23 Lazy Summer High Protein Dinners

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You guys loooove my lazy dinners, so I’m coming back with more! This time it’s a specific summertime edition with lazy high protein dinners that are packing flavor but require little to no prep time.

Because in the summer we should really be spending the time outside and not in the kitchen! Even if we love to cook. 🙂

23 Lazy Summer High Protein Dinners

1. Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken

Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken

This is one of my latest recipes, I love it because it has pineapple in it.

When it comes to having meats, I think one of the best pairings for pork and chicken is pineapple.

This crockpot hawaiian pineapple chicken is easy to make, all you have to do is throw ingredients into the pot… And packed with flavor. Yummm!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 420
  • Fats: 15g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Carbs: 44g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 28g

2. Greek Chicken Orzo Bake

Greek Chicken Orzo Bake

I know you guys love Meditarennean flavors, so I wanted to bring an easy, delicious recipes that any of you can make. This greek chicken orzo bake is literally made in just one pan.

It has all the flavors of Greek cuisine, plus orzo, plus protein. And what’s even better, you just make it in a baking dish.

Now that’s the kind of dinner I love making, because it’s simple yet packed with flavor. You could serve this in a restaurant – that’s how good it is.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 535
  • Fats: 16.5g
  • Protein: 41g
  • Carbs: 53g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 7g

3. Greek Chicken Orzo

Greek Chicken Orzo

Another Greek recipe but this one cooked in a pan. It’s simple, delicious and yet packs 42 grams of protein.

With all the refreshing flavors and olive, it feels like a truly comforting meal but without the guilt.

Perfect for those summer evenings when the family is hungry.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 553
  • Fats: 22.8g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Fiber: 1.6g
  • Sugar: 5g

4. Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

This Meditarennean chicken bake is one of my latest recipes. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor and citrus flavors.

What I loved the most about making this dinner was not the refreshing flavors but the simplicity of it all.

It’s truly a lazy bake that won’t feel like a lot of work at all. And as I’ve said before, I have no interest in spending hours in the kitchen in summer time.

We’re supposed to spend time outside!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 555
  • Fats: 35.8g
  • Protein: 56.8g
  • Carbs: 12.6g
  • Fiber: 3.1g
  • Sugar: 6.4g

5. Salsa Chicken Bake

Salsa Chicken Bake

To all my salsa lovers, you’re going to enjoy this dinner. It’s simple to make yet will remind you of all the Mexican flavors you could wish for.

It’s simple enough to make but has enough variety, and beans. So the meal is not only packing flavors but protein and fiber.

We’re talking 52g of protein and 10.8g of fiber, now that’s a filling meal. And all of that in just 435 calories.

If you’re cutting down on calories this summer, this has to go onto your meal plan.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 435
  • Fats: 6.8g
  • Protein: 52.4g
  • Carbs: 41.6g
  • Fiber: 10.8g
  • Sugar: 8.6g

6. Caprese Chicken Bake

Caprese Chicken Bake

I’m sure you’ve had a fair share of your Caprese salad. Now, this is a new spin on that – but packing a lot of protein.

Just one portion has 58g of protein and all the flavors. This chicken is delicious and the tomatoes with chicken make it very satisfying.

Whenever I’m bored of regular chicken, this is what I make. Yumm…

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 445
  • Fats: 18.9g
  • Protein: 58.6g
  • Carbs: 9.2g
  • Fiber: 1.3g
  • Sugar: 6.8g

7. Crockpot Pesto Chicken

crockpot pesto chicken

Just eight pantry staples (yes, including salt and pepper), a crockpot, and barely any prep – hard to believe that’s all it takes to create a mouthwatering dish of tender chicken breasts, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant pesto.

It’s a lazy high-protein recipe that cooks itself and fills your kitchen with delicious aromas, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy every bite.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 622
  • Fats: 37g
  • Protein: 60g
  • Carbs: 11g
  • Fiber: 2.7g
  • Sugar: 5.5g

8. Mexican Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Mexican Chicken and Sweet Potato Skillet

Cook up a quick and tasty Mexican Fiesta that offers high protein and awesome flavors.

