Kitchen Gift Sets That Make Perfect Holiday Presents
Gift shopping starts to get exhausting especially when looking for that person in your life that doesn’t want anything. Kitchen gift sets can make the perfect holiday present. Here are some classic gift set options with a few new gifts. These curated collections are fun and unique and anyone can enjoy them. Perfect for culinary enthusiasts, hard-to-buy for family members, colleagues, and neighbors. Gourmet bundles can get expensive so we kept it affordable to get the best value for your buck.
Gourmet Spice & Seasoning Sets
There are over one hundred spices in the world and blending them creates a ton of options. As a kitchen gift set, spices can be one of the best options for foodies and cooks. Don’t just get the same old spices though. These gift sets have been around or a bit so look for something exotic that includes blends like za’atar, harissa, or truffle salt.
Coffee continues to be one of the most popular drinks in the US. People love their unique, exotic, new, and different coffee flavors. Now that the temps are dropping, a coffee or tea gift set can’t miss. Even if the recipient doesn’t consume much coffee, they certainly know someone who does. Look for holiday flavors, unique flavors, or luxury coffee beans. Consider fun flavors like, apple pie, chocolate banana, buttered popcorn, or any of the other many options.
Holiday kitchen gift sets can be tough to find for cooks and bakers that already have everything but sometimes a little whimsy and fun can be the gift they need the most. Decorating cookies during the holiday season is a great activity to do with your family, nieces and nephews. These kits often include silicone baking mats, decorative piping sets, and unique cookie trays. Look for decorating kits that are themed with something you think the recipient will like. It’s less likely they’ll have the same tools or ingredients then just gifting general decorating kits.
Charcuterie holiday gift sets are a classic present for coworkers, parents, friends, and clients. There is no shortage of options and you pretty much can’t go wrong. You can over pay but for the most part, any cheese, cracker, deli meat gift basket is going to be delicious. Our recommendation is to go safe if you are less familiar with the recipient but if you feel comfortable, go with an interesting charcuterie gift set. Exotic flavors, different takes on the ingredients, obscure foods, the common ingredients are still good but different is going to peak interest.
A perfect holiday gift for your kids moving out of the house or a friend starting their culinary journey. This is a great way to kick start a kitchen’s utensil, pot and pan set up. This is a fun set of kitchen tools with detachable handles for easy storage in small kitchens.
An eco-friendly zero-waste gift set is a meaningful and sustainable choice that reflects care for both the recipient and the planet. These products have been popular for a while, including reusable items like beeswax food wraps, silicone storage bags, bamboo utensils, compostable sponges, and cloth produce bags, replacing disposable kitchen products with long-lasting alternatives.. They’re less processed and can be great for people with allergies. Now there are gift sets packed full of the latest eco-friendly products for the environmentalist in your life.
These healthy twists on holiday classic recipes keep the flavor while offering more nutrition with less calories, sodium, and processed ingredients. Holiday classics are popular for a reason and we don’t want to lose the soul of the dish for the sake of a few calories. These twists are more focused on ingredient substitutions that provide the same familiar experience we love and expect while making healthier holiday meals. We also don’t want to get anyone uninvited to family dinners in the future so it has to be delicious.
Popular Ingredient Substitutions
Before we get to specific recipes, these general ingredient substitutions can give you flexibility as you think through your own recipes. These substitutions can even be better tasting than the original or offer better texture to the food. It’s not always about nutrition, sometimes that is just a bonus.
Baking Substitutions
Baked goods are some of the most popular sweet and savory foods during the holidays but they can also represent some of the least healthy parts of a meal. These swaps take into consideration not just the flavor of the food but also how it bakes. Baking can be time consuming so this is a pretty safe list.
All-Purpose Flour → Whole-Grain or Almond Flour
Add more fiber and nutrients with whole-grain flour or use almond flour for a low-carb, high protein option.
Use In: Cookies, pie crusts, muffins, and quick breads.
Sugar → Natural Sweeteners (Honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar, or stevia.)
Reducing refined sugar is important for everyone but especially for people with heart or blood pressure issues. The natural sweeteners also include additional nutrients or you can use stevia for a calorie-free option.
Use In: Pies, cakes, and holiday drinks like hot chocolate or cider.
Butter → Unsweetened Applesauce or Greek Yogurt
This might be a swap that becomes a permanent change. The applesauce and greek yogurt brings a better texture and flavor while offering additional nutrients and higher protein in the yogurt.
Use In: Brownies, cakes, and muffins.
Heavy Cream → Coconut Milk or Cashew Cream
Add a better, creamier texture while lowering saturated fats by substituting heavy cream for these alternatives. Heavy cream adds fat quickly to a dish so this can make a big difference.
Use In: Custards, soups, and whipped toppings.
Meat Substitutions
Often the centerpiece of a dish, these substitutions taste as good as the original while delivering a much healthier option.
Pork Sausage → Turkey or Chicken Sausage
Reduce saturated fats and potentially sodium when swapping from pork to turkey or chicken sausage
Use In: Stuffing, casseroles, or breakfast dishes.
Ground Beef → Lentils or Mushrooms
Not just vegetarian but also providing more fiber with fewer calories and fat while maintaining the same texture.
Use In: Shepherd’s pie, stuffing, or meatloaf.
Holiday Sweets Substitutions
Dessert can quickly overload you on sugar, fats, and calories. Making small changes can make a huge difference.
Whipped Cream → Coconut Whipped Cream
Keep the fun and flavor and drop the calories by swapping whipped cream to coconut whipped cream. It’s also a dairy-free alternative for lactose intolerant guests.
Use In: Desserts like pies, hot chocolate, or as a topping for fruit.
Pie Crust → Nut or Oat-Based Crust
Gluten-free high in fiber and healthy fats, switching to a nut or oat-based crust can become a permanent change to your pie recipes. It’s great change that isn’t just about being healthier.
Use In: Pumpkin pie, quiches, or tarts.
Healthier Holiday Classic Meals
Lighter Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes might be the most popular side at any dinner. The creamy potatoes mix the buttery flavor with the texture perfectly. The cream and butter can make this side dish incredibly unhealthy. The saturated fats and calories can be reduced by swapping in Greek yogurt or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream. These alternatives not only preserve the texture but can provide a similar or better flavor.
