Meal planning and cooking at home are a few effective strategies for eating better on a budget. I encourage people to look at what they have in their pantry already and what is on sale at their supermarket to guide their meal planning. By following these tips, you can purchase less food at the store and save money. You will waste less food and the ingredients you do buy will be at a good price. I like the challenge of piecing together a meal this way with what I have on hand plus a few common grocery list items. It’s like Top Chef on a budget.
Meat can be expensive. I like to try and stock up on staples like boneless chicken breast when it’s on sale. You can get a great price per pound when they mark down the family packs. Just freeze some for later if you don’t think you will use the entire pack before the expiration date. I’ve shared five recipes here. Each call for chicken breast and serve a family of four for $10 or less. These meals are easy and affordable. Try a few of them the next time you see that chicken breast is on sale. Or, maybe your family loves chicken [and Guiding Stars] and I’ve just planned your weeknight dinners next week. I’ll let you choose your adventure.
Total price: $5.39 | Price per serving: $1.35
Pepper Chicken Stir Fry
Made with frozen veggies and leftover chicken, this easy stir-fry is a perfect meal for getting the most out of kitchen staples and leftovers. If you have different veggies that need using, grab those instead and get creative!
View recipe »Total price: $10.00 (for 4) | Price per serving: $2.50
Chicken Fajita Bowls
If you’ve got cooked rice on hand, these bowls come together in no time flat. Like a little extra spice? Kick the heat up a notch with a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
View recipe »Total price: $8.18 | Price per serving: $2.05
Buffalo Chickpea Salad Wraps
This quick and delicious chickpea salad is perfect as a filling for this wrap or for a sandwich, or a topping for a salad. Make it a go-to option in your lunch rotation!
View recipe »Total price: $7.30 | Price per serving: $1.70
Chicken Tostada
Soft onions, tender chicken, and just a little cheese over corn tortillas make a perfect quick, light meal. Plan this recipe for the night after you’ve made a chicken dish for easy use of leftover chicken.
View recipe »Total price: $10.11 | Price per serving: $2.39
Mediterranean Chicken Salad
Lemon and olive oil are a classic combination for dressing salad, and they’re a perfect pairing with lentils, which boost the fiber and protein in this easy salad.
View recipe »