Embarking on a weight loss journey doesn’t mean giving up your favorite comfort foods. In fact, with a bit of creativity and planning, you can enjoy delicious meals that are both satisfying and conducive to your health goals. Welcome to the world of the “Lazy Girl” meal prep, a method that prioritizes ease, taste, and high-protein satisfaction. In today’s blog, we’re diving into a delectable Chicken Noodle Casserole that’s not only simple to prepare but also helps keep you on track with your weight loss efforts. Having lost and maintained a 130 lbs weight loss for over a decade, I’ve discovered that finding ways to incorporate hearty, comforting dishes in controlled portions is key for long-term success. Join me as we explore the step-by-step process of crafting this meal and see how you too can relish comfort food while working towards your fitness goals.

Ingredients and Preparation

Here’s what you’ll need to get started with the Chicken Noodle Casserole:

• High Protein Pasta: The base of this casserole uses a 14.5 oz package of high-protein pasta, like the Felicia red lentil pasta with 22 grams of protein per serving. This pasta is available at major retailers like Costco and Walmart. Choosing a high-protein or whole-grain version ensures the meal is slow-digesting, which helps you feel fuller for longer.
• Protein Milk: Half a cup of protein milk, such as Fairlife 0%, adds creaminess while boosting protein content.
• Cooked Chicken Strips: You’ll need 600 grams of cooked chicken. Pre-cooked strips save time, allowing you to focus on assembly rather than cooking from scratch.
• Canned Vegetables: One cup of canned peas and carrots adds color and nutrients. These veggies are convenient and reduce prep time.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: A 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup binds the ingredients together, giving the casserole its signature comforting texture.
• Topping Ingredients: Prepare a crunchy topping with a tablespoon of melted light margarine, half a cup of shredded cheese, and crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a deliciously crispy finish.

Step-by-Step Cooking

With the ingredients ready, the assembly is straightforward:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the pasta in salted water, ensuring it doesn’t stick. Cooking it to al dente (about 10 minutes) is ideal as it will continue to soften in the oven.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13 casserole dish sprayed with cooking spray, combine the pasta, chicken, vegetables, milk, and cream of chicken soup. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
3. Prepare the Topping: Mix the shredded cheese, crushed crackers, and melted margarine, then sprinkle this over the casserole.
4. Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes. The casserole is ready when the top is golden and bubbly, with all components heated through.

Portion Control and Storage

Once the casserole is out of the oven, it’s time to portion it into meal prep containers. Start by scooping a cup into each container, ensuring even distribution. Adjust portions as needed to maximize the entire dish. This method not only aids portion control but also prepares you for a week’s worth of meals, making it easier to stick to your dietary goals.

• Storage Tips:
• Keep half in the fridge for easy access during the week.
• Freeze the other half, ensuring you always have a meal on hand. Simply thaw overnight when ready to eat.

Nutritional Benefits

Emphasizing high-protein ingredients in this casserole means you’re not just indulging in a comforting meal but also fueling your body properly. Each serving contains approximately 401 calories, 9 grams of fat, 48 grams of carbs, and 39 grams of protein. This balance of macronutrients is designed to keep you satisfied and help support muscle maintenance, especially crucial during weight loss.

Mindset and Sustainability

Maintaining weight loss goes beyond meal prep—it’s about mindset and approach. The simplicity of this meal ensures it doesn’t feel like an onerous task, fitting seamlessly into your lifestyle. By crafting meals you genuinely enjoy, like this casserole, you’re more likely to stick to your health goals without feeling deprived.

Remember, the journey is about balance and finding what works for you. Precision in counting calories or macros can sometimes become overwhelming, so focus on the bigger picture: nutrition, satisfaction, and consistency.

Final Thoughts

The Lazy Girl Chicken Noodle Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a strategy for sustainable, enjoyable eating. Whether you’re managing weight or just seeking healthier options, this approach can help you incorporate beloved comfort foods in a balanced way. Prepare, enjoy, and stay committed to your health journey—deliciously and effortlessly.