If you want to go a step further, swap the potatoes for cauliflower or parsnips for less carbs. The texture is extremely similar and with enough garlic and fresh herbs the flavor difference won’t be noticed. You may have to lie to people about this change though. Once people it they won’t notice but knowing up front tends to be less popular.
Whole Grain Stuffing
This is an easy change. Swapping the white bread for whole grain bread reduces the refined ingredients and adds fiber as well as other nutrients. Incorporate more vegetables to improve overall nutrient value while swapping in mushrooms for added protein without needing to add sausage.
Green Bean Casserole, Reinvented
Green bean casserole is some people’s favorite dish at the holidays but the cream makes it heavy with fats and calories. Instead of using canned cream soup make a light sauce with almond milk or low-sodium chicken broth thickened with whole-wheat flour. This will drop the sodium, fats, and calories while providing a better flavor. The fried onions are a particular favorite component of the dish but baked shallots or toasted breadcrumbs can provide a similar flavor and crunch without the added fats.
Sweet Potato Casserole with a Nutty Crunch
Sweet Potato Casserole always stands out on the table. The bright orange with the stark white, marshmallow topping is a beautiful dish and adds a contrast to the rest of the holiday meal. That being said, there is a ton of sugar in sweet potatoes and obviously in the marshmallows. Exchange the marshmallows with a bit of maple syrup for a natural sweetener and top it with nuts and oats for a satisfying crunch packed with nutrients.
Holiday Meal Prep
Explore alternative recipes that will impress your guests and leave you feeling the familiar joy while also being healthier holiday meals.
Turkey isn’t just a thanksgiving food. Turkey meal prep is great year round and since it’s turkey season let’s highlight some interesting ways to meal prep with this delicious, nutritious, versatile protein. Turkey has become more and more popular as most people are looking for more affordable and healthier options at the grocery store. Turkey has been a core option for sandwich meat for a long time but now we are starting to substitute chicken and beef for turkey instead. There’s a lot of value in making the switch. Let’s review why you should consider the change and how to go about it for cooking.
Chicken vs Turkey Meal Prep
An increasingly popular option, turkey can essentially replace chicken in any dish. Turkey and chicken are very similar, but turkey tends to edge chicken out in protein to weight, lower fat per ounce, and during the fall can be much cheaper. The flavors are very similar with turkey tending to be more mild. Sometimes it may just be nice to change it up. In the end, there isn’t much difference in the two proteins but if you’re looking to maximize a protein diet, this can give you a slight bump.
Beef vs Turkey Meal Prep
Many cooks already replace ground beef with ground turkey. It’s a lower fat, lower calorie option to ground beef while containing similar levels of protein and typically costing less. Ground turkey can be subbed in for meatloaf, chili, casseroles, and many eastern dishes for a more lean option.
Turkey Meal Prep Versatility
Turkey is one of the most versatile lean proteins since it can bridge the gap between chicken and beef. The hearty texture and milder flavor means it can work in both types of recipes. Turkey has a milder flavor than chicken or beef so you may want to overseason any dish that you substitute turkey in. Turkey meal prep works across cuisines as well, from Italian to Mexican and Asian inspired dishes.
How to Meal Prep Turkey
Turkey meal prep is really no different from chicken or beef. There are a few differences though and it’s valuable to keep in mind before you dive too deep in. The firm texture of turkey means you may want to cook it for a little longer or a lower temp to give the heat time to penetrate before drying out the surface. Slow cookers are great this. Turkey can do really well in stews, curries, and as shredded.
Turkey Flavor Profile
Turkey is a mild, slightly earthy flavor with less intensity than beef or lamb with a little heartier of a flavor than chicken. Depending on the cut though, this can vary. This mild flavor lends well to marinades and spices.
White Meat: Turkey breast has a very mild taste with a lean texture. Subtly sweet and slightly earthy, the white meat tends to be very similar to chicken breast meat. Be careful not to dry the meat out as the moisture is lower than other cuts.
Dark Meat (thighs and drumsticks): The dark meat parts are richer with a bolder flavor bursting with umami. These parts also tend to be juicier than the breasts with a higher fat content. This makes it a little more tender while being higher in calories for the weight. This is great for slow-cookers or roasted dishes that preserve the texture.
Buying in Bulk & Portioning
Whole turkeys are more of a seasonal option and can only be purchased in the fall typically. If you know a local farmer you may be able to purchase more year round but most likely you will have to purchase parts of the bird instead. Buying by the quarter can be more than enough though. Use the extra bits, the bones and discarded cartilage or skin, to make stock or in soups to build the depth of flavor.
Turkey tends to yield more food so portion control needs to be recalibrated. It is a lean protein so you may need to consume more to feel full but don’t over do it. Portion the same as you would chicken.
If you’re craving fast food but want to stick to healthier choices, I’ve got the perfect reimagined meal for you—Spinach and Feta Turkey Burgers with crispy Air Fryer Yellow Squash Fries! This dish gives you all the comfort food feels without the guilt, and it’s super meal-prep friendly too. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering, simple…
Starting your day with a nutritious, satisfying meal can make all the difference, especially during a busy workweek. That’s where our Breakfast Turkey Sausage Patties with Eggs comes in—a meal prep dream that’s as delightful on a hurried Monday morning as it is on a lazy Sunday brunch. This recipe not only packs a high-protein…
Turkey and Vegetable Couscous 12 oz Lean Ground Turkey2 oz pearled couscous1/4 cup red onions ((diced))1 cup butternut squash ((diced))2 cups baby kale8 oz mushrooms ((sliced))2 tbsp balsamic concentrate1/4 tsp garlic powder1/4 tsp salt1/8 tsp pepper1-2 tbsp olive oil Cook the pearled couscous according to packaged instructionsMeanwhile, add oil to a pan on medium-high heat…
Sesame Ginger Turkey Meatballs and Squash Noodles knifecutting boardspatulasaute pan 12 oz pre-cooked turkey meatballs10 oz butternut squash noodles1 each red bell pepper ((diced))1 tbsp green onions ((chopped))2 tbsp sesame ginger vinaigrette dressing1 tbsp coco aminos (soy sauce)1 tbsp olive oil1/4 tsp garlic powder1/4 tsp salt1/4 tsp pepper Heat the meatballs according to the packaging…
The leaves are starting to change color and the produce is getting switched out in the stores. It’s time for fall seasonal meal prep. The veggies, fruits, and recipes are transitioning to hearty options as the temperature cools. This is a wonderful time to embrace seasonal meal prep with thanksgiving around the corner and pumpkin…
There are all types of meal prep and some people are looking for an easy and quick process, half meal prep is a great option. Only having to cook half of a meal can save you hours plus it’s much easier and you can incorporate a wide range of flavors. In half/microwave meal prep consider pre-cooked proteins, steamer bags, and instant rice as key components in the recipes. Many of these options are just as healthy as if you made it yourself. Frozen options can last months so you don’t have to worry about shelf life either.
