Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep for a Healthy Week Ahead!

Meal prepping has become a game-changer for busy individuals seeking a healthier lifestyle. Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep is one such recipe that checks all the boxes – it’s delicious, nutritious, and incredibly easy to prepare in advance. This zesty and aromatic chicken dish, paired with vibrant vegetables, is the perfect solution for those who want to save time, stick to their dietary goals, and enjoy a satisfying meal throughout the week.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

The key to this Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep recipe is the flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with bold citrus and garlic notes. Combined with a selection of simple, yet wholesome, side dishes, this meal prep is a true crowd-pleaser.

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

  • 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

Marinating the Lemon Garlic Chicken

Proper marination is the key to unlocking the full flavor potential of this Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep. By tossing the chicken with the fragrant marinade ingredients, you’ll infuse the meat with a delightful citrusy and garlicky essence that will have your taste buds dancing. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 to 30 minutes, or up to overnight, for the best results.

Cooking the Lemon Garlic Chicken

Once the chicken has had a chance to soak up all those delicious flavors, 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 beautifully browned and cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

Preparing the Meal Prep Sides

While the chicken is sizzling away, it’s time to tackle the side dishes. Steam or roast the broccoli florets until they’re tender-crisp and vibrant. For the rice, simply portion out the cooked grains into your meal prep containers.

Assembling the Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

The final step is to divide the Lemon Garlic Chicken and broccoli between your meal prep containers. Be sure to spoon any delectable pan juices over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful. If desired, add a pat of butter to the broccoli for an extra burst of richness.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep 4 Servings Easy Delicious

Storing and Reheating Your Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

Once your Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep containers are assembled, allow them to cool completely before refrigerating. These meals will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until piping hot.

FAQs About Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep

How can I make Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep suitable for a low-carb diet?

To adapt Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep for a low-carb diet, you can replace traditional sides like rice or quinoa with lower-carb alternatives. Consider using cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or sautéed spinach as your base. Additionally, ensure that any sauces or seasonings you use are free from added sugars or high-carb ingredients. You can also increase the amount of non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, to add volume and nutrients without significantly increasing carbs.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken in this meal prep?

Yes, you can definitely substitute other proteins for chicken in this Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep. Options like turkey breast, shrimp, or firm tofu can work well with the lemon garlic marinade. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the protein you choose. For instance, shrimp will cook much faster than chicken, so adjust your cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through and safe to eat.

What kitchen tools or equipment are recommended for preparing Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep?

To prepare Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep efficiently, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools. A sharp chef’s knife will help you cut the chicken and vegetables easily. A mixing bowl is essential for marinating the chicken, while a large skillet or baking dish is necessary for cooking. For steaming or roasting vegetables, a steamer basket or baking sheet will be helpful. Lastly, quality meal prep containers will allow you to store your meals securely and conveniently.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep without adding extra calories?

To enhance the flavor of your Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep without significantly increasing calories, consider using fresh herbs and spices. Adding chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil right before serving can brighten the dish. You might also try incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of capers for a tangy kick. Additionally, using a variety of citrus, like orange or lime zest, can provide a unique twist on the classic lemon flavor without adding extra calories.

Get ready to enjoy the delightful flavors of Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep all week long! This recipe is a true game-changer for anyone seeking a healthy, satisfying, and incredibly tasty meal option. Dive in and savor the vibrant combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and tantalizing lemon-garlic notes – your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you.

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

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Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep 4 Servings Easy Delicious

Make Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep for a Healthy Week Ahead!


  • Author: Sofia Rojas
  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Lemon Garlic Chicken Meal Prep is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare recipe that is perfect for meal prepping. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a zesty lemon garlic sauce, paired with vibrant vegetables.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
  • 3 to 4 cup broccoli florets (or green beans/asparagus)
  • 1 tablespoon butter for veggies (optional)
  • extra lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken by combining olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade and let sit for at least 15 to 30 minutes or up to overnight.

2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the marinated chicken for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

3. While the chicken cooks, steam or roast the broccoli florets until tender-crisp. Portion out the cooked rice into meal prep containers.

4. Divide the cooked chicken and broccoli between meal prep containers, spooning any pan juices over the chicken. Add a pat of butter to the broccoli if desired.

5. Allow the containers to cool completely before refrigerating. Meals can be stored for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until hot.

Notes

For a low-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. You may also use other proteins such as turkey breast, shrimp, or firm tofu.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Meal Prep
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 container
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg