Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup salsa
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Avocado slices for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained canned chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Take a tortilla and place a generous amount of the chicken mixture in the center.
5. Sprinkle a bit of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the filling.
6. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly to enclose the filling.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
8. Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
9. Place the rolled enchiladas seam side down in the prepared baking dish.
10. Top the enchiladas with the remaining salsa and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
13. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with avocado slices on the side if desired.

Why Canned Chicken?

Canned chicken is an incredibly versatile ingredient. It’s convenient, requires no cooking, and is ready to use straight from the can. For families with busy schedules, this makes it a go-to option for weeknight meals.

Moreover, canned chicken is packed with protein, making it a healthy choice for growing kids. It also tends to be more affordable than fresh chicken, making it budget-friendly as well.

More Kid-Friendly Canned Chicken Recipes

If you love the idea of quick and easy dinners using canned chicken, here are a few more kid-friendly recipes to try:

Creamy Chicken Pasta

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 1 can (12.5 oz) canned chicken, drained
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. In a large saucepan, combine the drained canned chicken and heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until heated through. Toss with the cooked pasta and serve.

Chicken Quesadillas

• 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1/2 cup salsa
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Spread canned chicken and cheese evenly on half of each tortilla, then fold over. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cheese is melted. Serve with salsa.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

• 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly. Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until bubbly. Serve with tortilla chips or veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken in these recipes?

Yes, you can use cooked and shredded fresh chicken in place of canned chicken. Just ensure it is properly cooked and shredded before adding it to the recipes.

How long does canned chicken last once opened?

Once opened, canned chicken should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and safety.

Are these recipes suitable for freezing?

Yes, most of these recipes can be frozen. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers and label them with the date. They can typically be frozen for 2 to 3 months.

Can I customize the recipes to fit my family’s tastes?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the seasonings, vegetables, and sauces according to your family’s preferences. The beauty of these recipes is their versatility.

Conclusion

Cooking for kids can be a challenge, but with these kid-friendly canned chicken carnivore recipes, you can simplify dinner time while keeping everyone happy. Not only are these recipes quick and easy, but they also provide nutritious meals that your family will love. So next time you’re in a dinner rut, reach for that can of chicken and whip up something delightful!

Try out these recipes, and don’t forget to share your experiences! Happy cooking!