Are you tired of the same old boring meals every weeknight? Look no further! Frozen chicken can be a busy cook’s best friend, and we’ve got 18 delicious and easy recipes to prove it. From creamy pasta dishes to spicy curries, there’s something for everyone in this roundup.
Whether you’re short on time or just need a quick and satisfying meal, frozen chicken is the perfect ingredient to have on hand. And the best part? You don’t have to sacrifice flavor for convenience. With these recipes, you’ll be enjoying restaurant-quality meals in no time – all without breaking a sweat.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering ways to use frozen chicken, from comforting casseroles to international-inspired dishes and everything in between. So go ahead, get cooking, and make your weeknights a whole lot easier (and more delicious)!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Frozen Chicken Pasta
Transform a simple pasta dish into a rich and satisfying meal with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen chicken fettuccine
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook frozen chicken fettuccine according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy garlic sauce until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Frozen Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Get a nutritious meal on the table quickly with this easy frozen chicken stir-fry recipe, packed with colorful vegetables and ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the frozen vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are thawed and tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Frozen Chicken Tacos
A deliciously easy recipe for a weeknight dinner that’s perfect for busy families or individuals. This slow cooker recipe transforms frozen chicken breasts into tender, flavorful taco meat with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 lbs frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup water
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Place the frozen chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes with green chilies and taco seasoning. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Add water to the slow cooker, making sure the chicken is covered.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions. Assemble tacos with the shredded chicken, cheese, lettuce, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
One-Pan Frozen Chicken and Rice Bake
A convenient and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. This recipe combines frozen chicken, rice, and vegetables in one pan for a delicious and easy bake.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the frozen chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the same pan and cook until thawed and tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and cover with a lid or foil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy and satisfying frozen dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce, the tenderness of chicken, and the crunch of broccoli.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic powder and broccoli. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and cheddar cheese to the creamy sauce. Toss until well combined.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Frozen Chicken Curry in a Hurry
When you need a flavorful meal in no time, this spicy frozen chicken curry is the perfect solution. Made with store-bought frozen chicken and a blend of aromatic spices, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen chicken breast or tenders (about 1 pound)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 can of coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add frozen chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Frozen Chicken Quesadillas with Melted Cheese
A quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy day. This recipe combines the convenience of frozen chicken strips with melted cheese and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 frozen chicken strips, thawed
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
3. Add 2-3 chicken strips on top of the cheese.
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 or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Frozen Chicken Nuggets with Honey Mustard
Baked Frozen Chicken Nuggets with Honey Mustard
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory twist on classic chicken nuggets!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag frozen chicken nuggets
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
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. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and dijon mustard until smooth.
5. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the chicken nuggets.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the nuggets.
7. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Chicken and Dumplings Comfort Soup
This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day or when you need a pick-me-up. With frozen chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a rich broth, it’s a comforting treat that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the frozen chicken, chicken broth, flour, baking powder, and melted butter to the pot. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Frozen Chicken Fried Rice
Satisfy your cravings with this easy and delicious recipe that combines frozen chicken, rice, and vegetables for a meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1/2 cup diced frozen cooked chicken breast
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cooked chicken; cook until thawed and heated through.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry everything together, adding soy sauce to taste.
7. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
Get ready for a refreshing twist on classic chicken Caesar salad – now wrapped up in a convenient and easy-to-eat package!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen cooked chicken strips, thawed
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing and chicken strips until coated.
3. Divide the chicken mixture among the four tortillas, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top each wrap with a lettuce leaf, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Roll up each wrap tightly and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tortillas are crispy and the filling is hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Tortilla Soup
This recipe is a game-changer for busy days when you need a comforting and satisfying meal in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, your Instant Pot will work its magic to create a creamy and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chicken tortilla soup mix
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, tortilla chips, and sour cream for toppings
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add the frozen chicken tortilla soup mix, chicken, water, and diced tomatoes. Stir well.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Frozen Chicken and Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen chicken breast or tenders
– 1 large bag of mixed frozen vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings or herbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the frozen chicken on one half of the sheet pan, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Spread the mixed vegetables evenly over the other half of the sheet pan.
5. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder over the chicken and veggies.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce
This recipe is a twist on traditional enchiladas, using frozen chicken to make the dish quick and easy to prepare. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 package of frozen cooked chicken breast, thawed
• 8-10 corn tortillas
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
3. Dip each tortilla in enchilada sauce, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place a portion of the thawed chicken down the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Roll up the tortillas and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Frozen Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe yields a golden-brown, flaky crust filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Add frozen vegetables, flour, and chicken broth; stir until combined.
4. Roll out chilled pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill the crust with the chicken mixture, then top with additional pie crust or a crumb topping.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Chicken Teriyaki Skewers with Pineapple
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. Marinate frozen chicken breast chunks in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then grill them to perfection on skewers with juicy pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Cooking oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Add chicken breast and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread chicken and pineapple chunks onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with cooking oil and season with garlic.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Frozen Chicken and Black Bean Burrito Bowls
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb frozen cooked chicken breast
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup Mexican rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin and cooked chicken breast; stir until combined.
4. Warm the Mexican rice according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the burrito bowls by placing a scoop of rice on each plate, followed by the chicken mixture, black beans, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Chicken Piccata with Lemon Butter Sauce
Transform frozen chicken breasts into a flavorful and elegant dish with this simple recipe. The tangy lemon butter sauce complements the crispy, breaded chicken perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 4 frozen chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw frozen chicken breasts according to package instructions.
3. Dip each breast in beaten eggs and then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook breaded chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
7. Serve chicken with warm lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of the same old frozen chicken recipes? Look no further! This article features 18 quick and delicious ideas for using frozen chicken on busy weeknights. From creamy pasta dishes to spicy curries, and from comfort soups to flavorful sheet pan dinners, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy parent or a college student looking for easy meals, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, get creative with frozen chicken, and enjoy the convenience of a home-cooked meal without the hassle!
