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Category: Poultry

Chile-Rubbed Spatchcocked Chicken with Avocado Ranch Dressing

Chile-Rubbed Spatchcocked Chicken with Avocado Ranch Dressing

Chile-Rubbed Spatchcocked Chicken with Avocado Ranch Dressing

 

1 T. plus 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more as needed

1 T. grated lime zest

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. good chile powder, such as chipotle or New Mexico

1 spatchcocked chicken (4 1/2 to 5 pounds), patted dry with paper towels

1 avocado, pitted, peeled, and cubed

1 C. mixed soft herb leaves, such as tarragon, parsley, mint, and basil

1/4 C. buttermilk

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp. fresh lime juice

1 garlic clove, grated on a Microplane or minced

 

In a small bowl, stir together 1 T. of the salt, the lime zest, pepper, and chile powder if using. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken. Transfer the chicken, skin side up, to a rimmed baking sheet. Let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes, or refrigerate, uncovered, for up to 24 hours. Heat the oven to 45O°F. Roast the chicken until it is just cooked through (the meat is no longer pink and the juices run clear), 40 to 55 minutes. Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes. While the chicken is resting, prepare the dressing: In a blender, combine the avocado, herbs, buttermilk, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt. Puree until smooth. Taste, and add more salt, pepper, and/or lime juice as needed. Serve the chicken with the dressing alongside.

Sarah Carey Chicken Paprikash

Sarah Carey Chicken Paprikash

chicken_paprikash_horiz4 chicken leg quarters, cut in half at joint (about 3 pounds total)
Coarse salt and ground pepper
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 large yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced lengthwise
3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
1/2 pound wide egg noodles
1/2 cup sour cream or thick plain yogurt
Parsley, for garnish, optional

Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over high. Cook chicken, skin side down, until golden and crisp, 6 minutes. Flip chicken and cook until browned, 6 minutes more. Transfer to a plate. Discard all but 1 tablespoon fat from pot and reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook, stirring frequently and scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon, until beginning to soften, 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring frequently, 3 minutes. Add paprika and flour, season with salt and pepper, and stir constantly until paprika is fragrant and mixture begins to stick, 1 minute. Add broth and whisk until smooth. Add tomatoes and bring to a boil over high. Return chicken to pot in a single layer, skin side up, and reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook until chicken is cooked through, 20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain noodles and divide among four bowls. Top with chicken. Remove pan from heat. Temper sour cream with a bit of the sauce, then stir sour cream into sauce, then ladle over chicken and noodles.

Grilled Chicken

Grilled Chicken

 

 

1 3- to 3-1/2-lb. broiler-fryer chicken, halved

3 cloves garlic, quartered

2 tsp. salt

1/3 C. olive oil

1 lemon, cut into wedges

 

Slightly flatten the chicken halves and place them in a 3-quart rectangular baking dish. In a blender or food processor, blend or process the garlic and salt to make a paste. With blender or processor running, slowly add olive oil. Pour the oil mixture over chicken halves, turning chicken to coat both sides. Loosen breast skin and rub oil mixture under skin. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 24 hours.  For a charcoal grill, arrange medium-hot coals around a drip pan. Test for medium heat above the pan. Place chicken, bone side down, on grill rack over drip pan. Cover and grill for 50 to 60 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink (180 degrees F). (For a gas grill, preheat grill. Reduce heat to medium. Adjust for indirect cooking. Grill as above.) Serve chicken with lemon wedges.

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Sesame Vegetables

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Sesame Vegetables

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Sesame Vegetables

 

We wanted a fresh take on teriyaki that would yield crispy chicken in a sweet, sticky sauce. Sheet-pan roasting proved ideal: We could crisp the chicken before applying a glaze while simultaneously preparing a vegetable “stir-fry” in the same pan. We browned chicken thighs in the oven, slashing the skin and placing them on a wire rack to allow the rendered fat to drain away. We tossed sliced bell pepper and mushrooms with garlic and ginger and spread them alongside the chicken to roast. Snap peas went in 10 minutes later so they wouldn’t overcook. Briefly broiling everything crisped the thighs’ skin further. As for the teriyaki sauce, a few pantry items did the trick, and we thickened it in the microwave before brushing it on our chicken. Depending on your wire rack, you may need to place parchment paper underneath the vegetables to prevent them from falling through.

