a little spicy. Finely shredded chicken tossed in a creamy buffalo dressing with crunchy celery and carrots in every bite. Takes 15 minutes and has 35 grams of protein per serving.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 325
Protein 35
Carbohydrates 4
Fat 18
SEE FULL RECIPE
29
Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
4.75 from 4 votes
Creamy honey mustard chicken salad made with shredded rotisserie chicken and a tangy yogurt-mayo double-mustard dressing. Sweet, savory, and 40g of protein per serving. Great on sandwiches, wraps, or straight out of the container.
Total Time 10 minutes
Calories 308
Protein 40
Carbohydrates 12
Fat 10
SEE FULL RECIPE
30
Rotisserie Chicken Salad with Creamy Caesar Dressing
No ratings yet
A protein-packed rotisserie chicken salad tossed in a rich and tangy Caesar-style dressing made with Greek yogurt, Parmesan, and lemon. Perfect for sandwiches and wraps.
Total Time 10 minutes
Calories 309
Protein 40
Carbohydrates 6
Fat 13
SEE FULL RECIPE
31
Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad
5 from 1 vote
A creamy, high-protein chicken salad made with rotisserie chicken, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and a tangy greek yogurt dressing. Ready in 15 minutes. 39g protein per serving.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 333
Protein 39
Carbohydrates 20
Fat 11
SEE FULL RECIPE
32
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
5 from 1 vote
A creamy, high-protein chicken salad made with diced rotisserie chicken, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, celery, and a yogurt-mayo dressing. Perfect for meal prep lunches, sandwiches, wraps, or crisp lettuce cups.
Total Time 10 minutes
Calories 435
Protein 37
Carbohydrates 18
Fat 24
SEE FULL RECIPE
33
Apricot Chicken Salad with Toasted Cashews
5 from 1 vote
A creamy apricot chicken salad made with rotisserie chicken, dried apricots, toasted cashews, fresh tarragon, and a tangy greek yogurt and grainy mustard dressing. Ready in 15 minutes. 39g protein per serving.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 410
Protein 39
Carbohydrates 25
Fat 18
SEE FULL RECIPE
34
Apple Walnut Chicken Salad
5 from 2 votes
A fresh, creamy chicken salad made with rotisserie chicken, crisp apples, green onions, and toasted walnuts in a tangy Greek yogurt and Dijon dressing. Balanced, high in protein, and perfect for meal prep.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 382
Protein 37
Carbohydrates 10
Fat 22
SEE FULL RECIPE
35
Spicy Jalapeño Cashew Chicken Salad
5 from 1 vote
This cashew chicken salad combines rotisserie chicken, toasted cashews, and finely diced fresh jalapeño in a creamy lime-cilantro greek yogurt dressing. It's a no-cook, high-protein lunch that's ready in 15 minutes and only tastes better after a night in the fridge.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 361
Protein 38
Carbohydrates 14
Fat 17
SEE FULL RECIPE
36
Green Goddess Chicken Salad
5 from 1 vote
Bright, herby, and creamy with a velvety whipped texture, this Green Goddess Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep. It takes just 15 minutes to prep and has over 37 grams of protein per serving.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 329
Protein 37
Carbohydrates 8
Fat 17
SEE FULL RECIPE
37
Round Swamp Farm Chicken Salad
5 from 3 votes
A perfect dupe of the iconic Round Swamp Farm chicken salad, made with rotisserie chicken, celery, and shallot with a soft, whipped texture. Simple and perfectly seasoned, just like the original.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 318
Protein 35
Carbohydrates 3
Fat 18
SEE FULL RECIPE
38
Curry Chicken Salad
5 from 2 votes
This curry chicken salad is creamy, crunchy, and sweet with just the right touch of spice. Madras curry powder, dried blueberries, jalapeño, and toasted almonds make it a crave-worthy twist on the classic.
Total Time 30 minutes
Calories 442
Protein 32
Carbohydrates 21
Fat 26
SEE FULL RECIPE
39
Chicken Salad with Grapes, Pecans & Tarragon
5 from 1 vote
Looking for the best chicken salad recipe with grapes? This super easy recipe features tender shredded chicken, sweet red grapes, crunchy pecans, and herbaceous tarragon for the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It makes a quick and easy lunch and is great for meal prep, too!
Calories 439
Protein 31
Carbohydrates 10
Fat 31
SEE FULL RECIPE
40
Barbecue Lime Southwest Chicken Salad
5 from 2 votes
A creamy chicken salad with a bold Southwest twist and 32 grams of protein per serving. Packed with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeños, and cilantro, all tied together with a smoky BBQ-lime dressing.
Total Time 40 minutes
Calories 323
Protein 32
Carbohydrates 17
Fat 14
SEE FULL RECIPE
41
Copycat Erewhon Asian Chicken Salad
5 from 1 vote
This copycat Erewhon Asian Chicken Salad has sesame-crusted chicken, crunchy cabbage and kale, a miso-ginger dressing you'll want to put on everything, and homemade gluten-free sesame sticks. 30g of protein per serving and ready in about 30 minutes.
Total Time 45 minutes
Calories 441
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 30
Fat 23
SEE FULL RECIPE
42
High-Protein Broccoli Salad
No ratings yet
