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High-Protein Diet Plan for Muscle Gain: Bulk Up Fast

Targeted towards muscle gain, this high-protein diet maximizes intake from various sources, including dairy, eggs, meats, and plant-based proteins like quinoa and legumes. Coupled with strength training, it’s engineered to fuel muscle growth and repair, making it ideal for athletes and bodybuilders.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Chicken breast
  • Turkey breast
  • Lean beef
  • Pork loin
  • Salmon
  • Tuna
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Whey protein powder

  • Casein protein powder
  • Tofu
  • Tempeh
  • Edamame
  • Lentils
  • Chickpeas
  • Black beans
  • Kidney beans
  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice
  • Oats

  • Almonds
  • Peanuts
  • Pistachios
  • Chia seeds
  • Hemp seeds
  • Flaxseeds
  • Avocado
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Broccoli
  • Spinach
  • Kale

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on April 29, 2024.
• Updated on August 13, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The high-protein diet plan for muscle gain is designed to provide the building blocks for muscle growth and repair. It focuses on substantial protein sources like chicken breast, whey protein, and legumes, coupled with complex carbohydrates to fuel workouts. Healthy fats are also included to support hormone production and cellular health.

Regular meals enriched with protein ensure that your body has the necessary components to build muscle effectively. This diet is ideal for athletes and anyone looking to increase muscle mass and strength.

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Foods to eat

  • Lean Meats: Turkey, chicken, and lean cuts of beef, which are excellent sources of protein for muscle repair and growth.
  • Protein Shakes: Whey or plant-based protein powders mixed with water or milk, ideal for post-workout recovery.
  • Complex Carbohydrates: Quinoa, brown rice, and oats to provide sustained energy and support muscle recovery.
  • Fats: Avocado, nuts, and seeds, which are crucial for hormone production and overall health.
  • Dairy: Low-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt for additional protein and calcium, which is important for muscle function.
quote icon

(...) whole-food, plant-based diets are great for people who like to eat, since you can basically eat as much as you want without worrying about counting calories

Michael Greger, MD

Foods not to eat

  • Alcohol: Can impede muscle recovery and decrease protein synthesis.
  • Added Sugars: Soft drinks and high-sugar snacks that can lead to energy spikes and dips.
  • Deep-Fried Foods: Can add unnecessary fats and calories without beneficial nutrients.
  • Excessive Caffeine: In large amounts can interfere with muscle recovery and sleep quality.
  • High-Fat Meats: Such as bacon and ribeye, which might add more saturated fat than desired.

Main benefits

The high-protein diet plan for muscle gain provides the necessary nutrients to fuel muscle recovery and growth. With a focus on high-quality protein sources, it supports intensive training routines by enhancing muscle repair. This diet is key for anyone looking to increase strength and muscle size effectively.

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📊 Nutrient breakdown of the low-carb diet (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Invest in cuts of meat that are both lean and high in protein like flank steak or chicken breast; consider buying these in bulk from local butchers to get a better price. Utilize dairy products such as milk, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt, which are cost-effective and excellent sources of protein necessary for muscle repair and growth. Combine different protein sources like combining beans with rice to form a complete protein, offering a cost-effective way to boost protein intake without relying solely on meat.

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7-Day Meal Plan for High-Protein Diet Plan for Muscle Gain

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with chia seeds, hemp seeds, and almonds
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa and steamed broccoli
  • Dinner: Salmon fillet with sweet potatoes and sautéed kale
  • Snack: Cottage cheese with sliced avocado and flaxseeds

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with whey protein powder, flaxseeds, and blueberries
  • Lunch: Turkey breast wraps using lettuce with kidney beans and avocado
  • Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with brown rice and mixed vegetables (broccoli, spinach)
  • Snack: A handful of pistachios and a serving of edamame

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and mushrooms
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with a side of sautéed tempeh
  • Dinner: Grilled pork loin with roasted sweet potatoes and steamed asparagus
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with sliced almonds and honey

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Cottage cheese with sliced bananas and hemp seeds
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and parsley
  • Dinner: Baked lean beef with quinoa and sautéed spinach
  • Snack: Smoothie with milk, casein protein powder, and peanut butter

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with Greek yogurt, oats, chia seeds, and mixed berries
  • Lunch: Black bean soup with a side of grilled chicken strips
  • Dinner: Tuna steak with brown rice and roasted Brussels sprouts
  • Snack: Hard-boiled eggs and a few almonds

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Omelette with tomatoes, onions, and feta cheese (from Greek yogurt)
  • Lunch: Lentil and vegetable stew with a side of steamed kale
  • Dinner: Grilled turkey breast with mashed sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Casein protein shake with flaxseed and peanut butter

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Pancakes made with oats, whey protein powder, and topped with fresh strawberries
  • Lunch: Beef stir-fry with bell peppers, broccoli, and brown rice
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with quinoa and steamed spinach
  • Snack: Tofu and avocado salad with lemon dressing

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.