15 Easy Fall Protein Recipes for Weeknight Dinners

As the weather cools and the leaves turn, it’s the perfect time to enjoy hearty, protein-packed meals that warm the body and satisfy the appetite.

Fall protein recipes are all about balancing seasonal flavors with nutritious ingredients.

From roasted meats and fish to plant-based options and hearty legumes, these recipes deliver both taste and sustenance.

Incorporating seasonal vegetables, warming spices, and wholesome proteins ensures that your meals are filling, flavorful, and perfect for the crisp autumn months.

These 15 fall protein recipes are ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or cozy weekend feasts.

Whether you’re looking for high-protein vegetarian dishes, classic poultry dinners, or comforting beef and pork recipes, this collection has something for everyone.

Each recipe emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients paired with protein sources to create balanced and satisfying meals.

These dishes are designed to nourish your body while celebrating the flavors of fall.

They’re easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for anyone looking to eat healthy while enjoying the season’s bounty.

Get ready to embrace autumn with these 15 delicious, protein-rich recipes that will keep you energized and satisfied.

15 Easy Fall Protein Recipes for Weeknight Dinners

Fall protein recipes are the perfect way to combine seasonal flavors with nourishing ingredients.

These 15 recipes provide a variety of options, from lean meats and fish to hearty plant-based protein dishes.

They’re ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, or cozy autumn evenings.

By incorporating seasonal vegetables, spices, and wholesome proteins, these meals are both satisfying and delicious.

Whether you prefer vegetarian, poultry, or seafood options, there’s a recipe here for everyone.

These dishes are simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and full of nutrition to fuel your body during the cooler months.

Enjoy these recipes for weeknight meals, weekend feasts, or festive fall gatherings.

They’re designed to help you embrace seasonal eating while prioritizing protein and balanced nutrition.

With these protein-packed dishes, you can celebrate fall flavors while staying energized and satisfied.

Cooking these recipes will fill your kitchen with the aroma of autumn and leave everyone happy and nourished.

Maple-Glazed Roasted Chicken with Autumn Vegetables

Maple-Glazed Roasted Chicken with Autumn Vegetables is a hearty, protein-rich dinner perfect for cozy fall evenings.

The sweet maple glaze enhances the natural flavor of the chicken while roasting alongside seasonal vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.

This one-pan meal is both flavorful and nourishing, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

The roasted vegetables absorb the glaze, creating a perfectly balanced dish full of autumn warmth.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 sweet potato, cubed
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then arrange on the baking sheet.
4. Place chicken thighs on top of the vegetables and brush generously with maple glaze.
5. Roast for 35–40 minutes, basting halfway through, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Maple-Glazed Roasted Chicken with Autumn Vegetables is sweet, savory, and satisfying.

It combines tender chicken with flavorful roasted vegetables for a nutritious fall meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend feasts.

Every bite delivers hearty protein and seasonal flavors that warm the soul.

Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Cranberries and Walnuts

Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash with Cranberries and Walnuts is a protein-packed vegetarian dish perfect for fall.

The nutty quinoa pairs with sweet cranberries and crunchy walnuts to create a filling and flavorful meal.

Baked acorn squash provides a natural, edible bowl and adds earthy flavor.

This dish works as a main course or a hearty side for holiday dinners.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and place acorn squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet.
2. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
4. Mix cooked quinoa, cranberries, walnuts, cinnamon, salt, and pepper into the skillet.
5. Remove squash from oven and fill each half with quinoa mixture.
6. Drizzle maple syrup on top and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.

Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash is hearty, protein-rich, and perfectly spiced.

It combines nutty quinoa, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts in a fall-inspired dish.

Ideal for vegetarians or as a festive side dish.

Every bite delivers satisfying protein and seasonal flavors that celebrate autumn.

Spiced Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew

Spiced Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew is a warm, protein-packed comfort food for chilly fall evenings.

Red lentils provide hearty protein, while butternut squash adds natural sweetness and seasonal depth.

A blend of warming spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon creates a cozy and flavorful stew.

This one-pot dish is perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or a nourishing solo meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups diced butternut squash
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in lentils, butternut squash, and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils and squash are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Spiced Lentil and Butternut Squash Stew is comforting, flavorful, and protein-rich.

It combines earthy lentils with sweet squash and aromatic spices for a satisfying meal.

Perfect for cold fall evenings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.

Every spoonful delivers warmth, nourishment, and the cozy flavors of autumn.

Cider-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Apples

Cider-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Apples is a hearty, protein-packed dish perfect for fall dinners.

The pork is tender and juicy, coated in a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze.

Roasted apples and onions add natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the meal.

