Canned chicken is a convenient and versatile pantry staple that makes meal prep quick and easy. Perfect for busy nights or trying out new flavors, canned chicken can be a great solution for delicious meals in minutes. In this article, we’ll share two easy, flavorful recipes: Canned Chicken & Rice and Chicken Enchilada Skillet Casserole. Along with step-by-step instructions, you’ll find nutrition facts, helpful tips, and community reviews to make these recipes a breeze. Let’s dive into these tasty Canned Chicken Recipes dishes!
Why Use Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken is convenient for several reasons:
- Quick Preparation: Canned chicken is already cooked, which saves you time on meal prep.
- Shelf Stability: It has a long shelf life, making it a reliable option for quick meals.
- Versatile: It can be used in a variety of dishes, from casseroles to soups and salads.
Let’s dive into some delicious recipes featuring canned chicken!
Canned Chicken & Rice Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Instant rice | 2 cups |
| Canned chicken chunks (drained) | 1 (5-ounce) can |
| Condensed cream of chicken soup | 1 (10.5-ounce) can |
| Water | As needed (for boiling) |
Canned Chicken Recipes Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Rice:
- Boil the appropriate amount of water based on the package instructions for the instant rice.
- Add the rice, stir, cover, and remove from heat.
- Let it sit until the water is absorbed (approximately 5 minutes).
- Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In the pot with the cooked rice, add the drained canned chicken.
- Pour in the condensed cream of chicken soup.
- Heat Through:
- Stir the mixture over low heat until everything is heated through.
- Ensure the chicken is well distributed and the soup coats the rice evenly.
- Serve:
- Once heated, serve the chicken and rice mixture hot. Enjoy your meal!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 205 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Protein | 9g |
Canned Chicken Recipes Community Reviews
- Rating: 4.0 (90 reviews)
- Comments: Many users love how quick and easy this dish is. It’s a hit with kids and perfect for busy weeknights!
Chicken Enchilada Skillet Casserole
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Canned chicken chunks (drained) | 1 (12.5-ounce) can |
| White rice | 2 cups |
| Enchilada sauce | 1 cup |
| Canned corn (drained) | 1 cup |
| Canned jalapeños (drained) | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded cheese (Pepper Jack or Mexican blend) | 2 cups |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- Prepare the rice according to package directions. Set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large skillet, mix the cooked rice, drained canned chicken, enchilada sauce, corn, and jalapeños.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Heat Through:
- Cook the mixture over medium heat until everything is heated through (about 5 minutes).
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the chicken mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the cheese to melt (about 3-5 minutes).
- Serve:
- Serve the enchilada skillet hot, garnished with cilantro or lime if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 330 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Protein | 22g |
Canned Chicken Recipes: Community Reviews
- Rating: 4.5 (75 reviews)
- Comments: Users appreciate the flavor and ease of preparation. Many have modified the recipe to suit their taste preferences, adding ingredients like black beans or using different types of cheese.
Tips for Using Canned Chicken
- Storing Canned Chicken: Keep canned chicken in a cool, dry place. It can last for several years if unopened. Always check expiration dates and store opened cans in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have canned chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken works well too. You can also make these recipes vegetarian by substituting canned beans for chicken.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Enhance the flavor of your dishes by adding fresh herbs, spices, or vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Canned Chicken Recipes FAQ
Is canned chicken healthy? A: Canned chicken can be a healthy option as it is low in fat and high in protein. However, be mindful of the sodium content. Look for low-sodium varieties if you are watching your salt intake.
Can I use frozen chicken instead of canned chicken? A: Yes, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to your recipes. Frozen chicken will take longer to prepare than canned chicken.
What are some other canned chicken recipes? A: Besides chicken casseroles and rice dishes, canned chicken can be used in:
- Chicken salads
- Chicken tacos
- Chicken soups
- Buffalo chicken dip
Community Tips and Praise
- User Tip: “I love adding black beans and extra spices to the enchilada skillet. It adds a nice kick!”
- User Praise: “The canned chicken & rice recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights. My kids love it!” Canned Chicken Recipes.
Canned Chicken Recipes: Conclusion
Canned chicken is a fantastic ingredient that can help you create quick, delicious meals with minimal effort. From the simplicity of Canned Chicken & Rice to the flavorful Chicken Enchilada Skillet Casserole, these recipes demonstrate how versatile canned chicken can be. With pantry-friendly ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
