March is National Frozen Food Month, the perfect time to celebrate the convenience, affordability, and versatility of frozen ingredients! Meal prepping is one of the best ways to save time, money, and energy throughout the week, and frozen chicken is an excellent staple to keep on hand. Whether you’re prepping lunches for work, quick weeknight dinners, or bulk meals for the family, frozen chicken can make the process seamless. Here’s how you can meal prep efficiently using frozen chicken this National Frozen Food Month.
Why Choose Frozen Chicken for Meal Prepping?
- Budget-Friendly: You can buy it in bulk when on sale to save more money. Whole chickens are usually less expensive than cut up pieces and can be broken down for use.
- Longer Shelf Life: Unlike fresh chicken, frozen chicken can be stored for months without spoiling, reducing food waste.
- Convenient: No need to rush to the store frequently; just defrost as needed and cook in large batches.
- Versatile: Works well in countless recipes, from stir-fries and soups to salads and casseroles.
How to Safely Thaw Frozen Chicken
Proper thawing is crucial to maintain food safety and ensure the best texture and taste. Here are the safest methods:
- Refrigerator Thawing (Best Option) – Place the frozen chicken in a container and let it thaw in the fridge for 12-24 hours.
- Cold Water Thawing – Submerge the chicken in a sealed bag in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. It takes about 1-3 hours.
- Microwave Thawing (Quickest Option) – Use the defrost setting, but cook the chicken immediately after to prevent bacterial growth.
Easy Meal Prep Recipes with Frozen Chicken
Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken
Ingredients:
2 lbs frozen chicken breasts, 1 cup chicken broth, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your favorite seasonings.
Instructions:
- Place frozen chicken in the slow cooker.
- Add broth and seasonings.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Shred with a fork and use in tacos, salads, or grain bowls.
Sheet Pan Chicken & Vegetables
Ingredients:
4 frozen chicken thighs, 2 cups chopped vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots), 2 tbsp olive oil, and seasonings.
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Toss vegetables with olive oil and seasoning, spread on a sheet pan.
- Place frozen chicken on the pan and season.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Divide into meal prep containers with rice or quinoa.
Instant Pot Chicken & Rice
Ingredients:
2 frozen chicken breasts, 1 cup rice, 2 cups chicken broth, 1 cup mixed vegetables, seasonings.
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot.
- Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let it naturally release.
- Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F.
- Shred chicken and mix everything together.
- Store in containers for easy lunches.
Tips for Successful Meal Prepping with Frozen Chicken
- Batch Cook & Freeze: Cook large portions and freeze in individual servings for easy grab-and-go meals.
- Air Fryer Meal Prep Chicken Breasts
- Sheet Pan Hawaiian Chicken (Cook recipe through step 7, spread on a sheet pan to cool quickly, portion and freeze in individual servings. Reheat in air fryer, oven or microwave and serve with steam rice of veggies.)
- Use Different Marinades: Marinate chicken before freezing to add extra flavor with minimal effort.
- 6 Quick & Easy Chicken Marinades that freeze beautifully!
- Label Your Meals: Write the date and dish on your containers to keep track of freshness.
- Pair with Healthy Sides: Balance your meals with grains, roasted vegetables, and healthy fats for well-rounded nutrition like Golden Grace Kitchen's Healthy Egg Roll in A Bowl.
This National Frozen Food Month, take advantage of the convenience of frozen chicken and make meal prepping a breeze! With these tips and recipes, you can enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without the stress of daily cooking. Give it a try and see how frozen chicken can transform your weekly meal prep routine!
