📖 Instructions

1. Begin by prepping the chicken: Cut 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to portion into your meal prep containers.
2. Marinate the chicken (optional): In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Marinating adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist during cooking. (If you're like me and forget about marinating, don't sweat it!)
3. Cook the chicken: Preheat your grill, oven to 400°F (200°C), or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, bake for 15-20 minutes, or cook in the skillet for 8-10 minutes, until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using a skillet, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking.
4. Prepare the rice: While the chicken is cooking, cook 2 cups of brown rice according to package directions. For extra flavor, try cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
5. Steam or roast the broccoli: Cut 2 large heads of broccoli into florets. You can steam them for about 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp, or roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, tossing with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roasting brings out a slightly sweeter flavor in the broccoli.
6. Assemble the meal prep bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among 4 meal prep containers. Top each with an equal portion of the cooked chicken and broccoli. You can also add a drizzle of your favorite sauce, such as sriracha, teriyaki, or a light vinaigrette.
7. Cool and store: Allow the meal prep bowls to cool completely before sealing the containers. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure your container are airtight to keep your food from drying out!
8. Reheat and enjoy: When ready to eat, reheat the meal prep bowls in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Make sure to remove the lid slightly to allow steam to escape.
9. Optional additions: For extra flavor and nutrients, consider adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini, to the chicken and broccoli. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for added texture and visual appeal. I personally love adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a lil' bit of heat.