Meal Prep Chicken Eggplant Parmesan Baked For Stress-Free Weekly Dinners
Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal prep option that will keep your weekly dinners stress-free? Look no further! This Meal Prep Chicken Eggplant Parmesan is a game-changer. It combines tender chicken, roasted eggplant, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. With just a little bit of prep, you can have a week’s worth of healthy dinners ready to go!
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it with pasta, over a bed of greens, or even with a side of garlic bread. The best part? It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you just don’t feel like cooking. Let’s dive into how to prepare this mouth-watering dish!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the eggplants into 1/2 inch rounds and sprinkle both sides with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
- While the eggplants are resting, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let them rest.
- In the same skillet, add the eggplant slices in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly golden.
- While the eggplant is baking, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the eggplant slices over the sauce. Then add half of the chicken pieces on top, followed by a layer of marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients: eggplant, chicken, marinara sauce, and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
Tips for Meal Prepping
To make this Chicken Eggplant Parmesan even easier to enjoy throughout the week, consider these meal prep tips:
- Portion the dish into individual servings using meal prep containers. This allows for quick grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
- Pair your Chicken Eggplant Parmesan with sides that are easy to prepare, such as steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
- Store the meal prep containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- For reheating, simply pop it in the microwave for a few minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Variations to Try
This recipe can easily be customized to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free Option: Make sure to use a gluten-free marinara sauce and check that your cheeses are gluten-free as well.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy twist.
- Different Cheeses: Try using provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen eggplant for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen eggplant, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before using it in the recipe to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make it healthier?
To make this dish healthier, use skinless chicken breasts, low-fat cheese, and add more vegetables to the layers.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Chicken Eggplant Parmesan is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
What can I serve with Chicken Eggplant Parmesan?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or pasta. You can also serve it over zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option.
Final Thoughts
This Meal Prep Chicken Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious way to simplify your weekly dinners. With its layers of flavor and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease of meal prep, and savor the moments around the table with loved ones. Happy cooking!
