What I Made During Burnout: 29 High Protein Meals That Saved Me
Burnout made everything feel heavy, even making a simple meal. What helped during that time: 29 high protein meals that saved the day. Each one was easy, quick, and gave strong energy. These meals brought back strength and focus without extra effort. Good fuel made each hard day feel a little lighter.

Egg Prosciutto Bagel

A tasty creation that combines bold flavors with a protein-packed twist. Egg Prosciutto Bagel brings a balance of rich and smoky layers in every bite. Perfect for recharging during a long day, it’s both wholesome and quick. The bagel provides the hearty base, making it a reliable go-to option when you need something filling.
Get the Recipe: Egg Prosciutto Bagel
Firecracker Meatballs

These pack a punch of flavor with a protein boost to keep you energized. Firecracker Meatballs are just the right mix of spice and comfort, making them hard to resist. Great for when you’re on the brink of burnout and need something small yet substantial. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs
Italian Pasta with Salami

A simple yet protein-rich option that hits the spot when you’re short on energy. Italian Pasta with Salami is layered with bold, filling ingredients that get the job done. It’s ideal for whipping up when you need a quick meal without overthinking. Every forkful serves as a reminder that tasty food can be effortless.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami
Korean Burgers

Combination that’s indulgent yet packed with everything you need to push through burnout. Korean Burgers balance rich flavors with a high-protein hit in each bite. They’re quick to make and perfect for those moments when energy levels feel low. These are proof that simple meals can still pack big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers
Baked Beef Tacos

A hearty solution for those times when you need protein-rich comfort food fast. Baked Beef Tacos deliver flavor within every crispy shell and tasty layer. They’re a reliable option to perk up when meals need low effort but high impact. Pair these with simple fixes to round out your plate and make life easier.
Get the Recipe: Baked Beef Tacos
Lobster Roll

When burnout demands a quick fix, this creation brings both texture and protein. Lobster Roll pairs tender seafood with just the right amount of balance you need. It’s a straightforward recipe that offers enough variety without overcomplicating it. Perfect for moments when you want something filling but still easy to manage.
Get the Recipe: Lobster Roll
Sausage Balls

Simple, protein-packed bites to help you pull through when your energy feels tapped. Sausage Balls are hearty and tasty enough to keep you on track during stressful times. They’re easy to prep and small enough for quick meals or snacks. Definitely one to keep in your burnout meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls
Chipotle Grilled Chicken

A no-fuss recipe with protein levels that give you a boost when burnout kicks in. Chipotle Grilled Chicken combines smoky bites and bold flavors to keep energy levels steady. Whether paired with a side or enjoyed alone, it’s versatile while keeping prep time manageable. Exactly what’s needed for a meal that doesn’t drain extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Grilled Chicken
Rotel Dip

Effortless choice perfect for those days when you need protein without too much hassle. Rotel Dip combines rich layers to keep you energized while being simple to create. It works to appease hunger when you’re too tired to think of complex options. Pair with easy sides or enjoy it straight.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip
General Tso’s Chicken

A protein-packed solution when you’re looking for a bold and filling choice after a long day. General Tso’s Chicken combines tender bites and a touch of bold seasoning. It’s balanced enough to feel substantial while keeping things straightforward. Great for those days when cooking needs to be quick but rewarding.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken
Cobb Salad

Packed with fresh textures and high-protein ingredients to get you through tough days. Cobb Salad is all about hearty mixes in a light dish that leaves you refreshed. It’s ideal when you need nutritious flavor without a ton of work in the kitchen. Definitely a reliable backup on your burnout meal lineup.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad
Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos

A quick but perfect fix when you want something filling that’s packed with protein. Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos pull together crunchy bites and a kick of seasoning for every piece. Easy to throw together and great for carving out some energy during busy times. Perfect for those meals that balance comfort and function.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Buffalo Chicken Nachos
Easy Tater Tot Casserole

Crowd-favorite that’s easy to whip up and filled with protein for those exhausting days. Easy Tater Tot Casserole blends simple ingredients into a hassle-free dish you can rely on. It’s great for keeping hunger at bay without overthinking your kitchen routine. Perfect for when you just want to refuel with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole
Grilled Chicken Sandwich

