25 High-Protein Lunches To Stay Full And Focused All Afternoon

Lunch doesn’t have to be a midday snooze fest that leaves you rummaging for snacks an hour later. A solid protein-packed meal can keep you full and focused, no crash required. These recipes bring flavor, variety, and a bit of fun to your lunch game. No dry chicken or wilted salads, just easy, satisfying meals that actually get you excited to eat.

Honey Chicken Apple Salad

Sweet honey, crisp apples, and tender chicken come together in this fresh and filling salad. A great way to mix up your midday meals.
Get the Recipe: Honey Chicken Apple Salad

Chopped Ham Salad

This ham salad is perfect for using up leftovers. Bright veggies and a tangy Dijon dressing make it a great sandwich filler or a quick snack on its own.
Get the Recipe: Chopped Ham Salad

Turmeric Chicken Salad

Fresh turmeric root adds a boost of flavor and nutrients to this creamy chicken salad. Perfect with toast or lettuce wraps for an easy, protein-packed lunch.
Get the Recipe: Turmeric Chicken Salad

Sardine Salad

Heart-healthy sardines meet crunchy veggies, mustard, and capers for a salad that’s big on protein and flavor. Toss it over greens or enjoy it with crackers for an easy lunch.
Get the Recipe: Sardine Salad

Southwest Ranch Chicken Melt

This southwestern chicken salad piled high with melted cheese on pumpernickel bread is everything you want in a hearty, flavor-packed lunch.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Ranch Chicken Melt

Salmon Kale Quinoa Salad

Packed with kale, quinoa, and perfectly cooked salmon, this salad checks all the boxes for a lunch that’s both loaded with protein and quick to pull together. The lemon Dijon dressing keeps it light and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Kale Quinoa Salad

Tofu and Quinoa Power Bowl

Crispy tofu, quinoa, and a creamy tahini dressing come together for a protein-packed bowl that’s great for lunch. It’s quick to prep and keeps you going all day.
Get the Recipe: Tofu and Quinoa Power Bowl

Deconstructed Burger Bowl

Everything you love about a burger—minus the bun. Juicy patties, crispy bacon, fresh toppings, and a sweet-and-tangy sauce make this bowl an easy, make-ahead lunch that feels a little fancy.
Get the Recipe: Deconstructed Burger Bowl

Chicken Club Sandwich

This classic combo of chicken, bacon, and veggies on your favorite bread is a no-brainer for a quick and great lunch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Club Sandwich

Chicken Thighs

Juicy chicken thighs and roasted veggies all in one pan. A great go-to for a no-fuss meal prep that’s big on protein and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Thighs

Salmon Cakes

These crispy salmon patties are loaded with fresh salmon and sautéed veggies, making them a great option for lunch or dinner. Serve with your favorite salad or sides for an easy win.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Cakes

Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad

Tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and sweet cranberries come together in a creamy dressing for a protein-packed lunch. Perfect in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or just on its own.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad

Mexican Chicken Salad

This creamy chicken salad is bursting with bold flavors and fresh veggies. It’s easy to customize and quick to make, making it a lunch favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Chicken Salad

Peanut Butter Chicken

In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this peanut butter chicken with its rich, creamy sauce and tangy spices. Great for meal prepping or a quick, hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Chicken

Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl

Inspired by the popular chain, this bowl combines chicken, kale, sweet potato, and goat cheese for a hearty and filling lunch. The balsamic dressing brings everything together perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Sweetgreen Harvest Bowl

Chimichurri Chicken Salad

Loaded with fresh herbs and tangy red wine vinegar, this salad skips the mayo for a bright and refreshing take on chicken salad. A great way to shake up your lunch routine.
Get the Recipe: Chimichurri Chicken Salad

Fresh Herb and Tomato Quinoa Salad

Quinoa, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and feta make this an easy lunch that’s full of flavor and protein. Perfect for meal prep or a quick midday boost.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Herb and Tomato Quinoa Salad

Tuna Salad

This tuna salad skips the usual and brings in fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, and salty olives for a flavorful upgrade. Great on its own, over greens, or stuffed into a sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

Omena

Packed with protein and nutrients, omena is a fantastic addition to your lunch lineup. Quick to prepare, it’s a great choice when you’re short on time but need something hearty and filling.
Get the Recipe: Omena

Kala Chana Chaat

Kala chana, or black chickpeas, come together with tangy spices, onion, and tomato for a bold and protein-packed dish. A quick lunch that’s full of flavor and perfect for keeping energy levels steady.
Get the Recipe: Kala Chana Chaat

Peanut Butter Rice

Quick, nutty, and savory, this peanut butter rice is a one-pot dish that’s ready in minutes. A great option for busy days when you need something wholesome and filling.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Rice

Umbrian Lentil Soup with Pasta

This traditional lentil soup with pasta is hearty, nutritious, and quick to prepare. It’s a great one-pot meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Umbrian Lentil Soup with Pasta

Pasta with Lamb Ragu

This lamb ragu pairs tender lamb with pasta for a satisfying and protein-packed meal. It’s a great choice for pasta lovers looking for something hearty and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Lamb Ragu

Sesame Chicken Salad

Juicy sesame-crusted chicken pairs with crisp greens and a punchy dressing for a quick, high-protein lunch that’s sure to keep you going.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken Salad

Protein Hummus

Creamy, fluffy, and ready in a minute, this protein-packed hummus is perfect for a quick and easy snack or lunch addition. Great with veggies, crackers, or as a sandwich spread.
Get the Recipe: Protein Hummus