Simple Pressure Canned Chicken Recipes For College Students On A Budget
As a college student, managing your finances while trying to eat healthily can be quite a challenge. With tuition, rent, and textbooks taking a significant chunk of your budget, finding affordable meal options is essential. One way to save money and ensure you have nutritious meals on hand is by utilizing a pressure canner to prepare and store chicken. This article is packed with simple pressure canned chicken recipes that are budget-friendly and perfect for busy college life.
Pressure canning chicken not only allows you to save money but also ensures that you have a versatile ingredient ready to use in various dishes. Whether you want to whip up a quick chicken salad, a hearty soup, or a delightful stir-fry, canned chicken can be your best friend. Let’s dive into the recipes and discover how you can create delicious meals with ease!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, or peas)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
- Prepare your pressure canner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced vegetables and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
- Fill each canning jar with the chicken and vegetable mixture, leaving 1 inch of headspace.
- Pour the chicken broth evenly into each jar, adjusting the headspace as necessary.
- Wipe the jar rims with a clean cloth, place the lids on, and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
- Place the jars in the pressure canner, ensuring they are not touching.
- Seal the canner and process the jars according to your canner’s instructions, typically at 10 to 15 pounds of pressure for 75 minutes.
- Once processing is complete, let the canner cool completely before removing the jars.
- Label your jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place.
More Simple Pressure Canned Chicken Recipes
1. Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Transform your canned chicken into a delicious chicken salad sandwich. Simply mix the canned chicken with mayonnaise, diced celery, and a bit of mustard for flavor. Serve it on whole grain bread for a filling lunch.
Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients
- 1 cup pressure canned chicken, drained
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 slices whole grain bread
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the drained chicken, mayonnaise, diced celery, and mustard. Mix well.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the chicken salad onto a slice of bread, top with the other slice, and serve.
2. Chicken and Rice Casserole
This hearty chicken and rice casserole is perfect for meal prep. Combine canned chicken, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and some cheese for a filling meal that can last all week.
Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups pressure canned chicken, drained
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained chicken, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheese.
- Add salt and pepper to taste and mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Chicken Stir-Fry
A quick chicken stir-fry can be made in just minutes. Use your canned chicken and toss it with your favorite vegetables and a simple stir-fry sauce for a nutritious dinner.
Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients
- 1 cup pressure canned chicken, drained
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until tender.
- Add the drained chicken and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long does pressure canned chicken last?
Properly canned chicken can last for up to 1 to 2 years if stored in a cool, dark place. Always check for signs of spoilage before consumption.
2. Can I use frozen chicken for canning?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for canning. However, it is recommended to thaw it first for even cooking and flavor distribution.
3. Is it safe to can chicken at home?
Yes, as long as you follow the guidelines set by the USDA for pressure canning, it is safe to can chicken at home.
4. What types of dishes can I make with canned chicken?
Canned chicken is versatile and can be used in various dishes like salads, casseroles, stir-fries, and soups, making it ideal for quick meals.
In conclusion, pressure canned chicken is a fantastic solution for college students on a budget. With these simple recipes, you’ll be able to prepare delicious meals without breaking the bank. Whether it’s a quick chicken salad sandwich or a comforting casserole, you’ll find that canned chicken can be a game-changer in your meal planning routine. Start canning today and enjoy the benefits of having nutritious meals ready to go!
