Introduction
Are you looking for a tasty and satisfying meal prep option that supports your weight loss journey? Look no further than this low carb Applebee’s Asian chicken salad meal prep! Inspired by the classic dish from the popular restaurant chain, this version is made with fresh ingredients and is perfect for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
This salad is not only low in carbs but also high in protein and loaded with flavor, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. With a balance of crunchy vegetables, tender grilled chicken, and a flavorful dressing, you won’t even miss the extra carbs. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious meal prep that will keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout your busy week.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup low-sugar Asian sesame dressing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, sliced red bell pepper, sliced cucumber, and green onions.
- Add the grilled chicken strips on top of the salad mixture.
- Drizzle the low-sugar Asian sesame dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for an added crunch.
- Divide the salad into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why Choose Low Carb Meals?
Low carb meals have gained popularity for their ability to support weight loss while still providing essential nutrients. By limiting carbohydrate intake, your body turns to fat as its primary source of energy, which can lead to weight loss and improved metabolic health. This Asian chicken salad is a perfect example of how you can enjoy flavorful meals without the excess carbs.
Meal Prep Tips
Preparing meals in advance can save you time and help you stick to your healthy eating goals. Here are some tips to maximize your meal prep:
1. **Batch Cooking**: Grill multiple chicken breasts at once to use in various meals throughout the week.
2. **Ingredient Storage**: Store the salad components separately from the dressing to keep the greens fresh until you’re ready to eat.
3. **Versatility**: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables or add other proteins like shrimp or tofu for variety.
4. **Labeling**: Use clear containers and label them with the contents and date to ensure freshness.
Nutrition Information
This low carb Applebee’s Asian chicken salad meal prep is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving is packed with protein and fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 12g
– Fiber: 5g
– Sugars: 4g
– Fat: 18g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the grilled chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to use a vegan-friendly dressing to keep it plant-based.
2. How can I make this salad more filling?
To increase satiety, consider adding additional protein sources such as chickpeas or black beans. You can also include avocado for healthy fats.
3. Can I use different types of greens?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with various greens such as kale, arugula, or even cabbage. Each type of green brings its own unique flavor and texture.
4. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
Preparing a low carb Applebee’s Asian chicken salad meal prep is a simple and effective way to stay on track with your weight loss goals. With the combination of fresh ingredients, lean protein, and a delightful dressing, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your carb intake in check.
Whether you’re packing lunch for work or planning a healthy dinner, this meal prep option is versatile and easy to customize. Enjoy the convenience of having a nutritious meal ready to go, and feel good about what you’re eating. Try it out today and discover how delicious healthy eating can be!
