Ready to build the best version of your weekly dinner rotation? I’ve got your back. Check out thirty-one of the best meal prep dinner ideas out there.
Whether you’re dealing with busy weeknights or simply want to free up some time, meal prepping your dinners is a great way to do it.
Meal prep is often associated with making lunches ahead of time, but who says dinners should be left out? Keep your meals healthy, well-portioned, and affordable by making them all at once.
1. Healthy Orange Chicken
Source: allnutritious.com
Satisfy your cravings for takeout with a healthier twist! This recipe for healthy orange chicken is a game-changer, if I do say so myself.
The best part? It’s a breeze to make in advance, making busy weeknight dinners a cinch.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 662
• Fats: 15g
• Protein: 62g
• Carbs: 71g
• Fiber: 6.1g
• Sugar: 21g
2. Teriyaki Chicken
Source: allnutritious.com
I love teriyaki chicken, so I devised this easy meal prep method! This recipe brings the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors to your plate.
Prep it ahead, and you’ll have a tasty and wholesome dish ready to go whenever hunger strikes. Say goodbye to the hassle of last-minute cooking.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 653
• Fats: 20g
• Protein: 51g
• Carbs: 68g
• Fiber: 2.4g
• Sugar: 23g
3. Honey Garlic Shrimp
Source: allnutritious.com
Next up, one of the best ways to enjoy shrimp, in my opinion! This meal prep recipe combines succulent shrimp with a sweet and savory glaze that will sing your taste buds.
With the convenience of prepping in advance, you can enjoy a gourmet seafood experience without the fuss.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 436
• Fats: 6.2g
• Protein: 26g
• Carbs: 72g
• Fiber: 7.5g
• Sugar: 17g
4. Chicken and Sweet Potato
Source: allnutritious.com
Chicken and sweet potato is the perfect hearty combination. This recipe combines the classic combo of lean protein and nutrient-packed sweet potatoes.
The result? A hearty and wholesome dinner that’s easy to prepare in bulk. Enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing time or taste!
Per Serving:
• Calories: 728
• Fats: 37g
• Protein: 56g
• Carbs: 43g
• Fiber: 8.6g
• Sugar: 12g
5. Chicken Burrito Bowls
Source: allnutritious.com
Chicken burritos are delicious but not always great at holding up across the week. The tortillas get soggy! But there’s another way to tackle this meal.
Packed with protein, veggies, and the perfect blend of spices, these bowls are a quick and easy way to satisfy your Mexican food cravings.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 520
• Fats: 13g
• Protein: 37g
• Carbs: 64g
• Fiber: 9.5g
• Sugar: 4.2g
6. Greek Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner
Source: allnutritious.com
The Mediterranean diet is well-known as one of the healthiest options you can choose when planning your meals. Well, this sheet pan dinner will give you that without the hassle.
Loaded with Mediterranean flavors, juicy chicken, and roasted veggies, this meal prep option is nutritious and convenient.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 284
• Fats: 12g
• Protein: 29g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fiber: 3.4g
• Sugar: 5.3g
7. Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Source: allnutritious.com
This easy-to-make meal prep recipe combines tender chicken strips with colorful bell peppers and onions, all seasoned to perfection.
Whip a big batch in advance for a fuss-free, flavor-packed Tex-Mex delight.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 473
• Fats: 14g
• Protein: 44g
• Carbs: 44g
• Fiber: 7.1g
• Sugar: 4.7g
8. Lemon Chicken Thighs
Source: allnutritious.com
Next up, a delicious way to prepare chicken thighs! This recipe features tender, and flavorful chicken thighs bathed in a citrusy marinade.
Prepare it in advance, and you’ll have a refreshing and satisfying meal ready to go when hunger strikes.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 505
• Fats: 29g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 39g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 7.7g
9. Spicy Pineapple Chicken
Source: allnutritious.com
Spice and pineapple are one of the best combinations in the world. This meal prep recipe marries the sweetness of pineapple with a kick of spice, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Save time without sacrificing taste by preparing this bold and tropical dish ahead of your busy schedule.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 324
• Fats: 10g
• Protein: 31g
• Carbs: 29g
• Fiber: 1.8g
• Sugar: 23g
10. Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner with Veggies
Source: allnutritious.com
Did you know that we don’t naturally produce omega-3? But we need it. So, we have to get it through our diets.
This recipe makes meal prep a breeze and ensures you enjoy a dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Add a medley of roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 455
• Fats: 23g
• Protein: 21g
• Carbs: 44g
• Fiber: 4.5g
• Sugar: 25g
11. Sheet Pan Pork Chops and Vegetables
Source: allnutritious.com
Can you tell I love sheet pan recipes? This recipe ensures juicy and flavorful pork chops and roasted vegetables in one pan.
