Name: Chicken and Hummus Bento Box
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 3 ounces cooked chicken breast (sliced); 2 tablespoons hummus (your favorite); 1 piece pita (sliced in wedges); ½ cup cucumber slices; ½ cup cherry tomatoes; 1 tablespoon feta cheese (crumbled, optional)

Jump to Recipe Print it

When I think of busy days and nourishing meals, the Chicken and Hummus Bento Box comes to mind. This dish perfectly marries convenience with health, making it a go-to for both kids and adults. I remember the first time I packed this delightful bento for my little one’s school lunch. As I arranged the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables and savory chicken in the container, I felt excited about the nutritious meal I was providing. Not only did it look appealing, but it was also a wholesome way to fuel energy for the day ahead. Each bite was a delightful blend of creamy hummus paired with tender slices of chicken and crunchy veggies. It was a win-win!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Packed Lunch Container, Kids Lunch Box, Ice Pack, Dips or Dressings Container

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What We Adore About This Chicken and Hummus Bento Box

Convenience

The Chicken and Hummus Bento Box is incredibly convenient for on-the-go meals. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or a picnic, this bento is easy to pack and can be enjoyed anywhere. The compartments keep everything fresh and separate, allowing for a delightful eating experience.

Nutritional Balance

This bento box provides a great nutritional balance. With lean chicken, healthy fats from hummus, and plenty of colorful veggies, it covers all bases for a well-rounded meal. You can feel good about what you’re eating, knowing you’re fueling your body with the right nutrients.

Customizable

One of the best things about this Chicken and Hummus Bento Box is how customizable it is. You can swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season. Whether you prefer different veggies, a whole grain pita, or even a different protein, the options are endless!

Kid-Friendly

This recipe is also perfect for kids. The vibrant colors and variety keep lunch exciting for little ones. Plus, they can help in the assembly process, making it a fun activity to do together before school.

Meal Prep Friendly

Preparing a week’s worth of these bento boxes in advance is a breeze! You can chop everything on the weekend and pack them in airtight containers. When Monday rolls around, you’ll have a healthy lunch ready to go.

What You Need for Chicken and Hummus Bento Box

Creating a Chicken and Hummus Bento Box is all about simplicity and freshness. The key ingredients work harmoniously to provide a satisfying meal that is both delicious and healthy. This combination of protein, carbohydrates, and veggies is designed to keep you energized throughout the day.

3 ounces cooked chicken breast, sliced
2 tablespoons hummus, your favorite
1 pita, sliced in wedges
½ cup cucumber slices
½ cup cherry tomatoes
1 tablespoon feta cheese, crumbled, optional

Putting Together Chicken and Hummus Bento Box

Putting together a Chicken and Hummus Bento Box is a fun and satisfying process. You’ll love how quickly everything comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays. Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious bento!

Start by slicing the cooked chicken breast. Aim for even slices to ensure they fit nicely in your bento box. You want them to be about half an inch thick so they’re easy to grab while eating.
Next, take your bento container and place the sliced chicken into the main compartment. Make sure to spread it out a bit so it doesn’t clump together, allowing for quicker cooling if it’s still warm.
In another compartment, arrange the cucumber slices. These add a nice crunch and freshness to your meal. Try to make them look nice and colorful for an appealing presentation.
Now, add the cherry tomatoes to another compartment. You can either leave them whole or slice them in half for easier eating. Their juicy sweetness will pair perfectly with the savory chicken.
Take your pita and slice it into wedges. Place these in a separate compartment to keep them fresh. Storing them separately prevents them from getting soggy.
Fill a small lidded container with your favorite hummus. If you’re using a single-serve container, that works great too! This is the star of the show, adding creaminess and flavor.
If you enjoy feta cheese, sprinkle it over the hummus or pack it in a small container. This optional ingredient adds a lovely salty touch.
Before sealing your bento box, ensure everything is tightly packed but not overly cramped. You want the components to stay fresh and not mix together too much.
Finally, refrigerate your bento until it’s time to enjoy! If you’re packing this for lunch, consider adding an ice pack to keep it cool until you’re ready to eat.

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest chicken and vegetables. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also provide more nutrients.
Keep it Balanced: Aim for a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs in your bento box. This ensures you get a meal that satisfies and energizes.
Experiment with Sauces: While hummus is fantastic, don’t hesitate to try different dips like tzatziki or guacamole for variety.
Pack Smart: Use compartments to prevent your ingredients from touching and becoming soggy. This way, everything stays fresh and delicious.

Variations to Try

There are numerous ways to enjoy a Chicken and Hummus Bento Box. Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:

Storage: To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed for up to three days.
Freezing: This bento is not recommended for freezing as the texture of the cucumbers and hummus may change. However, you can freeze the chicken if made in advance.
Pairing: Serve your bento box with a side of fruit, like apple slices or grapes, for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Swap Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to mix and match your proteins! You could use turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Add Nuts: Include a small handful of nuts or seeds in your bento for added crunch and healthy fats.

How to Enjoy Chicken and Hummus Bento Box

The Chicken and Hummus Bento Box is the perfect meal for any occasion. Here’s how to serve it and enjoy it to the fullest:

School Lunch: This bento is ideal for school lunches. Kids love the variety, and it’s packed with nutrients to keep them energized for learning.
Office Meal: Take this to the office for a healthy lunch option. It’s quick to eat and easy to pack. Plus, it helps you stay focused through your workday.
Picnics: Heading out for a picnic? This bento is portable and makes for a delightful outdoor meal. Pair it with a refreshing drink for a great time.
Snacking: Perfect for snacking, you can enjoy it at any time of the day. The different components allow for a tasting experience for your palate.
Seasonal Pairings: During summer, pair with fresh fruits like watermelon or berries. In cooler months, consider warming the chicken before packing it.
Storage Tips: Remember that this bento should be stored in the fridge until ready to eat. If you prepare it ahead of time, use an ice pack to keep it cool until lunchtime.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Chicken and Hummus Bento Box is a fantastic choice for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Ensure all components are fresh, especially the veggies. Just remember to keep your hummus in a separate container to prevent the bread from getting soggy!

If you’re looking for alternatives to chicken, consider using turkey or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also mix in some chickpeas for protein while keeping it plant-based. The hummus pairs wonderfully with any of these proteins.

The assembled Chicken and Hummus Bento Box can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to keep it sealed in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, they still make a great snack or quick meal!

Definitely! The Chicken and Hummus Bento Box is not only nutritious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for kids. The variety of flavors, textures, and colors will keep them excited about their lunch!

Conclusion

The Chicken and Hummus Bento Box is a delightful combination of convenience and nutrition that everyone should try. It’s not only quick to prepare but also offers endless possibilities for customization. I encourage you to give it a go—it might just become your favorite lunch solution!