16 Delicious High Protein Foods You Need to Try

clendar February 12, 2025

clendar 7 minutes

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High protein foods provide the building blocks of protein that your body needs. They also supply vitamins and minerals, helping to support muscle recovery, immune function, and energy production. Both animal-based and plant-based foods can offer a rich source of protein, so you can enjoy variety in your diet.

Here are 16 delicious foods that are high in protein.

Best Animal Based High Protein Foods

Animal-based foods are excellent sources of complete proteins and key nutrients. These foods support muscle growth, energy production, and overall health.

Eggs

Eggs are a high-quality protein source, full of nutrients that support brain health, skin, and muscles. Along with protein, they provide vitamin B12, choline, selenium, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health.

A single large egg offers around 6 grams of protein. For a higher protein option, you could also consider using egg whites as they contain less fat but the same protein content.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, low in fat and calories while being rich in essential nutrients. Along with protein, it provides B vitamins (B6, B12), phosphorus, and selenium, which help with energy production and immune support.

A 100-gram serving of chicken breast contains 31 grams of protein. If you want to switch things up, lean cuts of turkey breast offer similar benefits and are slightly leaner.

Lean Beef

Lean beef is a rich source of protein and essential minerals like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which help with red blood cell production and immune function. It’s great for supporting muscle repair.

A 100-gram serving of lean beef offers 26 grams of protein. If you’re looking for a similar protein profile with less fat, bison could be another option to consider.

Fish (Salmon, Tuna, etc.)

Fish like salmon and tuna are packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. They promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and support brain function. Fish also provide vitamin D and iodine for healthy thyroid function.

Salmon: 25 grams of protein per 100 grams
Tuna: 24 grams of protein per 100 grams

Turkey Breast

Turkey breast is another lean source of protein that supports muscle growth and repair. It’s rich in B vitamins, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc, which are important for immune function and energy levels.

A 100-gram serving of turkey breast contains 29 grams of protein. It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, offering versatility in recipes.

Shellfish (Shrimp, Crab, etc.)

Shellfish like shrimp and crab are protein-dense and low in calories. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and iron, which support healthy blood and immune function.

Shrimp: 20 grams of protein per 100 grams
Crab: 19 grams of protein per 100 grams

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is high in protein, low in fat, and an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. It’s perfect for supporting muscle recovery.

Cottage Cheese provides around 11 grams of protein per 100 grams. You can opt for ricotta cheese or low-fat yogurt for slightly different flavors with similar protein content.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is thicker and higher in protein than regular yogurt. It’s packed with probiotics, calcium, potassium, and vitamin B12, which help with digestion and bone health.

Greek Yogurt provides around 10 grams of protein per 100 grams. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut or almond milk yogurt can offer a plant-based substitute with a slightly different texture and flavor.

Milk

Milk is a complete protein source that also provides calcium, vitamin D, and potassium. It supports bone health and muscle function.

Milk offers 8 grams of protein per cup. For a dairy-free option, soy milk is often fortified with additional protein and similar nutrients.

Best Plant Based High Protein Foods

Plant-based foods are excellent protein sources that also provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They help with digestion, heart health, and overall wellness.

Lentils

Lentils are rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals. They support heart health and provide iron, folate, magnesium, and potassium for energy and muscle recovery.

Lentils offer 18 grams of protein per cooked cup. If you want to try a different legume, chickpeas or black beans are great sources of plant protein as well.

Quinoa

Quinoa is one of the few plant-based foods that contain all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. It’s also rich in fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, and antioxidants, promoting digestive health.

A cooked cup of quinoa contains about 8 grams of protein. You can also use amaranth or farro as grains that offer a similar protein profile.

Almonds and Other Nuts

Nuts provide protein, healthy fats, and important vitamins. They are excellent sources of vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, which support skin health and brain function.

Almonds: 6 grams of protein per 28 grams
Peanuts: 7 grams of protein per 28 grams

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals. They contain magnesium, zinc, iron, and antioxidants, supporting heart and immune health.

Pumpkin Seeds provide 7 grams of protein per 28 grams. Sunflower seeds are another great option, offering a similar nutrient profile.

Ezekiel Bread

Ezekiel bread is made from sprouted grains, which make it more nutritious than regular bread. It contains fiber, B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, supporting digestive health and providing steady energy.

Each slice of Ezekiel bread contains around 5 grams of protein. You might also want to try spelt bread or sourdough, which have similar benefits with slightly different flavors.

Protein Powders

Protein is vital for muscle growth, metabolism, and overall health. Including a variety of animal and plant-based protein sources in your diet ensures your body receives all the necessary nutrients to function properly.

These high-protein foods support a healthy lifestyle, from muscle recovery to immune function. Enjoying a balance of different protein sources helps meet your dietary goals and maintain long-term health.

Conclusion

Protein is vital for muscle growth, metabolism, and overall health. By including a variety of animal and plant-based protein sources in your diet, you can ensure your body receives all the necessary nutrients it needs to function properly.

These high-protein foods support a healthy lifestyle, from muscle recovery to immune function. By enjoying a balance of different protein sources, you can meet your dietary goals and maintain long-term health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which high-protein foods are best for muscle building?

Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish are great for muscle building. Eggs and dairy provide high-quality protein. Plant-based options like lentils, quinoa, and protein powders also support muscle recovery.

What are the best high-protein foods for weight loss?

Foods like chicken breast, turkey, Greek yogurt, and lentils help keep you full for longer and support fat loss. Quinoa and eggs are also excellent choices.

Can you get enough protein from a plant-based diet?

Yes, you can get enough protein from plant-based foods. Lentils, quinoa, nuts, seeds, and plant-based protein powders provide all the protein you need when eaten in variety.

How much protein do I need daily?

The average adult needs around 0.8 grams of protein per kg of body weight. Athletes or those building muscle may need 1.2-2.0 grams per kg.

Are protein supplements necessary?

Protein supplements aren’t required for most people, as whole foods can provide sufficient protein. However, protein powders are useful for athletes or those with higher protein needs.