27 protein-packed dinners in 30 minutes or less

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These 27 protein-packed dinners are delicious and filling. All of the recipes here highlight straightforward meal ideas that are designed to help you meet your protein needs while enjoying flavorful dishes.

Spoon scooping up jalapeño popper casserole from a baking dish.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy beef casserole with cauliflower rice and spinach being spooned out of a baking dish.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Looking for a quick and balanced dinner option? You’ll love this flavorful Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. In just 30 minutes, this dish combines ground beef, cauliflower rice, spinach, and cheddar cheese to create a satisfying meal that’s both speedy and well-rounded.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Chicken with creamy mushroom sauce in a pan.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Make this Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce recipe in just 30 minutes. It’s made using only one pan, ensuring convenience without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Sausage Curry

Garnished sausage curry with a wooden spoon.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Prepare a one-pan Sausage Curry for a weeknight dinner with the family. This recipe combines sausages, vegetables, and a rich and creamy curry sauce for a satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Spoon scooping up jalapeño popper casserole from a baking dish.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Add a creative twist to your dinner routine with this protein-packed Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. It’s a unique and effortless dish that offers a distinct flavor combination. Enjoy the flavors of traditional jalapeño poppers in a satisfying salad format.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Mini spicy canned salmon patties in a serving bowl.
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties are a delightful dish ready in just 30 minutes. Made with canned salmon, jalapeño, and a touch of cayenne pepper, these patties are pan-fried to golden perfection and topped with a drizzle of lemon dill aioli.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan chicken in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy Tuscan Chicken. In just 40 minutes, you can create a one-pan and high-protein dish packed with perfectly crisped chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a creamy sauce. It’s a delicious and impressive meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Garlic Chicken

Garnished creamy garlic chicken over cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is a hassle-free and well-balanced meal cooked in one pan. Pair it with cauliflower rice or regular rice for a complete and protein-packed dinner. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Add a creative twist to your dinner routine with this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. It’s a delightful and effortless dish that offers a unique flavor combination. Enjoy the flavors of traditional jalapeño poppers in a satisfying salad format.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Creamy spinach chicken bake in a glass baking dish.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Elevate your dinner by making this Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Marinated chicken thighs, a creamy blend of cream cheese and mozzarella, and a generous amount of spinach come together to create a dish that is both quick and easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a filling meal that is packed with flavor and protein.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Sausage and veggies sheet pan dinner with a spoon.
Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For those seeking a flavorful and fuss-free meal, this Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner is a fantastic option. Ready in just 30 minutes, it offers a delightful combination of roasted sausage and veggies bursting with flavor. The best part? You only need one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Fried cabbage with bacon garnished with parsley in a pot.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Need a quick and satisfying meal? Look no further than this Fried Cabbage with Bacon. This recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare and combines cabbage, bacon, and onion for a well-rounded dish with harmonious flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian sausage soup in a pot with a spoon and garnishes on the side.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup in just 30 minutes. This one-pot dish features Italian sausage, cream cheese, canned tomatoes, and heavy whipping cream for a rich and satisfying texture. It is high in protein and filling.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Tuscan garlic shrimp and spinach with tomatoes in a pan.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Try this quick and flavorful Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach dish. Succulent shrimp, garlic sauce, grape tomatoes, and spinach come together in just 30 minutes for a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Bowl of instant pot butter chicken atop cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Instant Pot Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced,

Make this Indian-inspired Instant Pot Butter Chicken in under 40 minutes. This dish features tender chicken thighs, a marinade, and a flavorful sauce cooked in an Instant Pot.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Creamy sun dried tomato chicken served on a plate.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Indulge in the flavors of Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. This one-pan and high-protein skillet dish features boneless, skinless chicken thighs smothered in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

Hands scooping up a serving of bacon cheeseburger salad from a bowl.
Bacon Cheeseburger Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Enjoy the taste of a Big Mac in a bowl with this Bacon Cheeseburger Salad. This hassle-free choice requires minimal preparation and offers the smoky bacon and tangy dressing you love in a salad format.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheeseburger Salad

Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy chicken fajita bake in a baking pan.
Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken is a flavorful dinner option. Seasoned chicken breasts, cream cheese, sweet peppers, and melted mozzarella create a satisfying combination.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Fajita Baked Chicken

Crock Pot Taco Soup

A bowl of crock pot taco soup topped with sour cream and cilantro.
Crock Pot Taco Soup. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Make this delicious and high-protein Crock Pot Taco Soup without beans in just 20 minutes of prep time. This soup features ground beef and pantry staples cooked in a slow cooker for an easy and flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Taco Soup

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Coconut curry Thai turkey meatballs on top of cauliflower rice in a bowl.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Try this recipe for flavorful Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs for a weeknight dinner. Ground turkey, coconut aminos, canned coconut milk, and curry spices come together to create tasty meatballs in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up quick and kid-friendly Canned Chicken Patties in just 20 minutes. Serve them on their own, with steamed vegetables, or in a sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Lemon Garlic Scallops

Lemon garlic scallops garnished with parsley in a skillet.
Lemon Garlic Scallops. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Prepare these Lemon Garlic Scallops in less than 30 minutes. Cooked in a pan with lemon and garlic, they offer a delightful combination of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Scallops

Creamy Dijon Chicken

Pan of creamy dijon chicken with a spatula.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Create a quick and easy one-pan meal with Creamy Dijon Chicken. In just 30 minutes, seared chicken is topped with a creamy Dijon mustard sauce, spinach, and bacon. It’s a dish that is high in protein, low-carb, and absolutely delicious!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Philly cheesesteak casserole on a plate with a fork.
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

Indulge in a Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with thinly sliced steak, peppers, onions, and mushrooms topped with provolone cheese. It’s a delicious keto-friendly dish that can be prepared, cooked, and served in less than an hour.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Curry Salmon with Coconut Milk and Bok Choy

Curry salmon with coconut milk and bok choy in a bowl with a fork.
Curry Salmon with Coconut Milk and Bok Choy. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Enjoy a nutrient-dense and high-protein Curry Salmon with Coconut Milk and Bok Choy. This one-pan stovetop dish combines homemade curry paste, coconut milk, fresh ginger, and curry powder for a flavorful meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Curry Salmon with Coconut Milk and Bok Choy

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy chicken thighs with artichoke hearts in a pan.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Savor the creaminess of this dish featuring skinless chicken thighs and artichoke hearts. With a blend of spices and a creamy sauce, it’s a satisfying and flavorful option that is high in protein.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

Creamy Ground Beef And Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Creamy ground beef and cauliflower rice skillet on a marble countertop.
Creamy Ground Beef And Cauliflower Rice Skillet. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Indulge in a creamy and flavorful dish with Creamy Ground Beef And Cauliflower Rice Skillet. This 30-minute recipe combines seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms in a single skillet.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef And Cauliflower Rice Skillet

Chicken Sausage and Cabbage Skillet

Chicken sausage and cabbage in a cast iron skillet.
Chicken Sausage and Cabbage Skillet. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Enjoy a burst of flavors with Chicken Sausage and Cabbage Skillet. In less than 30 minutes, you can savor a mouthwatering, protein-packed, and filling main dish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage and Cabbage Skillet

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