Pantry Highlight: Canned Chicken 

By More Food

Welcome to the second installment of our Pantry Highlight series. Today, we will be discussing canned chicken. Below you will also find a recipe featuring this week’s pantry highlight. All ingredients are SNAP-eligible.

When you think of pantry staples, items like beans, pasta, and canned tomatoes probably come to mind. However, there’s another versatile and budget-friendly item that deserves a spot on your shelf: canned chicken. Canned chicken offers the convenience of fully cooked chicken without having to turn on the stove or sacrificing nutritional value. 

Benefits of Canned Chicken

Long Shelf Life

One of the biggest advantages of canned chicken is its long shelf life. Unlike fresh poultry, which needs to be consumed or frozen within a few days, canned chicken can sit in your pantry for months, ready to be used whenever you need it. This reduces waste and ensures you always have a protein option on hand.

Convenience and Versatility

Canned chicken is fully cooked and ready to eat, which saves you time in the kitchen. It can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and soups to casseroles and sandwiches. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch or preparing a hearty dinner, canned chicken fits seamlessly into your meal plan.

No-Cook Canned Chicken Cesar Salad Wraps

For those hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the stove, or when you need a quick, nutritious meal, this no-cook recipe is perfect. Using canned chicken as the main ingredient, these chicken salad wraps are easy to prepare and delicious. 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans White Chunk Chicken Breast in Water – 12.5oz 
  • 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1/3 cup Caesar dressing (low-fat or lite)
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup croutons
  • salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 whole wheat tortillas or wraps, 10-inch

Recipe adapted from: https://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/chicken-caesar-wrap/#wprm-recipe-container-78770

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, chicken, Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and croutons. Use tongs to toss well.
  2. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Taste and add more dressing, if desired. Set aside.
  3. In a large pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 15 to 30 seconds per side, just until they are soft.
  4. Place on a plate and cover with a kitchen towel to keep them warm. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave in between paper towels for 15 to 30 seconds.
  5. Place the tortillas on a clean surface.
  6. Divide the Caesar salad mixture between the tortillas, placing it in the center of the tortilla.
  7. Fold in opposite sides of each tortilla, then roll up, burrito-style. You can stick a toothpick in the center to help keep them closed.
  8. Cut in half or serve the wraps whole.

Nutritional Facts:

  • Calories: 397kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 72mg
  • Sodium: 801mg
  • Calcium: 184mg
  • Sugar: 3g

Canned chicken is a convenient, versatile, and budget-friendly ingredient that can help you create nutritious meals without breaking the bank. Give it a try in your next meal and see how you can include it in your menu planning.

Sources: https://www.campbellsfoodservice.com/product/white-premium-chunk-chicken-breast-with-rib-meat-in-water/

https://www.tastingtable.com/1534312/canned-chicken-brands-ranked

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Photo by Leanna Myers on Unsplash