Canned Chicken Bone Broth Cheap Dinner Ideas For College Students On A Budget
College life can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing your finances and finding time to cook. Luckily, with just a few affordable ingredients, you can whip up nutritious and delicious meals that won’t break the bank. Canned chicken and bone broth are budget-friendly staples that can elevate your meals, providing both flavor and essential nutrients. In this article, we will explore some simple and satisfying dinner ideas using canned chicken and bone broth that every college student can enjoy!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cans of chicken (12.5 oz each)
- 4 cups of chicken bone broth
- 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup of uncooked pasta (any type)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken bone broth and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the uncooked pasta and frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. Stir well and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Drain the canned chicken and add it to the pot, along with the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
More Budget-Friendly Ideas
Now that you have a delicious chicken noodle soup recipe, let’s explore more cheap dinner ideas that utilize canned chicken and bone broth. These meals are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly filling, ensuring you have energy for your busy college life.
1. Chicken and Rice Casserole
This chicken and rice casserole is a one-dish wonder. It’s easy to make and is perfect for meal prepping. Combine canned chicken, cooked rice, and bone broth with some cream of mushroom soup for a creamy texture.
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can of chicken, drained
- 1 cup of chicken bone broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, canned chicken, and chicken bone broth.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and top with cheese if using.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
2. Chicken Tortilla Soup
Spice up your dinner with a flavorful chicken tortilla soup. It’s perfect for a chilly night and can be made in just one pot!
- 2 cans of chicken
- 4 cups chicken bone broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (with green chilies for extra flavor)
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips for serving
- In a large pot, combine the chicken bone broth, canned chicken, diced tomatoes, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot topped with tortilla chips.
3. Chicken Fried Rice
This chicken fried rice is a great way to use leftover rice and is packed with flavor. It’s quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can of chicken, drained
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked rice and canned chicken, stirring to combine.
- Push the rice to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked and then mix into the rice.
- Add soy sauce and stir until everything is well combined. Serve hot.
Tips for Cooking on a Budget
Cooking on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition. Here are some tips for making the most out of your budget-friendly meals:
- Buy in bulk: Purchasing staple ingredients like rice, pasta, and canned goods in bulk can save you money over time.
- Meal prep: Prepare meals in advance to avoid the temptation of takeout. This also helps you utilize leftovers efficiently.
- Use seasonal produce: Fresh fruits and vegetables are often cheaper when they are in season.
- Keep it simple: Focus on simple recipes with fewer ingredients to keep costs down.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just ensure to cook it fully before adding it to your dishes.
2. How long can I store bone broth?
Homemade bone broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 6 months.
3. Are there vegetarian options for these recipes?
Yes, you can substitute canned chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bone broth.
4. What are some other canned goods I can use with these recipes?
Other canned goods like beans, tomatoes, and vegetables can be incorporated into these recipes for added flavor and nutrition.
With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can create a variety of delicious meals using canned chicken and bone broth. These recipes not only fit a tight budget but also save you time in the kitchen, allowing you to focus on your studies and enjoy your college experience. Happy cooking!
