These incredibly healthy meal prep ideas are perfect to make ahead on a lazy Sunday!
Tired of eating the same canned and frozen foods? Looking for ways to eat healthily on a budget, save time, and prepare delicious meals for the whole family?
Then let’s get to work on meal prepping!
HOW TO MAKE A HEALTHY MEAL PREP
For us busy people, preparing meals ahead of time is a game-changer. It’s a big help for me as a mom of two active children. Kids are always hungry, as they say. So, if you don’t feel like cooking, simply grab some healthy meals from the fridge, and – voila!
Anyway, here’s how to prepare a healthy meal.
- Make a healthy menu for the week. I enjoy browsing Pinterest for this one because so many delicious, easy, and healthy recipes are available. You should look through my Pinterest boards for some great healthy meal prep ideas!
- Make a shopping list based on the recipes you included in the menu. Avoid purchasing unhealthy ingredients as much as possible and replace them with healthier alternatives. For example, instead of sugar, use coconut sugar or honey, and whole wheat flour or chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- If possible, avoid going grocery shopping when you’re hungry because you’ll be more likely to overspend or eat unhealthy foods.
- Make room in your schedule for meal preparation. I know you’re busy, but you can choose a relaxing day, such as Sunday, or whatever works best for you.
- To keep your healthy meals fresh and flavorful, store them properly.
OUR USEFUL TOOLS FOR MEAL PREP
So, if you want to start meal prepping, here is the best kitchenware to use. Only the best products are recommended here. (This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here. )
- Saucepan. It’s useful to have on hand if you’re planning to make some of the meal prep dishes.
- A large skillet. With this, you’ll be able to prepare more food at once.
- Slow cooker or Instant Pot. One of the most practical kitchen equipment. When it comes to creating healthy meals, it’s a game-changer.
- Mason jars. Other meal prep recipes should be kept in mason jars rather than airtight containers or Ziploc bags.
MY FAVORITE HEALTHY MEAL PREP RECIPES
I’ve compiled a list of my favorite quick and easy meal prep ideas for you! All of these meal prep ideas are suitable for breakfast and lunch and can be prepared in 30 minutes or less.
So, whatever you’d love, you’ll find some easy and delicious ideas below. Friends, go ahead and read some more!
HEALTHY BREAKFAST MEAL PREP RECIPES
These are some of my favorite morning meal prep ideas for the week. If you’re often rushing in the morning, this is ideal. To get the full recipes, go to the link below each picture.
1. Superfood Instant Pot Oatmeal (healthy meal prep ideas)
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Cotter Crunch
Enjoy a delicious and nutritious breakfast with our Superfood Instant Pot Oatmeal!
This wholesome meal is packed with fresh fruit, veggies, whole-grain rolled oats, and other healthy ingredients.
It’s gluten-free too! Whip it up in no time and savor it warm, or simply store it in the fridge for a hassle-free meal prep option like overnight oats.
Suggested: 12 Low-Calorie Meal Prep Ideas | So Good and Filling!
2. Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl (healthy meal prep ideas)
PREP TIME: 5 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Love and Lemons
Start your day with a delightful and protein-packed quinoa breakfast bowl that’s perfect for vegans!
Enhance its flavors by adding your favorite seasonal fresh or dried fruits, along with a sprinkle of nuts and seeds on top.
3. Overnight Chia Seed Pudding with Almond Milk
PREP TIME: less than 5 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On The Worktop
Need a quick and healthy breakfast option that you can grab and go? Look no further!
This two-ingredient meal is just what you need.
Simply add some berries, nuts, and seeds on top, and you’ll have a scrumptious and satisfying meal to keep you going throughout the day.
4. Easy Microwave Scrambled Egg Cup Recipes (healthy meal prep ideas)
PREP TIME: less than 5 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On The Creative Bite
I love the concept of scrambled eggs in a jar! It seems incredibly easy to prepare, which is a huge plus.
But guess what? The best part is yet to come!
These scrambled egg cups are the perfect opportunity to use up any leftover meat, potatoes, and vegetables you have on hand.
Not only does it add delicious flavors and textures, but it also helps you save money by repurposing leftovers. Talk about a win-win situation!
