Are you looking for quick, healthy, and delicious dinner ideas? Do you want to utilize pantry staples to create amazing meals without spending hours in the kitchen? Then you've come to the right place! Canned chicken is an unsung hero in the world of quick and easy cooking. It's surprisingly versatile, packed with protein, and a budget-friendly option for creating a wide variety of healthy meals. This recipe blog post is dedicated to showcasing the best ways to use canned chicken to make delicious and nutritious dishes. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these simple yet satisfying canned chicken recipes!
Creamy Tomato Chicken Pasta
This recipe is a perfect example of transforming a simple pantry staple into a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s a great quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 2 (15-ounce) cans chicken, drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a healthier option
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream (or coconut cream), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the drained canned chicken to the sauce and heat through.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to combine.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of water when cooking the pasta.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Fresh herbs like basil and parsley can be added at the end for extra freshness and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
- Mediterranean Chicken Pasta: Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the sauce.
- Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta: Substitute pesto for the tomato sauce and add cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This recipe provides a balanced and nutritious meal, high in protein and relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a great choice for those following a healthy lifestyle. Remember to adjust the nutritional information based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this easy and delicious homemade cooking creation! We hope you'll find many more uses for canned chicken in your culinary adventures!