5 Foods with More Protein Than Chicken

Article posted in: Diet & Nutrition
protein written with beans

For many people, the phrase “healthy meal” conjures up visions of dry chicken and steamed broccoli. For some reason, chicken has come to be regarded as the quintessential healthy protein. And while we love us some good chicken (would we have compiled this amazing list of 12 Easy Chicken Dinners if we didn’t?), we think variety is the spice of life.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends including lean protein in every meal to keep you satisfied and control your weight. That’s probably because research has shown that adequate protein intake is beneficial for overall health, performance and body composition.

But if you ate chicken at every meal, we’re pretty sure you’d go crazy.

Luckily, there are many other options that contain protein. In fact, there are lots of high quality foods that provide even more protein than poultry. And while chicken is still a great option (a two ounce serving of cooked chicken contains 13 grams of protein), adding variety to your healthy diet can keep you on track and keep the boredom at bay. Try these delicious protein sources that provide more of this muscle-boosting nutrient than chicken:

1. Cottage Cheese
Non-meat sources may not be an obvious choice. And dairy maybe even less obvious. Cottage cheese slides by chicken in protein content. A half cup of cottage cheese will deliver 14 grams of protein. Choose one percent fat for a satisfying and delicious protein source. A half cup portion of cottage cheese counts as one Powerfuel on the Nutrisystem program.

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2. Seitan
Seitan just might be the king of all proteins. That’s because this vegetarian-friendly food delivers 15 grams of the good stuff per every half cup. Seitan is often used in vegan and vegetarian cooking as a meat substitute. It has a meaty texture and takes on the flavor of whatever sauces in which it’s prepared. It is a wheat-gluten and is not recommended for those following a gluten-free diet. Seitan counts as one Powerfuel on the Nutrisystem program.

3. Crab Meat
Shellfish lovers will be happy about this one: Crab is a protein power house. Three ounces delivers over 20 grams of protein. Buy fresh or pre-cooked and toss it in a salad or over some rice for a delicious meal. Three ounces of crab counts as one Powerfuel on Nutrisystem. Try this ridiculously tasty recipe for Crabby Mac and Cheese. It’s one of our customers’ favorites!

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4. Greek Yogurt
This type of yogurt isn’t just a creamy, smooth and satisfying treat. It’s also a great source of protein. One cup delivers 18 grams of protein. One cup of nonfat Greek yogurt counts as one Powerfuel on the Nutrisystem program.

5. Tuna
Tuna is a convenient, inexpensive, healthy way to add some variety to your meals. Use a half cup of canned tuna packed in water in your meal and get 20 grams of protein. Extra bonus? The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics says eating tuna increases your intake of memory boosting omega-3s. That’s one PowerFuel on the Nutrisystem program. Making tuna salad? Opt for lemon, mustard or avocado to replace the mayonnaise in your recipe. Try this delicious recipe for a Tasty Tuna Wrap you’ll love.