Go Back
Easy Meal Prep Bento Recipes for the $3 Challenge

Delicious Meal Prep Bento Recipes: The $3 Bento Challenge

Ah, the joy of meal prep! It brings back memories of cozy Sundays spent in the kitchen, creating delightful dishes that make weekday lunches feel like a treat. Today, I'm excited to share some super easy and budget-friendly bento recipes that not only taste amazing but also won't break the bank. Each bento box comes in at just $3, making it perfect for those looking to eat well without overspending.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Bento, Lunch
Cuisine: American, Asian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Bento 1: Chicken Teriyaki
  • 1 cup cooked rice A great base to fill you up.
  • 4 oz grilled chicken breast Lean protein that keeps you satisfied.
  • 1/2 cup steamed broccoli A vibrant veggie that adds color and nutrition.
  • 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce Sweet and savory, it brings everything together.
  • 1/4 cup sliced carrots Crunchy and fresh!
Bento 2: Veggie Sushi Rolls
  • 2 sheets nori This seaweed wrap is a sushi staple.
  • 1 cup cooked sushi rice Stickiness is key for rolling.
  • 1/2 avocado sliced Creamy and rich, perfect for sushi.
  • 1/4 cucumber julienned Freshness and crunch in every bite.
Bento 3: Quinoa Salad
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa A protein-packed grain that’s very filling.
  • 1/2 cup canned black beans Adds protein and fiber.
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes Juicy and fresh, they brighten the salad.
  • 1/4 cup corn Sweet and crunchy, a delightful addition.
  • 1 tbsp lime juice A zesty finish to brighten up the flavors.
Seasonings
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Start by placing the cooked rice in one compartment of your bento box.
  2. Step 2: Add the grilled chicken breast right on top of the rice.
  3. Step 3: Arrange the steamed broccoli and sliced carrots in their own compartments.
  4. Step 4: Finally, drizzle the teriyaki sauce over the chicken to add that delicious flavor!
  5. Step 5: Lay out one sheet of nori on a bamboo mat or clean surface.
  6. Step 6: Spread a thin layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
  7. Step 7: Place the avocado and cucumber slices in the center of the rice.
  8. Step 8: Roll the nori tightly, and slice into bite-sized pieces.
  9. Step 9: In a bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn.
  10. Step 10: Drizzle the lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper.
  11. Step 11: Give it a good mix and transfer to a compartment in the bento box.

Notes

Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. These meals are best eaten within 3-4 days.