High Protein Hearty Meals

Name: High Protein Hearty Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Discover delicious and satisfying meals packed with protein to fuel your day.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-24T13:15:25.911Z

These high protein hearty meals are not just nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein to keep you energized throughout the day
Hearty ingredients that are both filling and delicious
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknight dinners

      

Nutritional Benefits

High protein meals are essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting muscle growth. This recipe combines multiple protein sources, including chicken and black beans, ensuring you get a balanced intake. Protein is vital not only for muscle repair but also for keeping you feeling full and satisfied throughout the day.

Quinoa, often hailed as a superfood, is another integral part of this recipe. It is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This nutrient-dense grain also provides fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

By incorporating a variety of vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and onions, this dish is not only filling but also loaded with vitamins and minerals. Eating a rainbow of vegetables ensures you receive a wide range of nutrients that support overall health and well-being.

Meal Prep Made Easy

This hearty meal is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts. You can easily double the recipe and store individual portions in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated.

To make meal prep even simpler, consider cooking the quinoa and chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers, and when you're ready to eat, just combine everything in a skillet. This not only saves time but also allows you to customize each serving with additional toppings or side dishes.

For those busy weeknights, having a nutritious meal ready to go can be a game changer. Just reheat and enjoy, knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients.

Customizations and Variations

Ingredients

Protein Sources

1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth

Vegetables

1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup spinach, fresh

Spices and Seasonings

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika

Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Steps

Cook the Quinoa

In a medium pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Add bell pepper and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Add Chicken and Beans

Add diced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Stir in black beans, spinach, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook until spinach is wilted.

Combine and Serve

Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and add it to the skillet. Mix everything together and serve warm.

Enjoy your hearty meal packed with protein!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your hearty meal, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, protein-packed dish and enhances your meal's nutritional profile.

Another delightful accompaniment is a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado slices on top. These additions not only provide creaminess but also contribute healthy fats, balancing the meal perfectly.

For those who enjoy grains, serving this dish over a bed of greens or alongside whole-grain bread can round out the meal, offering a satisfying dining experience.

Storage Tips

To ensure your high protein meal stays fresh, store leftovers in airtight containers. In the refrigerator, it can last for about 3-4 days, while freezing it can extend its shelf life up to 3 months. Just make sure to label your containers with the date for easy tracking.

When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to retain moisture and prevent the meal from drying out. Microwaving or using a stovetop works well, but ensure it's heated thoroughly to maintain food safety.

For optimal taste and texture upon reheating, consider thawing overnight in the fridge if frozen. This helps maintain the quality of the ingredients, making your next meal just as delightful as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with brown rice or farro.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can meal prep and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ How can I increase the protein content?

You can add more chicken, beans, or even incorporate tofu for additional protein.