you're making mealtime meaningful.
I always have the best intentions for eating a healthy lunch, but all too often those plans are derailed by midday. Things gets busy and when the hunger strikes, I end up eating whatever is the most convenient. And that is why these Mason Jar Meal Prep Salads are my new best friend. They’re great for making ahead of time to set yourself up for success. Today’s version is a fresh and zesty peanut chicken salad, and it might be my favorite one to date. If you want to get your midday meals on track then give this easy recipe a try!
If you aren’t familiar with layers salads like this one, allow me to explain how they come together. The dressing is typically at the bottom of the container so the rest of your ingredients stay nice and crispy (no one likes a soggy salad). In this case the protein comes next, some shredded rotisserie chicken to make thing super simple. The veggies, greens, and any toppings are then layered on for a colorful display that’s sure to get your mouth watering. When you’re ready to eat, empty the contents into a large bowl and spoon out any dressing at the bottom.
The great thing about these meal prep jars is that no cooking is required. Chop your veggies, shred your chicken, and mix up the dressing. Easy as that, it’s time to layer! Packed with flavor and loaded with wholesome nutrients, this is a meal you can feel good about. Give these Mason Jar Meal Prep Salads a try and start your week on a healthy note!
Meal Prep Peanut Chicken Salad
Yield(s): Makes 4 servings
15m prep time
you're making mealtime meaningful.
Ingredients
- 4 quart-sized canning jars with lids
- 8 ounces coleslaw mix
- ¼ head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 bunch cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1 cup frozen soy beans, thawed
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- 2/3 cup shredded carrot
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- ½ cup roasted peanuts
Dressing
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons warm water
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 3 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Preparation
- In a small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients and whisk until smooth.
- Pour ¼ of the dressing into each mason jar.
- Layer ¼ of each ingredient into each jar in this order: dressing, chicken, carrot, red pepper, cole slaw, red cabbage, soy beans, green onion, cilantro, peanuts.
- Seal tightly and refrigerate until ready to eat.
- To serve, empty salad into a large bowl and toss to evenly coat. Best eaten within 5 days of assembly.
Recipe adapted from 12tomatoes.com