 

8 (5- to 7-ounce) bone-in chicken thighs, trimmed

2 T. vegetable oil, divided

1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and cut into ¼-inch-wide strips

8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced thin

3 garlic cloves, minced, divided

1 T. grated fresh ginger, divided

8 ounces snap peas, strings removed

5 T. mirin

5 T. soy sauce

¼ cup water

3 T. sugar

2 tsp. cornstarch

â…› tsp. red pepper flakes

1 T. toasted sesame oil

1 T. toasted sesame seeds

½ tsp. table salt

 

Adjust 1 oven rack to lower-middle position and second rack 8 inches from broiler element. Heat oven to 450 degrees. Set wire rack in rimmed baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Make 3 diagonal slashes through skin of each thigh with sharp knife (do not cut into meat). Brush chicken with 1 T. vegetable oil. Lay chicken skin side up on half of prepared rack and roast for 20 minutes.  Toss bell pepper and mushrooms with remaining 1 T. vegetable oil, half of garlic, and 1½ tsp. ginger. Spread vegetables over empty side of rack. Rotate rack and continue to roast for 10 minutes. Sprinkle snap peas over vegetables and continue to roast until chicken registers 165 degrees and vegetables start to brown, about 10 minutes. Remove sheet from oven and heat broiler. Place sheet on upper rack and broil until chicken and vegetables are well browned and chicken registers 175 degrees, 3 to 5 minutes. Meanwhile, combine mirin, soy sauce, water, sugar, cornstarch, pepper flakes, remaining garlic, and remaining 1½ tsp. ginger in bowl and microwave, whisking occasionally, until thickened, 3 to 5 minutes. Remove sheet from oven, brush chicken with 3 T. sauce, and let rest for 5 minutes. Transfer vegetables to clean bowl, toss with sesame oil, sesame seeds, and salt. Serve vegetables and chicken with remaining sauce.

Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Warm Fennel, Radicchio, and Arugula Salad

Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Warm Fennel, Radicchio, and Arugula Salad

Crispy Parmesan Chicken with Warm Fennel, Radicchio, and Arugula Salad

 

4 (6- to 8-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed

2 large eggs

1¼ tsp. table salt, divided

½ tsp. pepper

1 cup panko bread crumbs

3 ounces Parmesan cheese, shredded (1 cup)

½ cup vegetable oil for frying, divided

1 T. white wine vinegar

1 small shallot, minced

½ tsp. Dijon mustard

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided

1 fennel bulb, stalks discarded, bulb halved, cored, and sliced thin

12 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved

½ head radicchio (5 ounces), cored and sliced thin

2 ounces (2 cups) baby arugula

 

Remove any tenderloins from breasts and reserve for another use. Cut each breast horizontally into 2 thin cutlets, then cover with plastic wrap and pound to even 1/4-inch thickness. Beat eggs, 1 tsp. salt, and pepper together in shallow dish. Combine panko and Parmesan in second shallow dish. Working with 1 cutlet at a time, dredge in egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat all sides with panko mixture, pressing gently so crumbs adhere. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 200 degrees. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil and small pinch panko mixture in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When panko has turned golden brown, place 4 cutlets in skillet. Cook, without moving cutlets, until bottoms are deep golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Using tongs, carefully flip cutlets and cook on second side until deep golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer cutlets to paper towel-lined platter, season with salt to taste, and keep warm in oven. Wipe skillet clean with paper towels. Repeat with remaining 1/4 cup vegetable oil and remaining 4 cutlets; transfer to platter and keep warm in oven. Wipe skillet clean with paper towels.

