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Chicken and Vegetable Meal Prep

Chicken and Vegetable Meal Prep - Cheap Delicious Meals

I remember the first time I decided to embrace meal prepping. It was a hectic week, and the daily question of “What’s for dinner?” became unbearable. I stumbled upon a simple recipe: chicken and vegetables. At first, I thought it might be boring. But as I stared at the colorful veggies and juicy chicken sizzling on the stove, I realized I had struck gold! 
Fast forward to today, meal prepping has become a game changer in my life. This chicken and vegetable dish is not only easy but also flexible enough to keep things exciting. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and why you should consider adding it to your regular routine.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and healthy fats.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian herb blend: Brings an aromatic flavor profile.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers a subtle warmth.
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes optional
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper optional
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt: Essential for tuning flavor.
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely minced: Adds an aromatic foundation.
  • 2 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into ½-inch cubes: The protein star of our dish.
  • 1 small red onion, diced: Introduces sweetness.
  • 1 medium zucchini, chopped into bite-sized pieces: Brings freshness to the mix.
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, fresh or frozen: Offers a nice crunch and nutrients.
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: Adds a juicy burst.
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: For a touch of acidity.
  • 2-4 cups cooked rice of choice, optional: Makes it heartier.
  • 4 meal prep containers: Necessary for storing your delicious meals.

Method
 

  1. Now let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here’s how to whip up this dish, step by step.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
  1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the chicken, dice the onion, cut the zucchini into cubes, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Oh, don’t forget to mince the garlic! Having everything prepped makes the cooking quicker.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
  1. In a large skillet, add the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for about a minute. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen—now that’s a good sign!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
  1. Add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle it with sea salt, pepper, garlic, and the Italian herb blend. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Your kitchen will be enchanted by the smell of sautéing chicken.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
  1. Once the chicken is almost done, toss in the diced red onion, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. If you prefer a firmer texture, keep an eye on them; you want them bright and colorful.
Step 5: Finish Off with Tomatoes
  1. Finally, add the halved cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The tomatoes will soften slightly but still provide a burst of juice when you bite into them.
Step 6: Serve and Store
  1. If you’re adding rice, you can mix it directly into the skillet or serve it separately in meal prep containers. Divide the meal evenly into individual containers. Allow to cool before sealing, and store in the fridge.

Notes

Here are some tips for meal prepping that I’ve found beneficial:
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for seasonal fruits and vegetables, enhancing taste and nutrition.
  • Cook with Love: Seriously. No one likes bland food. Season it well as you go.
  • Plan Ahead: Lay out a meal plan for the week so that you know how to balance out leftovers and new dishes.
  • Utilize Containers: Invest in quality meal prep containers that seal well to keep your food fresh longer.
  • Label Your Meals: A simple label with a date helps you keep track of what to eat first.