Convenience and ease are the name of the game for delicious microwave meal prep. Work in these different foods into your meal planning and you’ll be able to whip up meals super quick and create well balanced, versatile dinners. A quick veggie side or cup of instant rice to put with the rest of your meal can dramatically improve the quality of the meal.
Sauces, Dressings, Seasoning Packets
Microwave meal prep is often reliant on the sauces, dressings, or seasonings you choose. Unlike cooking from scratch, you don’t have the time to pack the flavors in. That being said, most ready-to-eat meals these days taste pretty good even without tons of sodium. Using pre-made sauces, marinades, dressings, and seasoning packets can transform a meal.
Key Sauces: Pre-made sauces like marinara, teriyaki, curry, and pesto are ideal for drizzling over grains, proteins, or veggies. Read the labels for sugar and sodium levels, even calories. Sauces can be one of the most unhealthy parts of a meal.
Seasoning Blends: Ready-to-use spice mixes, such as Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, ranch seasoning, or Cajun blends, are great for a lot of applications and provide depth to an otherwise bland meal. You may want to start out with a little and increase overtime. Even if you love the spice blend, too much can ruin the balance of the other flavors.
Key Dressings: Use pre-made dressings for salads or as marinades for added flavor. Tahini, balsamic vinaigrette, cilantro lime, caribbean jerk or yogurt-based dressings work well across a variety of dishes. A little marinade on top as you reheat the protein or veggies can be delicious with very few calories if you choose healthy options.
Ready-Made Bases
Tortillas, pizza crusts, pitas, and so much more can add needed nutrients to the meal and transform it. Instead of a salad, make a wrap. With little to no additional work you can dramatically change the way you eat the meal, the flavor, and the entire experience. These days it’s easy to find low calorie, high fiber, or gluten free options so you don’t have to worry about avoiding carbs or unnecessary calories.
If you use fully-cooked proteins, you can easily microwave meal prep with a little added veggies and sauce in a tortilla. A Wrap in under two minutes. This approach is incredibly versatile and if you find yourself getting tired of recipes quickly, this is a quick and easy way to pivot without throwing out an entire set of weekly meals.
You can also use cauliflower substitutes. Cauliflower pizza crust, rice, and more for a more nutritious option while pretty much tasting the same.
Fully-Cooked Proteins
These days there are a lot of options for frozen or refrigerated fully-cooked proteins. It used to be that you could only find low-grade, breaded chicken that didn’t have a great texture and it was unhealthy. Now you can find grilled chicken and lightly battered fried chicken with much less fat and sodium. Turkey meatballs and shrimp are also great options. It’s so easy to take them and pop them in the microwave or air fryer and with basically no work you have a delicious protein to go with your meal.
You can also find refrigerated proteins as well. Pulled pork, grilled chicken or turkey, and this can be sauced or sauceless depending on your diet.
Instant Rice & Steamer Bags
Instant or 90 second rice microwave meal prep rice is a perfect option for quick and convenient. It’s not going to be as tasty or affordable as making your own rice but it’ll come out consistent every time. It’s hard to beat the ease and speed. We usually keep a bag of it in the pantry just in case.
Steamer veggie bags have been popular for a while. They’re perfect to keep in the freezer just in case you need a quick side. Depending on the type you get, whether it’s sauceless, it can be a very healthy addition, that is quick and easy.
Pre-Washed and Pre-Cut Fresh Produce
Meal prep can be sped up with pre-washed and pre-cut veggies or fruit. For a little extra cost, you can make dinner much easier. It’s not necessarily recommended for every meal but if you need help preparing food then you should definitely consider this option.
Microwave meal prep or half meal prep is a fantastic way to cover the nights when you just don’t feel like cooking. It’s still cheaper than eating out and healthier than a frozen meal.
Meal prep snacks for kids may be the most common meal prep you do. Store bought snack packs can cost a fortune and be terribly unhealthy. Plus making your own snacks can be a fun thing to do with your kids. Let’s go through some methods and tips for making it as easy, affordable, and healthy as possible.
Affordability
Popular snack options come at a premium but with the right approach to shopping you can save tons and deliver a better treat for the kids.
Bulk: The classic grocery shopping tip for saving money, buy in bulk. This is especially great for kids who can power through snacks quickly. Once you identify foods that your kids like of course. Consider finding a staple food that you can buy in bulk and build around with other smaller purchases. This way you save on at least some ingredients.
Mix & Match: Buying foods that you can easily mix and match to create new combinations can extend the usability of the food and keep variety. If you’re buying in bulk this is a good thing to remember. If you focus on the basic nutrients, see below, then you know you can cover the nutrient requirements while trying new combos.
Create Your Own: Kids often want what they see advertised but those cost more and come with a lot of additional sugar, salt, and refined ingredients. Instead, look at what’s popular and design your own DIY snack around it. It may not be brand name, but it’ll be better in every other way.
Make a List: Snack shopping can creep quickly if you don’t stick to a plan. Make a list or a budget and stick to it.
Required Foods: Consider being flexible on some items while important foods are required. If you take your kids shopping with you, communicate this ahead of time. Make sure they know that certain items are nonnegotiable, fresh fruits and veggies, while others are strictly limited, sugary foods.