Parmesan Chicken in Florentine Sauce

Parmesan Chicken in Florentine Sauce

 

 

1/2 cup tomato sauce, low sodium

1 clove garlic

3/4 cup frozen spinach

1 tsp. low sodium parmesan cheese

3 1/2 oz. boneless chicken breast

1 tsp. onion powder

1/3 tbsp. olive oil

 

Cook your pasta of choice (try penne or rigatoni) according to recipe provided; set aside. Rinse and pat dry chicken, then cut into strips. Mince garlic. Heat a nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray over low-medium heat, and sauté garlic for 2-3 minutes, until just soft. Raise heat to medium high, add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes or until no longer pink. Remove from pan and reserve. Microwave spinach in a microwavable bowl at high heat, covered, for 2-3 minutes and drain. Add spinach and tomato sauce to skillet and simmer for about 2-3 minutes, covered. Add chicken and onion powder to sauce, stir and cover: simmer another 2-3 minutes. Add cooked pasta to pan, combine and heat through for another minute. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Lemon-Rosemary Noodles and Chicken

Lemon-Rosemary Noodles and Chicken

3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

1 T. fresh rosemary, minced

1 lemon, zested and juiced

3 T. honey

8 ounces thin spaghetti (I prefer Barilla Plus)

2 T. butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup real bacon bits

1/2 cup cream

1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese

3 roma tomatoes, seeds and core removed, diced

2 T. capers (optional)

 

Start a pot of water boiling to cook the pasta. Spray your BBQ grill rack with nonstick spray and fire it up. Sprinkle salt, pepper and rosemary on each chicken breast and grill for 7-8 minutes on the first side. In a small bowl, mix 2 T. of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the honey together, then brush it on the tops of the chicken breasts before flipping them over. Brush the underside as well, and grill for a few more minutes until they are cooked through (actual cooking time will depend on how thick the breast is, and you could certainly pound them thinner to start with to make it go faster). Remove to a plate and cover to keep warm. Toss your noodles into the boiling salted water if you haven’t already. Once they are nearly done cooking, begin making the sauce. It comes together quickly. In a large skillet, melt 2 T. butter then add the garlic. Saute and stir for 2-3 minutes, then add the bacon bits and cook for another minute. Stir in the remaining lemon juice and all of the zest, then the cream. Stir in the cooked and drained noodles, adding a tablespoon or two of the pasta water if needed to thin the sauce. Slice the chicken breasts thinly. Stir in the roma tomatoes and parmesan cheese (and capers if you so desire – I’m the only one that likes them around here, so I tossed a few on my own plate), and serve immediately with a portion of chicken breast strips on top of the pile of pasta.

Chili-Lime Pineapple {Mango} Chicken Skewers

Chili-Lime Pineapple {Mango} Chicken Skewers

6 Tbsp olive oil

1/4 C fresh lime juice

Zest of one lime

1 tsp chili powder

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (double that if you like spicy things)

1/2 tsp salt

1 Tbsp sugar

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1 inch cubes

3 ripe but firm mangoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes or fresh pineapple spears cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes.  I used about 6-7 large spears.

 

Soak wooden/bamboo skewers in water for 20-30 minutes prior to using them.  This will prevent them from burning on the grill. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, cayenne, salt and sugar.  Place in a zip-lock bag and add the chicken and mangoes (pineapple), stirring gently to coat with marinade.  Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours. Prepare grill (or indoor grill pan). Remove the chicken and fruit from the marinade and thread onto skewers, alternating the pieces and dividing them evenly. Be sure not to smash everything together too tightly.  In order for the food to cook thoroughly and evenly, it needs room!  The pieces threaded on should just barely touch each other. Cook on grill until nicely charred and cooked through – 6-10 minutes. 