Make meal prep a breeze and indulge in a comforting and hearty dinner without the mess. No dishes, heaps of protein, and easy to customize to suit your needs.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 390
• Fats: 28g
• Protein: 22g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fiber: 4.3g
• Sugar: 7.9g
12. Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Garlic and Honey
Source: allnutritious.com
Chicken thighs are among the best protein options for flavorful, affordable meals. This recipe delivers juicy and tender chicken thighs and roasted veggies.
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can enjoy a wholesome and satisfying dinner any night of the week.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 478
• Fats: 33g
• Protein: 18g
• Carbs: 31g
• Fiber: 6.3g
• Sugar: 17g
13. Chicken with Broccoli, Beets and Farro Salad
Source: allnutritious.com
Enjoy a delightful blend of flavors and textures with chicken farro salad! This meal prep recipe combines tender chicken with hearty farro and a medley of fresh veggies.
Prepare this chicken meal prep for a quick and wholesome salad perfect for lunch or dinner.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 715
• Fats: 27g
• Protein: 55g
• Carbs: 67g
• Fiber: 12g
• Sugar: 17g
14. Red Kidney Bean Burger Bowls
Source: allnutritious.com
Whether you’re vegan or vegetarian, prepping your meals is just as easy as it is for meat eaters. Give your meal prep a plant-based twist with red kidney bean burger bowls!
This vegetarian meal prep recipe combines protein-packed bean burgers and a colorful array of veggies.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 646
• Fats: 25g
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 86g
• Fiber: 34g
• Sugar: 20g
15. Jerk Chicken Meal Prep Bowls
Source: foodlovinfamily.com
Let’s take a trip to the Caribbean with one of the most iconic dishes the region is known for jerk chicken! This is a spice-filled way to cap off your day.
With the convenience of prepping in advance, you can enjoy a taste of the islands without leaving the comfort of your home.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 319
• Fats: 4g
• Protein: 42g
• Carbs: 26g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 8g
16. Sheet Pan Maple Dijon Salmon and Veggies
Source: twocloveskitchen.com
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and savory with maple Dijon salmon! This recipe combines succulent salmon fillets with a luscious maple Dijon glaze.
The best way to feel a little bit fancy without spending hours cooking a delicious dinner. The whole family will be on board with this sheet pan meal prep.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 452
• Fats: 18g
• Protein: 38g
• Carbs: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 11g
17. Hibachi Shrimp Rice Bowls
Source: agratefulmeal.com
Enjoy the flavors of hibachi at home with this easy shrimp and rice bowl. The shrimp is perfectly grilled and served with a bed of fluffy rice.
A delicious homemade hibachi sauce adds a burst of flavor to make this meal prep dinner idea a delightful experience.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 642
• Fats: 34g
• Protein: 27g
• Carbs: 59g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5g
18. Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Bowls
Source: maryswholelife.com
Savor the taste of Philadelphia with these chicken Philly cheesesteak meal prep bowls. Tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese come together in a convenient bowl.
This recipe brings the iconic Philly cheesesteak to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 574
• Fats: 23g
• Protein: 33g
• Carbs: 58g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
19. Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl
Source: agratefulmeal.com
Spice up your meal prep routine with these buffalo chicken rice bowls. Tender chicken smothered in zesty buffalo sauce! What more do you need?
It’s all paired with rice and fresh veggies for a satisfying and flavorful dish. This is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their dinner.
Enjoy these other high protein meal prep recipes!
Per Serving:
• Calories: 727
• Fats: 36g
• Protein: 50g
• Carbs: 49g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 8g
20. Southwest Bowls with Marinated Chicken
Source: addybean.com
Take your taste buds on a journey with these easy Southwest bowls featuring marinated chicken.
Packed with vibrant flavors, these bowls include a medley of vegetables, rice, and succulent chicken. A simple yet tasty meal prep option for those craving a Southwestern twist.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 584
• Fats: 28g
• Protein: 42g
• Carbs: 42g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sugar: 4g
21. Honey Garlic Baked Chicken and Cauliflower
Source: laurenfitfoodie.com
This meal prep recipe features honey garlic baked chicken paired with cauliflower, a delightful combination of sweet and savory.
The oven-baked goodness creates a wholesome dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying dinner.
This is one of the best meal preps under 500 calories!
