Are you in a rush but still want to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal? Look no further than chicken! With its versatility and quick cooking time, chicken is the perfect protein for speedy meals. Whether you're in the mood for a classic chicken breast dish or something more exotic, there are endless possibilities. In this post, we'll explore some of the best quick meal options with chicken meat while keeping in mind that flavor and quality are not compromised just because it's a speedy meal. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your dinner guests with these deliciously fast chicken recipes.
Source: www.thereciperebel.com
I. Introduction
A. Importance of quick meal with chicken meat
Quick with chicken meat are essential for those who are busy but still want to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Chicken meat is a versatile source of protein that is rich in essential nutrients, including selenium, phosphorus, and niacin (vitamin B3). It is also a high-quality source of protein that contains all of the necessary amino acids that our body needs to make important proteins. Eating chicken every day can help you reach your protein goals and aid in satiety.
However, it's important to keep in mind that each part of the chicken has a different nutritional profile. Skinless cooked chicken breast contains very little fat, which means consuming it every day may lead to a lack of essential fats in your diet. To ensure a balanced diet, it is recommended to include a healthy source of fat along with your chicken, such as cooking it in olive oil or pairing it with an avocado salad. Additionally, other sources of protein, both animal, and plant-based, provide a myriad of other nutrients in the diet.
Nevertheless, our busy lifestyle does not need to affect our eating habits negatively, and chicken meat could be an easy solution to keep us full and energized. With the right recipes, quick meals with chicken meat can be delicious and flavorful. The options are endless, from spicy lime chicken to creamy chicken Alfredo pasta and grilled Greek chicken. With just 30 minutes or less, you can have a satisfying and healthy meal on the table. So, let's get cooking and enjoy the benefits that chicken has to offer![1][2]
Source: littlesunnykitchen.com
B. Overview of the best quick meal with chicken meat
Looking a quick and easy meal idea that will still be delicious and satisfying? Look no further than chicken meat! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a staple ingredient in many households due to their versatility and affordability. According to Allrecipes Senior Editor Carl Hanson, "when the chips are down and we need dinner on the table fast, we turn like the rest of America to skinless, boneless chicken breasts to save the day."
Luckily, there are plenty of quick and easy recipes that utilize chicken breasts in creative and delicious ways. From spicy stir-fries to creamy pastas, here are some of the best quick meal ideas with chicken meat:
- Spicy Lime Chicken Stir-Fry
- Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
- Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
- Chicken and Rice Casserole
- Lemon Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- BBQ Chicken Skewers
- Grilled Greek Chicken
These recipes are not only ready in 30 minutes or less, but they also use simple ingredients that you may already have on hand. As Crystal S. raves about the Balsamic Vinegar and Garlic Chicken Breasts recipe, "Absolutely loved this recipe! Very impressive dish that was easy to prepare with ingredients that are normally found in one's kitchen." And if you're looking for a healthy twist on a classic, try the Grilled Greek Chicken recipe, which combines juicy chicken with tasty Mediterranean flavors.
Overall, there are endless possibilities when it comes to quick meal ideas with chicken meat. As chef John Currence says of his Sweet Tea Fried Chicken recipe, "nothing can stand in for good fried chicken, but this is a hell of an impostor." So why not give it a try and see for yourself? [3][4]
Source: img.taste.com.au
II. Stir-Fry Chicken Recipes
A. Spicy Lime Chicken Stir-Fry
When it comes to a quick and easy meal that's packed with flavor, Spicy Lime Chicken Stir-Fry is a top contender. This dish is perfect for those who are short on time but still want something that tastes amazing. The recipe calls for marinating chicken breast in lime juice and a homemade spice mix before stir-frying it to perfection.
One of the greatest benefits of this chicken stir-fry recipe is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it over rice or quinoa, or add it to salads for a healthy meal. It's also perfect for meal prep – simply divide it into containers along with your favorite side and you're set for the week!
Melanie Cooks, a food blogger, raves about this recipe on her website, saying that it's "super simple and tastes amazing!" She recommends using chicken breast, fresh lime, and spices for a healthier meal option that's both yummy and good for you. And if you're looking for inspiration on how to mix it up, Cooks suggests trying the same chili and lime combo on fish or other types of meat and seafood.
