49 High Protein Meals for When You Want Dinner to Feel Complete

Pulling together 49 high protein meals is a great solution when you want dinners to feel solid and not just like another quick fix. It helps to have a set of recipes that actually fill everyone up instead of leaving folks looking for snacks later. Midweek or weekend, meals loaded with protein can be the answer to making your table feel complete.

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage. — Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. — Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sticky glaze and juicy pieces turn this Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken into the main event at dinnertime. The caramelized flavor hits the spot, especially when you’re craving a takeout classic at home. I make extra for quick lunches since the leftovers never go untouched. People ask if there’s a secret to getting the sauce just right.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of fettuccine pasta with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley and black pepper. — Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy sauce and plump shrimp bring pure comfort to this Shrimp Alfredo on a cold day. Every forkful tastes special and feels like a treat without extra effort. I often save some for next-day lunches because the flavors deepen overnight. Diners often ask for seconds before finishing the first plate.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Alfredo

Cobb Salad

Fresh crunch mingles with hearty protein in this Cobb Salad that feels filling yet vibrant. Each forkful offers a mix of flavors that work in any season but truly shine when you want something lighter with all the right nutrients. I enjoy this one after a workout or as a no-cook dinner. Friends remark on how colorful it looks on the table.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Salad

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

A close-up of meatballs in a creamy sauce with herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and a side of white rice, with a fork picking up one meatball. — Marry Me Chicken Meatballs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy, tangy sauce wraps around each bite of these Marry Me Chicken Meatballs. Warmth fills the kitchen when you bring this dish out on a chilly evening. I love sharing this meal with friends who always come back for more. Most people sneak an extra meatball before the night is over.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish. — Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Aromatic spices pair with rich, tender pieces of protein in this Massaman Curry. Cozy nights get an upgrade from the gentle heat and creamy sauce. I serve generous spoonfuls over rice after a busy day when comfort is needed. Compliments come quickly about the unexpected depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Stuffed Cabbage

Rolling hearty filling into soft leaves makes this Stuffed Cabbage a comfort recipe for cool evenings. The slow-cooked results keep bellies warm and leave you satisfied long after dinner ends. I grab leftovers for a quick, protein-rich lunch the next day. Folks always ask about the recipe’s origins.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Cabbage

Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Golden, bubbly layers in this Chicken and Broccoli Casserole make dinnertime extra inviting. Balanced flavors turn simple ingredients into a meal worth repeating. I save portions for busy nights since it heats up beautifully. People share memories about casseroles from their childhood after the first serving.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Savory Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce. — Savory Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bite-sized and packed with flavor, these Savory Sausage Balls quickly disappear at gatherings. The irresistible crunch outside matches the soft interior in the best way. I bring them along to potlucks, knowing there won’t be any left to pack home. Requests for the recipe fill the room before the tray is gone.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sausage Balls

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate. — Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Charred edges and stretchy cheese set this Neapolitan Pizza apart from most homemade pies. The chewy crust and fresh toppings appeal to anyone searching for the real deal at home. I bake a few to please every appetite in the house. Each slice vanishes while it’s still steamy from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Flaky Chicken Pot Pie

A slice of chicken pot pie being lifted, showing its creamy filling with chunks of chicken and vegetables, garnished with thyme. — Flaky Chicken Pot Pie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisp crust and steaming filling define this Flaky Chicken Pot Pie. The meal brings back that familiar, cozy feeling everyone seeks when the weather cools. I rely on it for quick comfort after long days. Leftovers are always claimed first for tomorrow’s lunch.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Chicken Pot Pie

Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish. — Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Salty, smoky bites steal the spotlight with these Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Each piece delivers a punch of flavor that makes it a star appetizer at gatherings. I double the batch to keep up with demand. Most trays are empty before the main course arrives.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Beef Bourguignon

Close-up of a savory beef stew with chunks of beef, bacon, onion, and vegetables in a rich, glossy sauce, served over creamy mashed potatoes. — Beef Bourguignon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hearty stew with fork-tender bites stars in this Beef Bourguignon. Deep flavors work their way through every spoonful, creating a meal worth the wait. I set it simmering on cold evenings when everyone needs true comfort. Diners talk about this dish long after the meal ends.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bourguignon

