Introduction
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome dinner can be challenging. However, with quick canned chicken weeknight dinners, you can create delicious meals in no time. Canned chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in numerous recipes, making it a staple in many households. Whether you need a comforting casserole, a fresh salad, or a simple stir-fry, canned chicken can help you whip up something tasty with minimal effort.
In this article, we will explore various quick canned chicken recipes that are not only easy to make but also flavorful. Let’s dive into these delightful weeknight dinners that will please the entire family!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup of cooked rice
- 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the drained canned chicken, cooked rice, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- If desired, drizzle the olive oil in a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
More Quick Canned Chicken Recipes
Canned Chicken Tacos
Tacos are always a hit, especially when they are quick to make! Using canned chicken, you can prepare a flavorful taco filling in minutes. Simply combine canned chicken with taco seasoning, warm it up, and serve it in taco shells with your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 taco shells
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Sour cream and salsa for topping
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine the drained canned chicken and taco seasoning.
- Add a splash of water if needed to help the seasoning adhere.
- Heat through, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
- Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
- Assemble the tacos by adding the chicken mixture and topping with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Canned Chicken Salad
For a lighter option, consider a canned chicken salad. This refreshing dish is perfect for warm evenings or as a filling for sandwiches. Combine canned chicken with mayonnaise, diced celery, grapes, and a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch. Serve it on a bed of greens or as a sandwich filling.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup halved grapes
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained canned chicken, mayonnaise, diced celery, halved grapes, and chopped nuts.
- Mix until well combined and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over a bed of mixed greens or as a filling in a sandwich.
- Enjoy your refreshing meal!
Canned Chicken Stir-Fry
If you’re in the mood for something Asian-inspired, a quick canned chicken stir-fry is an excellent choice. Use canned chicken along with your favorite stir-fry vegetables, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It takes mere minutes to sauté everything in a hot skillet, resulting in a vibrant and satisfying meal.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serving: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 2 cups mixed stir-fry vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ginger paste (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the mixed stir-fry vegetables and sauté for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the drained canned chicken, soy sauce, ginger paste (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes until heated through and vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
- Enjoy your quick and healthy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long can I store canned chicken?
Canned chicken has a long shelf life, typically ranging from 2 to 5 years when stored in a cool, dry place. Always check the expiration date on the can for safety.
2. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh cooked chicken for canned chicken. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly and shredded or diced before adding it to your recipes.
3. What are some other ways to use canned chicken?
Canned chicken is incredibly versatile. You can use it in soups, casseroles, pasta dishes, or even as a pizza topping for a quick meal.
4. Is canned chicken healthy?
Canned chicken can be a healthy option as it is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. However, it’s essential to check for sodium content and choose low-sodium varieties if you’re watching your salt intake.
Conclusion
Quick canned chicken weeknight dinners are not only easy to prepare but also provide delicious and satisfying meals for the whole family. By using canned chicken, you can save time while still enjoying a variety of flavors and textures. From tacos to stir-fries, the possibilities are endless! So, next time you’re pressed for time, reach for that can of chicken and whip up a delightful dinner in no time. Happy cooking!