A satisfying twist on the classic, this high protein broccoli salad features crunchy broccoli, sweet cranberries, crispy bacon, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing — plus edamame, roasted almonds, hemp seeds, and grated Parmesan for added protein and flavor.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 498
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 33
Fat 29
SEE FULL RECIPE
43
Dill Pickle Tuna Salad
No ratings yet
This healthy dill pickle tuna salad combines canned tuna with tangy chopped pickles, fresh dill, and a creamy dressing made from half Greek yogurt and half mayo. It’s protein-packed, meal prep–friendly, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups
Total Time 10 minutes
Calories 304
Protein 35
Carbohydrates 3
Fat 16
SEE FULL RECIPE
44
Egg Salad with Tarragon & Sun-Dried Tomatoes
5 from 1 vote
This egg salad with tarragon and sun-dried tomatoes is a fresh, flavorful twist on the classic. Made with creamy eggs, bright fresh tarragon, and chewy sun-dried tomatoes, it’s quick to prepare and perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or a rustic toast.
SEE FULL RECIPE
45
Caesar Dense Bean Salad
5 from 1 vote
If you love a classic caesar salad, you have to try this caesar dense bean salad. All the same flavors, way more protein and fiber, and it's perfect for meal prep.
Total Time 15 minutes
Calories 435
Protein 42
Carbohydrates 47
Fat 10
SEE FULL RECIPE
46
BBQ Chicken Dense Bean Salad
5 from 4 votes
This BBQ Chicken-inspired dense bean salad is packed with black beans, crunchy vegetables, and smoky BBQ chicken, all tossed in a creamy high-protein ranch dressing. It’s hearty, meal-prep friendly, and addicting enough to eat straight from the fridge.
Total Time 35 minutes
Calories 385
Protein 36
Carbohydrates 48
Fat 6
SEE FULL RECIPE
47
Italian Grinder Bean Salad
4.75 from 4 votes
This Italian grinder bean salad has all the tangy, savory flavor of a loaded deli sub — but in a high-protein salad with 35g of protein and 12g of fiber. Garbanzo beans, white beans, turkey, salami, and provolone tossed in a creamy Greek yogurt grinder dressing.
Total Time 20 minutes
Calories 476
Protein 35
Carbohydrates 46
Fat 17
SEE FULL RECIPE
48
Kale Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
5 from 2 votes
This Kale Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad combines hearty kale, juicy chicken, crispy chickpeas, and nutty parmesan all coated in a homemade greek yogurt caesar dressing. It’s easy to make and has over 44 grams of protein per serving!
Calories 593
Protein 44
Carbohydrates 55
Fat 22
SEE FULL RECIPE
49
High-Protein Tuna Pasta Salad
5 from 3 votes
This easy high-protein tuna pasta salad is under 500 calories and has over 50 grams of protein, making it a great healthy meal prep option that you can prep in under 30 minutes.
Calories 471
Protein 51
Carbohydrates 51
Fat 6
SEE FULL RECIPE
50
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
5 from 1 vote
Creamy, tangy pasta salad loaded with cubed dill havarti, fresh dill, and of course lots of crunchy chopped pickles. A make-ahead lunch that actually gets better after a day in the fridge.
Total Time 25 minutes
Calories 481
Protein 32
Carbohydrates 64
Fat 13
SEE FULL RECIPE
51
Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
5 from 1 vote
This high-protein italian grinder pasta salad combines pasta tossed with diced turkey, salami, and mozzarella pearls, green bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and pepperoncini in a tangy greek yogurt grinder dressing.
Total Time 25 minutes
Calories 479
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 43
Fat 20
SEE FULL RECIPE
52
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
5 from 2 votes
This high-protein buffalo chicken wrap is filled with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cottage cheese, shredded carrot, and green onion, all wrapped in a high-protein tortilla and pan-fried until crispy. Ready in under 20 minutes and perfect for meal prep.
Total Time 20 minutes
Calories 313
Protein 39
Carbohydrates 37
Fat 12
SEE FULL RECIPE
53
Chicken Caesar Wrap
5 from 4 votes
Seasoned chicken, crisp romaine, shaved parmesan, and a creamy Greek yogurt caesar dressing wrapped in a high-protein tortilla. 35 grams of protein and ready in under 30 minutes.
Total Time 25 minutes
Calories 376
Protein 35
Carbohydrates 32
Fat 12
SEE FULL RECIPE
54
Spanakopita Wrap
5 from 1 vote
Inspired by the classic Greek spanakopita, this high-protein spanakopita wrap features a savory spinach and feta filling wrapped in a high-protein tortilla and crisped until golden.
Total Time 20 minutes
Calories 320
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 42
Fat 17
SEE FULL RECIPE
55
Beef Summer Rolls
4.84 from 6 votes
These high-protein beef summer rolls are filled with marinated beef, crisp veggies, and a big handful of fresh herbs with a spicy peanut sauce for dipping. They're ready in 25 minutes and have 40 grams of protein per serving.
Total Time 23 minutes
Calories 500
Protein 40
Carbohydrates 45
Fat 19
SEE FULL RECIPE
56
High-Protein Snack Plate
5 from 3 votes
A high-protein snack plate built with jammy eggs, salty Parmesan with hot honey, and a mix of crunchy, briny, and fresh accoutrements.
Total Time 12 minutes
Calories 471
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 37
Fat 23
SEE FULL RECIPE

