Easy Meal Prep Sides For Bbq Chicken Sandwiches To Save Time In The Week
Summer is the perfect time for BBQ chicken sandwiches, but who wants to spend all day in the kitchen? With a little planning and some easy meal prep sides, you can enjoy delicious sandwiches without the hassle. This article will explore a variety of sides that complement BBQ chicken sandwiches, making your weeknight meals a breeze.
Each of these meal prep sides can be made in advance and stored, saving you time during busy weekdays. From refreshing salads to hearty sides, we’ll cover everything you need to make your BBQ chicken sandwiches shine. Let’s get started!
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (15 oz) baked beans
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- While the coleslaw is chilling, prepare the corn. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the corn. Boil for about 5-7 minutes or until tender. Remove from water and let cool.
- Once cool, brush the corn with melted butter and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can grill the corn for an added smoky flavor if desired.
- For the baked beans, pour the beans into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If desired, garnish the baked beans with chopped parsley before serving.
- Once all sides are prepared, serve alongside your BBQ chicken sandwiches and enjoy!
Additional Easy Meal Prep Sides
In addition to coleslaw, corn, and baked beans, several other sides pair wonderfully with BBQ chicken sandwiches. Here are a few more easy meal prep ideas that can enhance your meal:
1. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic BBQ side dish. Made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings, it can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for days. You can even add hard-boiled eggs, celery, or pickles for extra flavor.
2. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions are a great way to add some color and nutrition to your meal. Simply toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then grill until tender. They can be made ahead and served cold or reheated.
3. Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is not only nutritious but also filling. Combine cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing side. This salad can be made ahead and stored for several days, making it a perfect meal prep option.
4. Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a favorite comfort food that pairs well with BBQ chicken sandwiches. You can make a big batch, portion it out, and reheat during the week. Try adding some bacon or broccoli for a twist on the classic recipe.
Benefits of Meal Prepping
Meal prepping has several benefits, especially for busy individuals or families. Here are some key advantages:
- Time-Saving: Preparing meals in advance can save you significant time during the week. With sides already made, you can focus on assembling your sandwiches.
- Healthier Choices: When you meal prep, you have more control over the ingredients and portion sizes, leading to healthier eating habits.
- Less Stress: Knowing your meals are ready to go can reduce stress during busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy your time with family.
- Cost-Effective: Buying ingredients in bulk and preparing meals can save you money compared to purchasing takeout or convenience foods.
Storage Tips
To ensure your meal prep sides maintain their freshness throughout the week, follow these storage tips:
- Store each side dish in airtight containers. This helps to keep them fresh and prevents odors from mingling.
- Label containers with the date they were prepared to keep track of freshness.
- For items that don’t freeze well, plan to consume them within 3-4 days.
- If you prepare sides that can be frozen, such as baked beans or potato salad, portion them out and freeze for longer storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long can I store meal prep sides in the refrigerator?
Most meal prep sides can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days. Ensure they’re kept in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
2. Can I freeze these side dishes?
Yes, many side dishes like baked beans, potato salad, and quinoa salad can be frozen. Just be aware that some textures may change after thawing.
3. What are the best ways to reheat meal prep sides?
The best way to reheat most sides is in the microwave or on the stovetop. For grilled vegetables, reheating on a grill or skillet can help maintain their texture.
4. Can I customize these sides based on my dietary preferences?
Absolutely! Feel free to modify the ingredients in these sides to fit your dietary needs, such as using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or adding more vegetables.
Conclusion
Preparing easy meal prep sides for BBQ chicken sandwiches can significantly save you time during the week while ensuring you enjoy delicious and satisfying meals. With a little bit of planning, you can create a variety of sides that complement the flavors of BBQ chicken and keep your weeknight dinners fun and stress-free.
Try out these recipes and meal prep tips, and you’ll find that enjoying homemade meals, even on your busiest days, is entirely possible. Happy cooking!
