This chicken dish features vibrant flavors from olives, capers, and tomatoes. The chicken pairs perfectly with nutritious zucchini noodles. Find these in the frozen vegetable section at the grocery store. You can also use a spiralizer to make your own. This recipe is also full of nutrition: high in fiber, protein, and healthy fat. If you are looking for extra calories to promote weight gain, choose whole wheat pasta instead of spiralized vegetables.

Chicken and broccoli casserole is a classic favorite! This version is designed to be soft and easily tolerated for those experiencing mouth pain. Broccoli is full of cancer-fighting phytochemicals and antioxidants, while the chicken is high in protein - both important nutrients for cancer patients and survivors. Dice or shred the chicken and broccoli into small pieces as needed for ease in chewing and swallowing. If you are sensitive to dairy, omit the milk and replace with chicken broth and use non-dairy cheese shreds.

This millet bake is just as comforting as a traditional chicken and rice casserole, but higher in protein and fiber. The leeks add a rich flavor and the cheese gives it a creamy texture. It is a perfect meal to make ahead of time to freeze in individual portions. Since it is high in calories and protein, this millet bake is a good recipe to help those needing to gain weight.

These burgers are made from cauliflower and millet, two foods that are high in fiber, making them ideal to relieve constipation. They are also high in protein to help with healing. You can get riced cauliflower in the frozen vegetable section of many grocery stores. You can also rice your own cauliflower, using a box grater or food processor. Top these delicious burgers with cheese, avocado, or lettuce and tomato for a delightful treat.

Switch up your typical fruit smoothie with melons! This smoothie has a mild, yet fresh, flavor - perfect for those experiencing side effects from cancer treatment, such as mouth sores and difficulty swallowing. High in protein and fiber, the Banana Melon Smoothie is perfect for an afternoon snack or an on-the-go breakfast. If you are sensitive to dairy, you can easily replace the whole milk for almond milk and use coconut or soy yogurt. 

Falafel is a fun and healthy dish, full of nutrition and flavor. This version is baked instead of fried, so it is lower in fat and easier to tolerate for those with digestive issues. The tzatziki dip has a light ginger and lemon flavor, both of which can be helpful for nausea. If you are looking for a heartier meal, place falafel on a pita or naan bread and top with tzatziki, hummus, and fresh vegetables.

A simple breakfast for those on the go! High in calories and protein, this parfait is ideal for cancer patients who have experienced weight loss during cancer treatment. Cancer survivors and caregivers looking for a lower fat option can use low fat Greek yogurt and omit the granola to have a healthy, low calorie snack or breakfast. If chewing and/or swallowing is difficult, cook the apples until fully soft and replace the nuts and granola with a spoonful of finely ground nuts or peanut butter and mix into the parfait.

Rich and creamy, this take on the classic macaroni and cheese is a treat. Rich in heart healthy fat from the avocado, it also contains protein, and fiber making it indulgent yet nutritious. It is also high in calories, perfect for cancer patients who need to gain weight. A lightened version can be prepared using skim or almond milk in place of the whole milk and reduced amounts of butter and cheese. A perfect easy meal for lunch or dinner! For added color and fiber, top with colorful steamed broccoli or your favorite vegetable. 

Perfect for a light breakfast or mid-morning snack, these muffins are a healthy way to start the day. The apples and oats provide soluble fiber, which can help with diarrhea relief. The pure maple syrup gives them an enjoyable hint of natural sweetness. Don’t have apples on hand? Switch them out with some fresh peaches or berries for an enjoyable summer treat.