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3 Dollar Bento Challenge Meal Prep Recipe

3 Dollar Bento Challenge Meal Prep Recipe

A delightful way to enjoy a balanced meal that won’t break the bank. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a colorful bento box that’s perfect for lunches or quick dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American, Japanese-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bento Box
  • 1 cup cooked rice A hearty base that fills you up.
  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast diced, a lean protein to keep you energized.
  • 1/2 cup steamed broccoli Packed with vitamins and a pop of color.
  • 1/2 cup carrot sticks Crunchy and sweet, they add great texture.
  • 1/4 cup sliced cucumber Refreshing and light.
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes Juicy and vibrant.
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce A savory touch to bring it all together.
Optional garnish
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds for a nutty finish.

Equipment

  • Bento Box
  • Large Pot
  • Steamer

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Start by preparing the rice according to package instructions and set it aside to cool.
  2. Step 2: Cook the chicken breast until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink inside, then dice it into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Step 3: Steam the broccoli until it's tender but still bright green—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
  4. Step 4: While the broccoli is steaming, slice the cucumbers and prepare the carrot sticks.
  5. Step 5: Grab your favorite bento box and begin by placing a portion of rice at the bottom as your base.
  6. Step 6: Next, arrange the diced chicken, steamed broccoli, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes in separate sections of the bento box for a beautiful presentation.
  7. Step 7: Drizzle soy sauce over the chicken and rice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Step 8: If you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for a delightful finish.
  9. Step 9: Seal the bento box and refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy your meal!

Notes

To keep your bento fresh, store it in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days. If you're meal prepping for the week, consider freezing the rice and chicken separately to maintain their quality.