Containers
Now that you have bought your foods, whether in bulk or not, you’ll need to store them and serve them. Bulk food containers are great and can extend the life of some foods. Containers can get expensive so don’t buy more than you need and potentially base your shopping on the type of containers you have available. Don’t buy more cereal if your cereal container is in use.
Meal prep containers can help prevent a mess from kids spilling snacks, they can also extend the life of the foods the day of, and they can make it more fun. Even kids eat with their eyes first. That’s why brand name containers are overly designed. Kids are more likely to eat their snacks and enjoy them if it’s fun. Get decent containers that have a good seal on them but unless you plan on only using them at home, don’t go for the most expensive.
Nutrient Balancing
A good snack for kids should balance nutrients. It may not always be possible to get every nutrient into every snack and that’s ok. Try to balance the snacks out over the week though. Below are suggested volumes but the exact nutrient needs come down to the individual. You can use these as a guide and you’re probably not going to measure them out to the gram but it gives you an idea of the amount for each nutrient.
1. Protein 5-10 grams per snack
Why It’s Important: Supports growth, muscle development, and immune function.
Good Sources: Greek yogurt, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, lean meats (like turkey or chicken), nuts, seeds, and peanut butter.
2. Healthy Fats 4-6 grams per snack
Why It’s Important: Critical for brain development, energy, and nutrient absorption.
Good Sources: Avocado, nuts and seeds, olive oil (for dressing veggies), nut butters, and cheese.
3. Fiber 2-4 grams per snack
Why It’s Important: Fiber aids in digestion, helps stabilize blood sugar levels, and keeps kids full longer.
Good Sources: Fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains (like oats and whole-grain bread).
4. Carbohydrates 15-20 grams per snack
Why It’s Important: Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy, which kids need for both mental and physical activity.
Good Sources: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
5. Vitamins and Minerals
Why They’re Important: Various vitamins and minerals support immune health, bone growth, vision, and skin health.
Good Sources:
Vitamin A: Carrots, sweet potatoes, and other colorful fruits and vegetables.
Vitamin C: Berries, oranges, and bell peppers.
Calcium: Dairy products like yogurt, cheese, and milk, as well as fortified plant-based milks.
Iron: Beans, fortified cereals, lean meats, and leafy greens.
Snack Ideas
There is a lot that you can do with snacks. There is so much more opportunity for creativity with snacks. Consider a theme. Different colors or shapes of foods. Play off of the holidays or your kids’ names. Tie it back to something they love. A little bit of creativity and effort goes a long way and it’s something they’ll remember forever. Food shapes memories and snacks are some of the most important foods to a kid.
Here are some ideas for meal prep snacks for kids.
Fruit and Yogurt Parfaits Ingredients: Low-fat yogurt, fresh or frozen berries, and a sprinkle of granola Prep: Layer yogurt and berries in containers, adding granola right before eating to avoid sogginess.
Veggie Cups with Hummus Ingredients: Carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, celery, and hummus Prep: Portion hummus in small containers, then place veggies in separate bags or jars. Keep hummus in the fridge until needed.
Apple Slices with Nut Butter Ingredients: Apple slices and a small portion of almond or peanut butter Prep: To prevent browning, dip apple slices in a bit of lemon water before storing. Add a small container of nut butter for dipping.
DIY Trail Mix Ingredients: Unsweetened cereal, almonds, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds Prep: Mix ingredients in a large batch, then divide into small containers for easy grab-and-go snacks.
Cheese and Whole-Grain Crackers Ingredients: Pre-sliced cheese and whole-grain crackers Prep: Portion cheese slices and crackers into small bags or containers for a simple, filling snack.
Hard-Boiled Eggs with Veggie Sticks Ingredients: Hard-boiled eggs, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices Prep: Boil eggs in bulk, peel, and store in the fridge with veggie sticks for a protein-packed snack.
Ants on a Log Ingredients: celery, peanut butter, and raisins Prep: Wash and cut the celery in 4 inch segments. Spoon the peanut into the crevice of the celery and smooth it out. Lastly add a few raisins on top.
Enjoy your time with your kids and make the snacks together. Allow for some indulgences within the snacks. It’s often better to teach portion control over completely ignoring candy altogether. Sugar isn’t bad for us, over eating it is.
Chicken is the most popular protein to cook with. It’s versatile, delicious, and nutritious. You just need to keep the variety in the mix. To help, these are our 5 best ways to cook chicken breasts. There are many cuts of chicken from legs and thighs, to tenders and wings, but breasts tend to be one the easiest and juiciest cuts. The size allows for a good crisp cook while retaining the moisture. It can also be cut up into tenders or cubes for a variety of uses.
There are thousands of chicken recipes out there. We have our own set of favorite chicken recipes as well. Check out this blog post next for our top chicken recipes:
Meal prep better tasting and more nutritious chicken! The secret is meal prep chicken thighs. Chicken thighs are a less common cut of chicken so it’s generally more affordable. With the price of groceries what it is, every little bit of savings helps. Chicken thighs can be up to a third of the price of chicken…
We even wrote a specific article just for chicken thighs, a very underrated cut of chicken. You should definitely consider this post as you work through chicken recipes.
Chicken is an amazingly versatile and healthy ingredient with a delicious flavor so we pulled our top 10 meal prep chicken recipes into a convenient list. Our chicken recipes come from many cuisines to provide a ton of variety, with easy cooking instructions. Don’t know where to start or getting fatigued on your current meal…
Pan-searing chicken is first in our list of the 5 best ways to cook chicken breasts for a couple of reasons. First, it gives a golden brown sear while locking the juice inside. The sear imparts so much flavor and the moist meat has the perfect texture.
Second, it allows for a lot of control over flavor and flexibility as you’re cooking it. This is a great cooking skill to work on as pan-seared chicken can be added to any dish to make it more delicious and nutritious.
Tips
Hammer or flatten the chicken to a uniform thickness for an even cook.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing from heat to lock in the flavor.
General Pan-searing Instructions
Step 1: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and other seasonings of choice (like garlic powder or paprika).
Step 3: Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, smooth side down. Cook for 6-7 minutes without moving them.
