7 Budget-Friendly and Healthy Chicken Recipes Using Pantry Staples

If you're looking for quick, satisfying meals that won’t break the bank, you’ve hit the jackpot! This collection of cheap and healthy chicken recipes is perfect for busy weeknights when pantry staples are the stars of the show. Get ready to whip up delicious dishes using the ingredients you already have on hand.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with rich, creamy sauce and pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The image showcases a plate of fettuccine topped with grilled chicken, drizzled in a creamy garlic sauce, and garnished with fresh herbs. It’s not just delicious but also a great way to use pantry staples!

To make this dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients that you might already have at home. The creamy sauce is simple yet flavorful, making it a favorite for many. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy chicken in a new and exciting way.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Slice the chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken pasta!

Savory Chicken And Rice Casserole

This savory chicken and rice casserole is a comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients for a delicious meal. The image shows a golden-brown casserole topped with fresh herbs, hinting at the delightful flavors inside. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can use leftover chicken or even canned chicken if you're short on time. The rice absorbs all the flavors, making each bite satisfying. Plus, it's a great way to use pantry staples like rice, broth, and spices.

Gather your ingredients, and let's get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or thyme)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Sweet And Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken

Sweet and Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of flavors. The image showcases tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, glossy sauce, served alongside fluffy rice and vibrant broccoli. This meal is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner.

This recipe is simple and uses ingredients you likely have in your pantry. The sweet honey pairs beautifully with the spicy garlic, creating a sauce that clings to the chicken perfectly. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish for everyone.

Pair this chicken with steamed rice and some fresh vegetables, like broccoli, for a complete meal. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty dinner without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving
• Steamed broccoli for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Pour the remaining marinade into the pan and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Serve: Plate the chicken with cooked rice and steamed broccoli. Drizzle any extra sauce over the top and enjoy!

Tangy Bbq Chicken Thighs

These Tangy BBQ Chicken Thighs are a delightful way to enjoy a meal that’s both cheap and healthy. The image shows juicy, glazed chicken thighs, perfectly cooked and served with a side of fluffy cornbread and creamy coleslaw. The vibrant colors and textures make this dish not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Using pantry staples, this recipe is simple and quick. The chicken thighs are coated in a tangy BBQ sauce that brings a burst of flavor. Pair it with sides like cornbread and coleslaw for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup coleslaw mix
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 box cornbread mix (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs in this mixture.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
4. Flip the chicken and pour any remaining BBQ sauce over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. While the chicken is baking, prepare the coleslaw. In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.
6. If using cornbread, prepare it according to package instructions while the chicken is baking.
7. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Plate with coleslaw and cornbread for a delicious meal.

Refreshing Chicken Salad With Pantry Ingredients

This refreshing chicken salad is a perfect way to use up pantry staples while enjoying a healthy meal. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not just tasty but also visually appealing. You can see the juicy grilled chicken, bright cherry tomatoes, and a mix of greens that create a delightful crunch.

The salad is topped with a creamy dressing that ties all the flavors together. It’s easy to customize based on what you have at home, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad fits the bill.

Let’s get into the recipe so you can whip this up in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, romaine, etc.)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, sliced
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup nuts (almonds or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup dressing (your choice)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Greens: In a large bowl, add the mixed greens as the base.
2. Add the Veggies: Layer the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded carrots on top of the greens.
3. Top with Chicken: Place the sliced chicken breast over the vegetables.
4. Add Nuts: Sprinkle the nuts for an extra crunch.
5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle your favorite dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill in the fridge for a refreshing meal later.

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers

Mediterranean chicken skewers are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal using simple pantry staples. These skewers are colorful, packed with flavor, and perfect for grilling or baking. The combination of chicken and vibrant vegetables makes them a hit at any gathering.

The image shows beautifully grilled chicken skewers alongside a refreshing dip. The skewers feature juicy pieces of chicken interspersed with bell peppers and onions, showcasing a rainbow of colors. A creamy sauce sits beside them, adding a cool contrast to the warm, smoky flavors of the skewers.

This dish is not just tasty; it’s also easy to prepare. You can customize the vegetables based on what you have at home. Serve these skewers with a side salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto the soaked skewers, alternating between chicken and veggies.
3. Grill or Bake: Preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, cook the skewers over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through. If baking, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
4. Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad.

Savory Chicken And Bean Chili

Chicken and bean chili is a comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out. This recipe is perfect for those chilly nights when you want something hearty and satisfying. The image shows a bowl filled with rich, flavorful chili topped with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro. On the side, you can see crunchy tortilla chips, ready for dipping.

This dish is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like canned beans, tomatoes, and spices, you can whip up a meal that’s both healthy and filling. The combination of chicken and beans provides a great source of protein, making it a smart choice for any meal.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Shredded cheese for topping
• Tortilla chips for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add the diced chicken to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken.
4. Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the chili has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and shredded cheese. Enjoy with tortilla chips on the side!