10 protein-packed winter dishes to fuel your body and keep you going
Fuel your winter with these protein-packed dishes, from hearty stews to light salads and veggie options—delicious, satisfying, and full of nutrients
Winter calls for hearty, warming meals that not only satisfy your hunger but also deliver the nutrients you need to stay energised and healthy throughout the colder months. Protein is a star player at this time of year – it supports muscle repair, boosts your immune system, and keeps you feeling your best.
We've got you covered if you’re looking to hit your protein goals without straying from your budget. Explore our budget-friendly high-protein meal plan and cheap high-protein recipes for cost-conscious ideas that don’t skimp on flavour. Vegetarian? Beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein. Discover 20 types of beans and how to cook them – perfect for adding these versatile pulses to your winter dishes.
Need a little extra to keep you going during the day? Try our range of high-protein snacks, which are ideal for curbing hunger between meals without compromise.
To help you stay fuelled this season, we’ve rounded up 10 delicious protein-packed winter recipes that will warm you up and power you through the day.
1. Chicken stroganoff
This comforting dish pairs tender chicken – swap in chicken thigh fillets for a budget-friendly twist – with a rich yet lighter sauce made from half-fat soured cream, mushrooms, and onions. Chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the soured cream keeps it creamy without the extra calories. Serve with wholegrain rice or steamed spinach for a boost of fibre and vitamins, creating a balanced, nourishing meal that's perfect for colder evenings.
A luxurious stroganoff sauce is a versatile classic, pairing beautifully with beef, mushrooms, or even venison. Explore our stroganoff recipes for more inspiration.
2. Mexican chicken stew with quinoa & beans
A hearty stew featuring chicken, pinto beans, and quinoa, this dish is packed with protein and fibre. Quinoa is a complete protein, while beans and chicken provide additional amino acids. The warming spices make it perfect for winter evenings.
Discover more one-pot meals using winter produce in our winter stew recipes.
3. Peruvian chicken, avocado & quinoa salad
This vibrant dish combines lean chicken breast, creamy avocado, and protein-packed quinoa for a double dose of nutrients. Light yet satisfying, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner – and it’s naturally gluten-free.
Keep yourself fuller for longer with our high-protein salad recipes.
4. Chicken & bean enchiladas
This hearty dish combines lean chicken breast with black beans, rich in protein, and a vibrant mix of vegetables to cover four of your five-a-day. The beans also provide fibre, aiding digestion and keeping you fuller for longer.
Put on a flavourful feast with our Mexican recipes, including tacos, fajitas and quesadillas.
5. Turkey meatballs with citrus couscous
Lean turkey mince is an excellent source of protein and is lower in fat than beef, making it a healthier choice. Paired with zesty citrus-infused couscous, this light yet satisfying dish is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s equally delicious cold, so enjoy it for dinner and pack the leftovers for an easy, nutritious lunch.
Explore more turkey mince recipes for lean, budget-friendly inspiration.
6. Spicy fish stew
Packed with omega-3-rich salmon and a vibrant medley of veg (covering four of your five-a-day), this dish is infused with warming spices. It’s a great Friday night fish supper that won’t have you feeling uncomfortably full.
Discover more healthy salmon recipes.
7. Curried spinach, eggs & chickpeas
A vegetarian-friendly dish, this combines protein-rich eggs and chickpeas with nutrient-dense spinach in a spiced curry base. Pair it with your favourite Indian sides, and we would recommend a fluffy naan to mop up the sauce.
Try more of our Indian recipes.
8. Mediterranean turkey-stuffed peppers
Turkey is a lean, low-fat protein packed with essential amino acids, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Sweet peppers add a vibrant boost of vitamin C to support your immune system through the winter, while the mushroom and tomato filling delivers fibre and antioxidants. It’s no surprise the Mediterranean diet is celebrated for its health benefits.
Discover more healthy Mediterranean-inspired recipes.
9. One-pan pesto, chicken & spinach lasagne
For a cosy winter meal that’s big on flavour but light on washing up, try our one-pan pesto, chicken & spinach lasagne. Packed with protein to keep you energised and spinach, a great source of immunity-boosting iron, it’s a quick, comforting dish to help you stay strong against winter lurgies.
Read further about the health benefits of spinach.
10. Vegan lentils with soy & ginger tofu
This plant-based dish combines protein-packed tofu and lentils with the bold flavours of soy sauce, ginger, and fresh coriander. Warming and nutrient-dense, it’s a satisfying choice for vegans and meat eaters alike. A hint of chilli adds a gentle kick—perfect for clearing the sinuses on chilly winter evenings.
Try these high-protein vegan meals full of pulses, nuts and grains galore.
Discover more...
Freezable winter dinners
Winter salad recipes
Top winter drinks
Top winter one-pot meals
Top quick winter dinner ideas
