Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes — use a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend.

Do these freeze well?

Yes — freeze after cooling and thaw in the refrigerator.

You can reduce the brown sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes — thighs stay juicier and add richer flavor.

Can I grill the chicken?

Absolutely. Grilling adds smoky Mediterranean flavor.

Can I substitute the rice?

Yes — quinoa, orzo, couscous, or mixed greens all work well.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes — store ingredients separately and assemble when serving.

Is blackened tuna spicy?

It has a mild-to-moderate heat. Reduce the cayenne pepper or jalapeño for a milder version.

Can I grill the tuna instead?

Yes. Grill over high heat for the same amount of time, making sure the grates are well-oiled.

What type of tuna should I use?

Ahi (yellowfin) or sushi-grade tuna works best for searing.

Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes. The mango salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Dirty rice has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun dirty rice ahead of time?

Yes. Store dirty rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze Cajun dirty rice?

Yes. Cajun dirty rice freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

What meat can I substitute for beef?

Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.

Is Cajun cornbread spicy?

Cajun cornbread has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by reducing the jalapeño or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun cornbread ahead of time?

Yes. Cajun cornbread can be baked up to one day ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Can I freeze Cajun cornbread?

Yes. Wrap the cornbread tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make Cajun cornbread without cheese?

Yes. You can omit the cheese for a dairy-light version without affecting the texture.

Gumbo is mildly spicy. You can adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning.

Can I make chicken and sausage gumbo ahead of time?

Yes. Gumbo tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze chicken and sausage gumbo?

Yes. Gumbo freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Do I have to use okra in gumbo?

No. Okra helps thicken gumbo, but you can omit it or use filé powder if preferred.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes spicy?

They have a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning.

Can I make Cajun roasted potatoes ahead of time?

They are best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.

Can I use red or russet potatoes?

Yes. Just cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure even roasting.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes vegan?

Yes. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and vegan as written.

Is Cajun shrimp & grits spicy?

Cajun shrimp and grits has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can reduce the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to make it milder.

Can I make Cajun shrimp and grits ahead of time?

The shrimp are best cooked fresh, but the grits can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Can I use instant grits?

Yes, but stone-ground grits provide the best flavor and creamiest texture.

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Yes, whole milk can be used, though the grits will be slightly less rich.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie (Thick, Creamy & Dessert-Like)

Sarah Smith
3 days ago
2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Chocolate smoothies in glasses with banana slices and chocolate shavings on top, set against a marble background. Creamy and indulgent.

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie is thick, creamy, and deeply chocolatey, blending cocoa powder, peanut butter, banana, and protein powder into a rich, dessert-like smoothie that delivers a satisfying protein boost in minutes. The texture is smooth and indulgent, making it perfect for post-workout fuel or a filling breakfast that tastes like a treat without being overly sweet.

It’s one of those cozy smoothies that feels decadent while still being nourishing — a chocolate-lover’s option that keeps you full, energized, and happy.

If you enjoy dessert-inspired blends like our Chocolate Protein Smoothie or creamy favorites like the Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Smoothie, this peanut butter version is a must-try. It also rotates beautifully with cozy flavors like Apple Pie Smoothie or refreshing options like Avocado Pineapple Glow Smoothie, providing variety without sacrificing protein.

Why You’ll Love This

This smoothie comes together in minutes and feels like a treat while still being nourishing and protein-rich. It’s perfect for breakfast, post-workout refueling, or afternoon cravings when you want something filling and chocolatey. Plus, it’s easy to customize depending on how rich or sweet you like your smoothies.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 5 minutes Servings: 1 smoothie

Nutritional Information

(Estimated per serving, without optional add-ins)

Calories: 350 kcal Carbohydrates: 34 g Protein: 25 g Fat: 14 g Fiber: 6 g Sugar: 16 g

Ingredients

1 ripe banana
1 scoop of chocolate protein powder
1 tablespoon natural peanut butter
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
A handful of ice

Optional Add-Ins

½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (if needed)
1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flax
½ frozen banana (for extra thickness)

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a blender.

Blend until smooth, thick, and creamy.

Adjust sweetness or thickness with more milk or ice if needed.

Serve immediately.

Notes

Peanut butter adds richness and healthy fats that help keep you full longer. Chocolate protein powder enhances the dessert-like flavor, but vanilla works too. Using frozen banana creates a thicker, milkshake-style texture. This smoothie is naturally filling and works well as a meal replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this smoothie taste very sweet? No. This smoothie is rich and chocolatey with just a mild natural sweetness from the banana. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add a drizzle of honey.

Is this smoothie good for post-workout? Yes. The combination of protein and carbohydrates makes it a great option for post-workout recovery and refueling.

Can I make this dairy-free? Yes. Simply use plant-based milk and a dairy-free protein powder to keep it completely dairy-free.

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; just shake well before drinking.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie proves that healthy smoothies don’t have to taste boring. Creamy, chocolatey, and deeply satisfying, it’s a reliable go-to when you’re craving something indulgent that still fuels your day.