
This healthy, low-calorie, high-protein snack is perfect to fuel your workout or as a quick snack between meals. Each contains about 10 to 30 grams of protein.


high protein snack
If you’re anything like me, finding healthy, high-protein snacks can be a bit difficult. You want food that’s not only delicious, but filling, balanced, made with feel-good ingredients, and rich in protein. So I’ve created a list of low-calorie, high-protein snacks to help you out. Each snack listed has approximately 200 to 300 calories with 10 to 30 grams of protein. Whether you’re trying to meet your protein goals or need a little refueling between meals, these high-protein snacks will save the day. And please leave your favorite high-protein snacks in the comments below so we can all help each other! If you want a snack that doesn’t prioritize protein, I’ve got you covered! Check out my snack categories, from kid-friendly snacks to sweet treats.
Can snacks help with a high-protein diet?
Snacks can play an important role in supporting a high-protein diet. It provides a convenient way to increase your protein intake throughout the day, especially between meals and on the go. Protein is essential for a variety of body functions, including regulating hormones that affect everything from mood to metabolism. It also supports collagen and keratin production, which plays an important role in maintaining healthy hair and skin. High-protein snacks can also help balance blood sugar levels, prevent energy crashes, and keep you full for longer. Adding the right snacks to your daily routine not only supports muscle growth and recovery, but also promotes overall well-being by stabilizing energy and nourishing the body from within.
Best High Protein Snacks
Since I eat a high-protein diet, I often get asked, “Which snacks contain a lot of protein?” I’ve compiled a list of healthy snacks with varying amounts of protein to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a light snack with about 10 grams of protein, a heartier snack with 20 grams, or a powerful option with 30 grams of protein, there’s something for everyone here.
30 gram protein snack



Convenient, high-protein snacks of about 30 grams each
Here are some easy, high-protein snacks that each provide about 30 grams of protein:
- protein shake with milk – Mix 1 scoop of whey protein powder (typically provides 20 to 25 grams of protein and 120 to 150 calories) with 1 cup of low-fat milk. (About 30g of protein, 250cal)
- Hard Boiled Eggs with Tuna – Mix a 3-ounce can of light tuna with one large boiled egg and a tablespoon of light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. (About 30g of protein, 220cal)
20 gram protein snack



PB+J yogurt
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Convenient, high-protein snacks weighing about 20 grams each
Here are some easy, high-protein snacks that each provide about 20 grams of protein:
- Peanut Butter and Greek Yogurt Dip with Apple Slices – Mix 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt with 1 tablespoon peanut butter. Served with sliced apples. (About 20g of protein, 230cal)
- 1/2 cup hard-boiled egg and peeled edamame (About 20g of protein, 220cal)
- 2 tablespoons almond butter on a slice of whole grain toast (About 20g of protein, 250cal)
- canned tuna – A 3-ounce can of tuna contains 20 grams of protein.
10 gram protein snack



home made hummus
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Convenient, high-protein snacks of about 10 grams each
Here are some easy, high-protein snacks that each provide about 10 grams of protein:
- 2 large hard-boiled eggs (About 12g of protein, 143cal)
- 1 slice of string cheese and 1 ounce of almonds (About 10g of protein, 150cal)
- Plain Greek Yogurt with Honey in a 5.3-ounce container (About 10g of protein, 110cal)
- Mozzarella and Almonds – Pair low-fat mozzarella cheese sticks with 10 almonds. (About 10g of protein, 110cal)
Why high-protein snacks are important
High-protein snacks don’t just stave off hunger. It’s also important for maintaining energy levels and supporting muscle growth. It can help curb cravings, especially when you’re tempted to reach for less nutritious options. For me, balancing my snacks with protein, some fiber, and healthy fats makes a big difference in keeping me satisfied until my next meal. If you want ideas on how to eat a high-protein diet all week long, see my latest high-protein meal plan.
High-protein diets are not for everyone
For most people, protein is an essential nutrient that supports overall health and well-being, but certain individuals should be cautious about significantly increasing their intake. Older people with kidney or liver disease, gout, certain metabolic disorders, or reduced kidney function may need to limit protein to avoid complications. People with heart problems should choose lean protein sources, and pregnant women and people eating very low-calorie diets should talk to their health care provider before making any changes. It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider or nutritionist before significantly increasing your protein intake, especially if you have an underlying medical condition. A balance of protein and other nutrients is important for these groups to maintain overall health.
complete protein source
Complete protein sources contain all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own. This amino acid is important for many body functions. Here are some common sources of complete protein:
Complete animal protein:
- egg
- chicken
- beef
- fish Such as salmon, tuna, and cod
- dairy products Milk, yogurt, cheese, other dairy products, etc.
Plant-based complete protein:
- quinoa
- soybean products Tofu, tempeh, peas, soy milk, etc.
- buckwheat A complete protein and a great option for a gluten-free diet.
- chia seeds It is also rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- hemp seeds
Combining proteins to create a complete protein:
Most plant proteins are incomplete on their own, but combining certain foods can create a complete protein profile. Here are some examples:
- legumes + grains: Rice and beans, lentils with whole wheat bread, hummus (made from chickpeas) with pita bread, etc.
- Whole wheat bread with peanut butter: It is a classic combo that creates a complete protein when the amino acids in wheat and peanuts combine.
- Lentils and Quinoa: Mix them together to get all the essential amino acids.
Share your favorite high-protein snacks!
What are your favorite high-protein snacks? Please let us know in the comments below. I’m always looking for new ideas to try!










