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Overhead photo of five bento-style containers filled with colorful,portioned meals: brown rice, roasted chickpeas, steamed broccoli, shredded chicken, and a simple lemon-tahini drizzle, all neatly arranged on a rustic wooden cutting board with subtle warm lighting.

Ultimate Budget Meal Prep Plan

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This ultimate budget meal prep plan delivers 5 hearty, nutrient-dense meals for under $10 total. Perfect for busy weeknights or students on a tight budget.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups dried brown rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained & rinsed
  • 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
  2. Toss chickpeas with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and garlic powder; roast at 400°F for 20 minutes.
  3. Steam broccoli florets for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. Season chicken with salt and pepper; pan-sear in remaining oil over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side. Shred after resting.
  5. Whisk lemon juice, tahini, and 1 tsp water for sauce.
  6. Divide into 5 containers: ½ cup rice, ¼ cup beans, ¼ cup chickpeas, ½ cup broccoli, ½ cup chicken, and drizzle with sauce.

Notes

  • Cook rice in bulk and store for up to 5 days or freeze extras.
  • Swap chicken for tofu or lentils for a vegetarian option.
  • For extra crunch, add sunflower seeds before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Method: Roasting, Steaming, Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: High-Protein

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 container
  • Calories: 420 Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 12g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg
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