I always keep these 7 high-protein foods in my kitchen. They make it easy to follow my ‘4/5’ rule, which helped me lose 35 pounds.

2. Eggs

Eggs are a great source of protein and are also rich in nutrients. I like mine scrambled or fried atop avocado on sourdough toast or in a cheesy vegetable omelet.

If you’re looking for an extra protein boost for a few calories, you can mix in some extra egg whites.

3. Chicken

Chicken is bursting with protein and can be cooked in various ways, depending on your tastes and recipe choice.

I often buy breasts as they’re lean, and I prefer the texture to that of wings, legs, and thighs.

Some of my favorite ways to cook chicken are oven-baked breasts stuffed with mozzarella, pesto, and basil; poached and shredded breasts added to pasta dishes or curry; and diced fried chicken in a stir-fry.

4. Ground beef

Ground beef is so easy to cook and add to dishes, and it provides iron as well as protein.

If you’re trying to keep your calories low, opt for beef with lower fat content — I often buy 5% fat beef — or you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken (but be sure not to overcook to avoid a rubbery texture).

I mostly use ground beef in Bolognese and chili con carne.

5. Chickpeas

I’m a huge fan of “flexitarian” eating: I cook meals that contain some meat but also provide plant-based protein from chickpeas, beans, or lentils. It’s a great way to keep costs down and your fiber intake up.

Seasoned roasted chickpeas are a great nutritious snack, too.

6. Babybel cheeses

I love Babybel cheeses and actually prefer the light version — each one is about 50 calories and provides six grams of protein. I always have them on hand in the fridge as a go-to snack when I’m craving something savory but want something higher in protein than a bag of chips.

7. Protein powder and bars

While I try to get most of my protein from whole, unprocessed foods, as nutritionists recommend, I do find protein powders and bars convenient on days when I need a boost.

I add protein powders to smoothies and oatmeal and take protein bars with me when I’m on the go.