So, for athletes looking to build muscle and recover faster, how can you tweak your diet to hit those protein goals? It also helps with muscle recovery, reducing concentrations of enzymes linked to muscle damage. It also helps with muscle recovery, reducing concentrations of enzymes linked to muscle damage. Chicken Breastetienne voss / Getty ImagesThe nutrition basics:Serving: 3 oz, cooked3 oz, cooked Protein: 26 g26 g Calories: 128Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein. Eggsakiyoko / Getty ImagesThe nutrition basics:Serving: One large eggOne large egg Protein: 6 g6 g Calories: 72Eggs are known for being a high quality protein.