If you’re anything like me, your weekdays are packed. From dawn till dusk, it’s a non-stop adventure. And when it comes to staying fueled, high-protein meals are my go-to. Why? Because they keep me energized, satisfied, and ready to tackle anything the day throws at me. And guess what? I’ve been experimenting in the kitchen and have put together a list of 23 simple high-protein meal prep ideas that are going to change your meal prep game forever. Let’s dive in!
A Few Quick Prepping Pointers:
- Season in Batches: Save time by mixing up your favorite seasonings in bulk. This way, you’ll have your go-to flavors ready to sprinkle on whatever you’re cooking.
- Cook Once, Eat All Week: Choose recipes that use different proteins but similar base ingredients. This way, you can make the most out of your grocery haul.
- Simplify with Sheet Pans: For effortless cooking and cleanup, I can’t recommend sheet pan meals enough. Toss everything on one pan, and you’re good to go.
Now, onto the good stuff!
High-Protein Heroes of Meal Prep
Chicken Burrito Bowls
This is your classic meal prep MVP. Use grilled chicken, black beans, a little rice, lots of veggies, and top with fresh salsa. It’s a bowlful of yum.
Teriyaki Chicken Meal Prep
Marinate chicken thighs in homemade teriyaki sauce, then bake or grill. Serve with steamed broccoli and rice for a taste of takeout at home.
Healthy Orange Chicken
Who needs the drive-thru when you can whip up a healthier version right in your kitchen? Use tamari, fresh orange juice, ginger, and garlic for the sauce.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Meal Prep
Shrimp cooks in minutes, making it perfect for meal prep. A quick toss in honey and garlic, and pair with brown rice and green beans, and you’ve got a winner.
Salmon Meal Prep with Veggies
Omega-3s, anyone? Season salmon fillets and roast alongside your favorite veggies for a no-fuss, nutritious meal.
Salsa Shredded Chicken Meal Prep
Slow cook chicken breasts with salsa and spices until tender. Shred and use this flavorful protein in salads, wraps, or bowls.
Herb Chicken with Couscous Meal Prep
Baked herb chicken served over a fluffy bed of couscous with a side of steamed veggies. Simple, but so satisfying.
Lemon Chicken with Veggies Meal Prep
Brighten your week with lemony chicken thighs, roasted until crispy, and paired with seasonal vegetables.
Spicy Pineapple Chicken
Tropical vibes, coming right up! Grill spicy marinated chicken and serve with a side of pineapple salsa for a sweet and spicy kick.
Honey Garlic Chicken
Another honey garlic hit, because why not? This time, with chicken thighs that are irresistibly sticky and sweet.
Chicken and Farro Meal Prep Salad
For a hearty yet healthy option, toss cooked farro with mixed greens, chopped veggies, and diced chicken. Drizzle with your favorite dressing.
Low-Carb Mexican Meal Prep with Cauliflower Rice
Swap out traditional rice for cauliflower rice in this Mexican-inspired prep. Top with ground turkey, black beans, and fresh pico de gallo.
Chicken Legs with Quinoa and Chickpeas
Hearty and filling, roast chicken legs with a side of protein-rich quinoa and chickpeas for a meal that packs a punch.
Stir-Fried Pork Meal Prep
Quick and easy, stir-fry lean strips of pork with a medley of vegetables. Serve over a small portion of rice or noodles.
Sweet and Chili Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Sweet, spicy, and oh-so-easy. This sheet pan dinner combines chicken with bell peppers and onions for a fuss-free meal.
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Slice peppers and onions, toss them on a pan with chicken strips, season, and bake. Serve with tortillas for an instant fajita night.
Sheet Pan Chicken with Sweet Potatoes, Apples, and Brussels Sprouts
Fall flavors in a flash. This sheet pan meal combines the best of autumn produce with protein-packed chicken.
Greek Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Chicken, zucchini, and tomatoes, seasoned with oregano and lemon, make for a fresh meal.
Chicken and Cauliflower Sheet Pan
Keep it simple and low-carb with chicken thighs and cauliflower. Add your favorite spices for a customizable meal prep option.
Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats with Banana
Breakfast prepped and ready to go! Combine oats, protein powder, chia seeds, almond milk, and cocoa powder. Top with banana in the morning.
Healthy Chicken Fajita Meal Prep Bowl
Layer sautéed chicken fajita veggies, black beans, and rice in your prep container for a grab-and-go lunch with a kick.
Healthy Shrimp Meal Prep
Quick-cooking shrimp with garlic and lemon, served with quinoa and spinach. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with protein.
Super Easy Beef Stir Fry
Thinly slice beef and stir fry with your choice of vegetables. Serve over a small scoop of rice for a balanced and protein-rich meal.
Wrapping Up with Protein-Packed Goodness
And there you have it, my favorite high-protein meal prep ideas that keep me (and hopefully you) energized throughout the week. Remember, meal prepping doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little planning and some creativity, you can whip up a week’s worth of delicious, high-protein meals in no time. So, tie on that apron, turn up your favorite tunes, and let’s make meal prep a highlight of the week!
