High Protein Dinner Ideas
These easy lazy fall high protein dinner ideas are perfect for those cooler evenings, providing hearty, nutritious meals in around 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein Base
- 1 pound chicken breast or thighs Substitute with ground turkey or beef.
- 1 cup black beans or lentils For vegetarian options.
- 4 large eggs Optional, can be used for topping.
Grains
- 1 cup quinoa or brown rice Cook according to package instructions.
Vegetables
- 2 cups spinach or kale Can use seasonal vegetables like broccoli, carrots, zucchini.
- 1 medium onion Chopped.
- 3 cloves garlic Minced.
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
Optional Toppings
- 1 cup cheese Optional topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Choose your protein: Select chicken, turkey, or legumes as your base for the meal.
- Prepare grains: Cook quinoa, brown rice, or similar grains according to package instructions.
Cooking
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and your choice of seasonal vegetables. Cook until softened.
- If using meat, add it to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through. If using beans or lentils, simply heat them through.
- Once everything is cooked, combine the grains and veggies with your protein. Stir in spices to taste.
Serving
- Serve your high-protein dinner in bowls, topped with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese to enhance the flavor. Pair with a side salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer to ensure meat is cooked to 165°F. For vegetarian options, substitute with more beans, lentils, or tofu. Don’t overcook your vegetables to keep their nutrients intact.
