Kid Friendly Canned Chicken Tenders Recipes For Large Family Meals
Cooking for a large family can often feel like a daunting task, especially when trying to please picky eaters. But fear not! Canned chicken is a versatile ingredient that can save you time and energy in the kitchen while still providing delicious and satisfying meals. In this article, we will explore several kid-friendly canned chicken tenders recipes that are perfect for large family meals. These recipes are easy to make, budget-friendly, and, most importantly, loved by kids!
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil spray
- Your choice of dipping sauces (ranch, honey mustard, barbecue)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained canned chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into tenders or nuggets. Dip each piece first into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve with your choice of dipping sauces and enjoy!
Why Canned Chicken is a Great Option
Canned chicken is not only convenient but also incredibly versatile. It is pre-cooked, which means you can whip up meals in no time. This is especially beneficial for busy families who need quick dinner solutions. Additionally, canned chicken is affordable and has a long shelf life, making it a great pantry staple.
When you use canned chicken in recipes, you eliminate the need for long cooking times associated with fresh chicken, allowing you to focus on family time rather than meal prep. Plus, kids love finger foods, and chicken tenders are always a hit!
More Kid-Friendly Canned Chicken Recipes
In addition to baked chicken tenders, here are a few more kid-friendly recipes to try with canned chicken:
Canned Chicken Tacos
Using the same canned chicken, you can create delicious tacos in just a few minutes. Simply mix the chicken with taco seasoning, warm it up, and serve in taco shells with all the toppings your kids love—lettuce, cheese, salsa, and avocado!
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
An easy and creamy chicken Alfredo pasta dish can be made by combining cooked pasta with canned chicken, Alfredo sauce, and steamed broccoli. It’s a comforting meal that kids will devour.
Chicken Salad Sandwiches
For a quick lunch option, mix canned chicken with mayonnaise, diced celery, and grapes for sweetness. Serve it on whole grain bread or in a wrap for a delicious chicken salad sandwich.
Tips for Cooking with Canned Chicken
When working with canned chicken, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Drain Well: Make sure to drain the canned chicken thoroughly to avoid extra moisture in your recipes.
- Season Generously: Canned chicken can be bland, so don’t hesitate to season it well or mix it with flavorful sauces.
- Experiment: Use canned chicken in a variety of dishes beyond just main courses—think soups, casseroles, and salads!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked chicken as a substitute, but the cooking time will be longer. Canned chicken is a quicker option for busy nights.
How do I store leftover chicken tenders?
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Can I freeze canned chicken dishes?
Yes, you can freeze cooked dishes made with canned chicken. Just make sure to store them in freezer-safe containers.
Are there gluten-free options for the breading?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
These kid-friendly canned chicken tenders recipes are perfect for large family meals that everyone will enjoy. They are simple to make, require minimal prep time, and are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With the convenience of canned chicken, you can create a variety of quick and delicious meals that your family will love. Try these recipes and watch your kids ask for seconds!
Cooking for your family doesn’t have to be stressful. With these easy recipes, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying meals together. Happy cooking!