High-Protein Low-Calorie Dinner Recipes

Dinner is very important to me, and so is having a hot meal, so you won’t find any sad salads here. These dinners might be under 500 calories, but they’re packed with flavor, have tons of protein, and definitely won’t leave you feeling like you’re on a super restrictive diet.

57
Air Fryer Chicken Tikka Bowl
5 from 1 vote
A simple, high-protein chicken tikka bowl made with spiced chicken, air-fried until juicy, paired with rice, a kachumber salad, and a cooling mint raita–style yogurt sauce.
Total Time 25 minutes
Calories 474
Protein 50
Carbohydrates 57
Fat 6
SEE FULL RECIPE
58
Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Bowl
4.80 from 5 votes
Tender, caramelized honey mustard chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer with garlicky green beans and a honey mustard dipping sauce. Ready in 30 minutes and packed with 50 grams protein per serving.
Total Time 30 minutes
Calories 485
Protein 50
Carbohydrates 32
Fat 18
SEE FULL RECIPE
59
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Bowl
5 from 2 votes
Crispy air-fried buffalo chicken bites paired with a bright celery-apple slaw and a cool, herby Greek yogurt ranch. High-protein, under 30 minutes, and weeknight-easy.
Total Time 25 minutes
Calories 496
Protein 44
Carbohydrates 36
Fat 20
SEE FULL RECIPE
60
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
4 from 1 vote
These easy sheet pan chicken fajitas feature juicy strips of chicken breast, colorful bell peppers, and sweet onions tossed with taco seasoning and roasted until perfectly tender. Everything cooks on one sheet pan for a quick, flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup. Optional quick-pickled onions and jalapeños and a smoky chipotle crema take them to the next level.
Total Time 45 minutes
Calories 470
Protein 43
Carbohydrates 39
Fat 14
SEE FULL RECIPE
61
Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
No ratings yet
This high-protein low-calorie Mediterranean Chicken Sheet Pan dinner is just as healthy as it is delicious. Plus it's super easy to make too!
Calories 420
Protein 36
Carbohydrates 11
Fat 24
SEE FULL RECIPE
62
Air Fryer Pesto Chicken with Crispy Potatoes
5 from 3 votes
Juicy air fryer pesto chicken thighs with crispy garlic-rosemary potatoes, jammy cherry tomatoes, and bubbly mozzarella. 30 minutes, 41g protein per serving.
Total Time 30 minutes
Calories 493
Protein 41
Carbohydrates 32
Fat 22
SEE FULL RECIPE
63
Indonesian Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
No ratings yet
This flavorful Indonesian chicken satay is marinated in coconut milk, lime juice, garlic, and warming spices, then grilled until smoky and golden. Served with a creamy, rich peanut sauce and a crisp cucumber herb salad, it’s the perfect healthy summer dinner with bold Southeast Asian flavor.
Total Time 40 minutes
Calories 377
Protein 39
Carbohydrates 14
Fat 19
SEE FULL RECIPE
64
One-Pot Lemon Chicken Orzo
5 from 1 vote
A light, creamy, lemony one-pan dinner made with leftover shredded rotisserie chicken, orzo, spinach, parmesan, and fresh dill. Everything cooks together in one pan for an easy, comforting weeknight meal.
Total Time 30 minutes
Calories 469
Protein 46
Carbohydrates 40
Fat 13
SEE FULL RECIPE
65
Air Fryer Mediterranean Cod in Parchment
5 from 1 vote
Tender cod steamed inside a parchment parcel with cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, capers, and lemon, all in the air fryer for an effortless 25-minute Mediterranean dinner.
Total Time 25 minutes
Calories 446
Protein 42
Carbohydrates 49
Fat 10
SEE FULL RECIPE
66
Mediterranean Poached Fish
5 from 1 vote
This one-pan Mediterranean poached fish combines flaky cod, salmon, and shrimp in a spicy tomato sauce with orzo. It’s a quick, high-protein dinner that feels both comforting and healthy.
Total Time 30 minutes
Calories 355
Protein 37
