Let’s face it, we all get lazy sometimes. Whether the week is throwing a million things at you, or you just don’t want to spend hours whipping up dinner, these lazy high protein meals will help.
For many people, that usually means calling up the closest takeout place and ordering the usual. But it doesn’t have to be the case for you. At least, not every time!
Eating a high-protein diet does require some dedication, but it also requires some contingency planning. For those days when cooking feels almost impossible, a lazy meal is necessary.
That’s why I’ve stocked this list full of delicious lazy high protein meals ready for the days when the takeout menus are calling your name.
1. Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo
If you’re a lover of pasta evenings, this chicken orzo dinner is truly something special. It’s creamy, intense with sun-dried tomato flavors and so filling.
You can make it in just one pan, with very little chopping or preparation. A bowl of this (around 13oz) has a whopping 40g of protein, so make sure you’re using those chicken breast tenderloins; that’s where the protein is.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 618
- Fats: 27g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbs: 54g
- Fiber: 4.6g
- Sugar: 9.4g
2. Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole
Cheesy, spicy, and low carb – this is an easy and yummy dish. All you have to do is throw all the ingredients into a baking dish and the oven will do the rest.
Now, that’s as lazy as it gets! 15 minutes of work and let the magic happen by itself. The casserole is perfect for spicy food lovers. I know I loved making it!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 438
- Fats: 31g
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 5.4g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugar: 2.1g
3. Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon
This is a perfect recipe to make if you’re really not much of a cook or just feeling extra lazy. All made just in one pan with minimal prep time.
For me, personally, pineapple and meat is my favorite combination for a dish, so if you’re like me, you’re absolutely going to love this no matter how good or bad of a cook you are!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 465
- Fats: 15g
- Protein: 45g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugar: 28g
4. Cheeseburger Soup
When I’m craving comfort food like cheeseburgers, this is the recipe I make. Extra filling, flavorful and comforting – just the way I like my dishes.
While most soups are not that high in protein, this is. With 27g of protein you can make this delicious comforting meal in just one pot.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 418
- Fats: 32g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 4.8g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 2.2g
5. Broccoli Bacon Cheddar Chicken
If you love cheesy and easy, plus high protein – this is the dish. It’s very simple, flavorful, and packed with protein, thanks to all those chicken breasts.
If you love more flavor and spice, you can always add extra. That’s the beauty of this recipe. It uses just Italian seasoning but you can really spice it up if you just use some imagination. Enjoy!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 386
- Fats: 24g
- Protein: 37g
- Carbs: 5.5g
- Fiber: 1.8g
- Sugar: 1g
6. Buttered Cod
If you’re a lover of fish, this recipe is for you. There is nothing better than having fish when you want to increase your protein intake.
That’s in big part because it’s low calorie and packed with protein. I loved making this one – it’s zesty, buttery and so very filling with just 297 kcal in a serving.
It’s as lazy as is gets. You can make it in under 20 minutes. Enjoy!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 297
- Fats: 19g
- Protein: 31g
- Carbs: 1.2g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Sugar: 0.3g
7. Chicken Mozzarella Bake
First thing’s first, let’s address one of the finer things in life: mozzarella. A good old-fashioned mozzarella and chicken bake is our first stop on the list. Why? Because it’s comfort in a dish.
Cheesy, rich with tomatoes, and packed with lean protein, there’s really nothing better than this on a lazy night in.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 395
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 50g
- Carbs: 6.2g
- Fiber: 1.3g
- Sugar: 2.1g
8. Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
If you’re anything like me, then the combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch makes your heart sing.
As one of the most well-loved flavor combos in the world, this is at home in a casserole dish. This is a dump-and-go meal that saves you time and stress effortlessly.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 315
- Fats: 22g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 4.2g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 1.8g
9. Air Fryer Salmon
Next up, your best friend when preparing lazy meals is your air fryer! This countertop appliance opens so many doors. Like, for example, this delicious salmon dish.
Crisped to perfection with a side of salted greens, this dish is healthy without taking hours to prepare.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 287
- Fats: 17g
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 7.2g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugar: 4.5g
10. Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Breast
Next up, let’s give a little love to some cast iron. This delicious dish spotlights the humble chicken breast. Frying your chicken in cast iron is one of the easiest ways to prepare it.
