15 Delicious Low Carb High Protein Lunch Recipes You’ll Love

Low carb, high protein lunches are perfect for keeping energy steady throughout the day.

They help maintain focus, control hunger, and support weight management or fitness goals.

These 15 low carb high protein lunch recipes are designed to be delicious, filling, and easy to prepare.

From salads and wraps to bowls and skillet meals, there’s a recipe for every taste.

Using lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats, these lunches are nutrient-packed and satisfying.

They make healthy eating enjoyable without spending hours in the kitchen

15 Delicious Low Carb High Protein Lunch Recipes You’ll Love

Low carb, high protein lunches prove that healthy meals can be flavorful and satisfying.

These 15 recipes provide quick and balanced options for workdays, meal prep, or weekend lunches.

From classic salads to hearty bowls and wraps, there’s a lunch for every craving.

Mix proteins, veggies, and low-carb dressings or sauces to keep meals interesting.

Eating well doesn’t mean compromising on taste.

With these recipes, you can enjoy energy-boosting, nutritious, and delicious lunches every day.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Salad

This grilled lemon herb chicken salad is light, flavorful, and perfect for lunch.

Juicy chicken breast is marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs.

Crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber create a refreshing base.

It is low in carbs, high in protein, and keeps you full for hours.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups mixed lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  • In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Rub mixture over chicken breasts and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
  • Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
  • In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss gently.
  • Place sliced chicken on top and serve immediately.

This salad is light yet filling and packed with protein.

The lemon and herbs make the chicken flavorful.

It is a perfect low-carb lunch that energizes your afternoon.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto Shrimp

This zucchini noodle dish is fresh, flavorful, and high in protein.

Tender shrimp are sautéed with garlic and tossed with basil pesto.

Zucchini noodles replace pasta for a low-carb alternative.

It is perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup basil pesto
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
  • Remove shrimp and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add zucchini noodles and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
  • Reduce heat and stir in basil pesto, coating noodles evenly.
  • Return shrimp to the skillet and toss gently with noodles and pesto.
  • Sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving if desired.

This lunch is light, colorful, and protein-rich.

Shrimp are tender and perfectly complemented by pesto.

Zucchini noodles make it low-carb without sacrificing flavor.

It is a quick and satisfying meal for any busy day.

Turkey and Avocado Lettuce Wraps

These turkey and avocado lettuce wraps are fresh, low-carb, and high in protein.

Lean turkey slices are paired with creamy avocado and crisp vegetables.

They are easy to assemble and perfect for a quick lunch.

Flavorful, satisfying, and healthy, they keep you full and energized.

Ingredients:

  • 8 large romaine lettuce leaves
  • 1/2 lb sliced turkey breast
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • Lay lettuce leaves flat on a clean surface.
  • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and mustard.
  • Spread a thin layer of the mixture onto each lettuce leaf.
  • Layer turkey slices evenly on top of the lettuce.
  • Add avocado slices, bell pepper, and shredded carrots.
  • Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  • Fold lettuce leaves around fillings to form wraps.
  • Serve immediately or wrap tightly for later consumption.

These wraps are crunchy, creamy, and packed with protein.

Avocado adds healthy fats while turkey provides lean protein.

They are perfect for a low-carb, satisfying lunch.

Quick to make and easy to take on the go.

Salmon and Spinach Power Bowl

This salmon and spinach power bowl is nutrient-dense and high in protein.

Pan-seared salmon sits atop a bed of fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.

A light lemon vinaigrette enhances the natural flavors.

It is low in carbs, satisfying, and perfect for a balanced lunch.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried dill

Instructions:

  • Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
  • Season salmon with salt, pepper, and dill.
  • Sear salmon fillets for 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  • In a large bowl, combine spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
  • Drizzle lemon juice and remaining olive oil over vegetables.
  • Toss gently to coat evenly.
  • Place cooked salmon on top of the salad.
  • Serve immediately while salmon is warm.

This power bowl is packed with protein and healthy nutrients.

Salmon is flavorful and tender.

Fresh vegetables provide crunch and vitamins.

It is a low-carb lunch that fuels your afternoon efficiently.

Chicken Caprese Salad

This chicken Caprese salad is light, fresh, and high in protein.

Juicy grilled chicken combines with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds flavor without excess carbs.

It is perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat.
  • Season chicken with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil.
  • Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
  • In a salad bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
  • Place sliced chicken on top of the salad.
  • Drizzle balsamic glaze evenly over the ingredients.
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate briefly for a chilled version.

This salad is fresh, flavorful, and satisfying.