Carbohydrates 32
Fat 9
SEE FULL RECIPE
67
Spring Caesar Salad
5 from 2 votes
This spring caesar salad combines baby romaine with tender asparagus, sweet peas, and radishes, all tossed in a creamy tarragon-lemon caesar dressing with optional BBQ shrimp.
Total Time 35 minutes
Calories 330
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 35
Fat 9
SEE FULL RECIPE
68
Lamb Kofta and Tzatziki
No ratings yet
Juicy lamb kofta skewers grilled to perfection and served with smoky eggplant slices and a creamy homemade tzatziki. A bold, healthy summer dinner cooked entirely on the grill.
Calories 480
Protein 31
Carbohydrates 20
Fat 28
SEE FULL RECIPE
69
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Sausage
5 from 1 vote
This red cabbage with sausage is a cozy one-pot dinner inspired by classic German cooking. Sweet apples, smoky bacon, and tender cabbage are slowly braised with vinegar and spices until rich and flavorful, then finished with juicy browned sausages.
Total Time 1 hour
Calories 435
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 31
Fat 18
SEE FULL RECIPE
70
Greek Avgolemono Soup
No ratings yet
Super healthy, easy-to-make, and absolutely bursting with flavor, this Avgolemono Soup Recipe combines chicken, veggies, and orzo in a creamy egg yolk-thickened broth with lots of fresh lemon and dill.
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories 418
Protein 56
Carbohydrates 31
Fat 8
SEE FULL RECIPE
71
Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup
5 from 1 vote
This cozy, protein-packed chicken tortilla soup combines tender shredded chicken with bone broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, lentils, and a hint of chipotle heat, all brightened with fresh lime and finished with crisp baked tortilla strips.
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Calories 340
Protein 42
Carbohydrates 34
Fat 4
SEE FULL RECIPE
72
Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup
No ratings yet
This Healing Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup starts with a slow-cooked whole chicken for a rich homemade bone broth. Shredded chicken, noodles, fresh celery, carrots, and lemon juice and zest come together for a bright, nourishing finish.
Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Calories 321
Protein 39
Carbohydrates 35
Fat 3
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73
Crockpot Birria Soup
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This Crockpot Birria Soup is a flavorful spin on traditional birria, transforming the smoky, tender beef into a cozy soup. Finished with sweet corn, fresh lime, and a crunchy tortilla topping.
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Calories 326
Protein 42
Carbohydrates 20
Fat 9
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74
High-Protein Lasagna Soup
5 from 6 votes
This Creamy High-Protein Lasagna Soup has all the cozy, slow-simmered flavor of classic lasagna in just 40 minutes. Plus, it's made in one pot, has over 40 grams of protein, is under 500 calories, and is topped with a bright lemon ricotta Parmesan mixture that makes it extra special.
Total Time 40 minutes
Calories 495
Protein 44
Carbohydrates 41
Fat 17
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75
Lentil Soup with Ancient Grains
4.67 from 3 votes
Lentils, quinoa, flax, veggies and spices simmer together for a homemade version of the Trader Joe’s Lentil Soup with Ancient Grains. It’s hearty, cozy, and packed with flavor just like the original.
Total Time 50 minutes
Calories 473
Protein 50
Carbohydrates 47
Fat 11
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76
Crockpot Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Everything you love about classic broccoli cheddar soup — creamy, cozy, and comforting — made lighter, more nourishing, and high in protein. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Calories 399
