Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep for Easy Weeknight Dinners!

Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and nutritious meal ready in a snap. This recipe combines the bright, tangy flavors of lemon and garlic with juicy chicken breasts, making it a meal prep staple that’s sure to please. Whether you’re looking to streamline your weekday lunches or prepare wholesome dinners in advance, this Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep is a game-changer.

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The Benefits of Meal Prepping with Lemon Garlic Chicken

Meal prepping has become a go-to strategy for health-conscious individuals who want to take control of their eating habits. By preparing your Lemon Garlic Chicken and sides in advance, you’ll enjoy a host of benefits, including:

• Time-Saving Convenience: With your Lemon Garlic Chicken and sides ready to go, you can save valuable time on busy weekdays, ensuring a nutritious meal is always within reach.
• Healthier Eating Choices: Meal prepping with Lemon Garlic Chicken allows you to have a balanced, portion-controlled meal at your fingertips, reducing the temptation to reach for less-healthy options.
• Financial Benefits: Preparing your own Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep can be more cost-effective than relying on costly takeout or restaurant meals.
• Reduced Food Waste: By planning your meals in advance, you can minimize food waste and ensure that all your fresh ingredients are put to good use.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

To make your delicious Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Lemon Garlic Chicken

• 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Meal Prep Sides (choose what you like)

• 3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
• 3 to 4 cups broccoli florets (or green beans/asparagus)
• Optional: 1 tbsp butter for veggies, extra lemon wedges

How to Marinate the Lemon Garlic Chicken

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in this Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep recipe, as it helps infuse the meat with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and garlic. Start by tossing the chicken pieces with the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15 to 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in the refrigerator, giving the flavors ample time to meld and tenderize the meat.

Cooking the Lemon Garlic Chicken

Once the chicken has had a chance to marinate, it’s time to cook it to perfection. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as this can lead to dryness.

Preparing the Meal Prep Sides

While the chicken is cooking, take the time to prepare the meal prep sides. For the rice, simply cook it according to the package instructions, using your choice of white, brown, or quinoa varieties. For the vegetables, you can steam or roast the broccoli florets (or green beans/asparagus) until they’re tender-crisp. If desired, you can toss the cooked vegetables with a tablespoon of butter for added flavor.

Assembling Your Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep Containers

Now, it’s time to assemble your Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep containers. Divide the cooked chicken and vegetables evenly among 4 meal prep containers. If there are any flavorful pan juices left in the skillet from cooking the chicken, be sure to spoon them over the top of the chicken in each container.

Storing and Reheating Your Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

To ensure your Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep stays fresh and delicious, allow the containers to cool completely before refrigerating them. Once cooled, store the containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat it in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or until it’s hot throughout.

FAQs About Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

What is the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy during meal prep?

To ensure your Lemon Garlic Chicken remains juicy during meal prep, focus on two key factors: marination and cooking technique. First, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to help it absorb moisture and flavor. Use an acid, such as lemon juice, which not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Second, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to dryness. Consider letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before portioning it into your meal prep containers.

Can I use a slow cooker for the Lemon Garlic Chicken meal prep?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to prepare your Lemon Garlic Chicken, and it can yield tender and flavorful results. To adapt the recipe, combine the marinated chicken with minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F. This method allows the chicken to soak in the flavors while cooking slowly, making it a great option for meal prep. You can then shred or portion the chicken as desired.

How can I make this meal prep option more budget-friendly?

To make your Lemon Garlic Chicken meal prep more budget-friendly, consider the following tips: First, purchase chicken in bulk, which often reduces the cost per pound. Look for sales or discounts at your local grocery store or consider using frozen chicken, which can be more affordable. Additionally, opt for seasonal vegetables that are often cheaper and fresher. You can also substitute some of the rice with less expensive grains like barley or use less meat by incorporating more vegetables into the sides. Lastly, meal prepping larger quantities at once can save money on individual meal costs over time.

What are some quick meal prep tips for beginners?

For beginners diving into Lemon Garlic Chicken meal prep, here are some quick tips to streamline the process: Start by organizing your workspace and gathering all ingredients and tools before you begin cooking. Prep ingredients in bulk; for example, chop all vegetables at once and store them in airtight containers. Use a digital kitchen scale for precise measurements when portioning out chicken and sides. Invest in quality meal prep containers that are microwave-safe and leak-proof. Finally, choose a day of the week dedicated to meal prepping, making it a routine to ensure you stay consistent and organized in your healthy eating journey.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread
• Creamy “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta

Get ready to enjoy the bright, zesty flavors of Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep! With its juicy chicken, flavorful sides, and make-ahead convenience, this recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Meal prep your way to a healthier, more organized lifestyle with this delicious and versatile option.

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