High Protein Easy Dinners

Name: High Protein Easy Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Discover delicious and nutritious high protein dinners that are easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:45:31.077Z

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a high protein content to keep you satisfied while being quick and simple to make.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to fuel your body
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Versatile ingredients that you can customize to your taste

      

High Protein Benefits

Incorporating high protein meals into your diet can significantly enhance your overall health and wellness. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, making it crucial for muscle growth and recovery. This recipe, featuring chicken breast and black beans, offers a rich source of protein that can help you feel satiated longer, reducing the chances of unhealthy snacking throughout the day.

Moreover, high protein dinners can support weight management by increasing your metabolic rate. When you consume more protein, your body burns more calories during digestion, a phenomenon known as the thermic effect of food. This means that not only are you fueling your body with essential nutrients, but you’re also giving your metabolism a helpful boost.

Customizable Ingredients

One of the best aspects of this high protein dinner recipe is its versatility. The ingredients can be easily swapped or added to based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider replacing chicken with tofu or tempeh. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors while still packing in the protein.

Additionally, you can mix in your favorite vegetables or grains. If you love peppers, corn, or spinach, feel free to toss them in! Similarly, if quinoa isn’t your favorite grain, brown rice or farro can be excellent substitutes, each providing their unique taste and texture to the dish.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This high protein dinner is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for meal prepping. If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, this dish can be made in bulk and stored for several days. Simply cook a larger quantity of quinoa and chicken, and divide the servings into meal prep containers. This can save you time during busy weekdays and ensure you have a nutritious meal ready to go.

Moreover, the flavors of this dish can develop even further as it sits in the fridge, making it a delicious option for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat, add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime for a zesty kick, and enjoy!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize this dish!

Instructions

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Add Vegetables and Beans

Add the broccoli and black beans to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the broccoli is tender and vibrant.

Combine and Serve

Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork, then mix it into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Serve hot and enjoy!

This dish is great served alone or with a side salad.

Nutritional Information

This high protein easy dinner recipe is not only satisfying but also packed with essential nutrients. A serving of this dish provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an ideal choice for a healthy meal. The chicken breast is a lean source of protein, while black beans contribute fiber and additional protein, helping you meet your daily nutritional goals.

In addition, the broccoli adds vital vitamins C and K, along with antioxidants that support your immune system. Quinoa, recognized as a superfood, is a complete protein that contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your high protein dinner, consider serving it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the meal beautifully, adding freshness and crunch. Alternatively, roasted sweet potatoes or carrots can add a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients.

For those looking to enhance the flavor, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top can add creaminess and tang, while fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish. These additions not only enhance the taste but also provide additional health benefits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe and can save you prep time!

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.