Are you looking for quick, easy, and healthy meal ideas that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further! Canned chicken is a pantry staple that can be used to create a variety of delicious dishes. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of ingredients to suit your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 quick and healthy canned chicken recipes that are perfect for busy home cooks on-the-go. From salads and stir-fries to wraps and bowls, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Stay tuned as we dive into the world of canned chicken and discover some amazing recipe ideas that will make mealtime a breeze!
Healthy Canned Chicken Salad
A quick and easy salad recipe that’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner option. This canned chicken salad is packed with protein, fiber, and delicious flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of low-sodium chicken breast, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon of honey
– 1/4 cup of chopped celery
– 1/4 cup of chopped cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked chicken, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and honey. Mix well until smooth.
2. Add the chopped celery and cucumber to the bowl and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Servings: 1-2
Quick Canned Chicken Stir-Fry
A fast and flavorful meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines canned chicken, colorful veggies, and savory sauce for a delicious stir-fry.
Ingredients:
• 1 can (12 oz) of cooked chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon of oyster sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the bell peppers and mushrooms; cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the canned chicken breast, breaking it apart with a spatula if needed.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Low-Carb Canned Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This recipe is a simple and satisfying snack or meal that’s perfect for those following a low-carb diet. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and healthy wrap that’s packed with protein and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of chicken breast in water
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped celery
– 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain the canned chicken and place it in a bowl.
2. Add the mayonnaise, chopped celery, and sliced almonds to the bowl with the chicken.
3. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. Place 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto each lettuce leaf.
5. Fold the lettuce leaves over the filling to create a wrap.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe doesn’t require cooking!
Healthy Canned Chicken Pasta Primavera
A quick and easy recipe that combines the convenience of canned chicken with the freshness of spring vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1/2 cup canned chicken breast, drained
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the mixed spring vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the canned chicken breast and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Canned Chicken Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this quick and easy recipe that combines the convenience of canned chicken with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of chicken breast in water, drained
– 1/4 cup of salsa
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cumin and chili powder; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the canned chicken and salsa; stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the chicken mixture onto a tortilla and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Healthy Canned Chicken Quinoa Bowl
This recipe is a quick and easy way to create a nutritious meal using canned chicken, quinoa, and roasted vegetables. With only a few ingredients and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy a healthy and satisfying bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can (14 oz) reduced-sodium chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss bell pepper and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, combine cooked quinoa, flaked chicken, roasted vegetables, and garlic.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Quick Canned Chicken Soup
In a hurry but still want a warm and comforting bowl of soup? This recipe is perfect for you! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
– 1 can (10 oz) white meat chicken, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken broth, flaked chicken, water, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Healthy Canned Chicken Wrap
A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe uses canned chicken to make a nutritious wrap filled with protein, fiber, and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of low-sodium chicken breast (6 oz)
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
– 1/2 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain the canned chicken and flake it into small pieces.
2. Spread the hummus evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Add the mixed greens, red bell pepper, and feta cheese (if using) on top of the hummus.
4. Place the flaked chicken on one half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Canned Chicken and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With the convenience of canned chicken, it’s easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cooked chicken (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked chicken, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Healthy Canned Chicken Fried Rice
A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy day, this recipe combines the convenience of canned chicken with the comfort of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably leftover or day-old)
– 1/2 cup canned chicken breast, drained and flaked
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, canned chicken, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until the rice is heated through and starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Quick Canned Chicken Burrito Bowl
A flavorful and filling meal that’s ready in just 15 minutes! This recipe uses canned chicken, pre-cooked rice, and a blend of spices to create a delicious burrito bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (10 oz) of chicken breast in water
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain the liquid from the canned chicken and add it to the skillet. Stir well.
5. Add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Serve the chicken mixture over cooked white rice.
7. Add your desired toppings (if using) and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Healthy Canned Chicken Caesar Salad
This recipe is a twist on the classic Caesar salad, using canned chicken as a convenient and affordable protein source. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of chicken breast or thighs, drained and flaked
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and flaked chicken.
2. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss until coated.
3. Sprinkle croutons on top and squeeze with lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Canned Chicken and Veggie Skillet
This recipe is a great way to get a healthy meal on the table fast, using canned chicken and veggies you probably already have in your pantry.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of chicken breast (10 oz)
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the canned chicken breast, breaking it up with a spoon as it heats through.
5. Add the mixed frozen vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the veggies are thawed and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cook until melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Canned Chicken Enchiladas
This recipe is a twist on the classic enchilada dish, using canned chicken to reduce cooking time and make it more accessible. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can enjoy these flavorful and nutritious wraps in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can of chicken breast in water, drained
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can of enchilada sauce (mild or medium)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the cumin, garlic, and canned chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the enchiladas by spreading a spoonful of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, followed by a sprinkle of cheese.
6. Place the filled tortillas in a baking dish and cover with enchilada sauce.
7. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Canned Chicken Quesadilla
Quick Canned Chicken Quesadilla
This recipe is a perfect solution for a last-minute lunch or dinner that’s both easy and delicious. By using canned chicken, you’ll save time and effort without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of chicken breast in water (10 oz)
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Drain the liquid from the canned chicken and shred it with two forks.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add the shredded chicken, chopped onion, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
8. Repeat with the second tortilla and remaining cheese.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Healthy Canned Chicken Stuffed Peppers
A deliciously simple recipe that combines the convenience of canned chicken with the nutritional benefits of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 (12 oz) can of cooked chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together chicken, rice, black beans, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Canned Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
This comforting hash recipe is a great way to use up canned chicken and sweet potatoes. It’s a simple, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of chicken breast in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes, garlic, and flaked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Healthy Canned Chicken Zucchini Boats
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional stuffed zucchini boats. By using canned chicken and reducing the amount of cheese, we’ve kept the flavor while cutting down on calories.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 can (12 oz) of low-sodium chicken breast in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup of low-fat mozzarella shredded cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the ease and convenience of using canned chicken to create quick, healthy meals. From salads to stir-fries, pasta dishes to tacos, these 18 recipes showcase the versatility of this affordable protein source. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a meal solution that’s both nutritious and delicious, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of tasty and easy-to-make recipes. Perfect for busy home cooks, students, and anyone seeking healthy meal ideas on-the-go.
Leave a Reply