Asian BBQ Chicken

Asian BBQ Chicken

1/4 C packed brown sugar

1/4 C soy sauce

2 T lime juice (about 1 lime)

1/4 t cayenne pepper

1/4 t curry powder

3-4 garlic cloves, minced

1 t grated fresh ginger

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

 

Combine everything but the chicken in a small bowl. Whisk to dissolve brown sugar. Reserve a couple of spoonfuls of the marinade in a small bowl and place the rest, with the chicken, in a zip-lock bag. (If your chicken pieces are extra large and you feel like you need a little more marinade, you can always add a bit of water to stretch it.) Refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, but overnight is best. Preheat a grill (or an indoor grill pan or broiler). Spray cooking surface with cooking spray and place chicken on it to cook. Cook for 5-10 minutes on each side depending on the thickness.

Indian Style Chicken in Beet, Apricot, and Tomato Chutney

Indian Style Chicken in Beet, Apricot, and Tomato Chutney

 

8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin on

3 yellow beets

12 dried apricots

1/2 cup packed mint leaves

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 large onion, coarsely chopped

2 tablespoons finely grated ginger root

4 tablespoons garam masala

2 teaspoons crushed coriander seeds

1 teaspoons ground turmeric

1/2 teaspoon saffron

4 anise pods

1/2 jalapeno pepper, split and seeded

2 cans chopped tomato

Juice of two oranges

 

Place a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Wash the beets and wrap them in aluminum foil. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for an hour and a half. Remove them from the oven. When they are cool, peel them and chop them into 1/2-inch cubes. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the apricots and mint leaves and then remove the pan from the heat and let cool. Puree the mixture in a food processor.  Heat the oil over medium heat in a Dutch oven. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and brown the chicken in batches, about five minutes per side. Set aside and discard the skins. Drain all but a teaspoon of fat from the dutch oven.  Return the Dutch oven to medium heat and add the onion, ginger, garam masala, coriander seeds, turmeric, saffron, star anise, and jalapeno and sweat until the onion is lightly cooked, about five minutes. Add the tomatoes, toss, and cook for 4 minutes more. Pour the orange juice and apricot puree into the pot, and stir to combine. Add the diced beets, bring to a simmer, and season to taste with salt. Add the chicken pieces so they are partially submerged. You may need to add a little water or chicken stock if there’s not enough liquid. Cover and simmer for 25 minutes.  Plate and garnish with fresh chopped mint.

Watercress Salad with Sesame Tofu, Ginger Chicken, and Mystery Dressing

Watercress Salad with Sesame Tofu, Ginger Chicken, and Mystery Dressing

 

Somewhere in the line of: 2 minced shallots, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon cashew butter, crushed red pepper flakes, a little coconut milk, 1 teaspoon chipotle salsa, 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon whole grain English mustard, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, and some pepper. Whisk. Taste.  Brush half on the chicken, which is already washed, dried, salted, peppered, and diced.  Wash a head of watercress (and remove woody ends); wash two scallions, remove dark green tips and chop; slice 1/2 small red onion thinly, and then wash a handful of mint leaves and rip ‘em apart. Assemble in a bowl and refrigerate.  Roll tofu in blond sesame seeds and sautéed it in olive oil on medium high (3 minutes per side); remove and drain.  Sauté the chicken with some grated ginger on medium (3 minutes both sides). Set aside. Toss half the remaining salad dressing with the watercress, then add the tofu and toss with remaining dressing. Plate and top the chicken. Eat with chopsticks.

Roast Spiced Turkey (Best Beginner Bird)

Roast Spiced Turkey (Best Beginner Bird)

 

1 turkey (14 to 18 lb.)