This dish is ideal for family dinners, holiday meals, or special weekend gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 apples, cored and sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and season pork with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear pork on all sides until golden brown.
3. Mix apple cider, Dijon mustard, and honey to make glaze.
4. Place pork, apples, and onions in a baking dish and pour glaze over.
5. Roast for 25–30 minutes until pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cider-Glazed Pork Tenderloin is tender, juicy, and full of fall flavors.

It pairs perfectly with roasted apples and onions for a balanced meal.

Ideal for cozy dinners or festive autumn celebrations.

Every bite delivers savory pork with a sweet, tangy glaze.

Harvest Chicken and Quinoa Salad

Harvest Chicken and Quinoa Salad is a protein-packed, autumn-inspired dish perfect for lunches or light dinners.

Roasted chicken, quinoa, and seasonal vegetables like butternut squash and kale make it hearty and nutritious.

Dried cranberries and toasted pecans add natural sweetness and crunch to the salad.

A maple Dijon dressing ties all the flavors together for a perfectly balanced fall meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa
• 2 cups roasted chicken, diced
• 1 cup roasted butternut squash
• 2 cups chopped kale
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup toasted pecans
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chicken, roasted squash, and kale.
2. Add cranberries and toasted pecans.
3. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to make dressing.
4. Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Harvest Chicken and Quinoa Salad is hearty, protein-rich, and full of seasonal flavors.

It combines roasted chicken, quinoa, and fall vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Perfect for autumn lunches, light dinners, or meal prep.

Every bite delivers protein, crunch, and a sweet-savory flavor balance.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili is a warm, protein-packed vegetarian dish perfect for fall and winter evenings.

Black beans provide hearty protein while sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and comfort.

A mix of chili spices, cumin, and smoked paprika creates a rich and flavorful broth.

This one-pot meal is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups diced sweet potato
• 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened.
2. Add sweet potato, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili is hearty, protein-rich, and perfectly spiced.

It combines black beans, sweet potatoes, and warming spices for a comforting meal.

Ideal for cold fall evenings, meal prep, or family dinners.

Every spoonful delivers protein, fiber, and cozy autumn flavors

Balsamic-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Root Vegetables

Balsamic-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Root Vegetables is a protein-packed, flavorful dish perfect for fall evenings.

The salmon is tender and moist, coated with a tangy balsamic glaze that enhances its natural flavor.

Roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes absorb the glaze and complement the fish beautifully.

This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or a special seasonal meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 parsnips, sliced
• 1 sweet potato, cubed
• 1 tsp fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss carrots, parsnips, and sweet potato with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange vegetables on one side of the baking sheet and salmon on the other.
4. Mix balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard to make glaze.
5. Brush glaze over salmon and vegetables.
6. Roast for 20–25 minutes until salmon is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Balsamic-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Root Vegetables is savory, sweet, and protein-rich.

It combines tender salmon with caramelized vegetables for a balanced autumn meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or cozy fall meals.

Every bite delivers rich protein and seasonal flavors that celebrate autumn.

Turkey and Butternut Squash Skillet

Turkey and Butternut Squash Skillet is a hearty, protein-packed one-pan meal perfect for fall.

Ground turkey provides lean protein while roasted butternut squash adds sweetness and seasonal flavor.

A mix of onions, garlic, and warming spices brings depth to this savory, satisfying dish.

This skillet is quick to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 cups diced butternut squash
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add ground turkey and cook until browned and fully cooked.
3. Stir in butternut squash, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes until squash is tender.
5. Add baby spinach and stir until wilted.

Turkey and Butternut Squash Skillet is hearty, flavorful, and packed with protein.

It combines lean turkey with sweet squash and warming spices for a satisfying fall meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy autumn evenings.

Every bite delivers savory protein and seasonal flavors that nourish and delight.

Chickpea and Sweet Potato Curry

Chickpea and Sweet Potato Curry is a protein-rich, vegetarian dish perfect for fall and winter.

Chickpeas provide hearty protein while sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a comforting texture.

Coconut milk and a blend of warming spices create a creamy, aromatic curry.

This dish is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or a nourishing solo meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups diced sweet potatoes
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
2. Add curry powder, cumin, and turmeric and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and coconut milk.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Chickpea and Sweet Potato Curry is creamy, flavorful, and protein-packed.

It combines chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and warming spices for a comforting fall meal.

Perfect for vegetarian dinners, meal prep, or cozy autumn nights.

Every bite delivers protein, fiber, and rich seasonal flavors

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey and Quinoa

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey and Quinoa are a protein-packed, colorful dish perfect for fall dinners.

Ground turkey provides lean protein while quinoa adds fiber and additional protein for a filling meal.

Bell peppers serve as natural edible bowls, making the dish visually appealing and nutritious.