Step 4: Flip and cook the other side for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Oven baked chicken
Oven baked chicken is healthier and it’s better for cooking in bulk. This makes it a better option for meal prep. It’s also incredibly versatile with many different ways to flavor/cook the chicken in an oven, on a baking sheet, in a casserole dish, on a rack, with veggies, in a sauce. You can also marinade the chicken beforehand to add flavor and moisture.
Oven baked chicken is also much easier. Check the thickness of the chicken and match the cooking time. Set it and forget it. Little effort, maximum flavor. It’s also a little more forgiving than pan-searing chicken.
Tips
Baste your chicken to avoid dryness.
General Oven Baking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Season or marinate your chicken breasts, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
Step 3: Bake for 20-25 minutes, depending on the thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Grilled chicken
This is another favorite among the 5 best ways to cook chicken. Grilled chicken mixes the flavor of chicken with the flavors of the grill. You also get such a crispy skin with a succulent inside. It’s easy to gauge, it’s flexible, and you can continue to baste for flavor or just let it smoke. After grilling you can slice it up and enjoy it in sandwiches, salads, and more. You can easily grill a lot of chicken quickly so it’s perfect for meal prep.
Tips
Butterfly thick breasts for an more even cook that’s faster, or flatten the chicken before cooking.
General Grilling Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 2: Season or marinate the chicken breasts. Brush them with oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill each side for about 5-6 minutes until grill marks appear and the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Slow cooked chicken
Slow cooker or crock pot chicken, is the easiest of the 5 best ways to cook chicken breasts . It doesn’t require any attention and it’s the most forgiving cooking method. Add your chicken breasts to a crock pot, add stock, or water, or tomato sauce, or marinade or anything. That’s all that you need for great chicken but it’s even better with some spices and veggies added. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of crock pot chicken recipes and such a wide variety. From chicken soups to chicken chilis or even just pulled chicken that you can keep in the fridge and add to any other meal, crock pot chicken is such a great option for meal prep.
Slow Cooker Instructions
Step 1: Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker along with a cup of broth, salsa, or sauce for flavor.
Step 2: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Fried chicken
A crowd favorite, fried chicken may not be the healthiest but it is one of the most delicious. There are ways to make it a little healthier. Instead of deep fry, do a shallow fry. It takes a little longer, requires a flip of the chicken, but doesn’t absorb as much oil. You can also coat the chicken in less batter. This also helps reduce the amount of oil that is absorbed.
Another option is use an air fryer which can be much healthier although it doesn’t really work with a wet batter chicken.
Tips
Add spices to the batter.
Rinse and pat dry the chicken to help the batter stick.
Season the chicken directly.
Shallow Fry Chicken Instructions
Heat a small amount of oil (about 1/4 inch deep) in a pan over medium-high heat.
Fry the chicken on one side, then flip and cook until done.
Drain the cooked chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Honorable Mention
Cubed chicken
Cubed chicken didn’t make it into our list of the 5 best ways to cook chicken breasts since it’s a cutting style not a cooking style but we had to mention it. Cubing chicken breasts makes it faster to cook and increases the surface area so you can season it even more. Cubed chicken also cooks more evenly, better for kebabs. It’s bite sized, perfect for curries and rice bowls where you don’t want to have to cut chicken as you eat. You just want to spoon it in consistently.
Stir-fry
This really is one of our most common ways of cooking but in general, it’s not as versatile as the options above. Stir-fry can be done with many different spices, sauces, vegetables, and so on but so can the options above and they’re easier. If you have the skill to stir-fry this is an absolutely amazing way to cook chicken.
Kid friendly meal prep is a fantastic way to have fun with your kids while teaching them about nutrition and making lunch. Preparing food with your kids ingrains healthy habits and teaches how to cook much better than health classes at school. Picking the right ingredients and recipes is important. Also be sure to make it easy enough for the kids while still fun and a little challenging.
Get Your Kids Involved
Meal prepping for your kids can be a lot more and educational if you actually involve them in the process. This creates a stronger bond with food and the kids are more likely to appreciate what they eat. Depending on their age, chopping may not be an option but washing fruits and veggies, portioning, and assembling are great ways to involve kids of any age.
Add fun twists to the recipes like theming. Connect the meal back to their favorite tv show or book or incorporate the season. Not only does it keep the food new and interesting but you may find it expanding your recipe choices as well. Add a bit of music while you cook and provide a sensory experience.
Kid Friendly Meal Prep Ingredients
Kid friendly ingredients make it far more likely that your little ones will enjoy the food meaning they’ll actually eat it. You may not be able to get them to eat every vegetable but try to make most of the meal something they like or are accustomed to. Also remember to include a dessert. As much as you want it to be healthy, a dessert prepared the right way can keep kids from eating extremely unhealthy desserts. Plus kids can run off sugar pretty quickly.
Proteins:
Chicken: Grilled, baked, or shredded chicken works great in wraps, salads, quesadillas, or served with a dipping sauce. Turkey: Lean ground turkey can be used for meatballs, tacos, or burgers. Eggs: Hard-boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, or egg muffins provide a protein-rich option. Beans and Legumes: Black beans, chickpeas, or lentils can be added to wraps, salads, or served with rice. Cheese: String cheese, cheese cubes, or shredded cheese work as a snack or a topping for many dishes.
Vegetables:
Carrot sticks: Sweet and crunchy, they’re easy to eat and pair well with hummus or ranch dip Cucumber slices: Fresh and hydrating, cucumbers are a good finger food for kids. Bell peppers: Colorful and mild, great for dipping or adding to wraps and stir-fries. Broccoli or Cauliflower: Steamed or roasted, they’re delicious with a little cheese or seasoning. Cherry tomatoes: Bite-sized and easy to add to salads or eat on their own.
Fruits:
Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are sweet and full of vitamins. Apple slices: Serve with peanut butter or on their own as a crunchy, healthy snack. Grapes: Easy to prep and perfect for snacking. Bananas: Great for breakfast, smoothies, or as a quick snack. Oranges or clementines: Easy to peel and packed with Vitamin C.
