What Are Some Unique Recipes Using Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken is a handy pantry item that can easily be transformed into delicious meals. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need something quick, affordable, and satisfying. From hearty soups and salads to tasty dips and wraps, canned chicken is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various creative ways. Here are some unique recipes to make the most out of canned chicken.
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 (12.5 oz) can of chicken, drained
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and hot sauce until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
- Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top if desired, and serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks.
Canned Chicken Salad Wraps
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 (12.5 oz) cans of chicken, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large lettuce leaves or tortillas
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, and Dijon mustard.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the mixture onto lettuce leaves or tortillas, wrap tightly, and serve.
- Optional: Add sliced avocado or shredded carrots for extra texture and flavor.
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 (12.5 oz) cans of chicken, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, and bring to a simmer.
- Add egg noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
- Stir in canned chicken and season with salt and pepper. Heat through and serve warm.
FAQ
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, shredded or cubed cooked chicken works as a substitute in all these recipes.
2. Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The chicken salad and soup can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free tortillas for the wraps and gluten-free flour or cornstarch in the soup.
4. How can I enhance the flavor of canned chicken?
Drain and rinse canned chicken to reduce the salty taste. Add seasonings or marinades to complement your dish.