Chicken is a kitchen essential, and with its versatility, there are endless ways to create delicious meals. Whether you’re pressed for time or looking to impress guests, these easy chicken recipes from MobileCooks deliver both flavor and simplicity. We’ll explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, nutritional insights, and even some cooking tips for each dish.
Chicken Tacos
Chicken Tacos are a must for taco night, offering a quick and flavorful meal. This delicious chicken dish includes tender chicken pieces seasoned perfectly with black pepper, creating a juicy chicken filling. This recipe is highly customizable, and with just a few ingredients, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 8 small tortillas
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, lettuce, salsa, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, then add the shredded chicken. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powders for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken.
- Heat tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
- Assemble the tacos by filling the tortillas with the seasoned chicken and adding a hint of spice with pepper flakes if desired and topping with your choice of extras.
Cooking Tip: To add a smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken with the seasoning mix before shredding.
Nutritional Info (per taco):
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 280 |
Protein | 20g |
Carbs | 25g |
Fat | 10g |
Sodium | 400mg |
Chicken Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a family favorite, providing cheesy goodness in every bite. You can even add some fresh cilantro for extra flavor. With skinless chicken breasts cooked to perfection, this dish is perfect for any weeknight dinners. This recipe allows for endless variation depending on what you have in the fridge.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded, cooked chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 8 tortillas
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salsa and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet and place a tortilla in the pan.
- Layer half of the tortilla with shredded chicken and cheese.
- Fold the tortilla over and cook until crispy on both sides.
- Slice into triangles and serve with salsa and sour cream.
Cooking Tip: Add some sautéed onions and bell peppers to the chicken filling for extra flavor.
Nutritional Info (per quesadilla):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 350 |
Protein | 25g |
Carbs | 30g |
Fat | 15g |
Sodium | 450mg |
Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. A restaurant-quality meal, right at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
- Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Coat chicken breasts with the breadcrumb mixture. Pound chicken breasts with a meat mallet to ensure even cooking.
- Fry in olive oil until golden brown, then place on a baking sheet. Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Top with marinara and mozzarella, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Variations: For a healthier version, try baking the breaded chicken instead of frying.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 450 |
Protein | 35g |
Carbs | 25g |
Fat | 18g |
Sodium | 700mg |
Rotisserie Chicken for Busy Nights
When you’re short on time, a homemade rotisserie chicken can save the day. This recipe focuses on achieving tender, flavorful chicken that you can use in a variety of meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (to taste)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil and generously season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place chicken in a baking dish to prevent juices from spilling.
- Place the chicken on a roasting pan and cook for about 1.5 hours, basting occasionally with its juices.
Serving Suggestions: Use the leftovers for salads, sandwiches, or soups throughout the week.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 350 |
Protein | 40g |
Carbs | 0g |
Fat | 20g |
Sodium | 600mg |
Chicken Brine Recipe
Brining chicken before cooking ensures that it stays moist and flavorful. This brine also works well with boneless chicken breast halves. This simple brine recipe works wonders for chicken breasts and thighs.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, dissolve the salt and sugar in water.
- Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.
- Submerge the chicken in the brine and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Pat dry before cooking as desired.
Cooking Tip: For extra flavor, brine the chicken overnight.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 150 |
Protein | 30g |
Carbs | 0g |
Fat | 2g |
Sodium | 500mg |
Crispy Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. This recipe ensures crispy wings without the need for deep frying.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Toss the wings with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Variations: Toss the baked wings in buffalo sauce or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 400 |
Protein | 30g |
Carbs | 2g |
Fat | 28g |
Sodium | 550mg |
Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
This zesty recipe offers a juicy, flavorful chicken option that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken thighs in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 30 minutes.
- Heat a skillet and cook the thighs until golden brown and fully cooked. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
- Garnish with parsley and serve with rice or salad.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 380 |
Protein | 30g |
Carbs | 5g |
Fat | 25g |
Sodium | 450mg |
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Dip is a creamy, spicy, and indulgent appetizer perfect for game days or parties.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Make sure to use sour cream to create a creamy sauce that brings all the flavors together.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve with tortilla chips or celery sticks.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 500 |
Protein | 25g |
Carbs | 10g |
Fat | 40g |
Sodium | 850mg |
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This creamy and rich Chicken Alfredo Pasta combines tender chicken with a decadent sauce, making it the perfect comfort food for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add 1 tsp garlic powder to enhance the flavor of the creamy sauce. Add the cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to avoid scorching.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Cooking Tip: Add steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 600 |
Protein | 30g |
Carbs | 50g |
Fat | 35g |
Sodium | 800mg |
Grilled Chicken Salad
For a light yet satisfying meal, this Grilled Chicken Salad is packed with protein and fresh veggies. It’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, etc.)
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Balsamic vinaigrette for dressing
Instructions:
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill over medium heat until cooked through. Slice thinly.
- Toss the mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil.
- Top the salad with grilled chicken slices and sprinkle feta cheese on top, if using. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to enjoy later.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and serve immediately.
Nutritional Info (per serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 350 |
Protein | 30g |
Carbs | 10g |
Fat | 15g |
Sodium | 400mg |
Conclusion
With these 10 easy chicken recipes, you’ll never run out of meal ideas. From the indulgent Chicken Alfredo Pasta to the light Grilled Chicken Salad, there’s something for every occasion and palate. Each recipe is designed to be simple, allowing you to create delicious meals even on busy days.