Prepare yourself a lunch that’s not only filling but also supports healthy digestion. These meals provide at least 15 grams of protein per serving, aiding in satiety, healthy bones, and muscle recovery. They also include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir, along with prebiotic-rich ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Incorporating these foods into a balanced diet can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and inflammation.
For a delicious midday meal, try our highly-rated Chickpea & Quinoa Grain Bowl, packed with plant-based protein. Alternatively, keep our Best Chicken Salad on hand for making tasty sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying with crackers.
Including high-protein lunches in your diet is crucial for several reasons. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. High-protein meals help keep you full longer, reducing the temptation to snack on unhealthy foods. They also provide the necessary nutrients to maintain muscle mass and support overall physical health. By choosing high-protein options for lunch, you can sustain energy levels throughout the day and promote a balanced, nutritious diet.
The Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe for Sandwiches
What makes a chicken salad truly outstanding? The secret lies in using bold, flavorful ingredients such as zesty herbs, tangy lemon juice, and sharp onion or shallots. This vibrant chicken salad recipe is delicious when served between two slices of whole-wheat country bread, but it’s also fantastic with crackers, in a wrap, or atop a bed of greens.
High-Protein White Bean & Avocado Sandwich
White beans blend perfectly into a creamy, protein-rich spread, making it an ideal filling for a healthy and satisfying sandwich, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. For variety, you can use canned chickpeas or black beans instead. This vegetarian sandwich is also a fiber powerhouse: avocado, beans, greens, and whole-wheat bread come together to provide 15 grams of fiber, over half the daily recommended intake for most women.
High-Protein Mushroom French Dip
This Mushroom French Dip is a savory, plant-based twist on the classic sandwich. Juicy, sautéed mushrooms are loaded onto a toasted roll and served with a flavorful au jus for dipping. It’s a hearty, protein-rich, and satisfying lunch perfect for vegetarians and mushroom lovers alike!
Farro Salad with Arugula, Artichokes & Pistachios
Farro Salad with Arugula, Artichokes, and Pistachios is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that’s full of texture and flavor. The chewy farro pairs perfectly with peppery arugula, tangy artichokes, and crunchy pistachios, making it a satisfying and protein-rich lunch that’s both healthy and delicious!
High-Protein Avocado Tuna Salad
Elevate a can of tuna with this simple avocado tuna salad recipe. Smooth avocado adds a creamy texture, balanced by the acidity of lemon and the briny flavor of feta cheese. Romaine hearts and cucumber provide a refreshing crunch.
Chicken & Spinach Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing
The creamy feta dressing is the star of this protein-packed salad, making it an ideal choice for lunch or a quick and easy dinner. Although pre-crumbled feta cheese is available, we prefer crumbling fresh feta straight from the block for this salad. Both sheep’s-milk feta, with its slightly sharper flavor, and cow’s-milk feta work wonderfully in this dish.
Chicken Shawarma with Yogurt Sauce
The secret to achieving juicy chicken without a spit in this healthy recipe lies in using high heat and dark meat. The yogurt in the marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also helps create a delightful char. Adding more yogurt to the sauce, along with crunchy cucumbers and fresh herbs, ensures the flavors remain vibrant and refreshing.
High-Protein Red Lentil Soup with Saffron
Red Lentil Soup with Saffron is a warm, comforting, and protein-rich dish infused with the aromatic flavor of saffron. Velvety and satisfying, this healthy soup is perfect for a light yet nourishing lunch that’s full of vibrant spices and wholesome ingredients.
Creamy Pesto Chicken Salad with Greens
Savor the deliciousness of this Creamy Pesto Chicken Salad with Greens, where tender chicken meets a rich pesto dressing and fresh greens. Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect lunch to keep you energized and satisfied, whether enjoyed on its own or in a sandwich!
High-Protein Chicken & Cabbage Soup with Pesto
A store-bought pesto adds flavor to this one-pot soup of chicken and cabbage. Large, high-fiber butter beans provide a creamy taste, but you can easily substitute them with navy or cannellini beans if you’d like. Once the cabbage is soft, simply shred or chop cooked chicken and add it to the soup to reheat. This soup is a great way to use up leftover chicken.
