Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients

Name: Easy Food Recipes With Few Ingredients
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, juiced; 2 cups broccoli florets

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen Magic

I love creating delicious meals without the fuss, and this collection of easy food recipes with few ingredients is exactly what I need for busy days. There's something incredibly satisfying about making a tasty dish while keeping things simple. Each recipe is designed to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients without overwhelming my cooking space. Whether it's a quick dinner or a simple snack, these recipes remind me that good food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:40:10.725Z

When I first began cooking, I often felt overwhelmed by lengthy recipes filled with an unending list of ingredients. That’s why I set out to simplify my approach by creating dishes that focus on a handful of quality ingredients. It's fascinating how just a few key items can come together to form a delectable meal. Lately, I've been exploring different flavor profiles and techniques to elevate these straightforward recipes.

With each recipe, I discovered new combinations that are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor! For instance, using fresh herbs can instantly brighten a dish, and I love experimenting with different spices to create unique tastes without requiring complex ingredients. Cooking should be enjoyable, and this approach has certainly made it so for me.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation saves time in the kitchen
Minimal ingredients showcase the true flavors of the dish
Perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings

Maximizing Flavor with Few Ingredients

One of the joys of this recipe is how few ingredients are needed while still delivering incredible flavor. The chicken, seasoned simply with salt and pepper, develops a beautiful golden crust that locks in moisture. I recommend using high-quality chicken breasts, as they contribute significantly to the overall taste and juiciness of the dish. Look for breasts that are plump and have a pinkish hue to ensure freshness.

The addition of garlic and lemon elevates this dish further without complicating the preparation. Garlic infuses the chicken with a robust depth, while lemon brightens the flavors. You can experiment with the amount of lemon juice based on your personal taste—more juice will add tartness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the meal.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When pan-searing the chicken, make sure to preheat the skillet well before adding the oil. This ensures a perfect sear, creating a crispy exterior. Cook the chicken undisturbed on each side for about 5 minutes—this allows for proper browning. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

While cooking the broccoli, one key tip is to add a pinch of salt to the steaming water. This not only enhances the flavor of the broccoli but also helps to maintain its vibrant green color. Be careful not to overcook the broccoli; it should remain tender yet still have a slight crunch, which adds texture to your plate.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To enhance presentation and flavor, consider garnishing your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma that complements the dish perfectly. Alternatively, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds can add a delightful crunch when sprinkled on top before serving.

Feel free to customize this basic recipe by adding other vegetables or spices. Bell peppers, asparagus, or even snap peas can be substituted for the broccoli. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added during the garlic stage. These small tweaks allow you to tailor the dish to your preferences while keeping simplicity at the forefront.

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, juiced
2 cups broccoli florets

Feel free to add your favorite spices or vegetables for a personal touch!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Add Garlic and Lemon

Once the chicken is cooked through, add the minced garlic and lemon juice to the skillet. Stir to combine and allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn.

Cook the Broccoli

In a separate pot, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5 minutes. This keeps their vibrant color and crunch.

Serve

Plate the chicken alongside the steamed broccoli. You can drizzle extra lemon juice over the dish for added flavor, if desired.

This simple method highlights the flavor of the ingredients without overwhelming the palate!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different vegetables according to what's in season to keep this recipe fresh and exciting.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and broccoli in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating the chicken, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out; a splash of broth can help keep it moist.

If you want to freeze the dish, I suggest freezing the chicken and broccoli separately. Wrap both tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave for a quick meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken isn’t browning as expected, it may be due to overcrowding in the skillet. Make sure to give the chicken enough space while cooking to achieve that desired golden crust. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor.

Another common issue is overcooked broccoli. To avoid this, monitor the cooking time closely; the vibrant green color should be preserved, indicating it's cooked perfectly. If you accidentally overcook it, a quick rinse under cold water can help stop the cooking process and improve its appearance.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you don’t have chicken breasts on hand, boneless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. They have a slightly richer flavor and tend to stay more moist during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through depending on their size.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, firm tofu can be used as a substitute. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube it and cook it in the same way you would the chicken, allowing it to absorb the garlic and lemon flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

→ What other vegetables work well?

Carrots, green beans, or bell peppers are great alternatives.

→ How can I add more flavor?

Consider marinating the chicken in your favorite sauce for a few hours before cooking.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free!