Luckily, it’s also one of the tastiest! Serve with a side of salad or greens, this is your next easy dinner waiting to happen.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 185
- Fats: 9.8g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 1.5g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar: 0.1g
11. 3-Ingredient Honey Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are a classic choice when takeout menus are calling. Instead of giving in, take 5 minutes to prepare these tasty wings.
All you need are your wings, some Italian seasoning, and a good dose of honey. The honey caramelizes the wings to utter perfection.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 527
- Fats: 37g
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6.2g
12. 3-Ingredient Breakfast Skillet
Next up, another 3-ingredient winner! This is a high-protein breakfast skillet the whole family will love.
This calls back to an old rule in my house: on nights when dinner isn’t on the cards, then it’s time to have breakfast for dinner.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 274
- Fats: 20g
- Protein: 19g
- Carbs: 3.2g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 1.9g
13. Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Vegetables
Calling all lazy home cooks, here’s the answer to your prayers! The humble sheet pan opens so many doors for quick and easy recipes.
Case in point: these tasty pork chops. This is one of my go-to recipes for nights when cooking something complicated is nigh-on impossible.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 390
- Fats: 28g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 4.3g
- Sugar: 7.9g
14. Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats with Banana
Who says breakfasts can’t be lazy, too? Whether you need something simple for a busy morning or just want a quiet start to the day, these chocolate overnight oats will do the trick.
Kick things off the night before by mixing everything together, then leave it to sit ready for you the next morning.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 389
- Fats: 5.6g
- Protein: 33g
- Carbs: 54g
- Fiber: 8.1g
- Sugar: 14g
15. Salami Egg Cups
Next up, here’s another breakfast option for you to consider (although this would work just as well for lunch or dinner). These are super simple and take almost no time to make.
Plus, you only need five ingredients to make ‘em happen!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 260
- Fats: 20g
- Protein: 17g
- Carbs: 1.2g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Sugar: 0.3g
16. Chicken Avocado Wrap
Need something easy to enjoy on the go? Whip up this lazy wrap recipe to enjoy something healthy no matter the time of day.
These wraps are easy to customize based on whatever you might have on hand. Just make sure to include plenty of protein to ensure they’re nice and filling.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 314
- Fats: 16g
- Protein: 17g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fiber: 6.4g
- Sugar: 1.3g
17. Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Source: urbanblisslife.com
When it comes to lazy meals, one of the most important inventions of the twenty-first century is the Instant Pot. And nothing demonstrates that better than this amazing drumstick recipe!
These Instant Pot chicken drumsticks are full of yummy herbs and cooked in a delicious sauce. That makes them moist enough to fall off the bone.
Check out these other high protein instant pot recipes!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 337
- Fats: 22g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 5g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Sugar: 1g
18. Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Source: theshortordercook.com
We all know the temptation of buffalo chicken tenders, but they can be annoying to assemble. Luckily, your air fryer is here to save the day.
Quick and easy, this is a lazy version of chicken tenders that just so happens to be healthier than the standard.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 280
- Fats: 9.7g
- Protein: 35.7g
- Carbs: 9.8g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 0.4g
19. Air Fryer Ribeye Steak
Source: laraclevenger.com
Next up, steak! Steak can be a great lazy high-protein meal because it takes just a few minutes to come together. The secret lies in what you dress your steak with.
Serve it alongside some garlic asparagus spears, and you’re golden.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 472
- Fats: 32g
- Protein: 46g
- Carbs: 0.1g
- Fiber: 0.03g
20. Ground Pork Stir Fry
Source: theshortordercook.com
Stir fry is one of my go-to meals when I’m feeling a bit lazy but still need something to satisfy the family.
Rich with vegetables and twice as tasty, this meal is a great substitute for Chinese takeout. Not only that, you can whip this up in thirty minutes or less. Take that, takeout!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 221
- Fats: 5.5g
- Protein: 33.9g
- Carbs: 8.1g
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Sugar: 2.9g
21. Easy Baked Pesto Mozzarella Chicken
Source: theforkedspoon.com
If there’s anything I know from years of seeking healthy, lazy meals, it’s that ovens are your friend. This simple mozzarella bake is a great way to prepare some lean chicken breasts!