Whole Grains:
Brown rice or quinoa: Use as a base for bowls, stir-fries, or salads. Whole-wheat pasta: Pair with a simple tomato sauce, or turn it into a cold pasta salad. Whole-grain bread or tortillas: Use for sandwiches, wraps, or quesadillas. Oats: Great for breakfast in the form of oatmeal or overnight oats. Whole-grain crackers: Perfect for snack plates or lunchbox bento boxes.
Healthy Fats:
Avocado: Can be mashed on toast, added to wraps, or served in slices. Nuts and seeds: If your kids are old enough (and allergy-free), almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds are great for snacks. Nut butters: Peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower butter can be used in sandwiches, as a dip, or in smoothies.
Balanced Kid Friendly Meal Prep
The central theme behind any healthy routine is balancing everything. The growth and development of children is directly related to the nutrition they receive. Change up your usual ingredients from time to time. Don’t just serve the same fruits or proteins. Variety is key. Use the list of kid friendly ingredients and choose one from each category to go on the plate. Your child’s own particular dietary needs may differ though and you should consider their unique needs but this is a good place to start.
Make it Visually Stunning
Everyone eats with their eyes first but that’s especially the case for children. When introducing new foods, kids will decide if they love it or hate it before even tasting it. Style counts and it can be more fun than throwing a handful of chopped veggies haphazardly into a bowl. Make a rainbow out of the plate. Display different colors using the different food groups. Cut foods into recognizable shapes. Even as an adult you can have fun with it. Take your time with the meal prep rather than rushing through it and it’ll make a difference.
Batch Prep Kid Friendly Meals
Take your time with the process but you can still leverage meal prepping short cuts. Batch cooking is going to be your friend, especially if you’re cooking for multiple kids. Five days a week can add up fast. Choose recipes that can be bulk made, anything baked is a good place to start. Another option is creating an assembly line with your kids and knocking out multi-step recipes as a team. Perfect for sandwiches and quesadillas. Don’t over prepare though. Kids’ tastes can change quickly and they probably won’t want to eat the same thing five days in a row.
Options Mini Frittatas Chicken or Turkey Meatballs Pasta Salad Quesadillas & More
Lunchbox Style
Lunchbox style meals have been the popular style in America for decades for a reason. They work really well and are fun and easy to eat. This refers to small portions of each type of food to create a balanced meal. It’s easily eaten with your hands and provides nutrition and variety. This is a great option for kid friendly meal prep both for eating and for preparing since it’s mostly assembling.
Meal Prep Tips
1. Keep Portions Small: Even individual bites should be small. This makes it fun and easy for them plus you can avoid food waste. Use separate containers or a good meal prep container with sections.
2. Cookie Cutters: this is a quick and easy way to make fun shapes in bread or fruit. Just be aware you’ll end up with a lot of scraps that don’t make the cut. You can use these for your own snacks or meals.
3. Use Dips and Sauces: Sauces like hummus provide a great experience for the kids and provide them with an activity while they eat. Just make sure you have good leak proof containers.
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These essential kitchen tools for meal prep will make your life so much easier and cooking more fun. Expand the recipes that you can cook and the meals you can prepare with our favorite kitchen tools. These are our favorite tools for the value that you get for your money. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get good tools. This post contains affiliate links.
Chef’s Knife
A good knife is the most essential kitchen tool you can have and if you can only spend money on one kitchen item, make it here. A good knife can maintain an edge better and a sharp knife cuts smoothly. This means you can predictably control your cuts rather than hacking at your food. Precise cuts improve efficiency and lower fatigue making meal prep more of a breeze.
If you have a good kitchen knife, then you need a good cutting board as well. You don’t have to go crazy expensive to get a good cutting board but get a decent one that fits your kitchen size and meal prep size.
What does it mean to fit your kitchen size and meal prep size? Bigger is often considered better but if it can’t fit on your counter, it’s too heavy for you to move around the kitchen, or too big to fit in your sink then you are less likely to use it. Alternatively, if it’s too small and you find yourself constantly running out of space when chopping vegetables or proteins, you’ll get annoyed as well. There are a lot of options but these types should help you decide.
Wood: Wood cutting boards are popular because they are gentle on knives and have a natural self-healing surface that minimizes knife marks. High-quality wooden boards can also inhibit bacterial growth because wood absorbs moisture, which dries out bacteria.
Plastic: Plastic boards, usually made from polyethylene, are affordable, lightweight, and dishwasher-safe, making them easy to sanitize.
Bamboo: Bamboo is a sustainable and eco-friendly material that’s harder than most woods. It’s more resistant to moisture than wood and requires less maintenance, but it can be slightly tougher on knives due to its hardness.
Composite: Composite boards, made from compressed wood fibers, offer a balance between wood and plastic. They are durable, knife-friendly, and often dishwasher-safe.
A food processor can speed up a wide variety of tasks around the kitchen. Chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing are all done with ease with one machine. If you’re prepping large amounts of food then this is an essential kitchen tool for meal prep.
Chopping vegetables, herbs, or nuts
Shredding cheese, cabbage, or carrots
Slicing vegetables like cucumbers, potatoes, or zucchini
Pureeing ingredients for soups, sauces, or baby food
Mixing and kneading dough for breads, pizzas, or pastries Its versatility makes it a go-to tool for many meal prep tasks, reducing the need for multiple kitchen gadgets.
Preparing homemade sauces, dips, and dressings is effortless with a food processor. From smooth hummus to chunky salsa, the machine can blend or chop ingredients into the perfect consistency in seconds, allowing you to create flavorful additions to your meals without extra effort.
Some foods take a lot of effort to prepare by hand, like pie dough, nut butters, or certain types of pastry. A food processor can mix dough or grind nuts in seconds, eliminating the need for multiple steps and making the process much simpler.
A mandolin slicer is a board with a fixed blade in it that allows for the user to move the food over the board making quick and consistent cuts. This is one of the best kitchen tools for meal prep. It speeds up cuts and makes it much more efficient. As long as you’re careful when you use it as the blade is sharp and users tend to go faster and faster. Keep your fingers out of the way though and you’ll find this to be one of the most fun tools to use as well.
