So you finally have that kitchen you always wanted on campus. We know we all dream of being master chefs but here is the dilemma: what to cook that is fast and simple. We will probably think of chicken. The problem is that chicken can get bland and boring rather quickly.

Here are three easy ways to add a little flavor and color to your chicken with very little preparation and time. Turn that boring bland piece of chicken into a culinary and tasteful masterpiece in minutes.

For these recipes you’ll need pan-seared chicken. Simply sear chicken breast for 4-5 minutes on each side on your stovetop on high heat.

Mexican Chicken

Easy

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 1o minutes

Servings: 1

Ingredients: 
2 slices chicken breast
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup tomatoes
1 teaspoon cilantro (sprinkle for taste)
Guacamole
Tortilla chips

Directions: 
1. Place cubed slices of pan-seared chicken on a plate.
2. Sprinkle cheddar cheese.

chicken

Photo by Gabrielle DeRario

3. Place in microwave for 15-30 seconds or until cheese has melted over your chicken.
4. Put freshly cut tomatoes on top.

chicken

Photo by Gabrielle DeRario

5. Sprinkle some cilantro.
6. Serve with chips and  guacamole on the side.

chicken

Photo by Gabrielle DeRario

Chicken Caprese

Easy

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 1o minutes

Servings: 1

Ingredients:
2 slices chicken breast
¼ cup shredded mozzarella
¼ tomato
1 teaspoon basil (sprinkle for taste)

Directions:
1. Place cubed slices of pan-seared chicken on a plate.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese.

chicken

Photo by Gabrielle DeRario

3. Place in microwave for 15-30 seconds or until cheese has melted over your chicken.
4. Put freshly cut tomatoes on top.

chicken

Photo by Gabrielle DeRario

5. Place fresh basil leaves to complete the dish.

chicken

Photo by Gabrielle DeRario

Can be served with balsamic vinegar on the side.

Buffalo Chicken

Easy

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 1o minutes

Servings: 1

Ingredients:
2  slices chicken breast
1 teaspoon parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons blue cheese (or ranch)dressing
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon franks red hot sauce (any hot sauce)
Celery

Directions:
1. Place cubed slices of pan-seared chicken in bowl.

chicken

Photo by Gabrielle DeRario

2. Mix in blue cheese dressing (can be substituted for ranch).
3. Use a tablespoon of mayonnaise.
4. Add franks red hot sauce.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese.
6. Scoop out chicken and enjoy with celery.

chicken

Photo by Gabrielle DeRario

Still hungry and want more quick meals? Check out these articles.