21 Lazy Summer Lunch Ideas Perfect for Meal Prep

When you want a dependable set of recipes without searching through dozens of pages, this collection brings the ideas together in one place. The recipes are arranged in a new order, and each entry includes ingredients and step-by-step instructions so you can choose what fits your kitchen and schedule.

1. Burger in a Bowl

Healthy Burger in a Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT13M · Cook: PT7M · Total: PT20M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

This burger in a bowl is a healthier, low carb version of your regular burgers. Just as packed with flavor but without the carbs. Makes for a perfect high protein, low carb, low calorie, gluten-free lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 large head romaine lettuce (chopped)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 4 tbsp sour cream
• 4 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 avocado (sliced)
• 1/2 red onion (sliced)
• 2 large pickles (sliced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

Instructions

1. Heat up your skillet and add in beef mince. Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt and black pepper. Cook until browned for about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove excess liquid and remove from the heat.
3. Combine all the sauce ingredients to make burger sauce.
4. Assemble your bowls. Add in a layer of lettuce, ground beef, cover with avocado, red onion, pickles and cherry tomatoes.
5. Drizzle the bowls with burger sauce and add a sprinkle of salt and black pepper.

2. Chickpea Salad With Cucumbers & Tomatoes

Chickpea Salad with Cucumber and Tomatoes is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT5M · Total: PT20M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 meal prep bowls’]

These vegan high protein chickpea salad bowls are delicious and nutritious. The recipe is great if you’re vegan and want to increase your protein intake naturally.

Ingredients

• 14 oz can of chickpeas (400g)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 cucumbers (diced)
• 3 medium tomatoes (diced)
• 1 small red onion (sliced)
• ½ cup parsley leaves (chopped)
• 1 garlic clove (smashed (1/2 tsp minced garlic))
• 1 ½ tbsp white wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Peel the garlic, use a garlic press to smash it. Mix white wine vinegar with olive oil and add garlic to it. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in the frying pan, add dried chickpeas to it. Add cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and fry for around 5 minutes. Once finished, salt it.
3. Dice cucumbers, tomatoes, slice red onion, and chop parsley. Combine all the ingredients, add in the dressing we’ve mixed up before and mix the salad. Add salt and pepper to the taste.
4. If you’re using this recipe for meal prep, add in the salad into your storage containers. It should cover ¾ of the container and use the rest of the space for chickpeas.

3. Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad

Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 bowls’]

This cottage cheese chicken salad is creamy, satisfying, and loaded with 38g of protein. A high-protein, low-carb, and gluten-free.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup rotisserie chicken (chopped into small chunks)
• 1/4 cup jarred banana peppers (drained and diced)
• 1 celery stick (diced)
• 1/2 red onion (diced)
• 1 green onion (thinly sliced)

Instructions

1. Add cottage cheese, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and black pepper into a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine rotisserie chicken, banana peppers, celery, red onion, green onion and blended cottage cheese. Mix well and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Serve immediately or store in the fridge.

4. Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl

Crockpot Chicken Shawarma Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT180M · Total: PT195M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

Easy slow cooker chicken shawarma bowl with bold, savory Middle Eastern spices. High in protein and gluten-free, it recreates restaurant flavors at home, perfect for meal prep without guilt or overspending!

Ingredients

• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 2 lbs chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup dry basmati rice
• 1 red onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat)
• 1/2 lemon (freshly squeezed juice)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the spice mix.
2. Cover the bottom of the slow cooker with sliced onion. Top up with chicken and cover it with the spice mix. Cover with water.
3. Cook on high for 3 hours until the chicken has cooked through. Shred with two forks while the chicken is still inside the crockpot.
4. Boil basmati rice according to instructions on the package. Remove chicken from the crockpot, leaving the leftover water inside the crockpot, and add chicken to the bowl on one side.
5. Divide red onion, cherry tomatoes amongst the bowls. Add Greek yogurt, squeeze over the lemon juice, and cover with chopped parsley.

5. Italian Chicken Pasta Salad

Italian Chicken Pasta Salad is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT10M · Total: PT40M · Yield: [‘8’, ‘8 bowls’]

This Italian chicken pasta salad is bursting with fresh herbs and a zesty touch of lemon. It’s light, satisfying, and packed with protein!