Chicken Taco

Three soft tacos filled with seasoned ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, red onion, shredded cheese, and topped with sour cream and green sauce sit on a plate. — Chicken Taco. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm tortillas loaded with protein make this Chicken Taco the answer to dinner woes. Crisp veggies and bold spices come together with every bite. I built a taco bar to let everyone dig in their way. Bowls of toppings empty as quickly as the chicken itself.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco

Egg Roll in a Bowl

A bowl of stir-fried ground meat, shredded cabbage, and carrots, topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. — Egg Roll in a Bowl. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

All the best parts of the appetizer become dinner in this Egg Roll in a Bowl. Savory, shredded filling keeps the meal light but hearty enough for a main course. I lean on this recipe for easy meal prep. Each bowl is emptied before the last pan is cool.
Get the Recipe: Egg Roll in a Bowl

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Three glasses of shrimp cocktail with avocado, lime wedge, and cilantro garnish in a tomato-based sauce, placed on a light-colored surface. — Mexican Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chillier days become more interesting with this Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, which wakes up the senses using cool, juicy shrimp and bright flavors. It’s refreshing yet filling, offering a lighter spin on shrimp dishes. I keep it ready for guests or as a change from heavy winter meals. The tangy sauce draws everyone in for another bite.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

A plate of seasoned rice with green peas, topped with two pieces of roasted chicken and a lemon slice, served with a spoon. — Instant Pot Chicken and Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Comfort comes together quickly in this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice. Moist flavor packs every forkful, making this meal a hit with kids and adults alike. I make big portions for easy leftovers that store well. Requests for seconds usually follow before dinner is finished.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Greek Yoghurt

A glass dish with creamy yogurt, pineapple chunks, chopped walnuts, and a sprig of mint on top. — Greek Yoghurt. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and smooth, this Greek Yoghurt packs a protein punch perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. It feels rich and filling without being heavy. I use it as the base for both sweet parfaits and savory dips. People always mention how satisfying a simple bowl can be.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yoghurt

Vegetable Beef Soup

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots, and peas in a brown broth, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegetable Beef Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Winter evenings call for a big mug of this Vegetable Beef Soup, brimming with chunks of vegetables and beef. The steaming broth comforts after a long day outside. I keep leftovers for lunches during busy weeks. Folks usually request extra to go when it’s served at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Beef Soup

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A plate of creamy penne pasta garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese, featuring pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. A black fork is resting on the plate. — Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy sauce hugs every piece of pasta in this Marry Me Chicken Pasta. The flavors linger well after dinner, offering both heartiness and a special feel. I prepare it for both weeknight meals and gatherings. Compliments flow as quickly as the servings disappear.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Cheeseburger Soup

A pot of cheesy potato and meat stew garnished with chopped parsley and crispy bacon. — Cheeseburger Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich, cheesy broth and savory beef turn this Cheeseburger Soup into the kind of meal that sticks with you. Each spoonful surprises and warms from the inside out. I serve big portions with crunchy toppings. Friends almost always ask for the secret that makes the flavor stand out.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Soup

Ham and Potato Casserole

A wooden spoon lifts a serving of cheesy casserole with chunks of ham and potatoes from a baking dish. — Ham and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Savory goodness and crispy edges make this Ham and Potato Casserole a winter favorite. Every spoonful provides a perfect balance of comfort and protein. I portion out leftovers for quick work lunches. No serving ever seems large enough.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Casserole

Chicken Alfredo

A plate of bowtie pasta with creamy sauce topped with cooked chicken pieces and garnished with parsley, with a black fork on the side. — Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Velvety cream sauce lines the noodles in this Chicken Alfredo, bringing classic comfort that feels extra filling. The protein keeps everyone feeling full long after the meal ends. I choose this dish for family get-togethers or weekend cravings. Plates are usually whisked away clean.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Tuna burger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun, served on a white plate. — Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hot, cheesy fillings spill out of every bite with this Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich. The crunch from the bread gives each mouthful that homemade feel. I add this dish to my lunch routine during cold spells. The aroma alone brings people running to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Melty Air Fryer Tuna Sandwich