Spice rub (optional; recipe follows)

1/3 to 1/2 cup vegetable oil

 

Remove and discard leg truss from turkey. Pull off and discard any lumps of fat. Remove giblets and neck; save for gravy if desired. Rinse turkey inside and out; pat dry. If using spice rub, rub it generously over skin and inside both neck and body cavities. Brush bird with enough oil to coat. Place turkey, breast up, on a V-shaped rack in a 12- by 17-inch roasting pan (pan should be large enough that turkey fits inside). Roast in a 325° regular or convection oven, basting occasionally with oil, or pan drippings if using spice rub, until a thermometer inserted through thickest part of breast to the bone registers 160°, 2 to 3 hours. Transfer turkey to a platter. Let rest in a warm place at least 30 minutes, then carve. When you remove the legs, if meat around thigh joints is still too pink, cut drumsticks from thighs and put thighs in a shallow pan in a 450° oven until no longer pink, 10 to 15 minutes. Spice Rub: In a 6- to 8-inch frying pan over medium heat, stir 1 tablespoon fennel seeds until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Pour into a blender and whirl until finely ground. Add 3/4 teaspoon hot chili flakes and whirl until coarsely ground. Pour into a small bowl and mix with 3 tablespoons Madras or regular curry powder, 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon paprika, and 1 1/2 tablespoons salt. Makes about 1/2 cup.

Herbed Beans with Rotisserie Chicken

Herbed Beans with Rotisserie Chicken

Herbed Beans with Rotisserie Chicken

 

1 small preserved lemon, halved and seeds discarded

1 small black garlic bulb, skin discarded

1 handful cilantro or flat-leaf parsley

3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

Juice of ½ lemon

1 pinch of hot pepper flakes

2 cans (15oz/425g each) white beans, chickpeas, or borlotti beans, drained and rinsed

1 (2lb/900g) rotisserie chicken of your choice, carved into 8 pieces or coarsely sliced

Cilantro sprigs, for serving

 

Finely chop the lemon, garlic, and cilantro, then mix together with the oil, lemon juice, and hot pepper flakes.  Set aside 2 Tbsp. gremolata and stir the rest into the beans. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed. Place the beans on a serving platter and arrange the carved chicken on top. Drizzle with the reserved gremolata and top with cilantro sprigs to serve.

Artichoke and Sun-dried Tomato Chicken

Artichoke and Sun-dried Tomato Chicken

 

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 boned skinned chicken breast halves (8 oz. each)

2 large shallots, minced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken stock

8 ounces marinated artichoke hearts, halved

1/4 cup sliced oil-marinated sun-dried tomatoes

About 1/2 tsp. salt

About 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup sliced basil

1/4 cup freshly and finely shredded parmesan

 

Preheat oven to 375°. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy ovenproof frying pan (not nonstick) over high heat until oil is hot but not smoking. Add chicken breasts, top side down, and cook until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn chicken over. Add shallots and garlic to pan with chicken, stirring occasionally so garlic doesn’t burn, until shallots are soft and translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Add chicken stock, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper and cook until mixture begins to boil, about 1 minute. Cover pan and put in oven. Bake 14 to 16 minutes, or until chicken is just cooked through (cut to check). Transfer chicken to a plate. Season artichoke heart-sun-dried tomato-stock mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Divide vegetables among 4 rimmed plates or shallow pasta bowls, top each with a piece of chicken, and spoon sauce over all. Garnish with sliced basil and parmesan.

Chicken with Pepper Relish

Chicken with Pepper Relish

 

4 boned, skinned chicken breast halves (about 6 oz. each)

Salt and pepper

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup chopped shallots

2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

1 1/2 pounds red, yellow, and/or orange bell peppers, rinsed, stemmed, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch pieces

3 tablespoons sherry vinegar

1/4 cup chopped pitted Spanish-style green olives

1 tablespoon drained capers

 

Rinse chicken and pat dry. Sprinkle breast halves lightly all over with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a 10- to 12-inch nonstick frying pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook, turning once, until browned on both sides but still slightly pink in the center of the thickest part (cut to test), about 8 minutes total. Transfer chicken to a plate. Pour remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil into pan. Add shallots and garlic and stir often until fragrant but not browned, 1 to 2 minutes. Add peppers and stir frequently until slightly soft, 1 to 2 minutes. Add vinegar, olives, capers, and the chicken. Cover, lower heat to medium-low, and cook until peppers are soft and chicken is no longer pink in the center of the thickest part (cut to test), 5 to 8 minutes longer. Add salt and pepper to taste. Transfer each breast half to a plate and spoon peppers and juices evenly over warm chicken.

