Description
Transform plain chicken into a vibrant, flavor-packed staple with a variety of marinades, spices, and cooking methods. Ideal for easy, exciting meals all week long.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Assorted dried spices (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, cumin, chili powder)
- Chopped fresh herbs (e.g., cilantro, parsley, basil)
- 1–2 tbsp soy sauce or balsamic vinegar (optional, for flavor variation)
Instructions
- Trim chicken to even thickness and pat dry. Optionally cut into strips or cubes for multiple flavor batches.
- In separate bowls, combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and various spice blends to create multiple marinades.
- Toss chicken pieces in the marinades and let rest for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Cook using preferred method: grill for char, bake for ease, or sear in a skillet for crisp edges. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Mix and match cooked chicken with different vegetables, grains, or greens for complete meals. Add fresh herbs or garnishes when serving.
Notes
- Use 3–4 flavor profiles in one prep session to keep meals interesting.
- Try options like lemon pepper, cumin-paprika, Italian herb, or soy-ginger.
- Meal prep chicken stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.