21 Summer Protein Power Meals with 40G+ Protein

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The best way to feel full while still consuming a lower amount of calories is up the protein. These summer high protein meals will do just that.

All of the recipes pack 40 grams of protein and taste delicious. Also, despite all the protein, they’re super easy to make.

Greek chicken one pan meal at #6 has gotten many great comments from our readers! Check it out!

21 Summer Protein Power Meals with 40G+ Protein

1. Greek Chicken Orzo

Greek Chicken Orzo

For me, a Greek-inspired dish must include garlic, lemon, Kalamata olives, and feta.

So, here’s my high protein Greek chicken orzo, featuring those classics paired with tender chicken breasts and pasta-like orzo that soaks up all the amazing flavors.

Make extra, because it’s also incredibly easy to meal prep.

Per Serving:

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

2. Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

When I want to impress with a restaurant-style dish, but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is my go-to for an elegant, sophisticated meal.

It’s a magical combo of tender chicken, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, and feta cheese, all blending together and offering Mediterranean-inspired flavors at home.

Per Serving:

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

3. Pico de Gallo Chicken Bake

Pico de Gallo Chicken Bake

I promised you a chicken dish that’s not boring! So what makes this one different?

Instead of serving cold chicken with salsa, this dish bakes the vibrant and zesty flavors of pico de gallo straight into the chicken. The acidity of the lime adds a bright, bold flavor, and the taco seasoning adds a delicious smokiness.

And, for lazy cooks, it only takes 15 minutes to prep.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 465
  • Fats: 16.8g
  • Protein: 63.2g
  • Carbs: 8.4g
  • Fiber: 1.7g
  • Sugar: 4.3g

4. Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchilada Bowls

Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchilada Bowls

These cottage cheese enchilada bowls can be made right in the meal prep containers. Yep!

Then, just store them away and take them out when the hunger hits. For those who love a good enchilada, this is just the summer lunch to have.

Easy, delicious, and packed with flavor. Definitely one of my favorites.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 515
  • Fats: 27.8g
  • Protein: 47.2g
  • Carbs: 18.6g
  • Fiber: 3.4g
  • Sugar: 6.1g

5. Bang Bang Chicken Bowls

Bang Bang Chicken Bowls

First up, a tasty meal that keeps you full and energized. This irresistible dish offers sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors, ideal for the whole family.

Enjoy the iconic flavor of Bang Bang sauce paired with tender baked chicken, basmati rice, sweet corn, English cucumber, carrots, and scallions.

For extra crunch, toss in some toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions just before serving.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 650
  • Fats: 28.4g
  • Protein: 46.8g
  • Carbs: 60.8g

6. Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice and Tomatoes

Greek Chicken with Lemon Rice and Tomatoes

Enjoy an imaginary getaway to a Greek island (at the dinner table) when you make this delicious dish.

It combines juicy, seasoned chicken, zesty lemon-infused rice, fresh vegetables, and creamy feta cheese into a dish that’s packed with 53g of protein. 

Perfect when you want something that truly satisfies and gives you a much-needed midweek boost.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 660
  • Fats: 29g
  • Protein: 53g
  • Carbs: 48g

7. Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Sauce

Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Sauce

Source: cushyspa.com

Need a break from chicken? Salmon comes to the rescue in a high-end dish that packs a punch of 40g+ of protein.

This vibrant meal combines tender, flaky fish with crisp vegetables and a delicious, tart lemon sauce made with garlic, butter, and herbs.

Serve it with buttery new potatoes, and it’ll feel like a fancy meal straight from a restaurant.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 337
  • Fats: 26g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Carbs: 8.4g

8. Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Everyone loves a shawarma, but it’s not exactly something you throw together on a busy day. This recipe brings all those bold, Middle Eastern-inspired flavors into a high protein, easy, no-fuss bowl.

Tender chicken slow-cooks with garlic, lemon, and warm spices like cumin and paprika, then gets served over rice with fresh toppings and creamy yogurt. And it’s kid-approved!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 485
  • Fats: 17.1g
  • Protein: 48.9g
  • Carbs: 37.2g

9. Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo

side shot of chicken orzo pasta

This meal helps you power through the day without energy dips, and it’s delish.

Picture: a creamy, luscious bowl of chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, orzo, and spinach, all flavored with paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic, basil, and red pepper, and topped with grated parmesan.

Serve it and enjoy the compliments.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 618
  • Fats: 33g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbs: 40g

10. Baked Chicken Parmesan

Baked Chicken Parmesan

I love chicken parm, but it’s usually fried, and not the best option when you’re trying to maintain a clean, high protein diet.

So… here’s my protein power version – just as savory, garlicky, and rich in tomato flavor, but a little lighter and easier to enjoy anytime.

Tender chicken is baked with a crisp coating, then topped with marinara, parmesan, and melted mozzarella for that classic finish.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 518
  • Fats: 22g
  • Protein: 42.3g
  • Carbs: 39g

11. Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon

Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon

Let me share a little secret – this combination is my all-time fave. I can’t resist the sweet and savory taste of sweet pineapple, tangy BBQ sauce, and smoky bacon. It’s a dream!