Seasoned with herbs, garlic, and tomato sauce, this recipe is hearty and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops removed and seeds discarded
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add ground turkey, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and cook until fully browned.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa and tomato sauce until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture and place in the baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheese if desired and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey and Quinoa are flavorful, filling, and protein-rich.

They combine lean turkey, wholesome quinoa, and colorful peppers for a balanced fall meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Every bite delivers savory protein and seasonal autumn flavors

Autumn Harvest Beef Stew

Autumn Harvest Beef Stew is a hearty, protein-packed dish perfect for chilly fall evenings.

Tender beef chunks are simmered with carrots, parsnips, and potatoes in a rich, savory broth.

A blend of thyme, rosemary, and garlic infuses the stew with warming seasonal flavors.

This one-pot meal is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weekend gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 parsnips, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown beef on all sides.
2. Remove beef and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
3. Return beef to the pot and add carrots, parsnips, potatoes, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until beef is tender.
5. Adjust seasoning before serving.

Autumn Harvest Beef Stew is hearty, savory, and protein-rich.

It combines tender beef with seasonal vegetables for a comforting fall meal.

Perfect for cold evenings, family dinners, or meal prepping.

Every spoonful delivers rich protein and cozy, autumnal flavors

Salmon and Sweet Potato Sheet Pan Dinner

Salmon and Sweet Potato Sheet Pan Dinner is a quick, protein-packed, fall-inspired meal.

The salmon is tender and flavorful, while roasted sweet potatoes and brussels sprouts add sweetness and texture.

A light glaze of maple and mustard enhances both the salmon and vegetables.

This one-pan dinner is ideal for weeknight meals, family dinners, or simple healthy eating.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 cups cubed sweet potatoes
• 2 cups halved Brussels sprouts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on the sheet pan.
3. Place salmon fillets on the pan and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Mix maple syrup and Dijon mustard, then brush over salmon and vegetables.
5. Roast for 20–25 minutes until salmon is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Salmon and Sweet Potato Sheet Pan Dinner is flavorful, protein-rich, and easy to prepare.

It combines tender salmon with sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts for a balanced fall meal.

Perfect for busy weeknights or healthy family dinners.

Every bite delivers protein, seasonal flavors, and comforting autumn goodness.

Apple-Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs

Apple-Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs are juicy, protein-packed, and perfect for fall dinners.

The apple cider glaze adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory chicken.

Roasted onions and apples enhance the dish, providing natural sweetness and seasonal flair.

This recipe is ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or special autumn gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 apple, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken on all sides until golden brown.
3. Mix apple cider, Dijon mustard, and honey to create the glaze.
4. Place chicken in a baking dish with apple and onion slices and pour glaze over top.
5. Roast for 30–35 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Apple-Cider Glazed Chicken Thighs are savory, sweet, and protein-rich.

They pair perfectly with roasted apples and onions for a comforting fall meal.

Ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Every bite delivers tender chicken with a rich, autumn-inspired glaze.

Harvest Lentil and Pumpkin Stew

Harvest Lentil and Pumpkin Stew is a warm, protein-packed vegetarian dish perfect for fall evenings.

Lentils provide hearty protein while pumpkin adds natural sweetness and seasonal flavor.

A blend of garlic, onions, and spices makes this stew aromatic and comforting.

This one-pot dish is ideal for meal prep, cozy dinners, or hearty lunches.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups diced pumpkin
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add cumin and smoked paprika and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in lentils, pumpkin, and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils and pumpkin are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Harvest Lentil and Pumpkin Stew is hearty, flavorful, and protein-rich.

It combines lentils and pumpkin with warming spices for a comforting autumn meal.

Perfect for vegetarian dinners, meal prep, or cozy fall evenings.

Every spoonful delivers nourishment and seasonal flavors in every bite.

Sausage and Kale Skillet

Sausage and Kale Skillet is a simple, protein-packed meal perfect for fall weeknights.

Savory sausage pairs with nutritious kale and roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty, balanced dish.

A touch of garlic, onions, and smoked paprika adds depth and autumn flavor.

This one-pan meal is quick to prepare and ideal for meal prep or family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sausage (chicken, turkey, or pork), sliced
• 2 cups chopped kale
• 1 large sweet potato, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add sausage slices and cook until browned and fully cooked.
3. Stir in sweet potato and smoked paprika, cooking until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
4. Add kale and cook until wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper and serve warm.

Sausage and Kale Skillet is hearty, protein-rich, and full of autumn flavors.

It combines savory sausage, sweet potatoes, and kale for a balanced fall meal.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy seasonal meals.

Every bite delivers protein, vegetables, and warming fall spices.