Are you tired of packing boring lunches every day? Do you wish you had more time to think about what to eat for lunch, rather than rushing out the door with a hastily assembled sandwich? If so, you’re in luck! Electric lunch boxes have revolutionized the way we pack and heat our meals on-the-go. With their ease of use and ability to cook a variety of dishes quickly and safely, they’re a busy person’s best friend.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 easy electric lunch box recipes that are perfect for busy days. From classic comfort foods like chicken and rice to international-inspired dishes like Korean bibimbap and Moroccan spiced couscous, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a vegetarian, meat-lover, or somewhere in between, we’ve got you covered.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of electric lunch box recipes and start packing delicious meals that will fuel your day!
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
A classic Asian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the savory flavor of chicken, served over a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the teriyaki sauce, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Serve the chicken over cooked rice, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Chicken: 5-7 minutes
– Sauce: 2-3 minutes
– Total: 10-12 minutes
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu
Quickly cook a medley of colorful vegetables with crispy tofu and savory sauces, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add onion, garlic, bell peppers, and broccoli. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Pour into the pan and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked tofu back into the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
7. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Broccoli with Garlic Sauce
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! This recipe combines tender beef strips with crisp broccoli florets and a rich garlic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
6. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 30 seconds to combine flavors.
7. Return the cooked beef strips to the skillet and stir to coat with garlic sauce.
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Quinoa Bowl
This vibrant quinoa bowl is a perfect blend of Mexican flavors, textures, and nutrients. With the combination of quinoa, black beans, roasted vegetables, and creamy avocado, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, cilantro, and sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss bell pepper and onion with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, roasted vegetables, and sliced avocado.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and savory honey soy glaze, perfectly balanced to complement the rich flavor of salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Brush the glaze all over the salmon fillets, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place the glazed salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Curried Lentils with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry made with red lentils, onions, garlic, and a blend of warming spices, finished with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the lentils and 2 cups of water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Stew
Discover the warm, comforting flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and healthy stew, featuring chickpeas, aromatic spices, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and smoked paprika; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, crushed tomatoes, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the parsley and lemon juice; serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Thai Noodles with Peanuts
Get ready for a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional noodles! This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the bold heat of Thai chilies, making it a perfect dish for those who love a little kick.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and chili flakes. Pour mixture into the wok and stir to combine with onion mixture.
4. Add cooked noodles to the wok and toss to coat with the spicy peanut sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck. This casserole combines the flavors of broccoli, cheese, and rice in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. Steam broccoli until tender, then set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously, and bring to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheesy sauce. Mix well.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Quinoa
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic butter, and nutty quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in quinoa and cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Add water or broth to the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
7. Serve shrimp on top of quinoa and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork with Coleslaw
A classic combination of fall-apart tender pork and crunchy coleslaw, perfect for a summer gathering or casual dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Pulled Pork:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
For the Coleslaw:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker with apple cider vinegar and BBQ sauce.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender.
6. Shred the pork with two forks.
7. For the coleslaw, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
8. Chill before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy and savory recipe that combines the goodness of spinach and feta cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Quinoa with Roasted Veggies
This refreshing quinoa dish is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side to accompany your favorite main course. The combination of tangy lemon, savory herbs, and roasted vegetables makes for a flavorful and nutritious option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add lemon juice, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Toss in sliced vegetables and cook until tender (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Serve quinoa topped with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Bibimbap with Gochujang Sauce
This recipe brings together the classic Korean rice bowl dish, Bibimbap, and adds a spicy kick with our signature Gochujang sauce. The result is a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots, mushrooms)
– 1/2 cup diced beef (or tofu for a vegetarian option)
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, cook the mixed vegetables and beef (or tofu) with sesame oil until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Assemble the Bibimbap by placing cooked rice in a bowl, followed by the vegetable-beef mixture, and finishing with a drizzle of the Gochujang sauce.
5. Top with a beaten egg, garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A rich and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with a creamy Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it and cook until absorbed, about 1 minute.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup at a time to the risotto, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
6. Remove from heat; stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Sweet and Sour Tofu with Pineapple
Sweet and Sour Tofu with Pineapple: A flavorful and refreshing dish that combines crispy tofu, tangy sweet and sour sauce, and juicy pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together sweet and sour sauce and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
6. Pour sweet and sour sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to combine with any remaining oil.
7. Add pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
8. Return tofu to the skillet and toss to coat with sweet and sour sauce.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Moroccan Spiced Couscous
Add a touch of exotic North African flavor to your meal with this simple and aromatic Moroccan Spiced Couscous recipe. Perfect as a side dish or as the main course, this flavorful couscous is infused with the warmth of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the couscous, cover, and turn off the heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork. Add it to the skillet and stir until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of fresh basil pesto with sweet cherry tomatoes and al dente pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in the basil pesto and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Quesadilla
This flavorful quesadilla is a perfect blend of savory black beans, sweet corn, and gooey cheese, wrapped in a crispy tortilla. A delicious and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas (whole wheat or flour)
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro, and avocado slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, olive oil, garlic, onion, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the bean-corn mixture onto one half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
5. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve hot with shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, cilantro, and avocado slices (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Ginger Soy Glazed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the flavors of ginger, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, whisk together soy sauce and brown sugar to make the glaze.
6. Remove from oven and brush with the glaze. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Discover delicious and easy electric lunch box recipes for busy days! This collection features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are perfect for packing on-the-go. From international flavors like Korean Bibimbap and Moroccan Spiced Couscous to classic comfort foods like Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and nutritious, making it a great way to fuel up for a busy day. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for some inspiration, these electric lunch box recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
