Eggs are widely known as a great source of protein—one large egg contains about 6 grams of high-quality protein. But did you know there are several foods that actually offer even more protein than an egg? Whether you are building muscle, losing weight, or improving your nutrition, adding high-protein foods to your diet can be extremely beneficial.
In this article, we explore 12 foods with more protein than an egg, why protein matters, and how you can include these foods in your meals for maximum health benefits.
Why Protein Matters
Protein is essential for:
building and repairing muscles
supporting metabolism
maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails
hormone and enzyme production
boosting satiety and weight management
Unlike fat and carbohydrates, protein contains amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. That’s why including rich protein sources in your daily diet is important.
12 Foods with More Protein than an Egg
1. Chicken Breast
Chicken breast tops the list of high-protein foods.
Protein content: ~31g per 100g
Benefits: lean, low fat, versatile
Uses: grilled, baked, shredded, soups
It’s a popular option for athletes and weight-loss diets because it delivers more than five times the protein of one egg per 100 grams.
2. Greek Yogurt
Compared to ordinary yogurt, Greek yogurt is thicker, creamier, and higher in protein.
Protein content: 10g per 100g (varies by brand)
Benefits: contains probiotics, calcium
Uses: breakfast, smoothies, dips
A 200-gram serving can give you nearly 20 grams of protein.
3. Cottage Cheese (Paneer)
One of the best vegetarian protein sources is paneer.
Protein content: 18g per 100g
Benefits: slow-digesting casein
Uses: curries, salads, snacks
It provides three times more protein than an egg of similar weight.
4. Lentils
Lentils are a powerhouse for vegetarians and vegans.
Protein content: 9g per 100g (cooked)
Benefits: rich in fiber and iron
Uses: dal, soups, salads
They are also affordable, making them an everyday staple for protein needs.
5. Tofu
Tofu is made from soy, and is a great plant protein alternative.
Protein content: 8g per 100g
Benefits: contains all essential amino acids
Uses: stir-fries, curries, grilling
Tofu is ideal for vegetarians and lactose-intolerant individuals.
6. Almonds
Almonds are not just a healthy snack—they are protein rich.
Protein content: 21g per 100g
Benefits: healthy fats, vitamin E
Uses: snacks, almond butter, smoothies
Just a handful adds a good protein boost to your diet.
7. Tuna
Tuna is one of the highest protein seafoods.
Protein content: 29g per 100g
Benefits: omega-3 fatty acids
Uses: grilled, canned, salads
It is low fat and supports heart and brain health.
8. Chickpeas (Chana)
Chickpeas are a great protein source for vegetarians.
Protein content: 19g per 100g (cooked ~8-9g)
Benefits: fiber and complex carbs
Uses: hummus, curries, chaat
Combine chickpeas with whole grains for complete protein.
9. Quinoa
Quinoa is a unique grain because it contains all essential amino acids.
Protein content: 14g per 100g (uncooked)
Benefits: gluten-free, rich in fiber
Uses: salads, bowls, porridge
It supports steady energy and muscle repair.
10. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are small but protein dense.
Protein content: 30g per 100g
Benefits: magnesium, zinc
Uses: toppings, snacks, smoothies
A small handful boosts protein without much effort.
11. Black Beans
Black beans are another excellent plant-based protein option.
Protein content: 8.9g per 100g (cooked)
Benefits: high fiber, antioxidants
Uses: burritos, salads, curries
They keep you full longer thanks to fiber.
12. Salmon
Salmon delivers high protein along with crucial fatty acids.
Protein content: 20g per 100g
Benefits: omega-3, vitamin D
Uses: grilled, baked, smoked
It supports muscle health along with heart and brain function.
Comparison Table: Protein Content
Food Protein per 100g
Egg 6g
Chicken breast 31g
Tuna 29g
Pumpkin seeds 30g
Cottage cheese 18g
Greek yogurt 10g
Lentils 9g
Tofu 8g
Salmon 20g
Chickpeas 19g
Black beans 8.9g
Almonds 21g
Quinoa 14g
Every food listed above contains significantly more protein than an egg per gram.
How to Add These High-Protein Foods to Your Diet
Here are simple meal ideas:
Breakfast
Greek yogurt with nuts
Paneer stuffed paratha
Quinoa porridge
Lunch
Chicken or tuna salad
Chickpeas curry
Quinoa rice bowls
Dinner
Salmon with vegetables
Tofu stir-fry
Lentil soup
Snacks
Almonds
Pumpkin seeds
Cottage cheese cubes
Protein should be spread throughout the day to support metabolism and muscle repair.
Benefits of Eating High-Protein Foods
improves metabolism
helps weight loss by reducing appetite
supports muscle gain
prevents overeating
stabilizes blood sugar
enhances recovery after exercise
Protein-rich foods also help maintain lean muscle, especially during dieting.
Who Can Benefit Most?
athletes
weightlifters
diabetic individuals
people trying to lose fat
vegetarians and vegans
Even children and elderly individuals need sufficient protein for growth and repair.
Final Thoughts
Eggs are nutritious, affordable, and healthy—no doubt. But if you want foods with even more protein, you have many options. From chicken breast and tuna to lentils, tofu, almonds, and quinoa, these foods deliver more protein per serving and provide additional nutrients such as fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
By including these 12 protein-rich foods in your daily diet, you can support muscle health, strengthen metabolism, maintain steady energy, and feel fuller for longer. Protein is a key nutrient for everyone, and these foods make it easier to meet your daily requirements while enjoying delicious and diverse meals.
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