affordable quick baked chicken recipes for budget friendly dinners
Chicken is one of the most versatile and budget-friendly proteins available, making it a staple in countless homes across America. When you’re looking for something quick to prepare without breaking the bank, baked chicken recipes are the way to go. In this article, we will explore several affordable quick baked chicken recipes that are perfect for budget-friendly dinners. From savory herb-infused varieties to sweet and tangy options, these recipes are sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 cup diced potatoes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- In the same bowl, add the broccoli, carrots, and potatoes. Toss them in the remaining olive oil and seasonings.
- Arrange the veggies around the chicken in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Why Baked Chicken?
Baked chicken is not only easy to prepare, but it also offers a healthier alternative to fried options. Baking allows the natural flavors of the chicken to shine through while keeping it juicy and tender.
Moreover, baked chicken can be customized with various herbs and spices, making it suitable for different palates. This adaptability is perfect for families or anyone looking to create a satisfying meal on a budget.
More Affordable Quick Baked Chicken Recipes
1. Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic for a mouthwatering dish that your family will love.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup green beans
- 1 cup diced sweet potatoes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic mixture over them.
- Arrange green beans and diced sweet potatoes around the chicken.
- Bake for 35 minutes, basting the chicken halfway through.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
2. Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breasts
This recipe is refreshing, with a zesty lemon flavor that pairs perfectly with herbs.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup asparagus spears
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts in the mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Arrange asparagus around the chicken.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. BBQ Baked Chicken Drumsticks
These BBQ chicken drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser and incredibly easy to make, perfect for a casual family dinner.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn on the cob, cut into pieces
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the drumsticks in the sauce until well coated.
- Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and fully cooked.
- Serve with corn and coleslaw on the side.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other cuts of chicken for these recipes?
Yes! You can easily substitute chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How can I make these recipes even more budget-friendly?
To save more, consider buying chicken in bulk or on sale. You can also use frozen vegetables, which are often cheaper and just as nutritious.
3. What sides pair well with baked chicken?
Consider serving with rice, quinoa, or a simple salad. Roasted or steamed vegetables also make a great complement to baked chicken dishes.
4. Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinating chicken for a few hours or overnight can enhance the flavors. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
These affordable quick baked chicken recipes are not just easy to make but also delicious and satisfying. With their diverse flavors and simple preparation, they will become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation. Enjoy your budget-friendly meals with these chicken recipes that prove you can eat well without spending a fortune!