It’s high in protein, easy to make, and perfect for when you want a chicken dish that’s a little indulgent.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 465
  • Fats: 15g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Carbs: 36g

12. Fajita Chicken Casserole

Fajita Chicken Casserole

Source: cushyspa.com

Time for a Tex-Mex fiesta that also brings a power punch of protein. It’s quick, delicious, and a great way to make chicken a real crowd-pleaser.

Enjoy tender, juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, gooey melted mozzarella, and fajita seasoning all baked in a casserole while you relax.

Serve it with zucchini noodles (zoodles!) or warm tortillas.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 363
  • Fats: 13g
  • Protein: 49g
  • Carbs: 10g

13. Chicken Mozzarella Bake

Chicken Mozzarella Bake

Bring a hint of Naples into your kitchen with this protein power, Italian-inspired dish that’s cheesy, juicy, filling, tomatoey, herby, and absolutely delicious.

It’s a guilt-free indulgence, ideal for a family dinner or a guest meal, when you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Enjoy it with a side of crusty garlic bread and a glass of chilled, dry white wine.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 395
  • Fats: 18g
  • Protein: 50g
  • Carbs: 6.2g

14. Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon

Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon

Need a high-protein dish that works for guests too?

My Mediterranean stuffed salmon looks and tastes as if it came out of a fine-dining establishment, and it only takes 15 minutes to prep.

Impress them with a sophisticated plate of delicate sockeye salmon, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and tangy feta, paired with a side of lemon garlic quinoa and tzatziki sauce.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 234
  • Fats: 11g
  • Protein: 48g
  • Carbs: 5.1g

15. Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki

Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

Creating a protein power meal can be as easy as dumping chicken, rice, garlic, herbs, and creamy tzatziki flavors into one dish and letting the oven do the work.

Everything bakes together into a fresh, Mediterranean-style meal that’s full of flavor with minimal effort.

It packs 48g of protein per serving with only 520 calories, for a healthy, filling meal that the family will want you to make again and again.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 520
  • Fats: 28g
  • Protein: 48.2g
  • Carbs: 19g

16. Crockpot Sesame Chicken

Crockpot Sesame Chicken

Power up the family with a ridiculously good meal featuring slow-cooked shredded chicken, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh scallions, in a sweet and savory sticky sauce that tastes just like Chinese takeout.

The difference? It’s homemade, fresh, packed with protein, and uses wholesome ingredients. Serve it with udon noodles for an authentic Asian experience.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 405
  • Fats: 11g
  • Protein: 45.2g
  • Carbs: 32g

17. One Pan Balsamic Chicken

One Pan Balsamic Chicken

Next up, a dish designed to keep you going without feeling hungry after a few hours.

It’s rich, complex, aromatic, sophisticated, super easy to make, and you get a whopping 63g of protein to boost your energy levels.

Delight the family with a dish featuring tender chicken breast that’s infused with the rich, tangy flavor of balsamic vinegar, topped with mozzarella and juicy grape tomatoes. Yum!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 608
  • Fats: 30g
  • Protein: 63g
  • Carbs: 19g

18. Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast with Pesto

Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast with Pesto

If you’ve been here before, you’ll know how much I love Mediterranean flavors. And, apart from being scrumptious, this dish is a dependable option when you need a power protein meal for staying power.

Think: chicken breasts stuffed with juicy tomatoes and slices of melty white mozzarella, baked with delicious pesto and a rich balsamic glaze.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 619
  • Fats: 29g
  • Protein: 70g
  • Carbs: 14g

19. Creamy Baked Chicken

Creamy Baked Chicken

This recipe is a great way to add protein to your diet while keeping it simple and satisfying.

Imagine a dish filled with tender chicken breasts, baked in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. All in one pan!

To add variety, you can use boneless pork chops, salmon fillets, or firm tofu instead of chicken.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 462
  • Fats: 27g
  • Protein: 47g
  • Carbs: 7.7g

20. Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers

Cajun Chicken with Sweet Peppers

Don’t reach for the snack drawer when nobody is looking. This protein power recipe helps you stay full, fueled, and satisfied for hours.

Enjoy the bold flavors of French, African, and Spanish cuisines, right in your own home. My Cajun chicken is a perfect combination of succulent, spiced chicken breasts, sweet long peppers, and creamy cheese.

Team it up with cornbread to add a sweet element that pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the chicken.

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 521
  • Fats: 30g
  • Protein: 51g
  • Carbs: 11g

21. Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Keep hunger in check for hours with this classy protein power meal and enjoy a romantic evening with a loved one.

Indulge in the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cream sauce, all slow-cooked in a crockpot. Don’t forget the strawberries dipped in dark chocolate for dessert!

Per Serving:

  • Calories: 585
  • Fats: 37.8g
  • Protein: 47.6g
  • Carbs: 9.8g

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