You’ll also love:
12+ Healthy Back to School Breakfast Ideas for Kids
LUNCH MEAL PREP RECIPES
Get ready for some mouthwatering lunch meal prep recipes! If you’re a fan of chicken and noodles like me, these meals will definitely catch your attention. They look absolutely appetizing, don’t they? I can’t wait to hear what you think of them!
5. Spicy Chicken Meal Prep with Rice and Beans
PREP TIME: 20 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Pinch of Yum
Are you getting ready to cook up something tasty?
I highly recommend trying out this amazing Spicy Chicken Meal Prep with rice and beans, topped off with some wonderful cilantro.
It’s not only incredibly nutritious but also absolutely delicious for either lunch or dinner.
6. Honey Lemon Chicken Bowls
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Gimme Some Oven
I absolutely love this incredible Honey Lemon Chicken recipe!
It’s hands down one of my go-to meal prep ideas that are perfect for both lunch and dinner throughout the week.
Suggested: 12+ Healthy Lunch Recipes Ideas to Eat at Home!
7. Meal Prep Chicken Fajitas
PREP TIME: 25 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Sweet Peas and Saffron
You’ve got to give these Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas a shot!
They’re packed with juicy strips of chicken, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all tossed in a fantastic homemade fajita seasoning.
It’s the perfect recipe for a quick and satisfying midweek lunch or dinner. Don’t miss out on the deliciousness!
8. Sheet Pan Chicken Teriyaki with Veggies and Pineapple Meal Prep (No Sesame)
PREP TIME: 25 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Carmyy
You’ve got to try this amazing Sheet Pan Chicken Teriyaki with Veggies and Pineapple Meal Prep!
It’s a healthier and homemade take on the popular chicken teriyaki takeout.
Picture a pan filled with juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfectly complemented by roasted vegetables and pineapple. It’s an absolute flavor explosion that you won’t want to miss!
9. Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Bowls
PREP TIME: 15 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Gimme Some Oven
You’re going to love these super easy Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Bowls! With just 6 key ingredients and a preparation time of around 25 minutes, they’re perfect for quick weekday lunches, dinners, or even meal prep.
They’re a delicious and convenient option that will satisfy your cravings in no time.
10. Cold Sesame Noodle Meal Prep Bowls
PREP TIME: 20 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Sweet Peas and Saffron
Imagine spiralized vegetables, chickpeas, and whole wheat spaghetti, all tossed together in a delectable spicy almond butter sauce.
It’s a burst of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
These cold sesame noodles in a bowl are perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner option. Give it a go and savor the deliciousness while sticking to your vegan lifestyle!
11. The Ultimate Veggie Sandwich (healthy meal prep ideas )
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On I Am A Food Blog
Introducing the incredible ULTIMATE VEGGIE SANDWICH RECIPE!
This sandwich is packed with a variety of nutritious and vibrant vegetables that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
You’ll also love:
12+ Healthy Breakfast Toast Ideas to Level up Your Mornings!
12. 15-Minute Meal Prep: Sesame Noodle Bowls
PREP TIME: 15 minutes
Get The Full Recipe On Pinch of Yum
Get ready for a delicious treat with our Meal Prep Sesame Noodle Bowls!
You’ll love twirling your fork around the noodles coated in a creamy homemade sesame sauce.
We’ve also added perfectly browned chicken and a medley of fresh vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal
13. Chicken & Hummus Plate Lunch Meal Prep
Get The Full Recipe On Project Meal Plan
Chicken & Hummus Plate Lunch Meal Prep is super simple yet incredibly filling and delicious!
Fresh cut bell pepper, carrot, and cucumbers are mixed with a perfect piece of chicken breast, cheese slices, and grapes for a touch of sweetness to get back to basics.
I also love the three-compartment glass meal prep containers from Prep Naturals! They are ideal for storing food in different containers. You can easily get these awesome glass meal prep containers from Amazon here!
Suggested: 30 Healthy Fall Soup Recipes Perfect for Cold Nights!
14. Slow Cooker Carnitas Burrito Bowls (+Instant Pot)
Get The Full Recipe On Fit Foodie Finds
Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure with our slow-cooker carnitas burrito bowls!
Spend just an hour prepping these tasty delights and we’ll guide you through two options:
Crockpot carnitas and Instant Pot carnitas.