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A plate of creamy spaghetti with shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. — Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy sauce shines against the tender shrimp in this Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Big flavor combines with generous protein for a meal that feels restaurant-worthy at home. I save some for the next day’s lunch since the taste only gets better. Requests for another bowl are a sure thing.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs. — Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Thick layers of flavor fill this Chicken and Rice Casserole. Each serving provides enough to fill even the hungriest guest. I keep this recipe handy for busy weeks with packed schedules. The leftovers make delicious, reheatable lunches.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Pork Chops

Close-up of a cooked, seasoned pork chop topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped parsley on a dark plate. — Pork Chops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Juicy on the inside and flavorful on the outside describes these Pork Chops perfectly. The protein content helps keep dinners filling without feeling overly heavy. I use this recipe as a go-to for cold evenings when quick meals are needed. Guests comment on how tender each chop comes out.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops

Beef and Guinness Stew

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms in a thick brown broth, garnished with chopped herbs. — Beef and Guinness Stew. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Deep flavors and rich broth define this Beef and Guinness Stew. It’s the kind of winter meal that everyone wants to linger over as the cold presses in outside. I serve big scoops with crusty bread for dipping. There are never leftovers once the pot hits the table.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Guinness Stew

Chipotle Chicken Clubs

A close-up of a sandwich with toasted bread, leafy lettuce, sliced red onions, cheese, bacon, creamy sauce, and mashed avocado. — Chipotle Chicken Clubs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crunchy, spicy, and full of protein, these Chipotle Chicken Clubs offer something special for sandwich lovers. Each bite has a little heat for extra excitement during the cold months. I slice extra for meal prep or easy packed lunches. The first batch vanishes before a second tray can cool off.
Get the Recipe: Chipotle Chicken Clubs

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing. — Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Burger flavors land in salad form with this Copycat Big Mac Salad, trading the bun for extra crunch and greens. Tangy dressing makes every forkful interesting and hearty. I serve it for filling, lighter dinners or as a twist for lunch. People comment on how it somehow tastes just like the real thing.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Roasted Leg of Lamb

Two roasted lamb shanks on a plate with rosemary and caramelized onions, with stacked plates in the background. — Roasted Leg of Lamb. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Slow roasting brings juicy results to this Roasted Leg of Lamb. Each slice shows off tender meat that pairs with almost any winter side. I make it for holidays and cozy weekends when something really special is needed. Plates return empty, every single time.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Leg of Lamb

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Close-up of a flavorful chicken salad with diced chicken, green onions, chopped pecans, and raisins, all served on a bed of fresh spinach leaves. — Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fresh, crunchy bites balance creamy chicken in this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. The protein content makes it filling for both lunch and quick snacks. I pack it in wraps or serve it atop greens on busy days. Requests for the recipe follow just after the first taste.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Layered Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil. — Layered Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tender layers and bubbling cheese star in this Layered Homemade Lasagna. Every serving feels a bit like a celebration as steam rises with each cut. I assemble a double batch so there’s plenty to share. People gladly claim leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.
Get the Recipe: Layered Homemade Lasagna

Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture. — Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mini burgers pack a mighty punch in these Cheeseburger Sliders, making dinner or parties a hit. Each little sandwich holds just the right amount of meat, cheese, and toppings. I set out extras for hungry guests who always return for seconds. The fun size only seems to make them more popular.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Sliders

Japanese Chicken Curry

A bowl of chicken stew with chunks of potato and carrot, garnished with chopped cilantro, on a wooden surface. — Japanese Chicken Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Silky sauce drapes each bite in this Japanese Chicken Curry, which stands out thanks to a blend of mild spices. The chunks of protein help you feel full and happy in cold weather. I serve it over hot rice for extra warmth. Comments about the cozy aroma fill the room.
Get the Recipe: Japanese Chicken Curry

Zesty Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl. — Zesty Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bright flavors meet hearty protein in this Zesty Italian Pasta with Salami. Each bite delivers a little surprise, with tangy bites in between creamy noodles. I pack up extras for lunches or let guests serve themselves during winter gatherings. Everyone asks about what gives it so much pep.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Italian Pasta with Salami

