30-MINUTE MEALS ON A BUDGET: Freezer-Friendly Edition

(Make ahead. Thank yourself later.)

These meals freeze beautifully — double the batch on a calmer day and stock your freezer for the chaotic ones.

MONDAY: Chicken Burrito Bowls (Freezer-Friendly Filling)

Make a big batch of filling, freeze in portions, reheat over rice.

Ingredients (~$14, serves 6):

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs — $5
• 2 cans black beans, drained — $2
• 1 can corn, drained — $1
• 1 jar salsa — $3
• 1 packet taco seasoning — $1
• Cumin, garlic powder — pantry staples

Method: Place chicken in slow cooker or pot. Add salsa, beans, corn, and seasonings. Slow cooker: 4 hrs high / 6-8 hrs low. Stovetop: simmer covered 25 min. Shred chicken, mix everything. Serve over rice with cheese, sour cream, avocado.

To freeze: Cool completely, portion into freezer bags. Lay flat to freeze. Reheat in microwave or stovetop.

Cost per serving: ~$2.30

TUESDAY: Baked Ziti (Freezes Perfectly)

Classic comfort. Assemble two pans — eat one, freeze one.

Ingredients (~$16, serves 8):