Turkey Pasta with Bacon and Cranberry Sauce

Turkey Pasta with Bacon and Cranberry Sauce

 

2 teaspoons cornstarch

1 cup fat-skimmed chicken broth

1/2 cup pecan halves

1/4 pound sliced bacon, chopped

1 onion (1/2 lb.), peeled and chopped

3/4 pound dried bow-tie pasta

3/4 cup cranberry sauce or relish (purchased or homemade)

2 cups bite-size pieces skinned cooked turkey

1/4 cup minced parsley

salt and pepper

 

In a 5- to 6-quart pan over high heat, bring 4 quarts water to a boil. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with broth. While water heats pour pecans into a 10- to 12-inch frying pan over medium-high heat. Shake or stir nuts frequently until lightly browned under the skin (break a nut to test), about 5 minutes. Pour from pan and set aside. Return frying pan to medium-high heat; add bacon and onion. Stir often until bacon is brown, about 10 minutes; spoon out fat and discard. Add pasta to boiling water and cook until tender to bite, 10 to 12 minutes. While pasta cooks, add cranberry sauce and broth mixture to bacon and onion; stir over high heat until boiling,. Add turkey and parsley, mix, and keep sauce warm. Drain pasta. Return to pan, add turkey sauce, and mix. Spoon onto plates. Sprinkle pasta with toasted pecans and add salt and pepper to taste.

Steamed Turkey Pearl Balls

Steamed Turkey Pearl Balls

 

1 1/4 C. Glutinous rice

1 lb. Ground turkey

10 Dried Chinese mushrooms, soaked 20 minutes, stems removed and caps finely chopped

1 C. Canned water chestnuts, coarsely chopped

1 3/8 T. Minced fresh ginger

1 T. Minced scallions

3 T. Soy sauce

1 1/2 T. Rice wine or sake

1 1/2 T. Sesame oil

2 T. Cornstarch

Soy sauce for dipping (opt)

 

Using your fingers as a rake, rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain and transfer to a baking pan. In a bowl mix the turkey, mushrooms, water chestnuts and seasonings. Line steamer trays with parchment or wax paper. Scrape teaspoon of the turkey mixture into balls and roll in the rice until completely covered. Arrange 1″ apart on the steamer trays. Cover and steam 25 minutes, or until cooked through. Serve immediately with soy sauce.

Steamed Chicken and Shiitake Buns

Steamed Chicken and Shiitake Buns

 

Dim Sum Buns:

3/4 cup warm water

1/8 cup sugar

1/2 tablespoon dry yeast

1/2 tablespoon melted lard

2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour

5 tablespoons water

 

Chicken and Shiitake Stuffing:

Canola oil, to cook

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon minced ginger

2 cups sliced shiitake mushrooms

Salt and black pepper

2 cups ground chicken meat

1/3 cup chopped chives

1 tablespoon truffle oil

 

Buns: Mix warm water with sugar to dissolve. Add yeast and let stand for 10 minutes. Mixture should get foamy, or the yeast is dead. Mix in lard. In a food processor, add flour and yeast mixture. While blade is spinning, pour in water until a ball forms. If dough is too sticky, add more flour. If dough appears dry and doesn’t form a ball, add more water. As soon as a ball forms, take dough out and knead by hand on a floured surface. For 10 minutes roll dough into one long log about 2-inches thick. Cut into 2-inch pieces. Filling: In a sauté pan coated with oil, sauté garlic and ginger. Add shiitakes and cook until soft. Season with salt and pepper. Let mixture cool. Assembly: In a bowl, mix shiitakes, chicken, chives, and truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper. Keep filling chilled before stuffing buns. Form thick circles and place about 1 tablespoon of stuffing in the middle of each piece of dough. Encircle stuffing with the dough, but do not seal. Let rest in a warm place for 30 minutes. In a steamer basket, steam buns for 10 to 12 minutes.