Protein 30
Carbohydrates 26
Fat 22
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77
High-Protein Minestrone Soup
5 from 1 vote
This high-protein minestrone soup is cozy, hearty, and genuinely filling. Made with chicken sausage, kidney beans, bone broth, and high-protein pasta, it’s a nourishing one-pot dinner that’s perfect for meal prep and cold nights.
Total Time 45 minutes
Calories 352
Protein 31
Carbohydrates 42
Fat 9
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78
High-Protein Taco Soup
5 from 1 vote
This high-protein beef taco soup is a one-pot, protein-packed meal loaded with bold Mexican flavors. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week.
Total Time 45 minutes
Calories 493
Protein 46
Carbohydrates 57
Fat 10
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79
Unstuffed Cabbage Soup
5 from 1 vote
All the cozy comfort of classic stuffed cabbage rolls, turned into a hearty, high-protein soup. Lean ground beef, lots of vegetables, tender rice, and a richly spiced tomato broth.
Total Time 1 hour
Calories 364
Protein 36
Carbohydrates 37
Fat 9
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80
Creamy Black Bean Soup
5 from 2 votes
A cozy, creamy black bean soup with bold Mexican flavors and an impressive 31g protein and 24g fiber in every bowl.
Total Time 35 minutes
Calories 407
Protein 31
Carbohydrates 60
Fat 6
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81
Turkey Chili with Lentils & Quinoa
4.80 from 5 votes
A thick, smoky, and flavor-packed chili made with lean ground turkey, beans, lentils, and quinoa for a hearty, high-protein meal that’s still under 450 calories per serving with 53 grams of protein and 13 grams of fiber. Perfect for meal prep and cozy nights in.
Total Time 1 hour
Calories 427
Protein 53
Carbohydrates 41
Fat 7
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82
Kathee’s Healthy Chicken Chili
5 from 1 vote
This Healthy Chicken Chili is a beloved family recipe, passed down from my step-mom, Kathee. Rich, smoky, and nourishing, it’s a bowl of comfort you’ll crave all season long.
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories 492
Protein 42
Carbohydrates 9
Fat 32
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83
Slow Cooker Chili (No Beans)
No ratings yet
A healthy slow cooker chili (no beans) recipe that’s perfectly spiced and packed with protein. Comes together in the crockpot with very minimal prep for an easy and delicious weeknight dinner.
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Calories 340
Protein 34
Carbohydrates 16
Fat 17
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84
Butternut Squash & Red Lentil Curry
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This Crockpot Butternut Squash & Red Lentil Curry is a cozy, warming dinner made with creamy coconut milk, butternut squash, and protein-rich lentils. Easy to meal prep, full of warming spices, and perfect for fall or winter nights.
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Calories 407
Protein 32
Carbohydrates 60
Fat 6
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FAQ

Are these good calorie-deficit recipes?

Totally. If you’re looking to stay in a calorie deficit, you’re in luck. Each of these recipes has 500 calories or less with at least 30 g of protein. So if you’re eating three square meals a day, that usually adds up to about 1,000 to 1,300 calories, which leaves room for a snack or dessert while keeping you in your deficit.

How much protein is in these recipes?

Every single one of these recipes is certifiably high protein with 30 g or more per serving. Some even have 50g+.

Can I meal prep these recipes?

Most of the recipes are great for meal prep, especially the breakfast ideas. Each full recipe has instructions for how to prep and store for meal prep.

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