Being a one-pan meal, this recipe translates into fewer dishes to wash and less time in the kitchen, so get it going and join the others on the patio!

I spice up the chicken with paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt and pepper. The sweet potatoes add just the right amount of natural sweetness, while the cherry tomatoes and salsa bring the tang.

Serve with tortilla chips, cornbread, brown rice, and don’t forget the guacamole and sour cream.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 454
  • Fats: 13g
  • Protein: 41g
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Fiber: 14g
  • Sugar: 7.5g

9. Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Throw your ingredients in the pan, pop it in the oven, and walk away. Come back to a meal that’s big on flavor and minimal on effort.

Sounds tempting? Try this dish, filled with chunks of juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, sweet pineapple, and a hint of tangy Hawaiian BBQ sauce. It is the perfect balance between sweet, savory, smoky, and lazy.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 399
  • Fats: 11.7g
  • Protein: 43.05g
  • Carbs: 24g
  • Fiber: 4.2g
  • Sugar: 18g

10. Crockpot Chicken Tacos

crockpot chicken tacos

Making tacos may not sound like a lazy experience, but when you see ‘crockpot’, you’ll know that it will do all the hard work for you.

It’s healthy and delicious and doesn’t rely on frying and grilling like most taco recipes. Top your tacos with avocados, guacamole, sour cream, or Greek yogurt for that classic Tex-Mex flavor.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 201
  • Fats: 9.4g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Carbs: 15.5g
  • Fiber: 10.7g
  • Sugar: 2.6g

11. Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice and Tomatoes

Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice and Tomatoes

Chicken offers loads of protein, but can become boring if you run out of ideas to jazz it up.

Bring the great flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with chicken and zesty lemon-infused rice, fresh veggies, tangy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese.

It’s a tasty, high-protein meal that’s also gluten-free.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 660
  • Fats: 29g
  • Protein: 53g
  • Carbs: 48g
  • Fiber: 7.7g
  • Sugar: 3.8g

12. Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl

Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl

Want a high protein meal that’s also bold and zesty? This dish combines delicious Buffalo flavor and the creaminess of cottage cheese with tender chicken breasts.

It’s great for meal prep Sundays, knowing you’ll have a hearty and healthy dish ready and waiting for the busy week ahead.

It’s also versatile – you can spice it up with chopped jalapeños or create a low-fat version using fat-free cottage cheese.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 483
  • Fats: 23g
  • Protein: 56g
  • Carbs: 9.9g
  • Fiber: 1.4g
  • Sugar: 6.5g

13. Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon

1. Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon

Pineapple, BBQ, and bacon are an irresistible combo of sweet, savory, and yumminess.

Blend them in a dish with tender chicken breasts, and you’re a MasterChef.

A few tips to make this perfect:

– Use thinner chicken breasts for more even cooking

– Pre-cook the bacon to keep it crisp and flavorful

– Don’t overcook the chicken

– Serve, sit back, and relax

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 465
  • Fats: 15g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Carbs: 36g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Sugar: 28g

14. Cheeseburger Bowls

Cheeseburger Bowls

Let’s start with a family favorite – cheeseburgers (with a difference).

This recipe offers all the fabulous flavors of a cheeseburger without the unhealthy grease. And, while it is high in protein, it is low in carbs – a win all round.

My fam LUV this dish – I make it at least once a week on summer nights.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 516
  • Fats: 35g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbs: 15g
  • Fiber: 3.7g
  • Sugar: 7.1g

15. Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon

Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon

Salmon is another great choice for a fancy summer dinner. This Mediterranean stuffed salmon is a great high-protein, low-carb, and gluten-free option to please everyone!

My recipe delivers all the great flavors of sockeye salmon, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and tangy feta.

Ramp it up with a great choice of sides – I love to alternate between lemon garlic quinoa, grilled asparagus, Mediterranean salad, or garlic roasted potatoes.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 234
  • Fats: 11g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Carbs: 5.1g
  • Fiber: 1.4g
  • Sugar: 0.9g

16. Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers

Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers

When you consider that Cajun is a mix of French, African, and Spanish flavors, it may sound like too much hard work to prepare a dish.

