Chicken breast is a versatile and lean protein that’s a staple in many Canadian kitchens. Cutting it into cubes not only reduces cooking time but also allows for a variety of flavorful dishes. Here are five quick and easy cubed chicken breast recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

1. Honey Garlic Chicken Bites

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1.5 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
1 tbsp apple cider vinega
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken cubes in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat and let it marinate for at least 5 minutes.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 15 minutes.
Serve with steamed rice and vegetables.

Why This Recipe Works:

Flavorful: The combination of honey and garlic creates a sweet and savory sauce that complements the chicken perfectly.
Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Versatile: Pairs well with various sides like rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

2. Italian Chicken Skillet

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
.1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 lemon, juiced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp butter

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the marinated chicken cubes.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Serve over pasta, rice, or a bed of greens.

Why This Recipe Works:

Simple Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples for a quick meal.
Balanced Flavors: The lemon adds brightness, while Italian seasoning provides depth.
Flexible: Can be served with various bases like pasta, rice, or salads.

3. Greek Chicken Bites

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken cubes.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce and a Greek salad.

Why This Recipe Works:

Fresh and Zesty: The lemon and oregano provide a refreshing flavor profile.
Quick Prep: Minimal marinating time required.
Healthy: Lean protein with a burst of Mediterranean flavors.

4. Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp cornstarch

Instructions:

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, and cornstarch. Set aside.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7 minutes.
Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Serve with steamed rice or noodles.

Why This Recipe Works:

Spicy Kick: Sriracha adds a delightful heat to the dish.
Crisp Vegetables: Quick stir-frying keeps the vegetables crisp and vibrant.
Balanced Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, sriracha, and honey offers a perfect sweet-spicy balance.

5. Maple-Glazed Chicken

boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
2 tbsp Dijon mustard

FAQs

1. What can I make with diced chicken breast?

Diced chicken breast is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some popular options:

Chicken Stir-Fry
Sauté diced chicken with a mix of colorful vegetables and your choice of sauce for a quick and healthy meal.

Chicken and Rice Casserole
Combine diced chicken with rice, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, then bake until bubbly and golden.

Chicken Fajitas
Season diced chicken with fajita spices, cook with bell peppers and onions, and serve with tortillas.

Chicken Salad
Mix diced chicken with greens, fruits, nuts, and a tangy dressing for a refreshing salad.

Chicken Pasta
Toss diced chicken with pasta and a flavorful sauce, such as Alfredo or marinara.

2. How can I cook diced chicken without drying it out?

To prevent diced chicken from becoming dry, consider the following tips:

Marinate Before Cooking: Marinating chicken helps retain moisture and adds flavor. Even a brief 15-30 minute marination can make a significant difference.
Cook at Medium Heat: Cooking chicken over medium heat allows it to cook through without drying out.
Avoid Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Use a Brine: Soaking chicken in a simple brine solution (water, salt, and a pinch of sugar) before cooking can help it retain moisture.

3. How do I keep diced chicken breast tender?

To maintain tenderness in diced chicken breast:

Pound to Even Thickness: Pounding chicken to an even thickness ensures uniform cooking and prevents overcooking.
Marinate with Acidic Ingredients: Ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar can help tenderize the meat.
Avoid Overcooking: Overcooking can lead to tough chicken. Monitor cooking time closely.

4. How long should I marinate cubed chicken breast?

For optimal flavor and tenderness:

Minimum Marination: Marinate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Maximum Marination: Marinating for up to 24 hours is generally safe, but avoid exceeding this time to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.

Remember, the longer you marinate, the more pronounced the flavors will be.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your diced chicken breast remains juicy, tender, and flavorful in every dish.

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