Why Chicken?
Chicken is a versatile and affordable protein that can be cooked in countless ways. It's also a great source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. Chicken is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that support a healthy immune system.
Benefits of 5-Ingredient Recipes
Cooking with just five ingredients is a great way to save time and money while still enjoying a delicious meal. With fewer ingredients, there's less prep work and fewer dishes to clean up. Plus, it's easier to shop for ingredients when you only need a handful of items.
Easy Broccoli and Chicken Casserole
This casserole is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies and protein in one dish. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 can of condensed broccoli cheese soup
- 1 package of chicken stuffing mix
- 2 cups cubed, cooked chicken
- 1 cup of broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
To prepare, mix together the broccoli cheese soup (don't dilute!), cooked chicken, and broccoli florets in a large bowl. Transfer the mixture to an 11x7-inch baking dish. Prepare the chicken stuffing mix according to the package instructions and add it to the baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese. Cover and bake in a preheated oven (350F) for 20 minutes. When ready, remove the cover and continue baking for another 15 minutes. Allow it to cool for several minutes before serving.
Apricot-Spiced Chicken
This sweet and spicy chicken dish is sure to be a hit with your taste buds. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breast halves
- 1/3 cup apricot preserves
- 1/4 cup chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon of hot mustard
- Salt to taste
To prepare, combine the apricot preserves, chili sauce, mustard, and salt (you can season with pepper if desired) in a saucepan and stir over medium heat for about 3 minutes, or until heated through. Coat a large baking pan with cooking spray. Place the chicken in the baking pan and broil for 6 to 8 minutes per side, brushing generously with spicy apricot sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. Allow it to cool and sit for a few minutes before serving.
Mexican-Style Chicken Rice
This flavorful chicken and rice dish is a crowd-pleaser. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 can of diced tomatoes with onions
- 1 package of Mexican-style rice and pasta mix
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
- 2 cups cubed, cooked chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of butter
To prepare, melt the butter in a skillet and cook the rice and pasta mix for 5 minutes or until browned. Add the tomatoes (with liquid), some water (about 3/4 cup), and the contents of the rice seasoning packet. Bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and continue cooking for 10 minutes. When ready, stir in the chicken and jalapenos. Cover and cook until the liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
This tangy and savory chicken dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare, preheat the oven to 425 F.In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the lemon-garlic marinade over them. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with your favorite veggies on the side.
Honey Mustard Chicken
This sweet and tangy chicken dish is sure to become a family favorite. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare, preheat the oven to 375 F.In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the honey mustard marinade over them. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with a side salad or roasted veggies.
Garlic-Butter Chicken
This rich and flavorful chicken dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare, preheat the oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter sauce over them. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with your favorite side dish.
Teriyaki Chicken
This sweet and savory chicken dish is a classic favorite. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of water
- Sesame seeds for garnish
To prepare, preheat the oven to 375 F.Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, cornstarch, and water. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Balsamic Chicken
This tangy and sweet chicken dish is perfect for a dinner party or a romantic night in. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare, preheat the oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish, and pour the balsamic marinade over them. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with roasted veggies or a side salad.
Pesto Chicken
This flavorful and easy chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Here's what you'll need:
- 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish
To prepare, preheat the oven to 375 F.Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Spread the pesto mixture over the chicken. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Conclusion
These super easy but insanely delicious 5-ingredient chicken recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or any time you want to enjoy a hearty and healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Try them all and discover your new favorite chicken dish!