Best of all, the pesto helps turn this into an Italian treasure.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 466
- Fats: 31g
- Protein: 39g
- Carbs: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
22. Quick Chicken Cabbage Stir Fry
Source: masalaherb.com
Cabbage is one of those vegetables that carries a bad reputation, but it doesn’t have to! With the right preparation, cabbage can be downright delicious.
This chicken and cabbage stir fry is next-level. Quick to make, this will bring the family running to the dinner table.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 258
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 29g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
23. Easy Chicken Limone
Source: madcreationshub.com
Chicken Limone is absolutely delicious! Even better, it’s so easy to make that you can whip it up any night of the week.
While you can enjoy the limone on its own, I recommend rounding it out with a side of lazy steamed greens.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 168
- Fats: 11g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Sugar: 1g
24. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Source: dinneratthezoo.com
When Chinese takeout is calling your name, there’s nothing to do but find your way around it… with a lazy recipe. This easy stir fry is the best of the best, rich with protein and steamed greens.
The sauce is what really makes this recipe sing. Make a big batch of it ahead of time and store it in your fridge for easy access!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 308
- Fats: 12g
- Protein: 37g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
25. Easy Shrimp Scampi
Source: saltandlavender.com
Got twenty minutes to kill and need to feed the family? This shrimp scampi is the recipe for you.
A delightful Italian classic with flavor to spare, this is an affordable dish you can enjoy in twenty minutes.
Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder! No need to create a pile of dishes, just jump in and enjoy.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 338
- Fats: 25g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
26. Lazy Lasagna Casserole
Source: fromvalerieskitchen.com
Lasagna is one of the more complex dishes on planet Earth, but those flavors are not to be missed. So, what’s a lazy cook to do? Get creative, of course.
This lazy lasagna casserole has the ease baked right into it. Instead of layered lasagna, just enjoy all the flavors mixed together and baked beneath a coating of mozzarella.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 489
- Fats: 23g
- Protein: 42g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 7g
27. Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Source: thecozycook.com
Next up, the same thing goes for chicken parmesan! Delicious, but often fussy to make. That’s why this chicken parmesan casserole is the next best choice.
In fact, in my humble opinion, this might be even better than chicken parmesan. It’s easy to make, warm, and ringing with all the flavors of the classic dish.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 740
- Fats: 28g
- Protein: 42g
- Carbs: 80g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 12g
28. Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
Source: therecipewell.com
Fried rice is a classic takeout meal, but you don’t have to outsource your meals for this one! All you need is your Instant Pot, some leftover rice, and a few minutes with your ingredients.
This fried rice is warm and enriching. It’s a great vehicle for all those leftover vegetables and meats at the end of a long week.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 489
- Fats: 9g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 64g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
29. Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas
Source: littlesunnykitchen.com
Fajitas are yet another meal that offers a quick and easy solution to lunch or dinner. While these are usually baked, your air fryer will do the trick in half the time.
These fajitas are ready to eat as soon as they emerge from the air fryer, although you can also warm some tortillas to enjoy with them if you like.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 154
- Fats: 10g
- Protein: 11g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
30. Easy Chicken and Corn Chowder
Source: saltandlavender.com
Chowder is an amazing choice for lazy, comforting dinners on cold nights with the family! This is a chicken and corn variation that’s both savory and just the slightest bit sweet.
Creamy, warm, and speckled with salty bacon, this is the answer to your winter night blues.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 544
- Fats: 27g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
31. Southwest Chicken Crockpot
Source: thegraciouspantry.com
Southwest chicken anyone? This is a quick and easy dish packed to the gills with protein and vitamins. This is one of those dishes you can make with whatever you have in your pantry.
Serve warm with a side of your favorite carbohydrate, and dinner is ready! Enjoy more crockpot chicken recipes here.
Per Serving:
- Calories: 244
- Fats: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 6g
32. Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken
Source: dinneratthezoo.com
Finally, let’s pay homage to one of the most well-loved lazy dishes in the world teriyaki chicken! This is a slow cooker version that will have you watering at the mouth once you lift the lid.
Easy, convenient, and ideal for a lazy night in: this is the perfect dish to cap off our list. Follow up your meal with one of these high protein desserts!
Per Serving:
- Calories: 227
- Fats: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sugar: 17g