In this recipe shared by Lindsay, a go-to for meal prepping, a simple and delicious chicken marinade is revealed. This marinade is perfect for batch-cooking chicken to be enjoyed throughout the week, offering convenience and flavor to your meals.
Marinade Ingredients: To create this tasty chicken marinade, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1-1.5 pounds of chicken breasts (thin-sliced or thicker breasts cut in half)
- 2 tablespoons of avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Marinating Process: To prepare the chicken marinade, follow these simple steps:
- Place the chicken breasts in a ziploc bag.
- Add the avocado oil and lemon juice to the bag.
- In a separate ramekin, combine the cumin, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well.
- Pour the spice mixture into the bag with the chicken.
- Toss and shake the bag thoroughly, ensuring the spices evenly coat the chicken.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Cook the chicken as desired.
Meal Pairing Suggestions: This versatile chicken marinade pairs well with various dishes. Lindsay suggests serving it with rice and a refreshing salad. For an added twist, try her rice recipe:
- Sauté 1/2 cup of red onion and 2 cloves of garlic in a little oil in an instant pot.
- Add 1 cup of brown rice and 1.25 cups of water or broth. Cook for 16 minutes, then quick-release.
- Stir in a squirt of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of salt.
Benefits of the Simple Chicken Marinade for Meal Prep:
- Time-Saving Convenience: The chicken marinade for meal prep offers a time-saving solution for busy individuals. By marinating a batch of chicken in advance, you can quickly assemble meals throughout the week without the need for extensive cooking or prep time. This convenience is especially beneficial for those with hectic schedules or limited time for meal preparation.
- Enhanced Flavor: The marinade adds a burst of flavor to the chicken, making it more enjoyable to eat. The combination of spices, including cumin, oregano, and paprika, creates a savory and aromatic profile that enhances the overall taste of the chicken. This flavorful chicken can be used in various dishes, adding a delicious element to salads, wraps, tacos, or sandwiches.
- Versatile Meal Options: The pre-marinated chicken offers versatility in meal planning. With the chicken on hand, you have the freedom to explore different culinary creations. From pairing it with rice, as suggested in the recipe, to incorporating it into stir-fries, pasta dishes, or grain bowls, the options are endless. This flexibility allows for a diverse and enjoyable meal experience throughout the week.
- Healthier Alternative: By preparing your own chicken marinade, you have control over the ingredients used. The simple marinade recipe avoids excessive amounts of added sugars, unhealthy fats, or preservatives often found in store-bought marinades. By using fresh ingredients and mild-flavored avocado oil, you can enjoy a healthier meal option without compromising on taste.
- Cost-Effective: Preparing your own chicken marinade for meal prep can be cost-effective compared to buying pre-marinated chicken or pre-packaged marinades. By purchasing the chicken in bulk and utilizing pantry staples for the marinade, you can save money in the long run while still enjoying delicious and flavorful meals.
With this simple chicken marinade for meal prep, you can enjoy flavorful and conveniently prepped chicken throughout the week. Incorporate it into your favorite dishes like salads, tacos, wraps, or sandwiches. The possibilities are endless, and the result is a delicious and satisfying meal.