20 most popular high-protein recipes on Good Food

• 20 most popular high protein recipes on Good Food
• What foods are high in protein?
• How much protein do I need?

20 most popular high protein recipes on Good Food

1. Easy protein pancakes

Boost your protein intake with these wholesome pancakes made from eggs, oats, milk and protein powder – ideal for a post-workout breakfast. Try topping with nut butter, berries and sliced banana for a naturally sweet finish, or keep it savoury with wilted spinach and a poached egg – the base is sugar-free, so it works both ways.

If you’re after a lighter take on pancakes, explore our best gut-healthy toppings – full of flavour, easy to digest and perfect for a feel-good stack that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

2. Chicken satay salad

Try this no-fuss midweek meal that’s packed with protein and full of flavour. Marinate chicken breasts and drizzle with a bold, creamy peanut satay sauce – it’s ready in under 30 minutes and serves two, making it perfect for a speedy dinner or as a meal prep option to save a portion for lunch the next day.

Add protein to your salads with more of our chicken salad recipes.

3. Protein balls

Make these nourishing protein balls with oats, protein powder, flaxseed and a hint of cinnamon – ideal for refuelling after exercise. With fewer than 10 ingredients and no cooking needed, they’re a simple snack to batch-prep, yielding 15 bites to enjoy throughout the week. Just try not to eat them all at once – they’re seriously moreish!

If you're craving a snack but don't want to lose your health goals, try these healthy comfort food snacks.

4. Protein pancakes with banana

Pancakes aren’t just for Pancake Day – these oat and banana versions are boosted with protein powder to help keep you feeling full. Serve them stacked high with a spoonful of Greek yogurt, sliced banana and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Make a nutritious dish in a flash with our healthy pancake recipes.

5. Salmon stir-fry

This top-rated stir-fry is bursting with colourful veg and protein, making it a vibrant, feel-good lunch. It’s just as tasty cold as it is hot, so cook up both servings and save one for the next day.

Discover the top health benefits of salmon, then check out more healthy salmon recipes to help you hit your protein goals.

6. Vegan chickpea curry jacket potatoes

It’s a common myth that a vegan diet lacks protein, but these chickpea curry jacket potatoes are here to set the record straight. Packed with plant-based protein and full of flavour, they’re also naturally gluten-free and make a filling, fuss-free meal.

Discover the best vegan protein sources.

7. Nutty chicken satay strips

With over 150 five-star ratings, these nutty chicken satay strips are a clear favourite with our users. They make an easy, make-ahead snack – add cucumber on the side and your favourite dipping sauce.

Discover more crowd-pleasing chicken recipes with 5-star ratings.

8. Pork souvlaki

When you're after a protein boost in the warmer months, these pork souvlaki skewers are a brilliant choice. Cook them on the barbecue for a summery twist, or use the grill if the weather doesn’t play ball – either way, you won’t miss out.

Find more mouthwatering barbecue skewers recipes.

9. Basic quinoa

Quinoa is incredibly versatile – you can serve it alongside curries or tagines, or stir it through herbs, oil, lemon juice and roasted vegetables to make a great salad.

Learn more about this gluten-free, complete protein in our helpful guide on the top health benefits of quinoa.

10. Protein flapjacks

Enjoy these lighter flapjacks, made with minimal natural sugars and no butter, so you get that classic chewy texture without the heaviness. They're perfect for post-exercise refuelling or popping into a lunchbox for an energy-boosting snack.

Craving something sweet? Treat yourself to our healthy dessert recipes – no guilt involved.

11. Healthy pepper, tomato & ham omelette

If you’re after a healthy protein boost, start your day with this lighter omelette. Using fewer yolks helps reduce cholesterol, while reduced-fat mature cheddar adds flavour while keeping the fat content low.

Whip up one of our healthy omelette recipes for a high-protein breakfast or lunch option.

12. Berry protein smoothie

Beat the heat and boost your protein with this refreshing mixed berry smoothie. Made with soya milk and pea protein powder, it’s vegan-friendly and perfect for warm days.

Start your day right with one of our healthier smoothie recipes.