Chicken provides lean protein, while mozzarella adds creaminess.

Basil and balsamic enhance the Mediterranean flavors.

It is a perfect low-carb lunch that keeps you energized.

Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers

These turkey and spinach stuffed peppers are hearty, low-carb, and high in protein.

Lean ground turkey is mixed with fresh spinach, garlic, and spices.

Bell peppers are roasted slowly, absorbing all the flavors.

It is a satisfying, protein-packed lunch that keeps you full for hours.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers, tops removed and seeds discarded
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add onion and garlic and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  • Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until fully browned.
  • Stir in chopped spinach, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for 2 more minutes until spinach is wilted.
  • Stuff the bell peppers with the turkey and spinach mixture generously.
  • Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover loosely with foil.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes.
  • Remove foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the tops of the peppers.
  • Return to oven and bake uncovered for 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
  • Serve warm and enjoy a hearty, protein-packed lunch.

These stuffed peppers are juicy, flavorful, and filling.

The turkey and spinach mixture is perfectly seasoned.

Cheese adds a creamy, satisfying texture.

They are an ideal low-carb lunch option for any day.

Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry Bowl

This chicken and broccoli stir-fry bowl is fresh, protein-rich, and low in carbs.

Tender chicken breast is stir-fried with crisp broccoli and a savory sauce.

The sauce is flavorful but light, keeping the dish healthy.

It is quick to prepare and perfect for a midday boost.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add sliced chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring frequently, until chicken is fully cooked.
  • Add broccoli florets and red bell pepper slices to the skillet.
  • Stir-fry vegetables with chicken for 4–5 minutes until broccoli is bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
  • Pour in soy sauce and sprinkle red pepper flakes if using.
  • Stir everything together thoroughly to coat evenly with the sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  • Serve hot in a bowl, optionally garnished with sesame seeds.

This stir-fry is full of vibrant colors and textures.

Chicken is tender and broccoli remains crisp and flavorful.

It is high in protein, low in carbs, and energizing.

A quick, nutritious lunch that keeps you satisfied.

Tuna and Avocado Salad Bowl

This tuna and avocado salad is creamy, filling, and low-carb.

Protein-rich tuna pairs perfectly with fresh avocado and crunchy vegetables.

It is refreshing, healthy, and ideal for a midday meal.

Quick to assemble, it requires no cooking and is perfect for busy days.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans tuna in water, drained
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups mixed salad greens
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • In a medium bowl, combine drained tuna, diced avocado, celery, and red onion.
  • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour dressing over the tuna mixture and fold gently to combine without mashing the avocado.
  • Arrange salad greens in individual serving bowls.
  • Spoon tuna and avocado mixture on top of the salad greens evenly.
  • Optionally garnish with extra lemon wedges or fresh herbs.
  • Serve immediately for maximum freshness and flavor.

This salad is creamy, refreshing, and packed with protein.

Avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth texture.

It is low-carb, light, and energizing.

Perfect for a quick, healthy lunch that keeps you full.

Eggplant and Turkey Skillet Bowl

This eggplant and turkey skillet bowl is savory, filling, and low-carb.

Ground turkey and tender eggplant cook slowly with herbs and spices.

It is high in protein and perfect for a satisfying lunch.

Flavorful, hearty, and easy to prepare, it is ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 medium eggplant, diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce

Instructions:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add ground turkey and cook thoroughly, breaking it into small pieces.
  • Stir in diced eggplant, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Add tomato sauce and mix thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
  • Reduce heat to low and cover skillet for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until eggplant is tender.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  • Serve hot in bowls as a satisfying, protein-rich lunch.

This dish is savory, flavorful, and filling.

Eggplant absorbs all the seasonings beautifully.

Ground turkey provides lean, high-quality protein.

It is a perfect low-carb lunch that is hearty and nutritious.

Grilled Chicken and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

This grilled chicken and cauliflower rice bowl is healthy, low-carb, and high in protein.

Juicy grilled chicken is paired with flavorful sautéed cauliflower rice and vegetables.

It is light, filling, and perfect for a midday meal.

Full of flavor, easy to prepare, and keeps you energized for hours.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup zucchini, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

Instructions:

  • Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat.
  • Season chicken breasts with paprika, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
  • Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked and juicy.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini and sauté for 3–4 minutes.
  • Add cauliflower rice to the skillet and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until tender.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and dried parsley, mixing evenly.
  • Slice grilled chicken and place on top of cauliflower rice mixture.
  • Serve warm and enjoy a flavorful, protein-packed lunch.

This bowl is filling, flavorful, and low in carbs.