Ingredients

• 1 lb dry rotini pasta
• 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup shredded Rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 8 oz whole milk mozzarella (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• ½ English cucumber (diced)
• 1 red onion (sliced)
• 1/2 cup olives (deseeded and halved)
• ½ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp sea salt
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp paprika powder
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rotini pasta according to packaging instructions until it’s al dente.
2. Drain the pasta, add 1 tsp of olive oil and toss to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Let the pasta cool down to room temperature.
3. Add the pasta to a large bowl with the rest of the pasta salad ingredients. Toss to combine.
4. In a bowl, combine all of the Italian dressing ingredients. Mix them well.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves when serving.

6. Lemon Chicken with Veggies

Lemon Chicken with Veggies Meal Prep is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT35M · Total: PT50M · Yield: [‘3’, ‘3 meal prep bowls’]

These lemon chicken bowls with veggies are super easy to make. On top of that, very delicious, nutritious, full of flavors, and easy to assemble for lunch for work.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast
• 1/4 cup chicken stock
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 white onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 sweet potatoes (peeled, diced)
• 2 cups of broccoli
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• pinch of black pepper
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes
• Dill (chopped)

Instructions

1. Chop the onion in chunky pieces, peel garlic cloves. Add them to a blender, pour in chicken stock, lemon juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, and add in salt with pepper. Blend until one smooth texture.
2. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch chunks and combine them with the marinade in a large bowl or Ziploc bag. Keep refrigerated for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat the oven to 425 F (220 C).
4. Mix 1 tbsp olive oil with paprika, salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and garlic powder. Peel sweet potatoes, dice them into ½ inch cubes, and coat them with the mixture we‘ve just made.
5. Bake them in the oven for 35 minutes. Add in broccoli with 25 minutes to go (10 minutes later). Drizzle broccoli with 1 tbsp of olive oil and add a pinch of black pepper. Let the vegetable bake for another 25 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a skillet and add in the chicken with marinade. Cook for 13-15 minutes and make sure to stir it the whole time until the chicken is golden brown.
7. Chop cherry tomatoes as well as dill. Cover the tomatoes in dill.
8. Divide lemon chicken and vegetables into 3 food containers equally. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

7. Pizza Bowls

Pizza Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT20M · Total: PT40M · Yield: [‘6’, ‘6 bowls’]

This pizza bowl recipe is loaded with melty cheese, savory toppings, and bold flavors. A delicious low-calorie, gluten-free, low-carb and high-protein alternative for pizza lovers.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup leeks (sliced)
• ½ cup chicken mince
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups marinara sauce (low sugar)
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• ½ cup salami slices
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Prepare 6 (8-9 oz) ramekins and spray them with oil.
2. Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in olive oil, leeks, chicken mince, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the chicken is covered with seasonings, and cook until the mince is no longer pink. It should take around 5-7 minutes to cook.
3. Divide 1 cup of marinara sauce among 6 ramekins. It should be around 2.5 tbsp each. Now, divide the chicken mixture between them.
4. Next, divide 1 cup of mozzarella cheese amongst the ramekins (around 2.5 tbsp each) and top up with the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce.
5. Add salami slices to each one of them and cover with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake in the oven for around 10-15 minutes until the cheese completely melts and turns golden brown.
7. Garnish with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

8. Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchilada Bowls

Cottage Cheese Chicken Enchilada Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT6M · Cook: PT2M · Total: PT8M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 bowls’]

Enjoy the savory, cheesy flavors of a classic enchilada with a rich sauce, but in a bowl. This high protein, low-carb, gluten-free meal packs an incredible 47 grams of protein per serving.

Ingredients

• 4 oz rotisserie chicken breast (shredded)
• 4 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 cup low fat cottage cheese
• 4 tbsp enchilada sauce
• ½ red bell pepper (diced)
• 1/4 cup canned corn (drained)
• 1/4 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• Chopped cilantro
• Avocado slices
• Sour cream

Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken with the taco seasoning. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
2. In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese and enchilada sauce until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the seasoned chicken and stir until fully combined.
4. Fold in the diced red bell pepper, corn, and black beans, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
5. Divide the mixture evenly between two microwave-safe containers. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top of each bowl. Microwave for 1–2 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
6. Top with chopped cilantro, fresh avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy!

9. Cheeseburger Bowls

Cheeseburger Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT10M · Total: PT20M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

These cheeseburger bowls are rich, zesty, smoky and filling. Perfect for comforting lunch yet high protein, gluten-free and low in carbs!

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp pickle relish
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 4 cups lettuce (chopped)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 red onion (sliced)
• 1/2 cup pickles (sliced)
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeno slices
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)

Instructions

1. Heat up skillet over medium high heat. Add in the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper and stir to cover the beef.
2. Cook until it browns up. It should take around 7-10 minutes.
3. Drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.
4. In a small bowl combine all of the burger sauce ingredients.
5. Assemble 4 bowls. Start with chopped lettuce, then cooked beef, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, red onion, pickles, pickled jalapenos and cooked bacon.
6. Drizzle with burger sauce.

10. Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl

Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT10M · Total: PT15M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 bowls’]

This Buffalo Chicken Cottage Cheese Bowl delivers spicy buffalo flavor with creamy cottage cheese—high in protein, low in carbs, and keto-friendly!

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
• 4 tbsp Buffalo wing sauce
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 2 small stalks celery (diced)
• 1 carrot (shredded)
• 4 tbsp Ranch dressing
• Green onion (chopped)

Instructions

1. Add chicken breasts to a saucepan, submerge them in water, and place the pan over medium-high heat. Bring the water to a boil and lower the heat, boiling until the chicken is fully cooked. It should take around 10 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the saucepan and shred it with two forks.
3. Add Buffalo wing sauce to the chicken and toss until the chicken is well coated.
4. Divide cottage cheese, celery, carrot, and chicken into 2 bowls. Drizzle with Ranch dressing and sprinkle with chopped green onion. Salt and pepper if needed.

11. Mexican Meal Prep

Mexican Meal Prep Bowls with Cauliflower Rice (Low Carb) is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT8M · Cook: PT12M · Total: PT20M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 meal prep bowls’]

Mexican meal prep bowls that are also low carb! Great when you’re craving for Mexican flavors and wanting a low carb high protein meal!

Ingredients

• 1 head cauliflower
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 can chopped tomatoes (1.5 cup chopped tomatoes)
• 1 tsp ground onion
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp crushed chili flakes
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• pinch of salt
• pinch of black pepper
• 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup wild rocket salad
• 1 avocado

Instructions Shredded Chicken:

1. Get a large pot, add chicken breasts to it, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Cover the chicken with around 1 inch of water.
3. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for around 12 minutes. Remove the chicken from water and shred it using either fork, claws, or a food processor.

Cauliflower Rice:

1. Break apart cauliflower head. Wash, dry, and chop into smaller pieces.
2. Pulse with a food processor until you’ve got cauliflower rice.
3. Heat up a pan, add olive oil, chop green pepper and sauté them for a couple of minutes.
4. Add cauliflower rice, chopped tomatoes, and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Mix in onion, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, crushed chili flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix as well as you can and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Serving:

1. Divide cauliflower rice equally among 4 food containers. Add shredded chicken to each of them as well as wild rocket salad. Slice avocado and top each meal prep bowl with it.

12. Salmon Bowl

Salmon Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT21M · Total: PT36M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 bowls’]

Salmon Bowl is umami, sweet, and slightly spiced. A perfect high-protein lunch with rice anyone can make. Meal prep it for an easy lunch or dinner – enjoy the flavors. The high-calorie recipe anyone can make!

Ingredients

• 1/8 cup soy sauce
• 2 tsp honey
• 2 tsp water
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder
• 1/2 tsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1.5 cups water
• Salt (to taste)
• Cardamon
• 1 carrot (grated)
• 1 medium avocado (diced)
• ½ red onion (diced)
• 4 small pickles (sliced)
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
• sesame seeds
• dill (chopped (optional))

Instructions Salmon

1. In a small bowl mix soy sauce, honey, water, garlic powder, ginger powder and cornstarch.
2. Heat up frying pan to medium high heat, add olive oil and salmon fillets. Pour in the sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side and take it off the stove.

Rice

1. Wash the rice. Add rice, water, salt and cardamon to a saucepan. Bring to simmer and lower the heat. Cook for 10-13 minutes and let it rest.

Assemble the bowls

1. Divide the rice into 2 bowls and vegetables on top. Place salmon fillets on top of each bowl, cover with leftover sauce form the pan and pour over the mixture of Greek yoghurt with sriracha sauce and sprinkle some sesame seeds.

13. Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs

Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT15M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 foil packets’]

Enjoy baked shrimp and tender-crisp broccoli is seasoned with bold, zesty flavors—all wrapped up in an easy, no-mess foil pack. High in protein, Paleo-friendly, gluten-free, and dairy-free.

