Introduction
Canned chicken is a true kitchen hero, a reliable pantry staple for busy cooks everywhere. It’s incredibly convenient, surprisingly affordable, and wonderfully versatile, making it perfect for whipping up speedy weeknight meals. Forget lengthy prep; with canned chicken, delicious dinners are just minutes away. This guide dives into the world of easy canned chicken recipes, culminating in our featured Speedy Canned Chicken Enchilada Skillet. Get ready to transform your meal times with these amazing canned chicken recipes!
Why You’ll Love Canned Chicken for Weeknight Meals
Discover why canned chicken recipes are a game-changer for your dinner routine, making weeknight meals easier than ever:
- Quick Prep Time: It’s pre-cooked and ready to use, slashing your meal prep to mere minutes.
- Budget-Friendly: An economical choice that stretches your grocery budget further without sacrificing flavor.
- Pantry Powerhouse: The USDA provides comprehensive guidance on shelf-stable food safety, confirming that canned goods can be stored for extended periods. Always have a protein source on hand. Canned goods boast a long shelf life.
- High Protein Content: A lean protein source perfect for building satisfying, nutritious meals.
- Incredible Versatility: From tacos to casseroles, it adapts beautifully to countless dishes. You’ll find it essential for various canned chicken recipes.
Featured Recipe: Speedy Canned Chicken Enchilada Skillet
Ingredients
This vibrant Speedy Canned Chicken Enchilada Skillet is one of the easiest canned chicken recipes you’ll ever make. You likely have many of these staples already.
- 14.5 ounces reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup white rice, uncooked
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 15 ounces canned whole kernel corn, drained
- 12.5 ounces canned chicken breast, drained
- 10 ounces canned mild enchilada sauce, divided
- 4 ounces canned diced jalapeños, drained
- Handful Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese, shredded
A quick note on ingredients: Choose low-sodium options where possible to control saltiness. Ensure your canned chicken is well-drained for best texture.
Equipment
You only need a few basic tools for this simple skillet meal:
- 12-inch skillet with a lid: Essential for even cooking and steaming the rice.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
- Can opener: To easily access your canned ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Crafting this delicious enchilada skillet is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for one of our favorite canned chicken recipes and enjoy a fantastic meal in under 30 minutes!
- Start the Rice: Begin by bringing 14.5 ounces of reduced-sodium chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of chili powder to a gentle simmer in your 12-inch skillet. Use medium heat for this step.
- Add Rice & Cover: Stir in the 3/4 cup of uncooked white rice. Once the rice is added, reduce the heat to low, then immediately cover the skillet with its lid.
- Cook Rice: Allow the rice to cook for approximately 15 minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The goal is for most of the liquid to be absorbed and the rice to be tender.
- Combine Ingredients: After the rice has cooked, stir in the 15 ounces of drained canned whole kernel corn, 12.5 ounces of drained canned chicken breast, 4 ounces of drained canned diced jalapeños, and about half of the 10 ounces of mild enchilada sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
- Heat Through: Replace the lid on the skillet and return the heat to medium. Cook for approximately five minutes longer, or until the entire mixture is heated through and bubbling gently.
- Add Cheese & Finish: Stir the mixture well once more. Then, evenly sprinkle a handful of shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese over the top. Drizzle your desired amount of the remaining enchilada sauce over the cheese. You don’t have to use the whole can if you prefer less sauce.
- Melt Cheese: Replace the lid on the skillet one final time. Heat for a few more minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and gooey.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. Enjoy your quick and flavorful meal!
Pro Tips for Your Enchilada Skillet
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: If your rice still seems a bit firm after 15 minutes, add a splash more broth or water and cook for a few extra minutes, keeping it covered.
- Spice Level Adjustment: For more heat, add an extra pinch of chili powder or a dash of cayenne. For less, rinse the jalapeños thoroughly or omit them entirely.
