21 Lazy High Protein Summer Dinners

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Want to stay fit this summer? Nothing will help you quite like lazy high protein dinners.

These lazy summer high protein recipes are some of my favorites. #14 chicken shawarma bowl is just the best.

Give it a try!

21 Lazy High Protein Summer Dinners

1. Caprese Chicken Bake

Caprese Chicken Bake

I LUV the freshness of a Caprese salad – the combo of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is irresistible.

Adding these flavors to chicken creates a fabulous dish that’s so easy to make, packed with protein, and low-carb. Your oven does all the work, and you get to enjoy the compliments after dinner.

Per Serving:

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

2. Salsa Chicken Bake

Salsa Chicken Bake

Mexican-inspired comfort food doesn’t have to mean a huge takeout order or a pile of dishes waiting after dinner.

I use the dump-and-go method! Simply add chicken, rice, black beans, sweet corn, salsa, and cheese into a dish. Let it bake, then come back to a delish, hearty meal that puts smiles around the table.

It’s also high in protein and under 500 Kcal, keeping your goals on track.

Per Serving:

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

3. 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

4. Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

How about a dish that’s sophisticated and elegant, but takes minimal time to make?

This recipe delivers all the classic Mediterranean flavors of Kalamata olives, red onions, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and tender chicken, with only 7 minutes of prep time.

It’s also high in protein, so you can enjoy a lazy dinner that still supports your goals.

Per Serving:

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

5. Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Let’s kick off with the fun flavors of tropical Hawaii. How about juicy chicken breasts and red bell peppers roasted with sweet pineapple and a Hawaiian BBQ twist?

For lazy gals – it’s a one-sheet pan meal for easy cleanup!

If you have a teeny-tiny bit of energy, why not serve it with a side of grilled corn on the cob?

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 399
  • Fats: 11.7g
  • Protein: 43.0g
  • Carbs: 24g
  • Fiber: 4.2g
  • Sugar: 18g

6. Air Fryer Salmon

Air Fryer Salmon

I’ve spoken a lot about crockpots, but now it’s time to get out my fave appliance – the air fryer. I make this summer dinner when I feel lazy and need to come up with a fancy dinner for guests.

The salmon is tender, flaky, and soft with crispy skin, and a mouth-watering soy, garlic, honey, and sesame sauce. All accompanied by fresh, crunchy asparagus.

My guests always ask whether I ordered in from a high-class restaurant!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 287
  • Fats: 17g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Carbs: 7.2g
  • Fiber: 0.6
  • Sugar: 4.5g

7. Fajita Chicken Casserole

Fajita Chicken Casserole

Tender, zesty fajita chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and gooey melted mozzarella – this sounds like the perfect summer dinner to me.

It’s also high-protein, gluten-free, and low-carb. If you like the heat, add some chipotle powder or jalapeno slices.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 363
  • Fats: 13g
  • Protein: 49g
  • Carbs: 10g
  • Fiber: 2.5g
  • Sugar: 3.8g

8. Pineapple BBQ Chicken

Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon

Sweet pineapple, smoky bacon, and a tangy BBQ sauce turn chicken breasts into a favorite everyone rushes to the table for.

It’s also a lazy meal that takes minimal time to prep and is made in one dish. Serve it with rice pilaf to soak up all those delicious juices.

Per Serving:

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

9. Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl

Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl

Bold and zesty, this buffalo chicken cottage cheese bowl pairs delicious Buffalo flavor with the creaminess of cottage cheese.

It’s a high-protein meal that’ll give you a boost on a day when you are feeling lazy but want a substantial plate of food.

This recipe is great for meal prep. So make a large batch, and dinner will be ready any day of the week.

Per Serving:

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

10. Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake

Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake

From Hawaii to Mexico, my recipes will delight those who want an exotic getaway in their dining room.

This bake is vibrant and flavorful, filled with tender, seasoned chicken, gooey cheese, and a fresh zing of salsa fresca.

This summer high protein dinner takes no more than 15-20 minutes to prepare and packs a protein punch of 58g.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 377
  • Fats: 11g
  • Protein: 58g
  • Carbs: 10g
  • Fiber: 2.2g
  • Sugar: 2.6g

11. Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken

Dreaming of an al fresco Italian dinner under the stars? This fabulous recipe will create the vibe.

Using only 3 ingredients – juicy chicken, basil pesto, and gooey mozzarella – you will make a delicious summer meal that’s high-protein, elegant, and packed with goodness.

To add an extra umami flavor, use provolone or sprinkle some Parmesan on top.

Per Serving:

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

12. Crockpot Chicken Tacos

crockpot chicken tacos

Are you dreading Taco Tuesday and all the work required? This recipe comes to the rescue and offers all the flavors the family will LUV, with minimal effort on your part.