Vietnamese Fried Rice

Vietnamese Fried Rice

Cook 1 1/2 c. brown rice or have 3-4 c. readymade. (yes, you could use white rice if you must)

Heat in a large skillet:

4T. cooking oil (I usually use olive oil.)

Add:

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 large onion, diced

1 t. salt

1/2 t. black pepper

1 t. sugar

1 1/2 T. soy sauce (I always use low sodium.)

OPTIONAL: Meat truly is optional in this recipe. I have cooked it with no meat, chicken, BBQ pork leftovers, and shrimp. All tasty. If you are adding raw meat, add about 1/4 to 1/2 lb. of meat with the above ingredients and cook along with the onions and the garlic, etc. If I am using leftover meat (which is most of the time), I throw it in after the onions are mostly cooked just to heat it up.

Stir-fry until meat is hot and/or onions are translucent.

Add:

Cooked rice. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes.

Add:

1 – 2 c. Veggies ( I add more if I am going meatless). Oh, you need something more specific? Honestly, this is never the same twice for me. I use whatever I have on hand. Occasionally I will buy fresh bean sprouts to throw in because I am really fond of them, but mostly – whatever I have. Peas, cut up green beans, corn, shredded carrot, broccoli . . . Stir into rice mixture and allow the veggies to cook to desired tenderness. Just before serving, add:

2 eggs, beaten

Over medium heat, stir the eggs carefully through the mixture until they are cooked.

Crock Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu

Crock Pot Chicken Cordon Bleu

6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

1 T. butter

3 T. flour

1/2 cup  milk

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 tsp, salt

1/4 tsp. black pepper

4 ounces sliced ham

4 ounces sliced Swiss cheese

1 (8 ounce) package herbed dry bread stuffing mix

1/4 cup butter, melted

 

Make a roux on the stovetop with butter and flour, and whisk in broth, milk and salt and pepper. Pour sauce into crockpot. Layer chicken breasts over the sauce, turning to coat. Cover with slices of ham and then Swiss cheese. Sprinkle the stuffing on top, and drizzle butter over stuffing. Cover, and cook on Low for 4 to 6 hours, or 2 to 3 hours on High. 

Jewish Grandmother’s Chicken Soup

Jewish Grandmother’s Chicken Soup

Jewish Grandmother’s Chicken Soup

 

1 (4- or 5-pound) cut-up stewing hen or chicken

2 large onions, quartered

2 large celery ribs with leaves, quartered

2 large carrots, quartered

1 parsnip, quartered

1/2 C. parsley sprigs

1 bay leaf

I 1/2 tsp. salt

3/4 tsp. whole black peppercorns

 

In a large stockpot, place all ingredients and enough water to cover by 1 inch, about 4 quarts. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, partially covered, 1 1/2 hours. Add additional water if needed to keep chicken and vegetables covered. Strain soup, reserving chicken but discarding vegetables and herbs. When chicken is cool enough to handle, pull meat off bones in chunks. Refrigerate broth for at least 1 hour, then spoon off congealed fat. To serve, reheat broth. Add chicken meat and simmer 2 minutes, or until heated through.

