15 Classics Reinvented for Your Adult Lunchbox

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15 Classics Reinvented for Your Adult Lunchbox

If you’re tired of the same old sandwiches in your adult lunchbox, it’s time to shake things up with some classic recipes that have been revamped for your workday. These 15 lunches are great for on-the-go eating and are perfect for adding a bit of excitement to your midday routine. Forget about boring meals; these revamped classics will make you look forward to your lunch break.

A person is holding two biscuits in a container with the words store in the refrigerator.
Cottage Cheese Breakfast Muffins. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Bell Pepper Sandwich

A person holding a stuffed pepper sandwich over a plate.
Bell Pepper Sandwich. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Love sandwiches? Try this Bell Pepper Sandwich for work lunches. It’s quick, taking only about 10 minutes to make. Slice a bell pepper in half and fill it with things like turkey, cheese, and lettuce. It’s refreshing and won’t leave you feeling too full. Plus, it’s easy to eat at your desk or on the go.
Get the Recipe: Bell Pepper Sandwich

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

A glass bowl of jalapeño popper chicken salad ingredients.
Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Try the Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad for a lunch that brings a little excitement to your workday. You’ll need chicken, jalapeños, cream cheese, and some spices. It’s easy to mix up the night before, so it’s ready to go when you are. This salad is a lively break from the usual, without too much prep time.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Bacon ranch chicken salad cucumber boats lined up on a plate.
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Take a classic chicken salad and give it a grown-up, no-sweat makeover with these Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats. It’s chicken and bacon tossed with homemade ranch seasoning inside a crisp cucumber. Prep ahead, and you’ve got a week’s worth of lunches that hit the spot. It’s the kind of midday meal that makes your adult lunchbox anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats

Meal Prep Meatballs and Cauliflower Rice

Meal Prep Meatballs and Cauliflower Rice. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Whip up some Meatballs with Cauliflower Rice for a lunch that’s easy, hearty, and keeps you moving. A little prep gets you several days’ worth of meals that pair juicy meatballs with light cauliflower rice. Cook your meatballs, cook the rice, pack them together, and you’ve got a great lunch ready to take on the workday. It’s a filling choice that won’t slow you down.
Get the Recipe: Meal Prep Meatballs and Cauliflower Rice

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

A plate of garlic butter chicken bites.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

When time is tight but you still want something good, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are the way to go. They take just 20 minutes to make. You just need chicken, butter, and garlic. Cook the chicken, then toss it in the garlic butter sauce. It’s a simple yet delicious lunch that will make your day better.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken Bites

Big Mac Salad

A person holding serving spoons in a bowl of Big Mac salad.
Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Big Mac Salad is perfect for when you want those burger flavors without the heaviness. Prep it once and enjoy it all week. You’ll need lettuce, ground beef, cheese, pickles, and Big Mac sauce. Mix it all up, and you’ve got a fun salad that’s great for work lunches. It’s easy to make and packs a punch of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Salad

Cottage Cheese Breakfast Muffins

Cottage cheese breakfast muffins on a white plate.
Cottage Cheese Breakfast Muffins. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you grew up eating breakfast muffins, you’ll love this easy lunch idea. Cottage Cheese Breakfast Muffins are perfect for when you need something simple to bring to work, and while they may have breakfast-related ingredients, they’re perfect for workday lunches. In 30 minutes, you can bake a batch using eggs, cottage cheese, and your choice of veggies. They’re packed with protein, which helps keep your energy up without making you feel weighed down. Pop them in your lunch bag, and you’re all set for a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Cottage Cheese Breakfast Muffins

Avocado Tuna Salad

Avocado tuna salad in a bowl with avocado and lemon slices.
Avocado Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a lunch that’s simple and filling, Avocado Tuna Salad is great. Just mix tuna with avocado and your choice of veggies. It’s quick to prepare and keeps you full, perfect for a busy workday. Packed with protein and fresh flavors, it’s a smart, healthy choice for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tuna Salad

Broccoli Fritters

A stack of broccoli fritters on a plate.
Broccoli Fritters. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Broccoli Fritters are a smart pick for your lunchbox, giving a new life to the classic veggie. In just 35 minutes, you can cook up these fritters that mix broccoli with Parmesan for a great crunch. They’re perfect for a main dish, a side, or just to munch on. Add a scoop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to make your work meal complete. They’re a great mix of easy and tasty, perfect for your lunch at work.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Fritters

Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Bowl of creamy dill cucumber onion salad in a bowl with spoons.
Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad is a fresh take on your lunch routine. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a breeze to mix up cucumbers, onions, and a creamy dill dressing. It’s a great pick for those times when you need something quick and fresh in your lunchbox. This salad is a great way to keep things light and easy at lunchtime.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dill Cucumber Onion Salad

Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Mini spicy canned salmon patties in a serving bowl.
Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Do you like tuna cakes? Change things up and try these Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties. They’re an excellent lunch choice with a flavorful kick. In just 30 minutes, you can have these ready, served with a lemon dill aioli. They’re simple to prepare and don’t skimp on taste, making for a lunch that’s both easy and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Mini Spicy Canned Salmon Patties

Canned Chicken Patties

Chicken patties with broccoli on a plate.
Canned Chicken Patties. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Grow up eating chicken patties? Us too. And, these canned Chicken Patties are as easy as lunch gets. Ready in just 20 minutes, enjoy them on their own, with veggies, or as a sandwich. They’re a no-stress meal that’s still savory, perfect for those looking for a quick, easy lunch option.
Get the Recipe: Canned Chicken Patties

Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars

Greek salad in mason jars.
Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars are a great way to shake up your lunch game. Spend just 10 minutes prepping, and you’ve got a great meal that’s ready to go for the whole week. Layer lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and dressing in jars for a fresh and hearty lunch. It’s a perfect choice for a busy day, giving you a fresh and flavorful meal without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad Meal Prep Jars

Thai Chicken Salad

In FDL library.
Thai Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you love chicken salads and still want to be sure you’re getting some greens in, try making this one. Thai Chicken Salad is quick, flavorful, and nourishing. Just marinate chicken, toss it with fresh veggies, and you’re done. It’s the go-to for a lunch that’s easy, delicious, and perfect for a busy day when you need something great with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken Salad

Keto Chicken Nuggets

Keto chicken nuggets on a plate with a cup of dipping sauce.
Keto Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Keto Chicken Nuggets are fun and simple for lunch, ready in 30 minutes. They’re crispy outside and tender inside. Great for anyone looking for an easy-to-make lunch that keeps you energized. Perfect for adding a delicious touch to your workday. So, if you loved chicken nuggets growing up, make these.
Get the Recipe: Keto Chicken Nuggets

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