We’ve already written a couple of articles on our favorite meal prep storage containers. There are a lot of great options out there but if you’re interested in some of the best containers across a range of price points check out our articles here:
This is a perfect time to update, upgrade, or replace your meal prep containers with more of the Best Meal Prep Containers – Gift Edition. Whether you’re treating yourself or the meal prepper in your life, this list will provide you plenty of options from cheap to expensive, full meal to portions, and silicone to…
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Blenders and immersion blenders open up a whole new set of opportunities. From soups to smoothies and dips to nut butters. Smoothies are a great option for quick meals that can be chocked full of nutrients. Using an immersion blender to process fresh ingredients for your soup can elevate the flavors way beyond a basic soup. Making your own dips or butters seems like a little much but it’s actually really easy and fresh dips are delicious.
These might be some of the most essential kitchen tools. Measuring cups and spoons are necessary in most recipes and guessing at amounts is really tough. A good set of measuring spoons don’t need to be expensive and can last you a lifetime. One good measuring cup can carry you. You don’t necessarily need a whole set unless you don’t want to have to rinse it when you need it multiple times on a recipe.
For bulk meal prep or soups, these are essential kitchen tools. Instant pots and slow cookers can cook a lot of food, require little effort, and blend flavors amazingly. They also don’t require much experience to use. Anyone can pour all of the ingredients into a pot, put the lid on and check back a few hours later for a meal. Consider marinated chicken or pork, tortilla soup and chilis. This is one of our favorite kitchen tools and the one we use the most after a knife and cutting board.
Sheet pans are a hard tool to do without. When you need a sheet pan, not much else will do. From baking to roasting, sheet pans get incorporated into a lot of meal prep recipes. Sheet pan meals are a great way to make an entire meal prep in one go. Good sheet pans don’t have to cost a lot and if you take care of them, can last a while. And who doesn’t like cookies?
This final tool may be a little less essential than the rest of the tools unless you’re meal prepping to lose weight or build muscle. A food scale is necessary for precisely portioning out food and making sure you get the nutrients that you need each day within your calorie goal. Don’t need to go expensive on this tool either. Around $10 can get you a decent food scale.
The best sandwich meal prep hits on all three, affordability, flavor, and easiness. There are great sandwiches out there that don’t store or travel well. Although they’re delicious they’re not suitable for meal prep. Avoid hot sandwiches, overly wet sandwiches, or sandwiches with too many elements. Stick with the classic options and you’ll find it’s much easier and all around works better.
Sandwiches have been a popular staple for lunches for hundreds of years because they are portable. Easily eaten on the go or enjoyed with a bag of chips or veggies, the ease of eating continues to make sandwiches a go-to choice. Sandwiches don’t require special utensils or create a large mess. This means you can easily eat lunch at your desk without fear of ruining papers or electronics.
The Best Affordable Sandwich Meal Prep
Choosing the right components
Bread: Depending on the sandwich you’re making you may want to change up the bread for a more sturdy option if you’re meal prepping days in advance. Light breads tend to dry out faster or lose structure before you’re able to eat it. You can toast your bread ahead of time if you plan on using wet ingredients. This can help avoid soggy bread.
Whole grain bread: High in fiber and resistant to sogginess.
Ciabatta or sourdough: Dense breads that maintain their texture well.
Wraps or pita: Alternative bread options that won’t become soggy easily.
Layer Your Ingredients
Layer your ingredients to manage how the moisture is contained and the freshness of the sandwich is maintained.
Use spreads as a barrier: condiments like mustard, mayo, and hummus spread on the bread can act as a barrier to moisture in vegetables or meats, maintaining the texture of the bread better. If you can assemble your sandwich before eating, save the condiments on the side and spread them later for a better bread consistency.
Middle layer: place meats and cheeses directly on the condiment layer. This layer tends to be a little more sturdy or doesn’t require the same delicateness as the vegetable layer.
Vegetable layer: Add vegetables last. Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and any other ingredients that are wet should go on top. You can also pack these separately and add them before eating for a better overall sandwich. It maintains the bread and vegetables much better.
Sandwich Ingredients
Proteins: Turkey, ham, chicken, and roast beef
Cheeses: Cheddar, Swiss, and Havarti – harder cheeses work better than soft cheeses.
Vegetables: Lettuce, spinach, and tomatoes or pickles packaged separately to avoid making your sandwich soggy.
Spreads: Mustard, Mayonnaise, hummus, and bean spreads
Prepping and Storing
Sandwich meal prep is only as good as the sandwich storing is.
Use airtight containers or sandwich bags: Wrapping sandwiches tightly helps lock in freshness. For added protection, wrap the sandwich in parchment paper before placing it in a container.
Store in the fridge: Always store prepped sandwiches in the fridge. If you plan on eating them later in the day, consider adding an ice pack to your lunchbox.
Freeze Sandwiches for Long-Term Storage: If you’re prepping sandwiches far in advance, you can freeze certain types of sandwiches. Ideal fillings for frozen sandwiches include:
Peanut butter and jelly (PB&J)
Deli meats and hard cheeses
Nut butter and bananas
Avoid freezing ingredients that have high water content, like lettuce or cucumbers, as they can turn mushy after thawing. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw the sandwich in the fridge overnight.
Affordable Sandwich Meal Prep
Sandwich meal prep is extremely affordable and on average probably one of the cheapest ways to feed yourself on a budget. The ingredients to a basic sandwich are just so affordable. You can easily get a sandwich down to below $2, even these days with inflation hitting grocery stores hard.
Peanut Butter and Jelly (PB&J) – No need to overcomplicate lunch every day. A PB&J sandwich is delicious no matter who you are. Pair it with veggies on the side for a more adult lunch but always be ready to throw a PB&J into your meal routine and be happy with the memories of childhood it brings back.
Ingredients:
Sliced bread (white or whole wheat)
Peanut butter
Jelly or jam
Cost: $0.50-$1 per sandwich
Egg Salad Sandwich – Eggs are high in protein and affordable. These are a great option for batch meal prep and is different from your typical meat, cheese, bread sandwich.
Ingredients:
Hard-boiled eggs
Mayo (or Greek yogurt)
Bread (any kind)
Optional: mustard, celery, salt, pepper
Cost: $0.75-$1.25 per sandwich
Grilled Cheese – One of the easiest sandwiches to make, a classic, and easily customized, the grilled cheese is a perfect option for sandwich and soup or chips. Change out the usual american cheese for any other cheese that melts well for a new flavor.