Whether you choose the slow-cooked or pressure-cooked route, you’ll be whipping up the most amazing meal-prep burrito bowls in town!
15. Salsa Verde Taco Meal Prep Bowls Easy
Get The Full Recipe On Eazy Peazy Mealz
This is the ultimate taco delight with our Easy Taco Meal Prep Bowls!
Packed with flavorful ground beef, corn, tomatoes, black beans, brown rice, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, all coated in a mouthwatering salsa verde sauce.
This meal prep option is not only substantial and savory but also a delightful choice for a quick and easy dinner.
16. Skinny Bang Bang Zucchini Noodles Meal Prep
Get The Full Recipe On Kirbie Cravings
For a fantastic start to the week with our skinny bang bang zucchini noodles!
This recipe is not only quick and easy but also a great way to add some excitement to your meals.
Prepare multiple portions ahead of time, and you’ll have enough for a few delicious dinners throughout the week.
17. Steak Burrito Bowl (healthy meal prep ideas)
Get The Full Recipe On Six Sisters Stuff
Experience a whole new level of flavor with our Steak Burrito Bowls!
Inspired by the famous Taco Bell, but trust us, they’re even better when made from scratch with fresh ingredients right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
18. Thai Chicken Lunch Bowls (healthy meal prep ideas)
Get The Full Recipe On Sweet Peas and Saffron
Treat yourself to a taste sensation with our Thai Chicken Lunch Bowls!
These delightful bowls combine tender roasted veggies and chicken with fluffy rice, all topped off with a mouthwatering, tangy peanut sauce that we make from scratch.
19. Tofu Burrito Bowl Meal Prep
Get The Full Recipe On The Fitchen
Enjoy a burst of flavor and nourishment with our fantastic tofu burrito bowl recipe!
Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish is not only incredibly tasty but also great for your well-being.
The best part? It takes less than 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those busy days when you’re looking for a quick and healthy meal option.
20. Turkey Spinach Pinwheels Meal Prep
Get The Full Recipe On Damn Delicious
Revamp your weekday lunches with these delightful Turkey, Spinach, and Cheese Pinwheels!
Wave goodbye to expensive snacks and meals because with this recipe, you’ll have a scrumptious and budget-friendly option right at your fingertips.
Say hello to a delicious solution that will keep you satisfied and your wallet happy.
21. Vegan Rainbow Vegetable Tortilla Wrap (healthy meal prep ideas)
Get The Full Recipe On Recipes from a Pantry
Introducing our fabulous Vegan Rainbow Vegetable Tortilla Wrap – a quick, easy, and healthy option that’s bursting with vibrant colors from a variety of veggies.
Not only will kids of all ages adore it, but it’s also perfect for school lunches, brunches, and on-the-go meals.
Whether you follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, this wrap is a delightful choice that will satisfy your cravings and keep you energized throughout the day.
22. Buffalo Chicken Ranch Whole30 Meal Prep (Paleo, Keto)
Get The Full Recipe On 40 Aprons
Prepare to embark on the ultimate Whole30 meal prep journey with our Whole30 Buffalo Chicken Ranch Meal Prep!
This incredible recipe truly encompasses the essence of Whole30 meal prepping.
Not only is it packed with amazing flavors, but it’s also a fantastic option to keep you fueled throughout the day with its ample protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
You’ll be delighted to discover that the combination of cauliflower rice and homemade ranch dressing elevates this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
23. Greek Healthy Meal Prep Paleo and Whole30 Meal Prep Options
Get The Full Recipe On 40 Aprons
Experience an amazing Greek-inspired healthy meal prep recipe that will have you eagerly anticipating lunch all morning!
This dish features a delightful combination of flavors, including cauliflower rice tabbouleh, tender seasoned chicken breasts, your choice of hummus or baba ganoush, tangy kalamata olives, and a creamy, spicy tzatziki sauce.
Not only is this recipe bursting with deliciousness, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. You can feel good about nourishing your body with this wholesome and balanced meal prep option.
24. Healthy Meal Prep Bowls
Get The Full Recipe On Green Healthy Cooking
This nutritious recipe is a true winner, starring protein-packed chickpeas, wholesome quinoa, and an abundance of colorful and refreshing vegetables.