- Cheese Melting Techniques: For an extra golden crust, briefly place the skillet under the broiler after adding the cheese (watch carefully!).
- Preventing Sticking: Stir the rice periodically while it cooks, especially when the liquid is nearly absorbed, to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
Serving, Storage & Variations
Enhance your Speedy Canned Chicken Enchilada Skillet with fresh toppings like sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cilantro. A simple side salad completes the meal beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
For variations, swap white rice for brown (adjusting liquid and cook time). You can use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of canned chicken if preferred. Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or a spicy pepper jack. Boost the veggies by stirring in black beans, bell peppers, or diced onions. Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot enchilada sauce.
More Delicious Canned Chicken Recipe Ideas
Canned chicken’s versatility makes it a hero for countless quick meals. Beyond our featured skillet, explore these other fantastic quick canned chicken recipes to keep your weeknight dinners exciting and delicious. These canned chicken recipes are perfect for any occasion.
Creamy Chicken Salad & Sandwiches
Combine well-drained canned chicken with mayonnaise, crunchy celery, a touch of red onion, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a classic, satisfying chicken salad. This mixture is perfect served on toasted bread for sandwiches, tucked into soft wraps, or scooped into crisp lettuce cups for a lighter, low-carb lunch. It’s a quick, no-cook protein option that’s ready in minutes. This is one of the quickest canned chicken recipes for lunch!
Hearty Soups & Stews
Quickly build comforting, flavorful soups and stews from scratch. Add canned chicken to a simmering vegetable broth with mixed vegetables, herbs, and your favorite noodles for a speedy chicken noodle soup that warms you from the inside out. It’s also an excellent, lean protein boost for chili, providing a hearty texture without any extra cooking time, making it ideal for last-minute meals. These canned chicken recipes simplify dinner prep immensely.
Easy Casseroles & Bakes
Simplify your favorite comforting casseroles with this convenient ingredient. Layer canned chicken into pasta bakes with marinara sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese for a satisfying, family-friendly meal. You can also create a quick chicken pot pie filling by combining it with a can of cream of chicken soup and frozen mixed vegetables, all topped with a flaky puff pastry crust for an impressive yet easy dinner. These comforting canned chicken recipes are perfect for busy evenings.
Quick Wraps & Tacos
Transform drained canned chicken into instant taco or burrito filling by simply seasoning it with your favorite taco blend. It’s perfect for assembling soft tortillas or crunchy hard shells, complete with your preferred toppings. Alternatively, mix it with cream cheese and hot sauce for a classic buffalo chicken dip, which is great served in wraps, mini bell pepper boats, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Explore more quick canned chicken recipes like these versatile options.
Canned Chicken Nutrition Facts
This estimated nutritional information is per serving for our Speedy Canned Chicken Enchilada Skillet. Please note these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. It provides a good source of lean protein.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is canned chicken healthy?
Yes, it’s a lean source of protein. For detailed information on the health benefits of chicken, consult reputable sources like the National Chicken Council’s nutrition information. Choose low-sodium options and drain thoroughly to reduce sodium content.
- Do I need to cook canned chicken?
No, canned chicken is pre-cooked and safe to eat straight from the can. It simply needs to be heated through, especially in canned chicken recipes like our skillet.
- What kind of canned chicken is best?
Opt for canned chicken breast in water for the leanest option. Low-sodium varieties are generally preferred for health reasons.
- Can I use canned chicken for meal prepping?
Absolutely! Its convenience makes it ideal for meal prep, allowing you to quickly assemble components for future meals.
Conclusion
Canned chicken truly deserves a spot in every pantry, transforming mealtime challenges into simple, delicious opportunities. Its convenience, affordability, and adaptability shine through in versatile canned chicken recipes like our Speedy Enchilada Skillet. Embrace this unsung hero for quick, flavorful weeknight meals that save you time and effort. Give these ideas a try and discover how easy it is to create satisfying dinners with minimal fuss. Happy cooking!