Cooking for one can sometimes feel like a chore, but it doesn't have to be! Chicken is a versatile protein that can be used in countless dishes, and many of them are surprisingly easy to make. This article will explore a variety of simple and flavorful chicken recipes perfect for solo diners, using readily available ingredients and straightforward cooking methods.
One-Pan Wonders
One-pan recipes are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, minimizing both cooking time and cleanup.
Orzo Pasta with Chicken, Olives, and Herbes de Provence
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is not only speedy and low in fat, but also a complete meal in itself. Orzo pasta is combined with chicken, olives, and herbes de Provence for a burst of bright flavors. As Thomas Faglon from Somerset, New Jersey, notes, leftovers reheat exceptionally well, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping.
- Nutrition (1-1/3 cups): 415 calories, 19g fat (5g saturated fat), 86mg cholesterol, 941mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken and Asparagus
This recipe, ready in under 20 minutes, features chicken and asparagus cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce. It's a healthy, low-carb, and Keto-friendly option that's sure to please the whole family. The seasonings are simple: salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Preparation: Toss chicken with spices. Cook in butter and olive oil until golden brown. Add garlic and Italian seasoning. Remove chicken and set aside. Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, then add remaining butter, lemon juice, and sriracha. Add asparagus and cook to desired tenderness. Return chicken to the pan and stir to reheat. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices.
Sheet-Pan Chicken and Veggies
This sheet-pan meal tastes like it requires hours of preparation, but it comes together in minutes. Simple ingredients are enhanced by rosemary, and the meat juices cook the vegetables to perfection.
Read also: Creamy Keto Ranch Chicken Recipe
- Nutrition (1 chicken thigh with 1 cup vegetables): 357 calories, 14g fat (3g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 597mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein.
Stir-Fries for Speed and Flavor
Stir-fries are a fantastic way to get a healthy and delicious meal on the table quickly. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
All-in-One Chicken Stir Fry with Honey
This recipe is a big time-saver for busy individuals, offering a hint of sweetness from honey.
- Nutrition (1 cup stir-fry): 249 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 455mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein.
Chicken Strips and Ramen Noodle Stir-Fry
This dish is perfect for evenings when you need to whip up dinner quickly. It's a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy chicken and ramen noodles.
- Nutrition (1-1/2 cups): 460 calories, 15g fat (5g saturated fat), 93mg cholesterol, 1626mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 45g protein.
Turmeric-Black Pepper Chicken With Asparagus
Ready in just 15 minutes, this foolproof stir-fry relies on quick-cooking asparagus, honey, and turmeric for a high flavor-to-effort ratio.
Casseroles: Comfort Food Made Easy
Casseroles are the epitome of comfort food, and they're surprisingly easy to make for one person. They're also great for using up leftover ingredients.
Read also: Low-carb chicken nuggets recipe.
Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
This recipe is a twist on chicken divan and is quick, satisfying comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights.
Chicken and Spinach Bake
Creamy and comforting, this bake features a toasty bread crumb topping for added crunch.
- Nutrition (1-1/2 cups): 539 calories, 36g fat (13g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 1006mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 36g protein.
Cheesy Chicken Shells
This make-ahead entree is perfect for when you have company. Assemble it in advance and bake when needed. Serve with a tossed salad and warm bread for a complete meal.
- Nutrition (3 shells): 355 calories, 16g fat (9g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 453mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 24g protein.
International Flavors for Solo Dining
Expand your culinary horizons with these globally inspired chicken recipes that are easy to make for one.
Easy Chicken Jambalaya
This recipe is great for serving at parties and reheats well, making it a convenient option for a single serving.
Read also: Chicken and Brown Rice: A Healthy Choice
- Nutrition (1 cup): 285 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 654mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein.
Chicken Fajitas
This chicken fajitas recipe is marinated chicken in popular wraps is mouthwatering. The fajitas go together in a snap and always get raves!
- Nutrition (1 fajita): 369 calories, 15g fat (2g saturated fat), 63mg cholesterol, 689mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 28g protein.
Kua Kling (Southern Thai-Style Red Curry)
Ready in just 15 minutes, this fiery dinner involves toasting Thai red curry paste, turmeric, and chiles with ground chicken. Brighten with brown sugar, fish sauce, and lime zest.
Curry Chicken Fried Rice
This recipe is particularly forgiving, making use of frozen vegetables and fragrant curry powder.
Kali Mirch Karahi (Black Pepper Chicken)
This South Asian favorite uses boneless chicken thighs and pantry staples like chiles, cumin, ginger, and garlic. The dish gets its fire from black pepper.
Tacos, Pizzas, and More: Fun and Casual Options
Sometimes you just want something fun and easy to eat. These recipes are perfect for those nights.
Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas
Filled with tender rotisserie chicken, lots of cheese, and Buffalo sauce, these enchiladas are craveworthy, easy, and delicious.
- Nutrition (1 enchilada): 472 calories, 26g fat (10g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 1387mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 25g protein.
Chicken Tacos
These streamlined tacos are made with smart shortcuts, like warming tortillas while the chicken cooks and creating a pan sauce in place of a long marinade.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
When garden basil is abundant, make pesto and keep it frozen for opportunities like this saucy one-pot chicken pesto pasta recipe.
- Nutrition (1 cup): 404 calories, 18g fat (4g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 646mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 30g protein.
Mini Chicken Tikka Pizzas
Inspired by the flavors of Indian cuisine, these mini pizzas are perfect for a picnic or a fun dinner at home.
- Nutrition (1 pizza): 380 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 598mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 29g protein.
Crescent Roll Chicken Pizza
Replace pizza crust with crescent rolls and top with an awesome sandwich recipe to create a fabulous pizza. After baking, top with shredded lettuce.
- Nutrition (1 slice): 387 calories, 28g fat (10g saturated fat), 47mg cholesterol, 782mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 16g protein.
Salads and Sandwiches for a Quick Lunch or Dinner
For a light yet satisfying meal, consider these chicken-based salads and sandwiches.
Watermelon Chicken Salad
Enjoy the best summer flavors with this easy salad made with sweet juicy watermelon, tender chicken, peppery arugula, salty feta, and chewy barley.
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
This chicken salad takes just 15 minutes to make and is perfect over greens, with bread, or as a sandwich.
Apple Pecan Chicken Salad
This crunchy chicken salad features precooked chicken, green apple, pecans, and a Greek yogurt/mayonnaise dressing.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Made with leftover rotisserie chicken, crunchy bacon, ranch, and vegetable toppings, this sandwich is flavorful and feels fancy without much effort.
Tips for Cooking Chicken for One
- Buy in bulk and freeze: Purchase chicken in larger quantities when it's on sale and freeze individual portions for later use.
- Use rotisserie chicken: A rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for many recipes. Use the meat for salads, sandwiches, tacos, or casseroles.
- Embrace leftovers: Many chicken dishes taste even better the next day. Plan to make a little extra so you have a ready-made lunch or dinner.
- Experiment with flavors: Don't be afraid to try new spices, herbs, and sauces. Chicken is a blank canvas that can be adapted to suit any taste.