Go Back
–+ servings
Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Couscous Jars

Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Couscous Jars for Fresh Meal Prepping

Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Couscous Jars are a vibrant, customizable, high-protein meal prep option perfect for busy weekdays.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marination Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 jars
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Couscous
  • 1 cup Couscous Can substitute with quinoa or bulgur.
  • 1 cup Vegetable or Chicken Broth Opt for low-sodium for a lighter option.
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with grilled shrimp or chickpeas.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil May replace with avocado oil.
  • 1 whole Lemon (Zest and Juice) Provides acidity and brightness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can also be used.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Can substitute with diced bell peppers.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Zucchini can be used as an alternative.
For Toppings
  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese (optional) Omit for vegan or lower-calorie options.
  • as needed Extra Basil Leaves (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • skillet
  • mason jars

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook Couscous: Bring 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add 1 cup of couscous, stir, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare Chicken: In a bowl, marinate 1 pound of chicken with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, salt, pepper, and juice of 1 lemon for 10 minutes.
  3. Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes each side until golden brown and cooked through.
  4. Assemble Jars: Layer couscous, chicken slices, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber in mason jars. Top with feta and basil leaves.
  5. Dress (optional): Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice if desired before sealing the jars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1jarCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consume within 3-5 days for optimal taste. Freeze without cucumber and tomatoes for up to 3 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!