13. Quinoa salad with grilled halloumi

As one of our users perfectly put it, ‘tasty, filling and easy to make... what more could you ask for?’ – and we couldn’t agree more. This recipe makes a brilliant gluten-free lunch or dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Give your salads a delicious twist with slices of halloumi, thanks to our halloumi salad recipes.

14. Protein overnight oats

If mornings aren’t your thing, these protein-packed overnight oats are the perfect solution. Prep them the night before when you’ve got more time, then enjoy straight from the fridge ahead of your morning workout for a fuss-free, energy-boosting start.

For more breakfast ideas you can prepare in advance for those busy mornings, explore our on-the-go breakfast ideas.

15. High protein breakfast

Try Joe Wicks’ protein-packed twist on the classic fry-up. Swap traditional sausage for sirloin steak and bacon for turkey bacon, and trade a greasy fried egg for a healthier poached version – all the flavour, with a more balanced boost.

Join our app today to look at all of Joe Wicks' recipes.

16. Turkey burger with sweet potato wedges

A lighter take on a summer classic, these turkey burgers with sweet potato wedges are ideal for BBQ season. Made with just 10 ingredients – many of which you’ll likely have to hand – they’re a simple, flavour-packed choice for sunny days.

This barbecue season, consider switching from beef to turkey and enjoy a leaner burger with our turkey burger recipes.

17. Cottage cheese pancakes

Boost the protein in your pancakes naturally with this cottage cheese and oat recipe. Perfect for a relaxed weekend brunch, but quick enough to make in just 20 minutes when time’s tight.

Cottage cheese is incredibly versatile, perfect for everything from jacket potato toppings to sweet treats. Explore our cottage cheese recipes for more inspiration.

18. Warm roasted squash and puy lentil salad

This fresh and vibrant salad makes the most of tinned lentils – a budget-friendly, protein-packed store cupboard staple. Top with cherry tomatoes, butternut squash, spinach and feta for a satisfying, low-fat salad that delivers all five of your five-a-day in one bowl.

Add extra flavour, bulk, and texture to your salads with a serving of lentils from our lentil salad recipes.

19. Tofu & spinach cannelloni

Tasty tofu is a vegetarian favourite, and this protein- and iron-rich cannelloni makes a great freezer-friendly option. Catering for vegan guests? Simply swap the fresh lasagne sheets for an egg-free, vegan alternative.

Enjoy our healthy tofu recipes from stir-fries and soups to egg-free tofu scramble.

20. Indian chicken protein pots

Make the most of leftover chicken – or pick up a ready-cooked pack – for these speedy protein pots. Combined with spiced lentils, tomatoes and a dollop of tzatziki, they’re a quick and satisfying lunch option. Ready in just 11 minutes and made with only five ingredients, they’re ideal for busy days.

Don't let your leftover poultry go to waste after your Sunday roast – revive it with our leftover chicken recipes.

What foods are high in protein?

High-protein foods are abundant across a variety of ingredients, making it easy to incorporate them into your diet, whether you prefer meat, fish or plant-based options. Among animal-based choices, lean cuts like chicken breast, turkey, pork loin, beef steak and lamb chops offer excellent protein sources. Fish varieties such as salmon, tuna, cod and mackerel, along with seafood like prawns, mussels and crab, provide high-quality protein. Eggs and dairy products, including Greek yoghurt, milk, cottage cheese and cheese, are also rich in protein.

For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, there’s a wealth of plant-based protein options. Lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, tofu, tempeh and edamame are all fantastic choices. Quinoa, a complete grain containing all nine essential amino acids, is another great option. Nuts and seeds –such as almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and hemp seeds – offer a protein boost to both meals and snacks. These ingredients can be combined to create a balanced, protein-packed diet.

Find more information on high-protein foods.

How much protein do I need?

The recommended daily protein intake for adults in the UK is 0.75g per kilogram of body weight. This means that a person weighing 70 kg would need around 52.5 g of protein each day. However, your protein needs may be higher if you are very active, older, recovering from illness, or aiming to build muscle. It is crucial to spread your protein intake evenly across meals throughout the day for optimal benefit.

For more information on how to hit your protein goals, read our helpful article on how much protein do I need?

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