Dump everything into a crockpot and let it simmer quietly while you get on with your day.

When it’s ready, spoon the delish mix into tortillas, top with avocado and sour cream, and wait for the compliments.

Per Serving:

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

13. High Protein Southwest Chicken Casserole

High Protein Southwest Chicken Casserole

Let’s dive straight into those amazing Southwest Tex-Mex flavors! Sounds like too much work?

This lazy high protein meal is quick, delicious, and healthy, perfect for a busy weeknight.

Every bite you take delivers smoky paprika, tangy salsa, melted cheese, fluffy Basmati rice, tender chicken breasts, sweet corn, and black beans. Yum!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 376
  • Fats: 10g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Carbs: 34g
  • Fiber: 7.6g
  • Sugar: 6.4g

14. Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl

crockpot chicken shawarma bowl

Source: allnutritious.com

Next up – A lazy-dinner hero that still delivers big, satisfying protein and loads of summer-friendly flavor.

How about a bowl of juicy chicken, roasted veggies, rice or cauliflower rice, and vibrant toppings like cucumber, tomato, and a dollop of tangy yogurt?  It’s fresh, fun, and fabulous!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 485
  • Fats: 17.1g
  • Protein: 48.9g
  • Carbs: 37.2g
  • Fiber: 17.1g
  • Sugar: 6.4g

15. Crockpot Mississippi Chicken

Crockpot Mississippi Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts, ranch seasoning, savory gravy, and tangy pepperoncini – this is a fab lazy dish that also offers a great boost of protein. It takes only 10 minutes to prepare, and your crockpot does the rest.

The recipe is great for meal prep. Make it ahead, and dinner is ready on those hectic weeknights when you don’t have time to stand in the kitchen.

Per Serving:

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

16. Broccoli Bacon Cheddar Chicken

Broccoli Bacon Cheddar Chicken

How about serving up the wholesome goodness of broccoli, the savory delight of bacon, and the creamy texture of cheddar, all mixed with tender, juicy chicken breasts?

It’s a delightful summer dinner dish that’s easy to make and fabulously delish. With only 4g of net carbs and 37g of protein, it’ll fit perfectly into any healthy eating plan.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 386
  • Fats: 24g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Carbs: 5.5g
  • Fiber: 1.8g
  • Sugar: 1g

17. Crockpot Pesto Chicken

crockpot pesto chicken

My pesto chicken is a must for a lazy summer dinner. It needs only 8 ingredients (including salt and pepper), and the crockpot does all the work for you.

Let the aromas of basil and garlic set the scene for a Tuscan-inspired dinner of tender chicken, pesto, Parmesan, and juicy Roma tomatoes.

If I am having guests over for dinner, I add in some zucchini, bell peppers, or fresh spinach to easily create a fancier version!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 662
  • Fats: 37g
  • Protein: 60g
  • Carbs: 11g
  • Fiber: 2.7g
  • Sugar: 5.5g

18. Baked Salsa Chicken

Baked Salsa Chicken

What started as a throw-together mix of leftover Basmati rice, corn, black beans, chicken, melty cheese, and salsa quickly became a family favorite.

It’s made in one pan, so there are no heaps of dishes to wash after eating. And, it packs a punch of 37g of protein! What more can you want for lazy, easy, healthy eating?

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 456
  • Fats: 17g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Carbs: 41g
  • Fiber: 8.6g
  • Sugar: 6.3g

19. Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers

Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers

I’m lovin’ Cajun flavors, but I don’t want to order takeout! The solution? My Cajun chicken with sweet peppers.

It brings all those well-loved spices in a high-protein, healthy meal that even the kids will love.

Think: succulent, spiced chicken breasts paired with the natural sweetness of long, sweet peppers, all topped with creamy cheese.

Per Serving:

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

20. Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Are you in a rush to make dinner and don’t know what to do with a tray of chicken breasts?

Grab this recipe, and in just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious low-carb, high-protein meal.

Savory garlic pairs with nutty Parmesan cheese to create a scrumptious golden, crispy topping that transforms simple chicken breasts into an unforgettable meal.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 295
  • Fats: 19g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Carbs: 6g
  • Fiber: 1.1g
  • Sugar: 0.5g

21. Chicken Burrito Casserole

chicken burrito casserole

Here’s another classic that we all love, but takes too much time to make – Burritos!

My lazy high-protein chicken burrito casserole is delicious, flavorful, and filled with all the great Mexican flavors.

Make it your own by adding toppings like sour cream, Pico de gallo, jalapenos, lime wedges, radishes, crumbled Cotija cheese, or olives.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 521
  • Fats: 24g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Carbs: 43g
  • Fiber: 8.9g
  • Sugar: 4.1g

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