Did you make a New Year’s resolution to eat healthier?  One of the easiest ways to do that is to pack your lunch!  Not only is it better for your body it’s also better for your wallet.  We could all use that in 2018 right?!

One of my favorite go-to Brown Bag Lunches is this Sesame Brown Rice and Chicken Salad.  I’ve been making this for years.  It’s light and refreshing which is perfect to help reset after all the indulging we did over the holidays.  Add some carrots and hummus and some grapes and you’re all set!

How are you planning on being healthier this year?

Sesame Brown Rice  and Chicken Salad

1 cup long grain brown rice
2 cups chicken breast, cooked and shredded
½ cup carrots, shredded
1/3 cup green onions, sliced
¼ cup dry-roasted peanuts, divided
1 Tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped and divided
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice
4 teaspoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dark sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced

Cook rice according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Transfer rice to a large bowl; fluff with a fork. Cool.

Add chicken, carrot, onions, 2 Tablespoons peanuts, 2 teaspoons cilantro, and salt to rice. Toss to combine.

Combine lime juice and remaining ingredients in a small bowl. Drizzle oil mixture over rice; toss to combine. Portion 1 ½ cups salad in 4 containers. Sprinkle each serving with remaining peanuts and cilantro.

Enjoy lunch all week!

Source: Cooking Light Magazine, June 2007