With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, Spicy Lime Chicken Stir-Fry is sure to become a go-to in your recipe arsenal. As LowCarbingAsian puts it, this dish "will be the easiest meal you make this week." So why not give it a try and taste for yourself how delicious a quick meal with chicken meat can be? [5][6]
Source: healthyfitnessmeals.com
B. Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and easy recipe that can satisfy most households, even the pickiest eaters. It is a yummy and healthy dish that can be made using ingredients that are easily available in your pantry or at your local grocery store. According to WellPlated.com, homemade teriyaki sauce is the secret to making healthy chicken teriyaki tasty. "Since you are in control of the ingredients, you can avoid the excess refined sugars, sodium, and preservatives found in most store-bought sauces." The recipe also uses low-sodium soy sauce to lower the sodium content. Honey instead of brown sugar is used to make it more healthy. The acidity of the lime balances the sweetness of the honey. Using fresh ginger adds freshness and zing to the dish. Adding cornstarch helps to coat every piece of chicken and vegetable evenly in the glossy goodness of the teriyaki sauce. Teriyaki chicken stir-fry can be made with diced chicken breasts or thighs. It can also be made with beef or pork for a change. Vegetarians can also enjoy this dish by using tofu or tempeh instead of meat. Adding steamed broccoli, snow peas, shredded cabbage, and carrots can add more veggies and nutrients to the dish. The dish can be served with rice, quinoa, or a medley of grains. "In a few simple steps, you can make takeout at home with this easy and flavorful teriyaki chicken stir-fry," says A Simple Palate. "We love to serve this juicy chicken with homemade teriyaki sauce over rice as a quick dinner or meal prep!"[7][8]
Source: carlsbadcravings.com
C. Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
Cashew chicken stir-fry is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick meal with chicken meat. This stir-fry recipe is great for meal prep and will last in the fridge for 4 to 5 days, making it a convenient and healthy option for busy weeknights. The dish is made with boneless skinless chicken thighs or shrimp, bell peppers, and cashews, which are the star of this recipe and offer a great source of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
To make the stir-fry sauce, you only need three ingredients: soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Coconut aminos or tamari can be used as substitutes for soy sauce, while agave, maple syrup, or brown sugar can help sweeten the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is best, but jarred minced garlic will work in a pinch.
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other veggies like zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, snap peas, bok choy, or celery, and swapping cashews for another nut of your choice like peanuts. Additionally, you can use arrowroot or tapioca starch instead of cornstarch, and a neutral cooking oil like olive oil to give it a milder flavor.
This dish is a healthier alternative to takeout and can be served with rice or noodles. According to The Girl on Bloor, this cashew chicken stir fry has 333 calories per serving and is a great low-calorie and low-carb meal option! So, if you're looking for a quick and delicious meal that's also healthy, this cashew chicken stir-fry is the way to go. [9][10]
Source: www.wellplated.com
III. One-Pot Chicken Recipes
A. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Chicken and Rice Casserole is one of the easiest and most delicious quick meal options available. It is a comfort food that can be made with simple ingredients from your pantry and can serve as a perfect family dinner. Here are some interesting facts that you should know about this recipe:
- Chicken and Rice Casserole is easy to make and can be executed in no time. As per Crazy for Crust, the recipe for this casserole is so simple that can be made on a weeknight. You can use leftover chicken and rice to make this casserole and transform your leftover food into a delicious dinner.
- Casseroles usually have three main components: the main ingredient (chicken and rice), a starch (rice), and a creamy component (condensed soup or white sauce). The Casserole usually has some kind of topping too, like breadcrumbs or cheese, which enhances the overall taste.
- The Easy and Delicious Chicken and Rice Casserole recipe available on the Internet is quite popular among busy families. The recipe is perfect for those who are looking for comfort food with a minimal effort. The recipe requires covering a bed of rice with chicken pieces, adding a mixture of soup and water, and sprinkling onion soup mix on top. Finally, the entire dish is covered tightly with foil and baked for 1 to 1 ½ hours.
- Chicken and Rice Casserole is versatile and customizable. It is perfect for those who like to switch things up with their meals. You can add any vegetables of your choice, swap out the shredded cheese, use different spices, and try various soups to create a new twist on this recipe every time you make it.
In conclusion, Chicken and Rice Casserole is an all-time favorite among families and is quickly becoming a go-to meal for those who are short on time. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. [11][12]
Source: carlsbadcravings.com
B. Lemon Garlic Chicken and Potatoes
L garlic chicken and potatoes is a classic combination that never fails to satisfy. It's a dish that is simple to make and yet packed with flavor. With the addition of buttery lemon garlic sauce, this recipe becomes an instant hit and perfect for any weeknight dinner. The best part? It can be prepared in an Instant Pot, which means minimal effort and time in the kitchen.
