Start With - Canned Chicken

I just love canned chicken. Whenever I shop I always buy a few cans so I never run out. I started using canned chicken back in the 1980s when food pros started focusing on the food poisoning risk of mishandled or undercooked raw chicken. I found and developed many recipes that use this product.

Canned chicken is an excellent choice if you are concerned about food safety; it's also a great product to use when it's really hot and you just can't stand the thought of heating up the kitchen by cooking chicken. Besides, it tastes great, there's no waste, and only 10 ounces can feed 8 people!

Purchase the dark and white meat canned chicken combination. It's cheaper and more flavorful. Drain it well before using - and that's all there is to it! Remember to substitute your own favorite ingredients, write down winning combinations, and enjoy the recipes!

Canned Chicken Recipes

• Chicken Pesto Salad
  This is the best salad! You can simplify its preparation by using a purchased creamy salad dressing and stirring in the pesto and spinach.
• Ziti Chicken Casserole
  This casserole is true, basic comfort food. If you like, add some thawed and drained frozen vegetables to add some color and more nutrition.
• Grilled Chicken and Apple Sandwiches
  This sandwich filling is fabulous to have on hand for hungry kids after school. It's also wonderful served with a simple soup for a hearty spring dinner.
• Enchilada Microwave Chicken Pie
  This easy microwave pie has a delicious Mexican flavor. Use your favorite cheese and experiment with spices to create your own dish.
• Wild Rice Salad
  Wild rice gives this canned chicken salad wonderful flavor and texture. The black beans are a great addition, but you can use any other type of canned bean or leave it out.
• Chicken Salad Focaccia Sandwiches
  This fabulous recipe is from the Pillsbury Bake-Off a few years back. If you want to be extra-decadent, slip some avocado slices into the sandwiches.
• Chicken Chowder
  Children love this mild, delicious, creamy soup. This soup is another recipe in my 'emergency meals' repertoire.
• Santa Fe Chicken Casserole
  I always have the ingredients for this recipe in my freezer and pantry. Just substitute canned chicken for the frozen cooked chicken and have this casserole tonight!