Lean proteins can foster health by facilitating muscle mass, aiding in weight loss, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. 

Whether coming back from a long workday or intense evening workout, regenerate with these high-protein, low-carb dinners. 

(And no, a chicken breast and rice is not the only meal on this dinner menu!)

9 High-Protein, Low-Carb Recipes and Ideas

1. Mexican-Style Stuffed Peppers

Cut the tops off bell peppers, take out the ribs and seeds, and rinse. Fill the hollow pepper with taco mixture - ground turkey, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Wrap peppers tightly in foil and stand them in a baking dish. 

Bake in 350°F oven for 10 minutes then uncover and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

2. Parmesan Zucchini Boats

Traditional chicken parmesan is generally high in calories and carbs. Using a zucchini in place of noodles can dramatically cut the carb content. 

Check out this healthy low-carb dinner to satisfy your next pasta craving. Also feel free to get creative with toppings and flavors!

3. Meatloaf

Hate it or love it, meatloaf is a substantial protein source and excellent way to sneak in veggies. 

Prepare meatloaf with a lean ground beef or turkey and add chopped carrots, zucchini, and other veggies you have on hand. For a Mexican spin, load meatloaf with bell peppers, onions, taco seasoning, and other favorite flavors!

4. Portabella Pizzas

Reduce the carb content of pizza by swapping out pizza crust with the crowns of portabella mushrooms. 

Fill the caps with protein-rich toppings such as chicken, ground turkey, or lean beef. Pair with a side salad for a high-protein, low-carb dinner loaded with nutrients.

5. Chicken Salad

Give traditional chicken salad a healthful spin! 

Replace heavy mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat and amplify protein content. For added texture, flavor, and nutrients, feel free to add apples, grapes, and sliced almonds or pecans. 

Fill a low-carb tortilla or dip cucumbers and carrots into the protein-packed salad.

6. Spaghetti Squash Pasta

The use of a spaghetti squash offers spaghetti-like "noodles" without the undesired carb content. It is also loaded with vitamins A and C and fiber.

Guiltlessly indulge in favorite pasta dishes, including spaghetti and meatballs and chicken parmesan, with these delicious, guilt-free ways to eat spaghetti squash. 

7. Lettuce Wraps

Say "goodbye" to tortillas and welcome this healthy low-carb dinner. 

Lettuce wraps can harness a multitude of flavors - Mexican with ground turkey, peppers, and onions; Asian-inspired with ground chicken, carrots, cabbage, and soy sauce; spicy with grilled chicken, hot sauce, and cucumber; or with the chicken salad described above in #5!

8. Thai Beef

Have a craving for an oriental meal but not willing to sacrifice all your hard work and devotion to health? 

Skip out on heavy take-out and try this light, refreshing version of Thai beef!

9. Shrimp and Quinoa Bowls

Shrimp is an excellent high-protein option that contains those "healthy" fats, also known as unsaturated fats. Instead of traditional rice, pair shrimp with quinoa for a plant-based protein that contains essential amino acids and several other valuable nutrients. 

Season with garlic, onion, Cajun seasonings, and other favorite spices. Feel free to bulk up the bowl with fresh veggies and herbs!