When it comes to budget-friendly meals, chicken breast is a staple ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there are countless delicious and affordable chicken breast recipes out there. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make chicken breast recipes that won’t break the bank. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to stretch their food budget without sacrificing flavor.
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter and garlic with the tenderness of baked chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken
This recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of honey and mustard with tender chicken breasts, all courtesy of your slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, mustard, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple and flavorful one-pan recipe. Pan-seared chicken breasts are cooked to perfection with a burst of citrusy lemon and herbs, served alongside tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from pan.
4. Add lemon juice, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan, stirring to combine.
5. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the pan, cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
6. Return chicken to the pan and spoon some of the lemon sauce over the top.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until chicken is coated in the sauce.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Chicken Stir-Fry with Rice
A quick and flavorful meal that’s ready in no time! This easy recipe combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the savory flavors of chicken, vegetables, and sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, stirring to combine with the vegetables and sauces (soy sauce and oyster sauce, if using).
6. Serve over cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that yields crispy and juicy chicken breasts. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouth-watering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy chicken, tender black beans, and crunchy taco shells for a flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced bell pepper and jalapeño. Cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin and chili powder; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
6. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning the spicy chicken mixture onto a shell, followed by black beans and desired toppings.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or linguine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your game day or weeknight dinner with these deliciously flavorful and filling BBQ chicken stuffed sweet potatoes. The combination of tender chicken, creamy mashed sweet potatoes, and tangy BBQ sauce will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, crumbled bacon, diced onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and BBQ sauce; stir until well combined.
4. Slice sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and fluff with a fork to create space for filling.
5. Divide the chicken mixture among the sweet potato halves, spooning it into the cavities.
6. Return stuffed sweet potatoes to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these crispy chicken wraps packed with the flavors of a classic Caesar salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic; cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
4. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad mixture.
5. Warm tortilla wraps according to package instructions.
6. Assemble wraps by spooning salad mixture onto each wrap, followed by shredded cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and effortless meal with this sheet pan chicken fajita recipe! With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll be enjoying tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and crispy onions in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 packet of fajita seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite toppings, such as avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, fajita seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat.
4. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange the chicken, bell peppers, and onions in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Skillet
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines chicken, mushrooms, and creamy goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté mushrooms and garlic until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushroom mixture.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat with creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a staple of home cooking, combining tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
5. Dot with melted butter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
This refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the bold flavors of Mediterranean spices, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with green onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Chicken and Dumplings
Soothe your appetite with this comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and onion in butter or oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, and basil to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and a splash of hot broth until smooth. Stir into the pot and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Veggie Bowls
This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with juicy chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, broccoli)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tsp of water.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with teriyaki mixture.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While chicken is cooking, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender-crisp.
7. Serve chicken on top of rice, with roasted vegetables on the side.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Spinach Quesadillas
This recipe combines the creamy richness of spinach with the savory flavor of chicken, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine cooked chicken, spinach leaves, and shredded cheese.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Tomato Bake
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pesto, chicken, and tomatoes for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with pesto sauce until coated.
3. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange chicken in a single layer. Top with sliced tomatoes and red bell peppers.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Corn Chowder
This hearty and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner. With the sweetness of corn, the creaminess of potatoes, and the savory flavor of chicken, this chowder is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels, potato, flour, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Chicken Fried Rice
This classic Chinese dish is a staple for a reason – it’s quick, easy, and delicious! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious and budget-friendly chicken breast recipes to elevate your mealtime. From classic comfort foods like creamy mushroom skillet and chicken fried rice, to international-inspired dishes such as teriyaki chicken bowls and Greek yogurt marinated grilled chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or spicy, these affordable and easy-to-make recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these mouth-watering and budget-friendly chicken breast recipes!