Counting calories in winter always feels harder for me.

Comfort food calls so loudly once it’s cold. That’s why I keep a list of winter low calorie high protein recipes on hand.

These are the ones that let me eat a real dinner without going over my numbers. I’ve tested every single one myself on busy, cold nights.

A favorite of mine from this list is the Chili Chicken Stir Fry at number 16. Only 290 calories, but it tastes bold enough that friends assume you ordered takeout.

1. Lazy Pesto Chicken Bake

How lazy can dinner get? With this pesto chicken bake, you only need 10 minutes of prep before the oven takes over.

Tender chicken is smothered in earthy basil pesto and topped with gooey mozzarella for a simple, comforting dinner that tastes far more indulgent than the effort involved.

At just 347 calories with a whopping 40.1g of protein per serving, this is one of those recipes I keep close for nights when cooking feels like far too much work.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 347
• Fat: 18.3g
• Protein: 40.1g
• Carbs: 2.5g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Sugar: 0.7g

2. Fajita Chicken Casserole

Source: cushyspa.com

Bring some Tex-Mex flavors to your winter table with this colorful chicken casserole. The bell peppers and onions add flavor (and nutrients) while the chicken delivers 49 grams of protein per serving.

And, thanks to the fajita seasoning, you get all the flavors without overwhelming heat.

Per Serving:

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

3. Garlic Tuna Steaks

Fancy fish for dinner but don’t fancy spending the evening in the kitchen? Tuna steaks are a great way to make dinner feel special without loads of work.

These juicy steaks are seared with honey, lemon, and paprika, creating a delicious combination of sweet, zesty, and smoky flavors that tastes restaurant-worthy.

They’re perfect for a lazy date night at home. Add your favorite side, pour the wine, and dinner is served.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 271
• Fat: 8.4g
• Protein: 40.8g
• Carbs: 5.2g
• Fiber: 0.1g
• Sugar: 4.3g

4. Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs

Source: cushyspa.com

Broccoli and shrimp are two of my favorite healthy ingredients. They go together so well in these delicious and easy foil packs.

These are also super versatile, so if you don’t have any broccoli on hand, you can substitute other veggie options like zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms. With pantry staples like broth, pepper, butter, and paprika and barley any clean-up, this is sure to become a regular easy meal in your rotation!

Got leftover shrimp? Try these other frozen shrimp recipes for dinner!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 385
• Fats: 15g
• Protein: 40g
• Carbs: 27g
• Fiber: 8.9g
• Sugar: 5.8g

5. Southwest Chicken Casserole

Zesty southwestern spices combine with juicy chicken and fluffy rice in this simple one-dish wonder. Packed with protein and naturally gluten-free, it’s ideal for preparing ahead on busy weeks.

Need dinner sorted fast without sacrificing taste or nutrition? We’ve all been in that spot on hectic evenings when time is tight but you still want something satisfying.

This casserole delivers big, bold flavors while keeping things wholesome and balanced. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a household staple, the one everyone asks you to make again and again.

Per Serving:

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

6. Crockpot Turkey Chili

When I’m feeling lazy, out comes my crockpot. It does all the work, while I enjoy relaxing.

This hearty dish is packed with tender turkey, nutritious veggies, and hints of bold spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Designed to warm your soul and boost your mood! Serve it with a side of cornbread or corn muffins.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 345
• Fats: 11.2g
• Protein: 29.4g
• Carbs: 35.8g
• Fiber: 9.6g
• Sugar: 8.2g

7. Swordfish With Tomatoes and Basil

This dish keeps things simple and whole, which is exactly what clean eating should feel like. Swordfish sears quickly, then simmers with sweet tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil until everything comes together. There is nothing processed about a single ingredient.

I made this once for a friend who insists high protein eating always feels restrictive. She was surprised by how fresh and light the whole dish tasted. It delivers 40 grams of protein per serving, with barely any carbs weighing it down.

The whole thing comes together in just 20 minutes. It stays gluten free, dairy free, and low carb from start to finish. I like serving it with a simple side of greens to keep the meal fully clean.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 373
• Fats: 20.5g
• Protein: 40.3g
• Carbs: 4.8g
• Fiber: 0.6g
• Sugar: 2g

8. Chicken Broccoli Bake

This classic combination never goes out of style. Tender chicken chunks and crisp-tender broccoli blend with a savory and creamy cheese sauce.

It’s a great way to add more veggies to your meals. Even picky eaters are going to love this recipe.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 354
• Fats: 20g
• Protein: 33g
• Carbs: 8.9g

9. Ham and Bean Soup

Nothing warms the soul (and belly) more than a classic soup, and my ham and bean soup does just that.

