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Quick Chicken Meal Prep for Busy Weeknights
Emily

Quick Chicken Meal Prep for Busy Weeknights

This 30-minute one-pan chicken meal includes sear-baked chicken, roasted veggies, and creamy mashed cauliflower. Balanced, flavorful, and refrigerator-friendly, it adapts to family tastes and avoids pork, alcohol, or heavy fats.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Contemporary
Calories: 270

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken breasts
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Dried oregano
  • Paprika
  • Onion powder
  • Salt & pepper
  • Cauliflower
  • Minced garlic (¼ tsp)
  • Unsalted butter
  • Parmesan (shredded)
  • Zucchini
  • Red bell pepper
  • Red onions
  • Garlic powder

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
  2. Combine oregano, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl
  3. Pat chicken breasts dry, place in skillet, and sear over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side
  4. Transfer seared chicken to a plate and tent with foil
  5. In the same skillet, add olive oil, zucchini, red bell pepper, red onions, garlic powder, and salt. Sauté for 5 minutes
  6. Return chicken to skillet, transfer to oven, and roast for 20 minutes
  7. While roasting, steam cauliflower florets for 8-10 minutes
  8. Mash steamed cauliflower and mix with butter (or coconut oil), garlic, and parmesan (or nutritional yeast)
  9. Season mash with salt and pepper
  10. Portion chicken, veggies, and mash into airtight containers

Notes

Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option
Store prepped meals in the fridge for up to 4 days
Customize chicken with cumin, curry, or chili powder for spicier versions
Charred veggies pair well with mild spices
Ensure zucchini is pat dry to prevent moisture in the pan