Cooking With Chicken Breasts: Delicious Meal Ideas

Chicken breasts are a staple ingredient in many households, and for good reason. Not only are they a lean, protein-filled and versatile meat, but they can be cooked up in a variety of ways. Whether you are in the mood for something savory, spicy, or light, there is always an option when it comes to cooking with chicken breasts. Here are some delicious meal ideas to help you make the most out of chicken breasts.

Healthy and Satisfying Recipes

One of the most beloved forms of cooking chicken breasts is to bake them. Baked chicken breasts can be just as tasty as fried, but without the same amount of calories and fat. Here is one way to make a healthy and satisfying oven-baked chicken dish. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Place 4-5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a baking dish and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken. Chop up 1 head of garlic and sprinkle it on top of the chicken. Toss in 1 cup of diced tomatoes and top the chicken with 1/2 cup of shredded cheese and 2 tablespoons of minced thyme. Cover the baking dish and bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes.

Spicy Southeast Asian-Inspired Dishes

Chicken breasts offer an array of possibilities when it comes to making flavorful dishes that pack a punch. One of the easiest and most delicious is a stir-fry, which comes together quickly and is always sure to satisfy. Start by marinating the chicken in 1/2 cup of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar. Preheat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add in the marinated chicken along with 2 tablespoons of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of fresh grated ginger and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Add 1/2 red bell pepper, 1/2 cup of snow peas, and 1 cup of either diced mushrooms or bean sprouts. Mix everything together and reduce the heat to low. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sriracha and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Pour the mixture into the wok, stir to combine and cook until the vegetables are softened. Serve the stir-fry over steamed rice and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.

Grilling Up Some Tasty Meals

Grilled chicken breasts are an ever-popular dish, offering a rich flavor that can lighten up any meal. To marinate the chicken breasts, mix together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 cloves of minced garlic and freshly ground pepper. Place 4 chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over. Cover the dish and place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates with vegetable oil. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve the chicken breasts with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad and a homemade lemon-tarragon vinaigrette.

Chicken breasts are a must-have ingredient in any kitchen, capable of making tasty dinners that everyone at the table can enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can easily make a variety of healthy and hearty meals, packed with flavor and protein.