Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
What Foods Are High in Protein But Low in Calories?
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
10 high-protein foods low in calories

Protein is the best option when it comes to weight loss because it makes you feel fuller for much longer. A protein-rich food is also often lower in calories than most foods rich in fat and carbohydrate.
The 10 high-protein foods that are low in calories include:
- Eggs: One egg provides you with seven grams of protein and 85 calories.
- Eggs are cheap and easy sources of improving your protein intake.
- Prefer organic eggs whenever possible since these eggs are certified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and are free from antibiotics, vaccines, and hormones.
- The color of eggs does not matter because all have similar nutritional values.
- Wild salmon: Three ounces of wild salmon provides you with 17 grams of protein and 121 calories.
- Although it is high in fats, it contains more of the healthier fats known as unsaturated fats, specifically omega-3 fatty acids.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are best known for their heart-healthy effects.
- Having at least two servings of wild salmon one time a week can help you in your weight loss journey while also providing you with a whole lot of nutrients.
- Chicken: Three ounces of cooked chicken breast contain 142 calories and 26 grams of protein, which is more than half of the day's recommended protein intake.
- Greek yogurt: Just seven ounces of Greek yogurt provides you with 20 grams of protein but 150 calories.
- Apart from being rich in proteins, the probiotic content of Greek yogurt is one of the factors that help with weight loss.
- Good bacteria in probiotics can increase your metabolism and help you maintain a healthy weight.
- While buying Greek yogurt, read the label and opt for brands that are sugar-free or low in sugar.
- Beans: Half a cup of beans provides you with 7 to 10 grams of protein and anywhere between 109 and 148 calories (depending on the type of beans).
- Beans are packed not only with proteins but also with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
- They are one of the best protein-rich options that make you feel full for a longer duration.
- You can easily have them during dinner time with brown rice or add them to other healthier options such as soups and salads.
- Lentils: One cup of lentils provides you with 18 grams of proteins (the protein present in three eggs) and 230 calories.
- Lentils are low in fat and high in fiber and are good at fulfilling your satiety and speeding up your fat loss.
- Eat them with brown rice as sides or add them to soups.
- Artichokes: One medium-sized vegetable replenishes you with 4.2 grams of protein but only 60 calories.

