In the fast - paced world we live in, finding a quick yet delicious lunch option is a constant quest. Whether you're a busy professional, a student on the go, or a stay - at - home parent, these 8 easy - to - make dishes are here to save the day. From copycat fast - food meals that bring back childhood memories to creative new chicken sandwich recipes that will tantalize your taste buds, there's truly something for everyone on this list.
Let's start with the classic copycat fast - food meals. These are the dishes that we all love from our favorite fast - food joints, but now you can make them right in your own kitchen. Take, for example, the copycat Big Mac. This iconic burger consists of two all - beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions on a sesame seed bun. Making it at home allows you to control the quality of the ingredients and customize it to your liking. You can use leaner beef for a healthier option or add extra toppings like avocado or bacon.
Another great copycat option is the Chick - fil - A chicken sandwich. The crispy chicken breast, lightly seasoned and cooked to perfection, is placed on a buttered and toasted bun with pickles. The secret to its deliciousness lies in the brining process, which makes the chicken incredibly juicy. You can experiment with different types of bread, such as whole - wheat or sourdough, to add a unique flavor profile.
Now, let's move on to the creative new chicken sandwich recipes. One such recipe is the BBQ chicken and coleslaw sandwich. Shredded chicken is tossed in a tangy barbecue sauce and then piled high on a bun with a generous helping of creamy coleslaw. The combination of the sweet and smoky BBQ sauce with the crisp and refreshing coleslaw creates a mouth - watering contrast of flavors.
For those who love a bit of heat, the spicy buffalo chicken sandwich is a must - try. Chicken tenders are coated in a spicy buffalo sauce and served with blue cheese dressing and celery. The heat from the sauce is balanced by the coolness of the blue cheese, making it a satisfying and addictive lunch option.
If you're in the mood for something more exotic, the Thai chicken and peanut slaw sandwich is a great choice. Grilled chicken is paired with a zesty peanut slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and a creamy peanut sauce. The flavors of Thailand come alive in every bite, with the nutty peanut sauce and the fresh herbs adding a burst of freshness.
Let's not forget about wraps and paninis. A turkey and avocado wrap is a healthy and filling option. Turkey slices, ripe avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a smear of mayonnaise are wrapped in a whole - wheat tortilla. It's a great way to get your daily dose of protein and healthy fats.
A ham and cheese panini is a classic that never goes out of style. Sliced ham, cheese, and a bit of mustard are sandwiched between two slices of bread and then grilled until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown. You can use different types of cheese, such as Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella, to suit your taste.
Lastly, a vegetarian option, the grilled vegetable panini. Assorted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant are grilled and then layered with fresh mozzarella and pesto on a ciabatta bread. It's a colorful and flavorful lunch that is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet.
In conclusion, these 8 easy - to - make lunch dishes offer a wide range of flavors and options. Whether you're a fan of classic fast - food copycats or you're looking to try something new and creative, you'll find a recipe that suits your palate. So, roll up your sleeves, head to the kitchen, and start cooking up these delicious lunches today!