Get Lifted: But First, Meal Prep

We’re still at that time of year when we can stick to (or resume) our fitness goals. Many of us have resolutions to work towards a healthier lifestyle over all. I’m proud that so many of us have decided to make better health a priority this year, so let’s toss all the excuses aside and let’s put in work! Taking care of your body includes not only exercise, but also what you put into it. So we’re going to start with what’s most important; clean eating. And we’re not only talking about what’s good for the body, but also what’s good for the pockets.

Myth: Eating healthy is too expensive!

Is it really? Let me break it down for you. A Chicken Burrito Bowl from Chipotle will cost you between $7-$9. Now take a look at this homemade Chicken Burrito Bowl ( 1 0f 17 yummy recipes courtesy of Tasty on BuzzFeed)

You can make up to 8 bowls for less than $15 (that’s about $1.88 per bowl). Purchase 8 Chicken Burrito Bowls from Chipotle and you’re spending $56-$72. No, thanks!

Meal prepping can seem like such a tedious task, but it gets easier once you get the hang of it. Let’s start with this easy to prep Chicken Burrito Bowl.

Ingredients

1 red, yellow, and orange bell pepper

1 red onion

2 limes

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 packet taco seasoning

Salt and pepper (to taste)

1 jar salsa

1 can black beans

1 can corn

Brown rice (cooked)

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.

2. Line baking sheet with foil.

3. Slice bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Cut limes into wedges.

4. Place bell peppers, chicken breasts, and onion on baking sheet and pour oil over.

5. Season bell peppers and onion with salt & pepper.

6. Season top and bottom of chicken breasts with taco seasoning.

7. Pour salsa over top of chicken breasts.

8. Bake for 25–30 minutes (oven times may vary).

9. Divide all ingredients equally into 8 containers, like these.

10. Enjoy!

You can store your delicious meals in the fridge for up to four days. This means you don’t have to worry about lunch or dinner for half the week. Just grab and go! I’m sure you’re worried that eating the same thing all the time might get boring, but you can always add your own flavor to these meals. Try adding some plain greek yogurt instead of sour cream, throw some avocados in there. Get creative and find what gets your tastebuds excited! The key is to make clean eating fun; have fun finding new recipes, give yourself a $50 weekly budget challenge, cook for your boo (like I do) or a coworker. Get excited about the changes you’re making. You’re more likely to stick with and maintain your new healthly habits while saving a few coins in the process.