It’s a hearty bowl of smoky ham, creamy white beans, tender carrots, celery, and onions, all simmered with garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Best of all, it takes less than 40 minutes to prep, and dinner is ready.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 385
• Fats: 11.4g
• Protein: 30.4g
• Carbs: 39.8g
• Fiber: 10.6g
• Sugar: 5.8g

10. Crockpot Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken

I stir diced tomatoes, marinara, garlic, and Italian seasoning together in the crockpot. A little cream whisked with cornstarch makes the sauce silky. Then the chicken goes in and I walk away.

It packs 53.8 grams of protein into one chicken breast, which clears the 40 gram mark with room to spare. At 453 calories, it feels like a power meal without being a heavy one.

I made this for two friends who were crashing at my Airbnb after a long travel day. Everyone was tired and hungry, and the smell alone had them hovering by the kitchen. I like serving it over zucchini noodles when I want to keep things light.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 453
• Fats: 17.8g
• Protein: 53.8g
• Carbs: 16.5g
• Fiber: 2.8g
• Sugar: 7.1g

11. Crockpot Sesame Chicken

Are you craving that sticky-sauce sweetness you get from Chinese takeout?

Don’t give up on your eating goals. You can create the same amazing taste at home in a much healthier, high protein dish.

Cook up a delicious meal of shredded chicken, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh scallions, with a side of Wonton chips. It delivers maximum take-out flavor with minimal effort.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 405
• Fats: 14.8g
• Protein: 45.2g
• Carbs: 20.6g
• Fiber: 0.9g
• Sugar: 16.4g

12. Crockpot Chicken Lemon Soup

When life gives you lemons, make lemon soup! I swear this is one of my favorite winter soups, because it’s filling and comforting, with a bright citrus pop that cuts through the cold.

In 345 calories, I packed in 36g of protein. Yes, that’s a ton of protein for such a low calorie meal!

It’s also incredibly zesty, warming, and super easy to make, perfect for a cozy night in.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 345
• Fats: 7.4g
• Protein: 36.5g
• Carbs: 30.6g
• Fiber: 3.1g
• Sugar: 4.2g

13. Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Make lunch one less thing to think about – with a tasty meal waiting in the fridge, you can get on with your day.

Sit down to a delicious bowl of tender chicken cooked in a blend of warm spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and garlic, topped with cherry tomatoes and creamy Greek yogurt.

Packing for lunch at work? Don’t be surprised if your colleagues ask what smells so good.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 485
• Fat: 17.1g
• Protein: 48.9g
• Carbs: 37.2g
• Fiber: 3.4g
• Sugar: 6.4g

14. High Protein Broccoli Cottage Cheese Soup

Broccoli and cottage cheese are a match made in heaven, and this soup is a heart-warming bowl of comfort, perfect for making when the family curls up in front of the fire on a cold evening.

To add more nutrition, I sometimes throw in other veggies like cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach. Serve it with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Looking for a quick snack to compliment your soup? Try these easy cottage cheese chips!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 332
• Fats: 15g
• Protein: 22g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 13g

15. Crockpot Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Tender chicken, delicate orzo, garlic, herbs, and zesty lemon come together in a slow-cooked soup that’s both comforting and refreshingly flavorful.

It’s perfect for busy days or cool evenings when you want something soothing with a bit of zing.

Keep this recipe handy when you want to do minimal work in the kitchen but still serve up maximum taste, comfort, and nutrition.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 334
• Fats: 4.6g
• Protein: 36g
• Carbs: 36g
• Fiber: 2.9g
• Sugar: 3.7g

16. Chili Chicken Stir Fry

Quick, spicy, delicious, and definitely not takeout. Make this high protein, healthy dish, and friends will ask which restaurant you ordered it from. This is proof that ‘lazy cooking’ still means seriously flavorful.

Tender chicken, colorful peppers, onions, parmesan cheese, and a rich, spiced tomato base come together in one pan, perfect when paired with steamed rice or quinoa.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 290
• Fats: 12.0g
• Protein: 30.0g
• Carbs: 18.0g
• Fiber: 7.3g
• Sugar: 8.4g

17. Crockpot Mississippi Chicken

This Mississippi chicken is super scrumptious and requires minimal preparation and clean-up. It’s also low-carb and packs a flavorful punch with gravy mixes like this and ranch seasoning like this.

Per Serving:

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

18. Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake

Want to get a yummy Mexican dish on the table in less time than you can grab some takeout? I know exactly what you need!

You are sure to be wowed by this healthy, protein-packed quick & easy Salsa Fresca Chicken Bake. From zesty salsa and delicious seasonings to gooey cheese, this has everything you want from a Mexican-inspired dish.

Per Serving:

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

19. High Protein Cottage Cheese Tomato Soup

Next up – a bowl of creamy tomato soup with hints of basil, garlic, onion, and fresh herbs.

It’s a great comfort meal that’s super healthy, fuels the body with 15g of protein, and keeps the calories low.

