5 Easy Work Lunches to Help with Productivity

When we’re working nine to five, five days a week, we’re bound to find that we’re running low on energy some days. It can be difficult to focus on these days, and ultimately we won’t be able to keep up with the stack of work piling up on our desks. You might need a pick-me-up at times like these, but instead of reaching for an energy drink, try these easy-to-make lunches for productivity.

Roasted Chicken and Veggies

Americans consume more chicken than anyone else in the world. In fact, it’s the number one protein consumed in the United States. This meal makes for a filling work lunch, and it’s the perfect recipe to prep beforehand and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium chicken breasts
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 small red onion
• 1 cup grape or plum tomatoes
• 1 medium zucchini
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2-4 cups cooked rice

Apple Sandwiches with Almond Butter

If you’re not hungry enough for a full lunch, try these quick and easy snacks that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

• 1 apple, cored and sliced into rings
• Almond butter
• Granola

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This tasty lunch isn’t as difficult to make as you’d think, and it’s a great meal to get you through the rest of your day.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp
• 24 ounces broccoli florets
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 green onion
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha

Avocado Chicken Salad

Sometimes introducing a superfood like avocado into your lunch can provide the pick-me-up you need.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 avocado
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 3/4 cup shredded chicken
• 1 whole wheat English muffin
• Handful of lettuce or sunflower sprouts
• 2 slices tomato

Southwest Hummus Wrap

This filling meal has everything your body needs to muscle through the second half of the day.

Ingredients:

• 1 (10 inch) tortilla
• 3-4 tablespoons Southwestern-style hummus
• 2 tablespoons corn
• 2 tablespoons black beans
• 1 tablespoon diced tomato
• 2 tablespoons diced avocado
• 1 cup shredded lettuce

 

Packed with all the essential nutrients your body needs, these recipes are filling enough to keep you satisfied and easy enough to prepare that you can enjoy them any day of the week. With these satisfying lunches in your cooking arsenal, you’ll be able to take on any day—no matter how busy you are.