Ingredients:
Bread (white or whole wheat)
Cheese slices (American or cheddar)
Butter or margarine
Cost: $0.75-$1.50 per sandwich
Ham and Cheese Sandwich – Whether you meal prep the sandwich in pieces and assemble at lunch or make the sandwich and wrap it all assembled, ham and cheese is a basic sandwich that travels well, lasts a while, and is affordable.
Ingredients:
Bread
Deli ham (or pre-packaged sliced ham)
Cheese slices
Optional: mustard or mayo
Cost: $1-$2 per sandwich
Tuna Salad Sandwich – Canned tuna is affordable and a great source of protein. It can also be bought in bulk and easily stored until you’re ready to eat it. This makes it an easy sandwich to throw each individual component in a bag and assemble at lunch.
Ingredients:
Canned tuna (in water)
Mayo
Bread
Optional: celery, onions, pickles
Cost: $1.25-$1.75 per sandwich
Vegetable and Hummus Sandwich – A less common sandwich but still a delicious option, the vegetable and hummus are very affordable and provides a unique flavor to the classic options above.
Ingredients:
Bread or pita
Hummus
Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce
Cost: $1-$1.50 per sandwich
Sandwich Pairing Meal Prep
Sandwich meal prep is also endlessly customizable. Substitute an ingredient here or there and you’ll find a whole new set of flavors that match what you’re feeling that week. Tweak the options to better match your side dish. Flavors, textures, and nutrition are all important to consider when designing your lunch and different styles compliment each other in unique ways. Here are some classic pairings and how to match the right sandwich meal prep.
Sandwich with a Salad
When pairing a sandwich with a side salad consider the ingredients in the salad and the dressing you’ll be using. Turkey, avocado, hummus, or mustard are great sandwich options to pair well with common side salad options. Since you’ll be getting your veggies in the salad, you can focus more on the protein in the sandwich which opens up options for a lot of sandwich recipes.
Sample Pairing:
Sandwich: Turkey, avocado, and spinach wrap with hummus.
Side: Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette and walnuts.
Sandwich with Chip or Fries
Chips or fries are probably the most common side option to sandwiches. A bag of chips is easy and adds a texture missing in many sandwiches, the crunch. Fries pair well with anything. Both bring the salt and so the sandwich should balance out the sodium level and can provide more of a saucy element. Try including a creamy sauce on the sandwich if you don’t have a dipping sauce for the fries.
Sample Pairing:
Sandwich: Pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw.
Side: Sweet potato fries with a sprinkle of paprika.
Sandwich with Soup
Perhaps less portable, but still a great option for lunch, sandwich with soup is a classic pairing. From grilled cheese with tomato soup to roast beef with a hearty stew or au jus, some of the best combinations are sandwiches with soup. The soup helps a dry sandwich while the sandwich brings the crunch. The flavors should compliment each other allowing for dipping. Avoid creamy sandwiches with creamy soups, stick to a crispy, light, simple sandwich.
Sample Pairing:
Sandwich: Classic grilled cheese sandwich.
Side: Tomato basil soup.
Sandwich with Fruit
Sandwiches with fruit is a great option for a lighter lunch, especially when it’s hotter outside. The refreshing fruit balances out sandwiches that are too heavy or strongly flavored. The fruit can cleanse the palate and allow for a more enjoyable experience overall. It can also be a healthier option over chips while still being fun to eat. Consider turkey, ham, or cheese sandwiches as they pair easily with a wide range of fruits. Fresh herbs on the sandwich can help bridge the flavors with fruit. Keep the fruits simple, apples, berries, or grapes is all you need. No need to go overboard with it.
Sample Pairing:
Sandwich: Turkey, Swiss cheese, and cranberry sauce on whole wheat bread.
Side: Mixed fruit salad (with apples, oranges, and berries).
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The leaves are starting to change color and the produce is getting switched out in the stores. It’s time for fall seasonal meal prep. The veggies, fruits, and recipes are transitioning to hearty options as the temperature cools. This is a wonderful time to embrace seasonal meal prep with thanksgiving around the corner and pumpkin spice in every drink.
Seasonal meal prep focuses on fresh produce that can be healthier and more affordable. Plus if you want you can support local farmers which is a fantastic way to help out your community. Look for farmer’s markets popping up on the weekends. This also cuts down on the environmental impact of having to ship produce from far away farms.
Another benefit is the change in recipes and flavors. You’re probably getting tired of your summer meal prep and this is a good time to revisit your plan. Hearty recipes will warm the soul and power the immune system as we power through flu season.
Popular Fall Seasonal Produce
Pumpkins: Probably the most iconic fall produce, pumpkins are rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that converts vitamin A supporting skin and the immune system.
Butternut Squash: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, butternut squash can be prepared in a few different ways including roasting and soups which it’s especially good for.
Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts are delicious roasted or as part of a salad. They’re a little different in flavor. They can have a strong smell so be careful with work lunches.
Sweet Potatoes: From sweet potato pie to sweet potato fries, sweet potatoes have a lot of flexibility as well as providing a good source of complex carbohydrates and potassium.
Apples and Pears: It’s apple season! And pears. Look for apple cider, apple pies, and more wit these versatile fruits that are delicious and are a great addition to any lunch as a side.Cranberries: Cranberries have been added to many fruit juices but this is the season for fresh cranberries and are rich in antioxidants. The tart flavor is a nice change of pace from the other hearty produce for fall seasonal meal prep.
Looking for a cozy meal that’s quick, easy, and perfect for prepping ahead? My One-Pot Green Chili Chicken Soup is packed with flavor and takes minimal effort! Let’s dive right into this creamy, hearty, and spicy delight that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead. This post may contain affiliate…
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Good soup containers are worth the money. Soups tend to make more than we need and freezing is a fantastic option to avoid food waste or needing to eat the same soup for 3 days straight. Sometimes effective is better than fancy.
Soup for lunch is a great way to get a hearty meal in while at work. Keeping from soup from cooling down or leaking is the tricky part though. Quality soup meal prep containers are necessary for traveling with liquids.
