Meal prepping can save you time during the week while ensuring you eat healthy, delicious meals. One-pot dinners are particularly great because they minimize cleanup and allow for easy portioning. Below are three diverse examples of healthy one-pot dinners you can prepare in advance!
This hearty chili is perfect for a cozy dinner and can be made in bulk, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a dish that warms you up and keeps you satisfied.
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until they’re soft. Next, stir in 1 chopped bell pepper and 2 carrots, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
Add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa, 2 cans of black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 can of diced tomatoes, 2 cups of vegetable broth, and your favorite chili spices (like cumin, chili powder, and paprika). Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked.
Serve it topped with fresh cilantro or avocado for a delightful garnish.
Notes: Feel free to substitute black beans with kidney beans or add corn for extra sweetness. You can also make it spicier by adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
This one-pot Mediterranean chicken and rice dish is a colorful and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season 4 chicken thighs (or breasts) with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of oregano, then brown them in the skillet for about 5 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and a cup of diced tomatoes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in 1 cup of long-grain rice and 2 cups of chicken broth, then add in the chicken. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with olives and fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.
Notes: You can swap chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Feel free to add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
Stuffed peppers are not only visually appealing but also a great way to get your veggies in. This recipe is packed with nutrients and is an excellent choice for meal prepping.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, cook 1 cup of brown rice according to package instructions. Cut the tops off of 4 bell peppers and remove the seeds.
In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with 1 cup of fresh spinach (chopped), 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1 beaten egg, and some salt and pepper to taste. Stuff each pepper with the mixture and place them upright in a baking dish. Pour a little vegetable broth into the bottom of the dish to keep them moist while baking.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to let the tops crisp up a bit.
Notes: You can experiment with different fillings such as ground turkey, quinoa, or black beans for variety. Adding spices like paprika or Italian seasoning can also enhance the flavor.
These Examples of Healthy One-Pot Dinners for Meal Prep are simple, diverse, and sure to keep your meals exciting and nutritious throughout the week!