Meal Prepping Halal-Style: A Week of Budget-Friendly Halal Meals

Eating halal doesn’t have to mean spending more. With some planning and smart shopping, you can enjoy delicious, halal meals all week without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to prepping a full week’s worth of halal meals for under $40.

Step 1: Plan the Meals

Choose simple, versatile dishes using affordable halal ingredients:

• Breakfast:

  • Overnight oats with fruit

  • Egg and veggie wraps

• Lunch:

  • Chicken and rice bowls

  • Lentil soup with flatbread

• Dinner:

  • Chickpea curry

  • Halal beef keema with potatoes

  • Stir-fried halal chicken and frozen veggies

• Snacks:

  • Boiled eggs

  • Carrot sticks with hummus

  • Yogurt with honey

Step 2: Grocery List (Sample for 1 Person, 1 Week)

• 2 lbs halal chicken thighs

• 1 lb ground halal beef

• 1 dozen eggs

• 1 bag dried lentils

• 1 can chickpeas

• 2 lbs rice

• 1 pack tortillas

• Frozen mixed vegetables

• Onions, garlic, potatoes, carrots

• Oats, yogurt, fruit (bananas/apples)

• Spices: cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, pepper

• Hummus or make your own

Total: ~$35–$40 depending on location

Step 3: Cooking Day (Prep in 2–3 hours)

1. Cook rice and lentils in bulk

2. Grill or roast chicken and portion it for multiple meals

3. Make a batch of chickpea curry and beef keema

4. Chop veggies and boil eggs for grab-and-go

5. Assemble oats and portion snacks

Step 4: Storage Tips

• Use airtight containers for individual meals

• Freeze portions that won’t be eaten within 3 days

• Label and date your meals

Closing Tips:

• Buy in bulk when possible (e.g., rice, spices)

• Reuse leftovers creatively—chicken can go in wraps, salads, or stir-fries

• Stick to seasonal produce for cost savings