Serve it as a main with a grilled cheese sandwich or toasty garlic bread – it’s irresistible! To add a hint of the Mediterranean, throw in sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and oregano.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 206
• Fats: 4.7g
• Protein: 15g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fiber: 6.5g
• Sugar: 18g

20. Broccoli Bacon Cheddar Chicken

This cheesy chicken is super easy to make, tastes like heaven, and has very few calories. Now that’s my kind of dinner.

Because it’s made mostly out of chicken breasts, the recipe is high in protein. 37g per serving!

Per Serving:

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

21. Air Fryer Salmon

Flaky and soft, with hints of umami sweetness. This salmon is made in the Air Fryer.

And it is a healthy dinner choice for a light weeknight meal.

It includes a bit of honey, vinegar, and soy sauce. Plus, some sesame seeds on top for a bit of a bite.

Per Serving:

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

22. Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon

This stuffed salmon comes with baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese. It burst with flavor and cheesiness.

However, it’s also high in protein and very low in calories. Whooping 29g per fillet and only 234 kcal.

Per Serving:

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

23. Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

No tortillas, no bun, no extra calories. These Teriyaki chicken wraps are served in lettuce cups. And I am officially obsessed with them!

They’re made in under half an hour and include soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey. Crunchy, juicy, and incredibly sweet. You have to try them!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 161
• Fats: 4.5g
• Protein: 22g
• Carbs: 7.1g
• Fiber: 0.7g
• Sugar: 3.8g

24. Buttered Cod

This soft, zesty, and flaky cod can be made in just 16 minutes. Yes, 16 minutes! It’s delicious, flavorful, high in protein, and low in calories.

You’ve got only 297 kcal per serving, but so much flavor. Also, if you’re a lover of fish, like me, it’s quite hard to go wrong with it.

Enjoy!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 297
• Fats: 19g
• Protein: 31g
• Carbs: 1.2g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Sugar:0.3g

25. Creamy Chicken in Parmesan Sauce

If you love a creamy chicken, this might be what you need. Creamy, cheesy, packed with parmesan yet low in calories.

The key here is the chicken breasts that are simply packed with protein and the style it’s cooked in gives the dish a lot of flavor. Yummy!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 409
• Fats: 28g
• Protein: 27g
• Carbs: 13g
• Fiber: 2.7g
• Sugar: 2.2g

26. Burger in a Bowl

This burger bowl doesn’t have the extra calories of all the bread, fries, and carbs! Just veggies, the meat, and all the flavors!

Comes with a delicious sauce that makes it all the better!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 360
• Fats: 21g
• Protein: 26g
• Carbs: 17g
• Fiber: 5.5g
• Sugar: 7.7g

27. Keto Sweet Chilli Chicken Rolls

Tender chicken breast is wrapped around red bell peppers and green beans. The sweet chili sauce adds just the right amount of heat.

Make sure you serve these chicken rolls on some fancy dinner platter. These ones are timeless and pretty sturdy too.

Check out more high protein low carb recipes here.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 357
• Fats: 18g
• Protein: 41g
• Carbs: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2.6g

28. Shrimp Buddha Bowls

This shrimp buddha bowl is delicious, flavorful, and filling. Full of veggies and shrimp, it makes for a perfect low-calorie but high-protein lunch!

Filling, sweet, spiced and fibrous! The perfect recipe anyone can make!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 323
• Fats: 12g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 23g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7.5g

29. Chicken Zucchini Pasta

Pasta without any pasta! This dish is made with zoodles (zucchini noodles) and chicken. And it’s sweet, umami, and loaded with flavor.

It also combines honey, soy sauce, and garlic. A low-carb dish that’s high in protein! If you want to further cut on the carbs, use sweetener instead of honey.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 327
• Fats: 16g
• Protein: 19g
• Carbs: 29g
• Fiber: 3.6g
• Sugar: 20g

30. Bacon Egg Cups

You won’t believe that there is only 1 gram of carbs in these yummy cups!

Eggs and bacon from a muffin tin, for a quick and hassle-free breakfast.  The cups are topped with shredded cheese, which makes them even more delicious and protein-rich.

And, they’re ready in just 25 minutes!

Per Serving:

• Calories: 209
• Fats: 17g
• Protein: 11g
• Carbs: 1.2g
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Sugar: 0.5g

31. 3-Ingredient Breakfast Skillet

Breakfast from a skillet. With only three ingredients! How’s that for a convenient breakfast on a busy morning?

Ground beef, eggs, and salsa sauce. If you don’t want them spicy, you can also use regular tomato sauce or diced tomatoes.

If using tomatoes, though, I’d suggest adding some spices, too.

Per Serving:

• Calories: 274
• Fats: 20g
• Protein: 19g
• Carbs: 3.2g
• Fiber: 0.8g
• Sugar: 1.9g