So, I’m jumping in with my delicious, bold, go-to, can’t-fail Cajun dish. It pairs succulent, spiced chicken breasts with the natural sweetness of long, sweet peppers, all topped with creamy cheese goodness.

Best of all, it only has 9g of carbs while offering a whopping 51g of protein.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 521
  • Fats: 30g
  • Protein: 51g
  • Carbs: 11g
  • Fiber: 2.1g
  • Sugar: 5.5g

17. One Pan Balsamic Chicken

5. One Pan Balsamic Chicken

When life gets busy, this high-protein dinner makes nutritious eating a breeze. My balsamic chicken paired with tomatoes and basil is complex, rich, tangy, tart, aromatic, cheesy, and can be made in one pan.

It’s a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it ideal for family weeknight dinners and special occasions when you want to impress (without doing the time).

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 608
  • Fats: 30g
  • Protein: 63g
  • Carbs: 19g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Sugar: 14g

18. Baked Salmon with Avocado Mash

baked salmon with avocado mash

When midweek hits and your energy dips, this dish delivers. Light, wholesome, and vibrant, it’s everything you want in a lazy summer dinner, and it is high-protein.

My baked salmon with avocado mash is flaky, juicy, zesty, and full of fresh, feel-good flavor. The recipe is perfect for a family of four, so you can give them all the goodness they need without the hassle.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 463
  • Fats: 35g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbs: 12g
  • Fiber: 7.5g
  • Sugar: 1.6g

19. Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake

Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake

When you’re craving Mexican flavors, don’t settle for takeout. This lazy recipe will delight your taste buds with a fresh zing of salsa fresca, seasoned chicken, and gooey cheese.

It’s also high in protein, low in carbs, gluten-free, and low in calories. A great choice for a busy weeknight or a special occasion. And, it’s a one-pan meal!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 377
  • Fats: 11g
  • Protein: 58g
  • Carbs: 10g
  • Fiber: 2.2g
  • Sugar: 4g

20. Crockpot Mississippi Chicken

Crockpot Mississippi Chicken

Crockpot = more me-time. Yay! And, I still get to serve up a delicious, healthy, protein-packed dinner.

Filled with juicy, tender chicken infused with ranch seasoning, savory gravy, and tangy pepperoncini, your family will be coming back for more. It takes 10 minutes to prep, and the crockpot does all the hard work.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 349
  • Fats: 19g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbs: 6.7g
  • Fiber: 0.4g
  • Sugar: 2.7g

21. Baked Caesar Chicken

Baked Caesar Chicken

Let’s get cooking with a dish that combines comfort and elegance in every bite. It’s a tasty treat of tender, juicy chicken breast topped with tangy Caesar dressing, gooey parmesan, and a crispy crouton crust.

Best of all, it’s a lazy-to-make dish all in one casserole, so it won’t require a whole lot of cleaning.

My baked Caesar chicken is great on its own, but even better served with a side of roasted veggies, avocado salad, or garlic breadsticks.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 471
  • Fats: 25g
  • Protein: 51g
  • Carbs: 6.6g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 1.1g

22. Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

baked pesto mozzarella chicken

While a trip to the Italian Riviera may not be on the cards right now, you can bring all these tempting flavors into your kitchen with this baked chicken dish.

Using only three simple ingredients: chicken, pesto, and Mozzarella, you’ll be surprised at how rich, sophisticated, and delicious it is. Every lazy-bite features tender, juicy chicken, basil pesto, gooey mozzarella, and sweet, roasted cherry tomatoes. Yum!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 549
  • Fats: 31g
  • Protein: 57g
  • Carbs: 9.1g
  • Fiber: 2.2g
  • Sugar: 3.7g

23. Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

If you think that a quick meal can’t be packed with protein and flavor, think again.

This cottage cheese pizza bowl is comforting, creamy, tangy, with loads of herbs and spices, just like pepperoni pizza. When the kids want pizza, I make this and they’re happy.

It has all the flavors of pizza without all the carbs, fewer calories, and a lot more protein.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 462
  • Fats: 22g
  • Protein: 43g
  • Carbs: 25g
  • Fiber: 6.1g
  • Sugar: 14g

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