January Reset: 7 Light, High-Protein Meals After the Holidays

By Rossi Voss | January 2, 2025 | Prep: 10–15 mins | Cook: 25–40 mins | Servings: 4 | Cost: $2.80–$3.60/serving

The holidays are over, and your body is ready for a fresh start. As someone who’s written Stockpot Cookbook: 139 Simple and Hearty Recipes (only $0.99!), I’ve designed this **January Reset** to help you eat lighter, feel better, and stay satisfied — without deprivation.

Each recipe uses your Instant Pot, Air Fryer, or stockpot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. They’re all high-protein, freezer-friendly, and ready in under 40 minutes.

1. Instant Pot Turkey & Vegetable Stew

Servings: 4 | Protein: 28g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Cost: $3.20/serving

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup green beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp thyme
• 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions:
Brown turkey with onion. Add veggies, tomatoes, broth, and herbs. Seal → Manual 10 mins → Quick release. Stir and serve.

2. Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon

Servings: 4 | Protein: 32g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Cost: $3.80/serving

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Brush salmon with butter, garlic, and lemon. Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes. Serve with roasted veggies.

3. Lentil & Roasted Veggie Bowls

Servings: 4 | Protein: 18g | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Cost: $2.90/serving

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
• 1 sweet potato, cubed
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth

Instructions:
Roast veggies at 400°F for 25 mins. Cook lentils in broth 25 mins. Assemble bowls and drizzle with tahini or lemon dressing.

4. Instant Pot Chicken & Rice

Servings: 4 | Protein: 28g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Cost: $3.40/serving

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Sauté chicken, carrot, and celery 5 mins. Add rice, broth, and thyme. Simmer 25–30 mins until rice is tender. Fluff and serve.

5. Air Fryer Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Servings: 4 | Protein: 26g | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Cost: $3.00/serving

• 4 bell peppers, tops cut off, seeds removed
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

Instructions:
Brown turkey in skillet. Mix with rice, sauce, and seasoning. Stuff peppers, top with cheese. Air fry at 375°F for 20–25 mins until peppers are tender.

6. Stockpot Brothy Chicken Soup

Servings: 4 | Protein: 24g | Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Cost: $3.10/serving

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
Sauté chicken, onion, carrots, and celery 5 mins. Add broth and thyme. Simmer 25 mins. Serve with crusty bread.

7. Zucchini Noodle Alfredo with Chicken

Servings: 4 | Protein: 22g | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Cost: $3.60/serving

• 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp cream cheese
• ¼ tsp nutmeg

Instructions:
Spiralize zucchini and pat dry. Steam cauliflower, blend with milk, Parmesan, cream cheese, and nutmeg until smooth. Sauté chicken, add sauce, toss with zoodles. Serve warm.

Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips

• Stews and soups freeze beautifully for 2–3 months.
• Chicken & rice stores well in the fridge for 4–5 days.
• Stuffed peppers reheat perfectly from frozen — add a splash of broth.
• Salmon is best fresh but can be reheated gently in the air fryer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prep these ahead?

Yes! All seven recipes are meal prep-friendly. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for 4–5 days.

Are these freezer-safe?

Absolutely. Stews, soups, and stuffed peppers freeze exceptionally well. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot.

Can I use canned beans instead of lentils?

Yes! For the lentil bowls, swap lentils for 1 can black beans or chickpeas. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Final Thoughts

This January Reset proves that eating lighter doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With your favorite appliances and a few simple ingredients, you can bring nourishing, delicious meals to your table — day after day.

Want more reset inspiration? Try my 3-Ingredient Instant Pot Black Garlic series and Back-to-School Meal Prep Guide for more time-saving hacks.

Which reset meal will you try first? Share your creations on social media with #RossiVossReset.

Happy New Year!
Rossi Voss