5 Quick and Easy Chicken Recipes for Busy Cooks

Are you often stuck for dinner ideas after a long day at work? Chicken is not only a versatile meat but also quick to cook, making it perfect for busy cooks. Here are five easy chicken recipes that promise delicious meals without hours in the kitchen.

Recipe 1: Lemon Garlic Chicken

One of the simplest yet most flavorful chicken recipes, Lemon Garlic Chicken brings a zesty taste to your table in under 30 minutes.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and minced garlic.
3. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on both sides for about 2 minutes each.
4. Oven-Bake: Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

💡 Note: Ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature to avoid any health risks.

Recipe 2: Honey Mustard Chicken

Balance the sweet and tangy flavors with this Honey Mustard Chicken recipe, which can be prepared and cooked in less than 30 minutes.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Mix Marinade: In a bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate Chicken: Coat chicken thighs thoroughly with the mixture and let sit for at least 15 minutes.
3. Pan Sear: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, reserving the marinade. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes each side.
4. Glaze: Pour remaining marinade over the chicken, reduce heat, and cook until the glaze thickens.
5. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite side.

Recipe 3: Pesto Parmesan Chicken

Enjoy a taste of Italy with minimal prep time with this quick Pesto Parmesan Chicken recipe.

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup prepared pesto
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Coat Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper, then spread pesto over each breast.
3. Prepare Pan: Drizzle olive oil in a baking dish.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan: Place chicken in the dish and sprinkle with Parmesan.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
6. Serve: Serve with your choice of vegetable or a side salad.

Recipe 4: Curry Chicken Skewers

Transform your weeknight dinner with the rich flavors of curry chicken skewers. These can be prepped ahead and grilled or broiled for an easy meal.

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

Steps:

1. Marinate: Mix yogurt, curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Add chicken and marinate for at least an hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare Skewers: Thread chicken onto skewers.
3. Cook: Preheat grill or oven broiler. Grill or broil the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve: Serve hot with mint chutney or yogurt dip.

Recipe 5: Cheesy Garlic Chicken

End your day with comfort food - Cheesy Garlic Chicken, where the creaminess of cheese meets the robust flavors of garlic.

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Cook Garlic: In a pan, heat butter and olive oil, then add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, then remove garlic from heat.
4. Bake Chicken: Place chicken in a baking dish, pour the garlic-infused butter over it, and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella on top and bake until cheese is melted, about 5 more minutes.
6. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These recipes highlight the versatility and convenience of chicken, making your kitchen experience both enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you prefer something light and zesty, savory and sweet, or rich and comforting, there's a quick chicken recipe here for every taste. Cooking chicken doesn't have to be time-consuming; with these recipes, you can whip up delicious meals in no time, allowing more time to relax after a busy day.

How long can I store marinated chicken in the fridge?

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You can safely marinate chicken in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Beyond that, the acidity from ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar might start to ‘cook’ the chicken.

Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts in these recipes?

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Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs take a bit longer to cook due to their higher fat content.

What can I serve with these chicken dishes?

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These chicken recipes pair well with various sides like roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or even a simple salad. For a heartier meal, consider mashed potatoes, couscous, or pasta.

Is it safe to eat chicken not cooked to 165°F (74°C)?

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No, chicken must be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure any harmful bacteria are destroyed, making it safe for consumption.