Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli

Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli are a fantastic choice for meal prepping. These bowls feature juicy herbed chicken, caramelized sweet potatoes, and tender steamed broccoli, making them perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers great flavor and versatility, making it suitable for various occasions like work lunches or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these meal prep bowls can be made quickly.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices enhances the chicken while the sweet potatoes add a delicious sweetness.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and vitamins, this meal will keep you energized throughout the day.
• Versatile Serving Options: Customize your bowls by adding different vegetables or grains to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare in advance and store in containers for easy grab-and-go meals during busy weeks.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Steamer basket
• Knife and cutting board
• Food storage containers

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting sweet potatoes evenly, ensuring they caramelize perfectly.
• Steamer basket: Allows you to steam broccoli without losing vital nutrients, keeping it vibrant and crisp.
• Knife and cutting board: Necessary for slicing chicken and sweet potatoes accurately for even cooking.

Ingredients

(for 2 meals):

For the Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts
• 2 tsp olive oil (1 tsp for chicken)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• tsp paprika
• tsp garlic powder

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 1 large sweet potato, sliced into rounds
• 1 tsp olive oil (for potatoes)
• Salt & optional spices

For the Broccoli

• 2 cups broccoli florets

How to Make Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli

Step 1: Season & Cook the Chicken

1. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Bake at 200C (400F) for 20-25 minutes or grill until fully cooked.
3. Slice before storing in meal prep containers.

Step 2: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

1. Toss sweet potato rounds in olive oil, salt, and any optional spices you prefer.
2. Spread them on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through until caramelized.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

1. Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Steam for 5-6 minutes until tender-crisp and vibrant green.

Step 4: Assemble the Meal Prep Bowls

1. Divide all components (chicken, sweet potatoes, broccoli) evenly into two containers.
2. Top with fresh parsley or lemon wedges if desired for added flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: ~480 kcal per container
Servings: 2

Enjoy your Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli as a quick and healthy option throughout your busy week!

How to Serve Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli

Serving Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls is easy and versatile. You can enjoy them as a wholesome lunch or dinner option. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Add Fresh Greens

• Incorporate a side of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette for added crunch and freshness.

Include Avocado Slices

• Top your meal prep bowl with creamy avocado slices for a rich texture and healthy fats.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling your favorite sauce, like tahini or a balsamic glaze, over the chicken and veggies.

Pair with Quinoa or Rice

• Serve alongside a scoop of quinoa or brown rice for extra fiber and protein, making it even more filling.

Garnish with Nuts or Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top for a satisfying crunch and added nutrients.

Serve with a Lemon Wedge

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty touch to the dish.

How to Perfect Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli

Perfecting these meal prep bowls can enhance your dining experience. Here are some tips to make them even better.

• Marinate the Chicken: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes can boost its flavor significantly.
• Cut Sweet Potatoes Evenly: Ensure sweet potato rounds are uniform in size for even cooking and caramelization.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving can elevate the taste profile.
• Adjust Cooking Times: Keep an eye on cooking times; ovens vary, so check for doneness early to avoid overcooking.
• Store Properly: Use airtight containers to keep your meal prep bowls fresh in the refrigerator and prevent sogginess.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or oven to retain moisture in both chicken and vegetables.

Best Side Dishes for Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli

Pairing these meal prep bowls with delightful side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to mashed potatoes that complements the herbed chicken perfectly.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoning, these add a nutty flavor and crunch.
3. Couscous Salad: A light salad made with couscous, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing brings freshness.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini sautéed lightly offers a low-carb twist that pairs well with chicken.
5. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Packed with protein from chickpeas, this salad features olives, tomatoes, feta (optional), and herbs.
6. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, they complement the flavors of the bowl beautifully.
7. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and is rich in vitamins, enhancing overall nutrition.
8. Quinoa Pilaf: Flavored with spices and herbs, this pilaf can be a hearty side dish packed with protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Bold seasoning: Forgetting to season your chicken well can lead to bland flavor. Ensure you generously coat the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder before cooking.

• Inconsistent cooking times: Not adjusting cooking times based on your oven or grill can result in overcooked or undercooked chicken. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.

• Skipping prep work: Neglecting to prep your ingredients can make assembly chaotic. Take time to slice the sweet potatoes and broccoli ahead of time for a smoother cooking process.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many sweet potato rounds on one sheet can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Spread them out evenly for caramelization.

• Ignoring storage tips: Failing to store meal prep bowls correctly can affect freshness. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly after cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Allow food to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 3 months for optimal taste.
• Label containers with date for tracking.

Reheating Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180C (350F). Place meal in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place meal in a microwave-safe container. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to season the chicken?

For flavorful Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli, use a blend of olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out broccoli for other veggies like green beans or bell peppers based on your preference.

How long does it take to cook everything?

The total cooking time is about 35 minutes, including preparation and cooking times for all components of the meal prep bowls.

What should I serve these meal prep bowls with?

These bowls are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a side salad or whole grain like quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Herbed Chicken Meal Prep Bowls with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli offer a nutritious and satisfying option for busy days. They are versatile enough for customization based on your favorite flavors and seasonal ingredients. Give this recipe a try and enjoy clean fuel that keeps you energized!