Kid Friendly Low Cal Canned Chicken Recipes For Family Dinners Tonight
Are you looking for a way to make dinner time easier and healthier for your family? Canned chicken is a versatile ingredient that can help you whip up delicious meals in no time. It’s low in calories, packed with protein, and can be a hit among kids. In this article, we will explore some kid-friendly low-cal canned chicken recipes that are perfect for family dinners tonight.
Using canned chicken can save you time, especially on busy weeknights. These recipes are not only healthy but also quick to prepare, ensuring you can spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
Let’s dive into some tasty and nutritious canned chicken recipes that your kids will love!
Recipe 1: Cheesy Canned Chicken Quesadillas
Prepare a delicious and cheesy quesadilla that the kids will devour!
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Servings:
4
Ingredients:
- 1 can (12.5 oz) of canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 4 whole wheat tortillas
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- Optional: salsa or guacamole for serving
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the canned chicken, shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, and onions.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet, and spread half of the chicken mixture on one half of the tortilla.
- Fold the tortilla over and cook for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown.
- Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Slice into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole.
Recipe 2: Canned Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad makes for a light dinner option that’s loaded with flavor.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
0 minutes
Total Time:
10 minutes
Servings:
4
Ingredients:
- 1 can (12.5 oz) of canned chicken, drained
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumbers, diced
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the canned chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately as a light dinner or a side dish.
Recipe 3: Canned Chicken Pasta Bake
Comfort food at its best! This pasta bake is creamy, cheesy, and sure to be a family favorite.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Servings:
6
Ingredients:
- 1 can (12.5 oz) of canned chicken, drained
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup low-fat cream cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the drained canned chicken, cream cheese, marinara sauce, cooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Recipe 4: Canned Chicken Stir-Fry
This quick stir-fry is a great way to get those veggies in while keeping dinner simple.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
20 minutes
Servings:
4
Ingredients:
- 1 can (12.5 oz) of canned chicken, drained
- 2 cups mixed stir-fry vegetables (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Cooked rice or quinoa for serving
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the drained canned chicken, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is canned chicken healthy?
Yes, canned chicken is a great source of lean protein and can be a nutritious addition to meals when used in moderation.
2. How long can I store canned chicken?
Unopened canned chicken can last for several years in your pantry. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 days.
3. 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 heat through.
4. What are some other ways to use canned chicken?
Canned chicken can be used in soups, casseroles, sandwiches, and salads, making it a versatile ingredient for many recipes.
These kid-friendly low-cal canned chicken recipes are sure to simplify your dinner routine. They are quick, easy, and packed with flavor that your family will love. Enjoy a stress-free dinner tonight!
