Lunchbox Love: Chicken (Or Veggie) Nuggets

I think most parents can agree: packing school lunches is a pain. Obviously, you want your kids to eat, but putting together a midday meal that is nut-free, nutritious and won't come back warm and squished hours later is a challenge.

That's why we turned to registered dietitian Noelle Martin. She's put together three easy-to-make, balanced lunches your kid might just enjoy. No promises, but it's worth a try, right? This lunch not a hit? Try one of these.

How do you keep crispy foods fresh in a lunchbox?

If your kid loves crispy chicken nuggets, don’t pack them straight from the oven into a sealed container. They’ll steam and go soggy. Let the nuggets cool for five to 10 minutes before packing. Then place them in a compartment lined with parchment or paper towel to absorb moisture. This helps those nuggets or strips stay crunchy until lunch.

Chicken nugget lunch

What's inside?

• Chicken strips or veggie alternatives

• Chopped salad (diced lettuce, shredded carrots, and cheese tossed in ranch dressing) topped with mandarin oranges

• Tzatziki for dipping

• Birthday cake flavour Heavenly Hunk (or a cookie or small brownie)

• Go Beans! Salt and Vinegar Roasted Edamame

What makes this a balanced lunch?

"This lunch keeps kids full longer with protein- and fibre-rich foods. Mandarin oranges add sweetness and vitamin C, which helps the body absorb the iron from chicken and edamame," says Martin.

Why is it appealing to kids?

Salads often seem boring to kids. Adding a fruit, like mandarin oranges, makes it a bit more fun. Plus, kids love ranch dressing. Your kid not a fan of dressed veggies? "For kids who prefer plain veggies, swap the salad for sliced peppers and snap peas with a dip they'll eat."

Chicken fingers are always a hit. "Tzatziki is a fun alternative to ketchup or plum sauce—but you can pack those instead if preferred," says Martin.