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–+ servings
Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Couscous Jars

Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Couscous Jars for a Fresh Meal Prep

Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Couscous Jars are a delicious and nutritious meal prep option bursting with freshness and flavors.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 jars
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Couscous
  • 1 cup couscous or whole wheat couscous for added fiber
  • 1 pound chicken breast can substitute with grilled shrimp or tofu
For the Marinade
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil avocado oil can be used as a substitute
  • 1 zest and juice of lemon lime juice is an alternative
  • 1 bunch fresh basil can use mint or parsley if unavailable
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or use fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
For the Jars
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes diced bell peppers can be a substitute
  • 1 cup cucumber or bell peppers/radishes for different texture
  • optional feta cheese omit for dairy-free option, can substitute with avocado

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • fork
  • Meat thermometer
  • airtight containers

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of chicken broth to a boil. Stir in 1 cup of couscous, cover and remove from heat. Let sit for 5 minutes, fluff with a fork, and let cool slightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the zest and juice of 1 lemon. Add 1 pound of chicken breasts and toss to coat. Marinate for 10 minutes.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Allow to rest and slice.
  4. Layer the ingredients in jars, starting with couscous, followed by sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Top with feta cheese and basil if desired.
  5. Optionally, drizzle with a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice before sealing jars. Store in the refrigerator for meal prep.

Nutrition

Serving: 1jarCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 36gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marination time of 10 minutes is ideal; avoid prolonged marination due to lemon's acidity. Let jars chill for at least an hour for best flavor integration.

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