According to The Recipe Well, their version of lemon garlic chicken and potatoes has quickly become a family favorite. The chicken is first seared to ensure crispy skin and then pressure cooked with potatoes and a delicious lemon garlic sauce. "The chicken is perfectly seared with a tender and juicy inside while the potatoes have a light and fluffy texture," they say. "The lemon garlic sauce takes this recipe to the next level – you'll want to eat it on everything!"
One of the great advantages of this recipe is that it can easily accommodate your dietary requirements. If you are gluten-free, make sure to use a gluten-free cornstarch for the slurry. You can also replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes or even cauliflower for a low-carb option.
In summary, lemon garlic chicken and potatoes is a classic comfort dish that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Thanks to the instant pot, it can now be cooked faster and with less fuss. As The Recipe Well says, "whether you're in need of an impressive dinner or something fast enough for a weeknight, this pressure cooker chicken and potatoes will satisfy everyone!" [13][14]
Source: momsdinner.net
C. Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
When it comes to quick and easy meals, few dishes beat the creamy goodness of chicken alfredo pasta. This dish is not only delicious, but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. But what makes this recipe stand out from the rest? Let's take a closer look.
One popular chicken alfredo recipe from Belly Full includes pan-fried seasoned chicken breasts and tender noodles coated in a dreamy garlic and Parmesan cream sauce. The recipe is simple, yet sophisticated, making it the perfect dish for a date night or a special family dinner. The recipe is also versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences by adding extra spices or herbs.
Another chicken alfredo recipe from Supergolden Bakes is an equally simple and delicious take on the classic dish. The creamy pasta sauce is made with just three ingredients - butter, cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. The addition of fresh garlic and a splash of Amarula cream liqueur gives this recipe a unique flavor profile that is hard to resist.
No matter the recipe you choose, chicken alfredo pasta is a meal that is sure to satisfy. As Belly Full notes, "What's more, it looks and tastes like a gourmet meal but it's incredibly easy to make." So why not elevate your next mealtime by trying out this rich and creamy dish? As Supergolden Bakes puts it, "It is rich, delicious, and goes with pretty much everything." [15][16]
Source: littlesunnykitchen.com
IV. Grilled Chicken Recipes
A. BBQ Chicken Skewers
BBQ Chicken Skewers are a great option for a delicious and healthy summer grilling recipe. It is a fantastic way to enjoy chicken with a bit of a spicy kick without spending too much time in the kitchen. Tastes of Lizzy T has shared a fantastic recipe for dry rub BBQ Chicken Skewers with peppers and onions that can be easily made in around 40 minutes. The recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are marinated in a dry rub for added flavor. The skewers are threaded with peppers and onions, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a delicious, smoky flavor that is sure to please anyone’s taste buds.
If you’re looking to spice up the recipe, feel free to add your favorite veggies like mushrooms, potatoes, and even zucchini. You can also prepare the skewers ahead of time, which makes them a great make-ahead recipe. Simply cover and refrigerate the skewers after making them, and then remove them from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling. This will help the skewers cook more evenly.
As mentioned earlier, BBQ Chicken Skewers are a healthy and delicious option for summer grilling. They are high in protein, low in saturated fat, and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. So, fire up that grill and give BBQ Chicken Skewers a try. You won’t regret it! [17][18]
Source: littlespicejar.com
B. Grilled Greek Chicken
Grilled Greek Chicken is an excellent option for a quick meal with chicken meat. This juicy, flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion. The secret to this simple and delicious dish is a powerful marinade that infuses the chicken with classic Greek flavors such as lemon, garlic, and oregano, with a tangy yogurt twist.
According to foodiecrush.com, "This simple chicken marinade infuses the classic Greek flavors of lemon garlic and oregano plus marinating chicken in yogurt for a more tender bite." The acidity from the lemon breaks down the tough fibers in the chicken, making it even more juicy and flavorful. And the yogurt tenderizes the chicken, creating a tender bite that cannot be beaten.
To make the perfect Grilled Greek Chicken, you need to marinate the chicken for at least 4 to 12 hours. "Transfer to bowl with marinade and thoroughly coat all sides. Cover and marinate in refrigerator 4 to 12 hours," suggests the same source. After marinating the chicken, grill it slowly over semi-direct heat, avoiding intense direct heat so the chicken cooks evenly and skin doesn't burn. This should take around 8-10 minutes once the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
Grilled Greek Chicken can be served with a variety of sides, such as lemon wedges or a spicy yogurt sauce. It is suitable for any meal, including lunch, dinner, or even a weekend barbecue with friends and family.
In summary, grilled Greek chicken is an easy and delicious way to enjoy chicken meat. Ready in less than 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those who need a quick, satisfying meal without sacrificing taste. [19][20]
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