A straightforward protein-rich option that’s perfect for getting through stressful days. Grilled Chicken Sandwich layers up hearty ingredients in a tasty, simple way anyone can manage. Ideal for work breaks or meals you don’t want to put tons of effort into. One to keep in mind for your burnout-friendly recipe cards.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Protein-filled bites tailored for those moments when energy feels low and you need a lift. Bacon Wrapped Smokies combine rich flavor and ease in a snack-sized version. Think quick fixes with consistent results whenever the day feels overwhelming. Great for refueling yet keeping effort low and simple.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Salmon Caesar Salad

Packed with protein, this dish brings together flakes of salmon with crunchy greens. The highlight is the creamy Caesar dressing that ties it all together. Perfect when you need something quick that fuels your body after a long day. You’ll find Salmon Caesar Salad to be both hearty and energizing for burnout recovery.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Caesar Salad
Huevos Rancheros

A strong mix of flavors wrapped into a high-protein breakfast feels like a good decision. Fried eggs, hearty beans, and a light kick of spice bring everything together. Burnout days deserve meals like Huevos Rancheros, making mornings feel a bit doable again. It’s simple, comforting, and gets the job done.
Get the Recipe: Huevos Rancheros
Mango Shrimp Salad

When you’re craving something high-protein but refreshing, this salad hits the mark. Juicy bite-sized shrimp pairs well with sweet mango chunks for an effortless meal. Mango Shrimp Salad proves that eating well doesn’t need to feel heavy or complicated. It’s a good pick to refuel and keep you going.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad
Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe

Life feels simpler with a whole chicken that’s cooked without much effort or cleanup. Crispy skin and tender meat leave you content after the first bite. With Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe, you’ll have leftovers that stretch, supporting more meals as you work through burnout days. It’s a go-to option that saves time and energy.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe
Roast Beef

Tuck into slices of succulent roast with a flavor that feels like home. Preparing Roast Beef gives you something hearty with minimal work involved. With all its protein, it’s perfect when you need to recover and recharge from stress. Sometimes, simple meals carry exactly what you need.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef
Hot Honey Chicken Salad

A touch of heat blends with a hint of sweetness and makes this salad more exciting. Hot Honey Chicken Salad is easy to throw together and delivers protein-packed bites you can enjoy any time. It feels straightforward for burnout days when you just don’t want things to be complicated. Keeps everything balanced without overdoing it.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Salad
Asian Style Pork Chops

Seared, tender pork chops are enriched with bold flavors that come through in every bite. Asian Style Pork Chops pack a punch for dinners where protein is essential but you’re short on inspiration. It’s delicious without exhausting your energy to prep or cook. Easy to pair with simple sides for a no-fuss plate.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas

Crispy on the outside, creamy and flavorful inside, it’s a meal that’s both quick and filling. Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas combine cheese and spice with hearty chunks of chicken for a protein-rich fix. Great for moments where dinner needs to be effortless after burnout. No stress, just reliable comfort food that works.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Quesadillas
Pasta Carbonara

Creamy and rich while keeping it uncomplicated, this pasta makes burnout meals much easier. Pasta Carbonara brings forward its bold flavors from eggs, cheese, and smoky bits of protein. No elaborate steps yet packed enough to support refueling. Perfect for when energy feels low but you’d still like a warm plate.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara
Kung Pao Chicken

Bold chicken bites stir-fried with crunchy veggies and balanced out by a light yet flavorful sauce. Kung Pao Chicken gives you the protein you need without too much cooking hassle. It’s quick but still delivers energy for burnout moments. Simple meals like this help you power through tough days with ease.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Fluffy Yoghurt

Tasty with a subtle texture that feels light yet filling, this option is effortless to create. Fluffy Yoghurt adds protein to your day without requiring much prep or thought. Suited for moments where you need something high-protein and low effort. It’s a go-to snack or light meal for when energy is drained.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Yoghurt
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Sweet glaze wraps over tender chicken, creating a meal that feels just right for busy days. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe offers good flavor with dependable protein that fuels fatigue-ridden afternoons. Simple to replicate and highly effective when energy is low. A stress-free way to meet hunger halfway.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Mac and Cheese

Comforting and creamy, this classic dish doesn’t overcomplicate things when you need a pick me up. Mac and Cheese pulls through with a warm and filling experience made more protein-packed than usual. Easy to pull together in burnout moments without requiring too much effort. Perfect for lazy days where food needs to do its job.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese
Chicken Alfredo

Cream-coated pasta teamed with tender chicken makes for a simple yet hearty dinner. Chicken Alfredo fills your plate with protein and carbs, which comes in handy during low-energy times. Minimal prep ensures you don’t exhaust yourself cooking after a long day. Ideal for those moments when comfort food is your best choice.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