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs. — French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bubbling cheese and deep, caramel flavor define this French Onion Casserole. It’s the upgrade you didn’t know you needed for classic onion soup. I rely on this dish to draw everyone together during mealtime. The golden top gets the first compliments every single time.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Savory layers fill every bite of this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Comfort food becomes an event with a creamy sauce and a protein punch. I scoop big servings for winter potlucks and never see leftovers. The combination of flavors always brings people back for more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon. — Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Gold, crispy tots on top mark this Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole as a family favorite. Beneath the surface, hearty filling keeps bellies full on cold nights. I doubled the recipe for houseguests. People request it for both dinner and breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Tangy sauce meets tender pasta in this Beef Enchilada Tortellini, full of protein and comfort. Every bowl brings something surprising and hearty to the table. I share this at potlucks as a fun twist. The emptied serving dish says it all.
Get the Recipe: Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Two pieces of fried chicken on a gray plate, garnished with small bits of green herbs. — Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Crispy breading and juicy meat make this Buttermilk Fried Chicken a guaranteed hit. The protein keeps appetites satisfied well past dinnertime. I serve it for game days, celebrations, or just simple winter suppers. Seconds are always called out before I even finish setting the table.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Mango Shrimp Salad

A bowl of shrimp ceviche with diced mango, avocado, red onion, red pepper, and cilantro, with a spoon inside. — Mango Shrimp Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Refreshing and loaded with protein, this Mango Shrimp Salad proves that winter meals can still have bright flavor. Sweet mango and juicy shrimp team up to create a balanced dish. I bring it out when a lighter lunch is in order. People talk about the fresh combo for days after.
Get the Recipe: Mango Shrimp Salad

Tomahawk Steak

Close-up of cooked beef slices on a wooden board, with a fork holding one piece. The meat appears juicy with a seasoned crust. — Tomahawk Steak. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Massive, juicy portions make this Tomahawk Steak the main event at any meal. The impressive size doesn’t overshadow how tender and flavorful each slice is. I prepare it for special occasions that call for a showstopper. The steak always disappears faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Tomahawk Steak

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds. — Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Big, bold flavors and lots of protein make this Kung Pao Chicken a popular choice for busy winter nights. Crunchy peanuts and spicy sauce offer more than just a simple meal. I keep leftovers for an easy next-day takeout-style lunch. Guests share how much they love feeling full after just a few bites.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Hearty Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf

Close-up of a slice of cheesy taco casserole topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeño slices on a white plate, reminiscent of the comforting flavors found in slow cooker taco meatloaf. — Hearty Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich, meaty slices add warmth to the table with this Hearty Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf. The high-protein filling packs up easily for leftovers or quick dinners. I love the deep flavors that build as it slowly cooks. Kids especially ask for this one on cold days.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf

Black Bean Noodles

A bowl of stir-fried udon noodles with beef, cabbage, and green onion garnish, served with a pair of chopsticks on the side. — Black Bean Noodles. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Umami-rich sauce clings to every mouthful in this Black Bean Noodles bowl full of plant-based protein. Slippery noodles and rich flavor make for an exciting dinner. I use it as a meal-prep option for easy lunches. Seconds usually go quickly, if there’s any left at all.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Noodles

Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

A bread bowl filled with a creamy dip, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon bits. Celery sticks are placed on the side. — Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy, cheesy bites deliver a protein boost in this Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip. Perfect for snacking, parties, or a game day meal, it draws in hungry hands fast. I double the recipe for bigger groups. The bowl is usually scraped clean before anyone is finished.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip

Seasoned Beef Tacos

Three beef tacos filled with ground meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and sliced red onions. — Seasoned Beef Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Smoky seasoning and hot beef fill the shells of these Seasoned Beef Tacos. Hearty protein ensures nobody leaves hungry, whether it’s lunch or dinner. I set out toppings for everyone to build their own. Each taco vanishes as quickly as it’s made.
Get the Recipe: Seasoned Beef Tacos

Salmon Patties

Light, crisp outsides hide flaky fish in each Salmon Patties serving, giving you a delicious dose of protein. They work for both full meals and small snacks. I keep a batch in the freezer for last-minute dinners. Compliments about the flavor start before the first plate is empty.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Patties

Lemongrass Chicken

Fresh and lively flavors tinged with citrus make Lemongrass Chicken a standout in high-protein dinners. Tender bites help power through cold evenings. I cook extra to use for next-day salads or rice bowls. The unique scent fills the kitchen, drawing everyone in before dinner is served.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

About the Author

A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

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.