It’s a complete and satisfying meal that will keep you feeling nourished and energized throughout your busy week.
25. Healthy Taco Salad
Get The Full Recipe On Evolving Table
Take this Healthy Taco Salad dish to work or school in a super convenient mason jar!
Make this simple Mason jars salad recipe ahead of time and have it ready to go.
26. Honey BBQ Baked Salmon Bowls (healthy meal prep ideas)
Get The Full Recipe On Cotter Crunch
This meal prep dish for Honey BBQ Baked Salmon Bowls is ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.
Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, and Protein-Packed In 30 minutes, you can have a nutritious meal prep supper ready!
27. Honey Sriracha Glazed Meatballs
Get The Full Recipe On Eat Yourself Skinny
Sweet, spicy, and flavorful, these Honey Sriracha Glazed Meatballs are a must-try!
They also take less than 30 minutes to prepare and are ideal for meal planning every week!
28. Lemon Roasted Salmon with Sweet Potatoes and Broccolini
Get The Full Recipe On Lemon Spice Jar
Learn how to make this simple lemon roasted fish with sweet potatoes and broccolini for your next meal.
It’s easy to make and perfect for quick lunches and dinners!
29. Meal Prep Taco Salad Lunch Bowls
Get The Full Recipe On Kristine’s Kitchen
Taco Salad Lunch Bowls that may be made ahead of time!
Taco meat, lettuce, cheese, black beans, corn, and salsa make up these quick taco salads.
30. Meal-Prep Vegetarian Quinoa Burrito Bowls
Get The Full Recipe On Simply Quinoa
These quick and easy vegetarian quinoa burrito bowls are ideal for meal prep for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
It prepares 5 days’ worth of meals in 20 minutes, is nutrient-dense, and is delicious!
25+ Healthy Meal Prep Ideas
Ingredients
- Superfood Instant Pot Oatmeal
- Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
- Overnight Chia Seed Pudding
- Easy Microwave Scrambled Egg Cup Recipes
- Spicy Chicken Meal Prep with Rice and Beans
- Honey Lemon Chicken Bowls
- Meal Prep Chicken Fajitas
- Sheet Pan Chicken Teriyaki
- Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Bowls
- Cold Sesame Noodle Meal Prep Bowls
- The Ultimate Veggie Sandwich
- 15-Minute Meal Prep: Sesame Noodle Bowls
- Chicken & Hummus Plate Lunch Meal Prep
- Slow Cooker Carnitas Burrito Bowls (+Instant Pot)
- Salsa Verde Taco Meal Prep Bowls Easy
- Skinny Bang Bang Zucchini Noodles Meal Prep
- Steak Burrito Bowl
- Thai Chicken Lunch Bowls
- Tofu Burrito Bowl Meal Prep
- Turkey Spinach Pinwheels Meal Prep
- Vegan Rainbow Vegetable Tortilla Wrap
- Buffalo Chicken Ranch Whole30 Meal Prep (Paleo, Keto)
- Greek Healthy Meal Prep Paleo and Whole30 Meal Prep Options
- Healthy Meal Prep Bowls
- Healthy Taco Salad
- Honey BBQ Baked Salmon Bowls
- Honey Sriracha Glazed Meatballs
- Lemon Roasted Salmon with Sweet Potatoes and Broccolini
- Meal Prep Taco Salad Lunch Bowls
- Meal-Prep Vegetarian Quinoa Burrito Bowls
Instructions
- Select your choice of healthy meal prep ideas from the article.
- Click on the link to get the full recipes and instructions.
- Get ready to prep, cook, and enjoy!
Craving more healthy meals? Check out some awesome posts below!
- 12 Low Calorie Meal Prep Ideas
- 21 Healthy Vegan Meal Prep Ideas You’ll Love
- 12+ Healthy Breakfast Toast Ideas to Level Up Your Mornings!
- 36 Easy Breakfast Ideas – Quick and Healthy Breakfast Recipes
- 12 Breakfast Ideas for Kids | Easy Kid-friendly Breakfast
- 15 Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes You’ll Want to Try!
Do you have other healthy meal prep ideas in mind? Share them in the comments below!
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Wow! This article about healthy meal prep is epic! I’ll definitely try one of these recipes later!