Per Serving:
• Calories: 324
• Fats: 10.2g
• Protein: 41g
• Carbs: 17.1g
• Fiber: 5.1g
• Sugar: 12g
22. Healthy Meatloaf Meal Prep
Source: getinspiredeveryday.com
Enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist. This meal prep-friendly meatloaf is packed with lean protein and wholesome ingredients.
Prepare it in advance for a quick and nourishing dinner that brings the timeless taste of meatloaf to your meal rotation.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 506
• Fats: 23.9g
• Protein: 34.8g
• Carbs: 37.9g
• Sugar: 9.3g
23. Beef and Zucchini Skillet
Source: primaverakitchen.com
Try the quick beef and zucchini Skillet for a speedy and delicious meal prep option. Ground beef is cooked with fresh zucchini and savory seasonings to perfection.
Who knew this simple method could create such a flavorful and nutritious dish? It’s a simple yet satisfying choice for a hassle-free dinner.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 380
• Fats: 21g
• Protein: 27g
• Carbs: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
24. Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus
Source: getinspiredeveryday.com
Elevate your meal prep game with garlic herb chicken and asparagus. This recipe features tender chicken seasoned with garlic and herbs and crisp asparagus.
A perfect combination that’s easy to prepare and brings a burst of freshness to your dinner plate.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 320
• Fats: 16g
• Protein: 29g
• Carbs: 19g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 7g
25. Sweet and Spicy Chicken
Source: healthyfitnessmeals.com
Spice up your meal prep routine with Kung Pao chicken. This flavorful dish combines juicy chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a zesty Kung Pao sauce.
Enjoy this easy-to-make meal prep dinner idea’s perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 507
• Fats: 15g
• Protein: 44g
• Carbs: 49g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 14g
26. Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Source: thericechick.com
Transport yourself to the streets of Japan with this Teriyaki chicken rice bowl. Succulent chicken is glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. It’s out of this world!
Everything said and done, this creates a delicious bowl that’s perfect for meal prep. Simple, tasty, and a surefire hit for dinner.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 455
• Fats: 5g
• Protein: 34g
• Carbs: 66g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 21g
27. Honey Sriracha Meatballs
Source: healthyfitnessmeals.com
Add a kick to your meal prep with these easy honey sriracha meatballs. Combining sweet honey and spicy sriracha gives these meatballs a flavor-packed punch.
You can make this your own! Pair with rice or veggies for a quick and tasty dinner.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 433
• Fats: 11g
• Protein: 41g
• Carbs: 39g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 11g
28. Lazy Lasagna
Source: thedizzycook.com
Experience the rich flavors of lasagna with a lazy twist. This simplified recipe offers all the goodness of lasagna in an easy-to-prep format.
Layers of pasta, cheese, and hearty sauce make this the ultimate lazy lasagna. It’s a comforting and hassle-free dinner option that will blow your family’s minds.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 619
• Fats: 30g
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 52g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g
29. Beef Burrito Bowls
Source: healthyfitnessmeals.com
Bring the excitement of a burrito to your meal prep with this beef burrito recipe. Seasoned beef, beans, and your favorite toppings combine for a satisfying and convenient dinner.
Customize this meal to suit whatever you have in your pantry. It’s the perfect thing to take care of those leftover vegetables.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 797
• Fats: 31g
• Protein: 51g
• Carbs: 79g
• Fiber: 13g
• Sugar: 4g
30. Mediterranean Meatballs
Source: thedizzycook.com
Sumac doesn’t get enough love as a spice, but here’s your chance!
Packed with Middle Eastern flavors, these tender meatballs are a delightful addition to your dinner rotation. Pair them with a side of veggies or rice for a complete and tasty meal.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 281
• Fats: 20g
• Protein: 23g
• Carbs: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0.3g
31. Mexican Chicken Salad in a Jar
Source: swirlsofflavor.com
Finally, it’s time to shake up your meal prep routine. Layers of vibrant ingredients, including chicken, beans, and fresh veggies, create a colorful and nutritious salad.
It’s convenient for those looking for a refreshing and portable dinner solution. You can also use this technique with your other favorite salads for a simple dinner any night of the week.
Per Serving:
• Calories: 603
• Fats: 33g
• Protein: 41g
• Carbs: 39g
• Fiber: 11g
• Sugar: 11g
We’ve reached the end of our list, but there are even more meal prep dinner ideas out there for you to enjoy. There’s no limit to the possibilities when it comes to meal prepping.
We’ll never have ideas for easy, healthy, affordable dinners thanks to thousands of home cooks finding new ways to innovate.
Which recipes caught your eye? Which recipes are your go-to choices for a busy week? Let me know in the comments below and happy cooking!