Are you tired of cooking from scratch every night? Do you crave delicious and satisfying meals, but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen? Look no further! Frozen chicken can be a game-changer when it comes to meal prep. With just a few simple ingredients and some creative twists, you can transform frozen chicken into mouth-watering dishes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 quick and easy recipes using frozen chicken as the star of the show. From classic comfort foods like pasta and tacos, to international-inspired flavors like curry and teriyaki, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. So why not get started and see just how many amazing meals you can whip up with a few bags of frozen chicken?
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Frozen Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the convenience of frozen chicken with the rich flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen cooked chicken breast strips
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add frozen chicken to the skillet and stir until heated through.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with chicken; toss to combine.
7. Pour in the creamy sauce and stir until coated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired!
Easy Frozen Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Easy Frozen Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Looking for a quick and easy meal solution? This recipe uses pre-cooked frozen chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables to create a flavorful stir-fry that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen cooked chicken strips
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine frozen chicken, bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic.
4. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Add soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow Cooker Frozen Chicken Tacos
Transform frozen chicken breasts into tender, flavorful tacos with this easy slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/2 cup water
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and other taco toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together diced tomatoes with green chilies and taco seasoning.
3. Add the tomato mixture to the slow cooker, followed by water.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and stir in any remaining juices.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos with shredded chicken, cheese, lettuce, and other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours (low) or 1-4 hours (high)
Frozen Chicken and Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole is a comforting twist on traditional chicken and rice dishes, using convenient frozen chicken strips and a simple cooking method. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1 cup frozen boneless chicken breast strips, thawed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, chicken mixture, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Frozen Chicken Curry
Warm up with this spicy and savory curry made with frozen chicken, aromatic spices, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen boneless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until softened.
3. Add the frozen chicken, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until thawed and lightly browned.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Frozen Chicken Alfredo
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe uses frozen chicken strips, fettuccine, and a rich Alfredo sauce to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken breast strips
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken strips with butter until cooked through.
4. Add peas and carrots, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine cooked fettuccine with the chicken mixture; stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Quesadillas with Cheese
Quickly satisfy your cravings with these flavorful and easy-to-make frozen chicken quesadillas filled with melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen cooked chicken breast strips, thawed
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
3. Add the thawed chicken strips on top of the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
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 starts to melt.
6. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch of 4 quesadillas.
Baked Frozen Chicken Nuggets with Dipping Sauce
Transform frozen chicken nuggets into a crispy, flavorful treat by baking them to perfection and serving with a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen chicken nuggets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place frozen chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the nuggets, then sprinkle with lemon juice and garlic powder.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon relish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with baked chicken nuggets.
Frozen Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This frozen chicken pot pie is made with tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a rich creamy sauce, topped with a flaky crust that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, flour, heavy cream, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a pie crust-lined baking dish.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit the top of the filling. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This recipe is a great way to get a healthy and flavorful meal on the table in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken breast or tenders
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon 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 frozen chicken and cook until thawed and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Frozen Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce
A classic Mexican dish gets a convenient twist with this recipe using frozen chicken and a rich red sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen shredded cooked chicken (14 oz)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can of enchilada sauce (10 oz)
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well) for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the frozen chicken and stir until thawed and heated through.
3. In a separate saucepan, heat the enchilada sauce over medium heat.
4. To assemble the enchiladas, lay a tortilla flat and spoon some of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla. Roll up the tortilla and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and chicken.
5. Pour the heated enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Fried Rice
A quick and easy meal solution using leftover frozen chicken, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful dish. Perfect for busy days when you need a comforting meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked frozen chicken
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons 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. Cook the frozen chicken according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables, cooked rice, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked frozen chicken; stir-fry until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Chicken and Dumplings
This comforting recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on a chilly day. Frozen chicken and fluffy dumplings come together in a savory broth, sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the frozen chicken in olive oil until browned and cooked through.
3. Add flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually add melted butter, whisking until smooth.
5. Pour in chicken broth and stir until mixture thickens.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
Quickly assemble a satisfying salad wrap with frozen chicken, crisp greens, and tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen cooked chicken strips, thawed
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 cup croutons
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Divide the thawed chicken into four portions.
3. Place each portion onto a tortilla, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with mixed greens, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle 1/4 cup of Caesar dressing over each wrap.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (baking time). Serve immediately!
Frozen Chicken Teriyaki Bowls
Take your meal prep game to the next level with this easy and flavorful recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and healthy bowl that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken breast tenders
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place frozen chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle teriyaki sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
6. Toss mixed vegetables in soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil (if using).
7. Assemble bowls by placing chicken on top of rice, then adding mixed vegetables.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Savory peppers filled with creamy chicken and melted cheese – a comforting meal perfect for any day!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb frozen cooked chicken breast, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix chicken, cheese, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Chicken Tikka Masala
Experience the flavors of India with this easy and convenient recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken tikka masala (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp garam masala
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw frozen chicken tikka masala according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add canned diced tomatoes, chicken broth, garam masala, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Add thawed chicken tikka masala to the skillet. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Chicken and Spinach Lasagna
This hearty lasagna combines the flavors of frozen chicken, spinach, and rich tomato sauce for a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chicken strips, thawed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the chicken strips and cook until browned. Add the marinara sauce and stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped spinach and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of the chicken mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 2 lasagna noodles on top, then spread half of the spinach-mozzarella mixture over the noodles. Repeat this process, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Frozen Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Quickly cook up a flavorful and spicy meal with this recipe that combines the convenience of frozen chicken with the taste of sizzling peppers and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken fajita strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the frozen chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the sliced peppers and onions. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas with cooked chicken and vegetables. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
A comforting and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken strips, thawed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. If using white wine, add it after 3 cups of broth have been added.
7. Once all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes from start to finish.
Summary
Get creative with frozen chicken and whip up delicious meals in no time! This article features 20 quick recipes that use frozen chicken as the main ingredient. From classic comfort foods like chicken parmesan pasta and chicken and rice casserole, to international flavors like spicy curry and teriyaki bowls, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes are easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you’re a busy parent or a culinary enthusiast, these frozen chicken delights will become your new go-to ingredients for quick and tasty meals.
