The dreaded sick day. You know, the one where all you want to do is curl up in bed, binge-watch your favorite shows, and have someone (anyone!) bring you soup for colds. Am I right? Well, friend, I’ve got you covered. When it comes to dinner ideas when sick, I’ve got some seriously delicious and easy-to-make recipes that’ll help you feel better in no time. So, grab a tissue and let’s get started!
Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Sick Day Staple
This classic flu season recipe is a no-brainer. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 8 ounces of egg noodles
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions.
Why You’ll Love It:
This immune-boosting dinner is a crowd-pleaser, and for good reason. The steam from the hot broth will help ease congestion, while the chicken and noodles provide much-needed protein and carbs to keep you going.
Baked Chicken and Rice: A Simple, Soothing Option
Sometimes, all you need is something easy to digest. This recipe fits the bill!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups of uncooked white rice
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the chicken, rice, chicken broth, olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Why You’ll Love It:
This comfort food is a sick day staple for a reason. It’s easy to make, requires minimal effort, and is gentle on your stomach.
Spicy Tomato Soup: A Flavorful Pick-Me-Up
Who says soup for colds has to be boring? This spicy twist will kick your sickness to the curb!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It:
This flu season recipe is a game-changer. The spicy kick will help clear your sinuses, while the immune-boosting properties of the tomatoes will have you feeling better in no time.
One-Pot Pasta: A Quick and Easy Option
When you’re feeling under the weather, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this easy digestible meal comes in!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice)
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In the same pot, add the chicken broth, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.
Why You’ll Love It:
This comfort food for being sick is a sick day savior. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup – what more could you ask for?

In conclusion, these dinner ideas when sick are the perfect way to nurse yourself back to health. With their easy-to-digest ingredients, immune-boosting properties, and comforting flavors, you’ll be feeling better in no time. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic soup for colds or something a little more adventurous, these recipes have got you covered. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and start slurping your way back to health!
