Seasonal Meals Using Canned Chicken For Summer Barbecues And Gatherings
Summer is the perfect time for barbecues and gatherings with family and friends. The sun is shining, and the air is filled with laughter and the smell of delicious food sizzling on the grill. Canned chicken is a versatile ingredient that can save time and effort while still delivering tasty and satisfying meals. In this article, we will explore a variety of seasonal meals using canned chicken that are perfect for summer barbecues and gatherings.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 8 slider buns
- 1/2 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell pepper and onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the corn, canned chicken, garlic powder, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the BBQ sauce and mix until the chicken is well-coated. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- While the chicken mixture cooks, prepare the coleslaw. In a bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Once the chicken mixture is ready, assemble the sliders. Place a generous scoop of the BBQ chicken on the bottom half of each slider bun.
- Add a spoonful of coleslaw on top of the chicken, then place the top half of the bun over the coleslaw.
- Serve the sliders warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delicious and easy BBQ chicken sliders!
Why Use Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken is an incredibly convenient ingredient that allows you to whip up meals quickly. It’s pre-cooked, which means you can cut down on prep time significantly. This makes it ideal for summer gatherings when you want to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Furthermore, canned chicken is versatile. It can be used in salads, sandwiches, casseroles, and more. This adaptability allows you to create a variety of dishes that can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Refreshing Salad Ideas
In addition to BBQ chicken sliders, consider using canned chicken to make refreshing summer salads. These salads are light, nutritious, and perfect for hot days.
Canned Chicken Caesar Salad
- 1 can (12.5 oz) canned chicken, drained
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup croutons
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Black pepper to taste
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce and canned chicken.
- Drizzle with Caesar dressing and toss to coat.
- Top with croutons, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper before serving.
Southwestern Chicken Salad
- 1 can (12.5 oz) canned chicken, drained
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- In a large bowl, mix together the mixed greens, canned chicken, black beans, corn, and avocado.
- Drizzle with salsa and ranch dressing, then toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Easy Casserole Dishes
Canned chicken is also excellent for making casseroles that are easy to prepare ahead of time. These dishes can be baked right before serving, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.
BBQ Chicken Casserole
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) canned chicken, drained
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned chicken, cooked rice, BBQ sauce, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded frozen chicken as a substitute, but it will require additional cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How long does canned chicken last after opening?
Once opened, canned chicken should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days.
Can I freeze dishes made with canned chicken?
Yes, most dishes made with canned chicken can be frozen. Make sure to store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
What are some other recipes I can make with canned chicken?
You can also use canned chicken in soups, wraps, and quesadillas, making it a versatile pantry staple.
Conclusion
Using canned chicken for summer barbecues and gatherings not only saves time but also allows you to create a variety of delicious meals that everyone will love. From sliders to salads and casseroles, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and enjoy the warm summer days with these tasty recipes. Happy cooking!