Ingredients

• 1 lb medium raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 large head of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 lemon (juiced)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp chicken broth (divided)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425F. Prepare a baking sheet.
2. Cut aluminium foil into two square 14’’x14’’ sheets. Lay them down.
3. In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients.
4. Then, cover the shrimp with the spice mix. Place the shrimp in the middle of the aluminium sheets, dividing evenly.
5. Place broccoli florets on one side of the shrimp, add garlic over the shrimp and broccoli, and squeeze over the lemon juice.
6. Cover each stack with 1 tbsp of butter and 1 tbsp of chicken broth on each.
7. Wrap the packets and make sure you don’t wrap them too tightly.
8. Transfer onto the baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15 minutes until the shrimp has cooked through.
9. Unwrap the foil packets and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

14. Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl

High Protein Cottage Cheese Pizza Bowl is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT8M · Total: PT18M · Yield: [‘1’, ‘1 meal prep container’]

This creamy, high-protein cottage cheese pizza bowl is packed with bold pepperoni flavor, herbs, and spices. Low-carb, gluten-free, and 43g of protein per bowl!

Ingredients

• 1 cup of low-fat cottage cheese (smooth or blended)
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tbsp almond flour
• 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1/4 red onion (sliced)
• 1/8 cup black olives (chopped)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup light mozzarella cheese (grated)
• 4-5 pepperoni slices
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)
• Parmesan (grated)
• Fresh basil (chopped)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F.
2. In an oven-safe bowl, combine cottage cheese, marinara sauce, almond flour, red bell peppers, red onion, black olives, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Level out the mixture and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
4. Top up with pepperoni slices.
5. Bake in the oven for 5-8 minutes until the cheese melts, the sides of the container are bubbling, and the pepperoni crisps up.
6. Garnish with parmesan and basil before serving.

15. Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps (Low Calorie) is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT13M · Total: PT28M · Yield: [‘5’, ‘5 lettuce wraps’]

These teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps are crunchy, umami, and sweet. They’re low calorie, great for meal prep, high protein and dairy-free.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
• 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
• Sweet gem lettuce
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• green onion (sliced)

Instructions

1. Start by combining soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic in a bowl.
2. Now, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add in chicken and cook it for 5 minutes on one side. After, flip the chicken with a spatula and cook for additional 3 minutes. The chicken should be slightly brown.
3. Pour the sauce into the skillet and cover all the chicken. Lower the heat and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens up.
4. Layout your sweet gem lettuce leaves and fill them up with teriyaki chicken.
5. Top with sesame seeds and green onion.

16. Burrito Bowl in a Skillet

Burrito Bowl in a Skillet is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT5M · Cook: PT25M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘6’, ‘6 bowls’]

A hearty burrito bowl made in one skillet with savory ground beef, rice, and beans. This easy recipe is gluten-free, high protein, and ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• ½ cup chunky salsa
• 15 oz can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 15 oz can corn (drained)
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
• 4 oz can diced green chiles
• 1 cup dry basmati rice (rinsed)
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• ½ tsp chili powder
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• Sea salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 1 avocado (sliced)
• 1 green onion (chopped)
• 1 large tomato (chopped)
• Cilantro (chopped)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in the onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for around 2 minutes.
2. Now, add in the ground beef, break it apart with a spatula, and cook until it browns up, stirring throughout. It should take around 7-8 minutes. Drain the skillet of grease. Add some salt and black pepper to the skillet according to your tastes.
3. Now, add salsa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, green chiles, basmati rice, taco seasoning, chili powder, and chicken broth. Give the skillet a very good stir.
4. Cover the pan, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice has fully cooked.
5. Stir, salt, and pepper the skillet, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Remove from heat.
6. Spoon the burrito into bowls, cover with avocado, green onion, tomato, and cilantro before serving.

17. Air Fryer Salmon

Air Fryer Salmon is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT10M · Cook: PT7M · Total: PT17M · Yield: [‘2’, ‘2 salmon fillets’]

Elevate your dinner with our healthy air fryer salmon recipe. Enjoy a guilt-free meal that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in calories! This high protein, low calorie, and low carb dinner is the easiest family dinner you’ll make.

Ingredients

• 2 x salmon fillets (fresh or slightly smoked)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
• ½ tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Mix together the sauce. Pour it over the salmon fillets and let them sit with the skin facing upwards for 5-10 minutes.
2. Preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes.
3. Spray the air fryer with 2 pumps of olive oil to prevent sticking and place the salmon fillets skin down. Pour over the sauce, making sure it covers the fillets beautifully.
4. Air fry for 7 minutes at 400F (200C).
5. Let them cool down for a few minutes before serving.

18. Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan

Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT35M · Total: PT50M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

This low-calorie, gluten-free, and dairy-free Hawaiian chicken sheet pan meal is naturally sweet, smoky, tangy, and tropical! Loaded with juicy chicken, bell peppers, and sweet pineapple.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp coriander powder
• 2 tsp ginger powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 red onion (cut into chunks)
• ½ cup Hawaiian-style BBQ Sauce (use Primal Kitchen for dairy-free option)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained if canned)
• 1 fresh lime (juiced)
• Sesame seeds
• Cilantro (chopped)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Spray a large baking sheet with oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, coriander, ginger powder, salt and black pepper. Give them a mix. Now, add the chicken and toss until the chicken is fully covered with the spices.
3. Now, add in the bell peppers, red onion, and BBQ sauce. Coat all of the ingredients with the sauce. Use your hands for the best effect.
4. Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet as evenly as possible. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, then remove and top up with pineapple chunks throughout the whole baking sheet. Pop back into the oven for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Remove from the oven; garnish with fresh lime juice, sesame seeds, and cilantro before serving.

19. Chicken Corn Rice Bowls

Chicken Corn Rice Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT10M · Total: PT25M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

This flavorful bowl features juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fluffy rice with a zesty dressing. A high-protein, low-calorie meal that’s also gluten-free!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast (skinless and boneless, diced)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp paprika powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp lime zest (grated)
• 2 cups cooked basmati rice
• 1 15 oz can whole kernel corn (drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 1 lime (cut into wedges)

Instructions Chicken

1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil to it.
2. Once hot, add in the chicken, cover with paprika powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt and black pepper.
3. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until it has fully cooked. Flipping the chicken throughout. Remove from heat.

Dressing

1. In a small bowl mix together all of the dressing ingredients.

Assemble Rice Bowls

1. Divide rice into 4 bowls. Top up with corn, cooked chicken and then feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with the dressing, garnish with cilantro and lime wedges on top.
3. Serve warm or cold.

20. Chicken Burrito Bowls

Chicken Burrito Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT15M · Cook: PT15M · Total: PT30M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 meal prep bowls’]

These healthy chicken burrito bowls are flavorful, nutritious, and delicious. Filled with Mexican flavors, they’re a perfect high protein lunch or meal prep to bring to work. Can be made in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 2 cups arugula
• 1 cup grape tomatoes (halved)
• 7 ounce can corns (drained)
• 14 ounce can black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1.5 cups water
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne (check notes)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 tbsp Caesar dressing (use dairy-free option if dairy-free)

Instructions Chicken

1. Place chicken breasts at the bottom of a pot. Season with salt and black pepper. Cover the chicken with 1 inch of water.
2. Place the pot on the stove, bring to boil. Then, reduce the heat, and let it simmer until the chicken is fully cooked (no longer pink in the center) or reaches the temperature of 165 F. It will take around 15 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the water. Let it cool down before shredding.

Rice

1. Rinse your rice using a mesh strainer.
2. Place rice and water into a saucepan. Bring to simmer without the lid on, and once the surface is bubbling, place the lid and lower the heat. Cook for another 7 minutes. Now mix in paprika, cumin, cayenne, and black pepper. Cover the rice and cook for another 5 minutes. (Or just cook your rice according to instructions and mix in the spices 5 minutes before the rice is fully cooked).
3. Remove from the stove and rest for 10 minutes. Fluff before serving.

Meal Prep Assemble

1. Divide the cold ingredients, rice, and chicken between 4 food containers. Drizzle with Caesar dressing, especially the chicken to give it more flavor.

21. Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Buffalo Chicken Bowls is a practical addition to this collection, with a straightforward method and adaptable serving options.

Recipe details: Prep: PT12M · Cook: PT16M · Total: PT28M · Yield: [‘4’, ‘4 bowls’]

These spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet bowls are so delicious you won’t be able to stop at just one bite. These bowls are high-protein, gluten-free, and provide an easy dinner packed with 36 grams of protein.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup tapioca starch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cubed)
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups cooked basmati rice
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 1 avocado (sliced)
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the tapioca starch, garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss until evenly coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5–8 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Stir slightly at the end to separate the pieces.
3. While the chicken cooks, whisk together the hot sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Set aside about 1/4 cup of the sauce for drizzling later.
4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel briefly to remove excess oil. Then add it to the bowl with the buffalo sauce and toss until fully coated.
5. Divide the cooked basmati rice evenly among 4 bowls. Top each with corn, black beans, and buffalo chicken. Add sliced green onions and avocado.
6. Drizzle with the reserved buffalo sauce and ranch dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Save this collection for the next time you need practical meal inspiration. Start with the recipe that best matches your ingredients, then return to try the others throughout the week.