Clean Eating Canned Chicken And Noodles Recipes For Busy Families
In the hustle and bustle of family life, finding quick, nutritious meals can be a challenge. One of the best solutions for busy families is using canned chicken. It’s a convenient, protein-packed ingredient that can help you whip up flavorful dishes in no time. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of clean eating canned chicken and noodles recipes that are perfect for any busy weeknight dinner. These recipes are not only easy to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a great choice for families looking to eat healthier without spending hours in the kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of clean canned chicken, drained
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until al dente.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Stir in the drained canned chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat the chicken.
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and add them to the skillet with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Toss everything together to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
This recipe serves as a fantastic base, but feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or even swap the egg noodles for whole grain pasta to increase the fiber content. The use of canned chicken ensures that you don’t have to spend time cooking raw chicken, making this an ideal option for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into a couple more recipes that utilize canned chicken, providing you with more variety for your family meals.
Recipe 2: Creamy Chicken and Spinach Noodles
If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting dish, this creamy chicken and spinach noodles recipe will quickly become a family favorite. The creamy sauce paired with the canned chicken makes for a rich flavor without the extra effort of making a sauce from scratch.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) clean canned chicken, drained
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained canned chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the garlic powder, black pepper, and chopped spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional black pepper if desired.
This creamy chicken and spinach noodles recipe is not only quick to prepare but also deliciously satisfying. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens while keeping meal prep simple. If your family loves a little spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
Recipe 3: Chicken Noodle Casserole
For those nights when you want something you can prepare ahead of time, this chicken noodle casserole is the answer. It’s a wholesome, hearty dish that can feed a crowd, and it’s perfect for leftovers.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 3 cans (12.5 oz each) clean canned chicken, drained
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup low-fat sour cream
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained chicken, chicken broth, sour cream, frozen peas and carrots, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and if desired, add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
This chicken noodle casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or when you need to feed a larger group. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients you may have in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded chicken instead of canned chicken. However, using canned chicken saves time and ensures a quick meal.
Is canned chicken healthy?
Canned chicken can be a healthy option, especially if you choose varieties that are low in sodium and have no added preservatives. Always check the label for the best options.
How can I add more flavor to these recipes?
Consider adding herbs, spices, or sauces such as soy sauce or hot sauce to elevate the flavor of your dishes. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also enhance the taste.
Can I prepare these meals ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many of these recipes can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for a quick meal.
By incorporating canned chicken into your family meals, you can create an array of clean, delicious dishes that are both nutritious and quick to prepare. These recipes are perfect for busy families looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or time. Enjoy your cooking adventures today!
