Delicious and Nutritious Back-to-School Lunch Ideas with Chicken

Back-to-school season is upon us, and that means it's time for parents to get creative with lunchbox ideas for their kids. Chicken is a versatile and kid-friendly protein that can be used in a variety of ways to create delicious and nutritious lunches. In this article, we'll share some easy and mouth-watering ideas for back-to-school lunches using chicken breast, chicken thigh and chicken legs that will leave your kids excited about lunchtime.

1. Chicken and Veggie Skewers: One great way to make lunch more fun is by turning it into a DIY adventure. Pack some cooked chicken breast chunks alongside a selection of colourful, bite-sized veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. Include a small container of dip, such as hummus or ranch dressing, for dipping. Kids can assemble their own skewers, making lunchtime interactive and enjoyable.

2. Chicken Wraps: Create delicious chicken wraps using grilled or roasted chicken breast strips. Wrap them in whole-grain tortillas with a mix of fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Add a dollop of yogurt-based dressing or a drizzle of honey mustard for extra flavor. Roll them up tightly, cut them into bite-sized pinwheels, and pack them for an easy-to-eat lunch option.

3. Chicken Salad Sandwich: Make a creamy chicken salad with diced chicken breast, Greek yogurt, celery, and grapes. Spread it between slices of whole-grain bread for a classic chicken salad sandwich. To add some crunch, toss in some chopped nuts or seeds. Cut the sandwich into fun shapes with cookie cutters for an appealing presentation.

4. Chicken and Rice: Prepare a simple and satisfying chicken and rice dish. Cook chicken thighs or drumsticks with your favourite seasonings and serve them over a bed of fluffy rice. You can customize this dish with various flavours, such as teriyaki, lemon garlic, or barbecue. Add steamed vegetables on the side to make it a complete meal.

5. Chicken Quesadillas: Quesadillas are a kid-friendly favourite that's quick to make. Fill whole-grain tortillas with diced chicken breast, black beans, and shredded cheese. Heat them in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Slice them into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

6. Chicken and Pasta Salad: Prepare a tasty pasta salad by mixing cooked chicken pieces with your choice of pasta, colorful veggies, and a zesty vinaigrette dressing. Some kid-approved additions include cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and sweet bell peppers. This cold pasta salad can be made ahead and enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

7. Chicken and Rice Noodle Soup: For a warm and comforting lunch during the cooler months, pack some homemade chicken and rice noodle soup. Use chicken thighs or drumsticks to make a flavourful broth and add cooked rice noodles and diced chicken pieces. Include some vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn for added nutrition.

Getting creative with chicken in your kids' lunchboxes can make back-to-school lunches exciting and enjoyable. These chicken lunch ideas offer variety, nutrition, and plenty of kid-friendly flavours. Remember to customize them to your child's taste preferences and dietary restrictions, and you'll have them looking forward to lunchtime every day. Happy back-to-school lunch packing!