Chicken Rice Meal Prep

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you're looking for a meal prep recipe that's both simple and flavorful, this chicken rice meal prep will quickly become your go-to! Packed with tender chicken thighs, fragrant jasmine rice, and fresh cucumber, this dish offers a balanced, easy-to-make option for busy weeks. It’s versatile enough for any dietary needs and provides a satisfying combination of savory and refreshing tastes. Whether you're prepping for lunches or dinners, this meal will keep you fueled and satisfied.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Rice:

• 2 cups water

• 1 cup jasmine rice (Basmati or brown rice works too)

• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 2 teaspoons Kosher salt (to taste)

• 1 English cucumber (thinly sliced)

For the Chicken:

• 1.25 pounds boneless chicken thighs

• Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup, honey, or agave

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons lemon zest

• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

Directions

1. Start by cooking the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in the sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds.

2. While the rice is cooking, prepare the chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup (or honey/agave), lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat the chicken in the flavorful glaze.

4. To assemble, divide the cooked rice evenly into four meal prep containers. Layer the sliced cucumber and glazed chicken thighs on top of the rice.

5. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, ready to enjoy whenever you need a healthy and filling meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Different Grains: Swap the jasmine rice for quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and a different texture.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, marinated and cooked in the same glaze for a plant-based alternative.

• Add Veggies: Add steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots to boost the nutritional value of your meal.

• Sauce Swap: If you prefer a spicier dish, try adding chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store your meal prep in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The rice and chicken will stay fresh and tasty for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep.

• Reheating: Reheat the meal in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For best results, add a little splash of water to the rice before reheating to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from getting too sticky?

To prevent your rice from being too sticky, rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch. This will help keep the grains separate.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be aware that they may dry out a bit more easily than thighs. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Can I make this meal ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, this meal can be frozen! Just be sure to store the rice, chicken, and cucumber in separate containers to maintain their textures when reheated.

What other veggies can I add to this meal prep?

You can add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or steamed broccoli to enhance the flavor and nutrition of this dish.

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

You can marinate the chicken overnight with the maple syrup, lemon juice, and garlic mixture for an even more flavorful result.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure the soy sauce or any other condiments you use are gluten-free.

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be substituted for jasmine rice, though it will require a longer cooking time. Just be sure to adjust the water-to-rice ratio accordingly.

How long will this meal prep stay fresh in the fridge?

This meal prep will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to store it in airtight containers.

Can I eat this meal cold?

Yes, you can enjoy this meal cold, making it a great option for salads or quick lunches if you prefer not to reheat it.

Can I add a different dressing instead of the lemon glaze?

You can experiment with different dressings, like a soy sauce-based dressing or a creamy tahini dressing for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This chicken rice meal prep recipe is the perfect solution for anyone looking to simplify their week with delicious and balanced meals. Easy to make, full of flavor, and great for meal prepping, this dish checks all the boxes. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a versatile and satisfying meal that keeps well for days. Whether you're looking for lunch ideas, dinner, or a snack to fuel your day, this recipe will not disappoint.

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