Chicken is juicy and perfectly seasoned.

Vegetables are crisp-tender and nutrient-rich.

It is a satisfying high-protein lunch that keeps you energized.

Keto Chicken Avocado Bowl

This keto chicken avocado bowl is fresh, high in protein, and low in carbs.

Tender chicken breast is grilled and paired with creamy avocado and crisp vegetables.

A light lime dressing enhances the flavors while keeping the meal healthy.

It is perfect for a filling and energizing lunch.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 2 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat.
  • Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and cumin.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub evenly.
  • Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
  • In a large salad bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
  • Add sliced avocado on top of the vegetables.
  • Place sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad.
  • Drizzle lime juice over the entire bowl.
  • Toss gently to combine ingredients evenly and serve immediately.

This bowl is vibrant, flavorful, and packed with protein.

Avocado adds healthy fats while chicken provides lean protein.

It is a low-carb, energizing lunch perfect for busy days.

Salmon and Asparagus Power Lunch

This salmon and asparagus lunch is nutrient-dense, high in protein, and low in carbs.

Salmon fillets are pan-seared to perfection and served with tender asparagus.

A light lemon butter drizzle adds flavor without extra carbs.

It is a healthy, satisfying lunch option.

Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried dill

Instructions:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Season salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and dill.
  • Sear salmon for 4–5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and flaky.
  • Remove salmon from skillet and set aside.
  • Add garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add asparagus and sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  • Squeeze lemon juice over asparagus and stir to coat evenly.
  • Plate asparagus on a serving dish and place salmon fillets on top.
  • Drizzle any remaining lemon butter from skillet over salmon.
  • Serve immediately while warm for maximum flavor.

This meal is light, satisfying, and high in protein.

Salmon is tender and flavorful, and asparagus is crisp-tender.

It is perfect for a low-carb, healthy lunch that energizes your afternoon.

Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet

This ground turkey and zucchini skillet is savory, protein-rich, and low in carbs.

Ground turkey cooks with zucchini, garlic, and spices for a hearty lunch.

It is filling, flavorful, and quick to prepare.

A perfect choice for meal prep or a satisfying midday meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)

Instructions:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add onion and garlic and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  • Add ground turkey to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it into small pieces.
  • Stir in diced zucchini, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Cover skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes until zucchini is tender.
  • If using mozzarella, sprinkle over the top and cover for 1–2 minutes until melted.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Serve hot in individual bowls or meal prep containers.

This skillet is savory, filling, and packed with protein.

Zucchini absorbs all flavors beautifully, and turkey is tender.

It is a perfect low-carb lunch that keeps you satisfied and energized.

Egg and Spinach Protein Bowl

This egg and spinach protein bowl is quick, nutritious, and low-carb.

Eggs are cooked to your preference and served over sautéed spinach and vegetables.

It is high in protein and perfect for a healthy midday meal.

A simple, satisfying, and energizing lunch option.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp paprika

Instructions:

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add bell pepper and mushrooms and sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender.
  • Add fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
  • Push vegetables to the side of the skillet.
  • Crack eggs into the skillet and cook to desired doneness, either scrambled or sunny-side up.
  • Season eggs and vegetables with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Plate vegetables first, then top with cooked eggs.
  • Serve immediately while warm for a satisfying protein-packed lunch.

This bowl is light, filling, and rich in protein.

Eggs provide high-quality protein while spinach and vegetables add nutrients.

It is a perfect low-carb lunch that energizes your afternoon.

Chicken, Avocado, and Bacon Salad

This chicken, avocado, and bacon salad is hearty, flavorful, and high in protein.

Grilled chicken is combined with crisp bacon, creamy avocado, and fresh greens.

A light dressing ties all flavors together without adding excess carbs.

It is ideal for a filling, low-carb lunch.

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 slices cooked bacon, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat.
  • Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  • Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
  • In a large salad bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and bacon.
  • Place sliced chicken on top of the salad mixture.
  • Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the ingredients.
  • Toss gently to coat evenly and serve immediately.

This salad is rich in flavor, protein, and healthy fats.

Chicken is tender, avocado is creamy, and bacon adds a crunchy texture.

It is a perfect low-carb lunch to keep you full and energized.

Jessica T. Brown

Jessica T. Brown is the founder of KitchenHush.com, a platform born out of her deep love for cooking and the quiet joy found in the kitchen. From a young age, Jessica discovered that the kitchen wasn't just a place to prepare meals—it was a space for connection, creativity, and comfort. Inspired by those early memories, she created Kitchen Hush to share that experience with home cooks everywhere.

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