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta

12 ounces uncooked dry pasta, like bucatini, spaghetti, linguine, or angel hair

6 thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

⅓ cup finely diced shallots

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 cup dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay

1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth

¼ cup fresh lemon juice, from 1 large lemon, juiced

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste

2 tablespoons butter

¼ cup heavy cream

4 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, divided

½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese

 

If necessary, cover chicken breasts with plastic wrap and use a mallet to lightly pound them until ½-inch thick. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, add olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet and place over MEDIUM-HIGH. When oil is good and hot add the chicken and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Chicken does not need to be cooked through at this point. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate or large piece of foil to rest. Do this in batches, if necessary, to avoid over-crowding the skillet. Reduce the heat to MEDIUM, add the shallots and garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring, for a minute or two. Add the white wine and use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet as the wine comes to a simmer. Allow wine to simmer at a low boil for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly reduced. Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Increase heat to MEDIUM-HIGH and bring sauce to a low boil. Allow to simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes until thickened and reduced. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the butter and stir until completely melted. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Transfer the browned chicken to the skillet and drizzle the sauce over the top. Transfer the skillet in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the chicken is completely cooked through. Remove from oven and top with 2 tablespoons chopped basil. Drain pasta, reserving ½ cup pasta water. Place pasta in a large bowl and add cheese and remaining basil and toss to combine, adding enough reserved pasta water to moisten pasta. Serve with chicken and and spoonful of sauce.

Thai Red Curry

Thai Red Curry

 

1 can (16 oz.) coconut milk

1 heaping teaspoon curry paste

1 can (10 oz.) bamboo shoots, drained

1 medium zucchini, sliced into half moons

2 cups broccoli florets

1/2 cup shredded carrot

1/2 cup pineapple

1 cup cooked chicken, diced

1 T fish sauce or soy sauce

1 t brown sugar

 

In a large saute pan, pour the coconut milk.  Heat to boiling and mix in the curry paste.  Stir to dissolve the curry paste.  Add the bamboo shoots and bring to a boil, let boil for about 5 minutes to thicken the coconut milk.  Add the vegetables, starting with the one that takes the longest to cook.  When vegetables are getting tender, but still firm about 8-10 minutes, add the cooked chicken and pineapple.  Stir in the fish sauce and brown sugar (both to taste), and mix to incorporate all of the ingredients.  Serve with steamed rice.

Turkey Stuffed With Mushrooms and Spinach

Turkey Stuffed With Mushrooms and Spinach

 

1 turkey london broil (about 1 1/2 pounds) 

2 teaspoons olive oil + additional for misting 

1 cup sliced brown or white mushrooms, chopped 

1 cup (1 ounce) baby spinach leaves 

1/2 cup sliced scallions 

1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning 

1/8 teaspoon salt 

ground black pepper 

2 tablespoons (1/2 ounce) shredded swiss cheese 

1/2 cup water 

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Set the turkey on a work surface. With a sharp knife, cut through the middle to create a pocket. Set aside. In an ovenproof skillet, warm 2 teaspoons oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, spinach, scallions, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring, for about 3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts. Spoon the mixture into the pocket in the turkey. Cover the stuffing with the cheese. Press the open edge down to seal. Fasten with toothpicks, if desired. Add the water to the skillet. Cook over medium heat, scraping with a spatula to release the browned bits on the pan bottom. Bring to a boil. Turn off the heat. Place the turkey in the skillet. Mist lightly with olive oil. Roast for about 45 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center registers 165°F. Remove to a cutting board. Let stand for 15 minutes, until the internal temperature rises to 170°F. Slice the turkey. Reheat the juices in the skillet to drizzle over the turkey.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 150

Fat: 4g

Fiber: 6g

Lime Chicken with Lentils and Dried Fruit

Lime Chicken with Lentils and Dried Fruit

 

4 bone in chicken thighs (about 11/4 lb) 

1/4 tsp salt 

1/8 tsp ground allspice 

1/8 tsp ground red pepper 

1 tbsp olive oil 

3/4 C sm green and brown lentils, and a few red lentils, picked over and rinsed 

3 scallions, cut into 1″ diagonal pieces 

4 lg dried peaches (4 oz), cut into thin strips (if not available, substitute about 8 dried apricots) 

1/2 C dried sour cherries or cranberries 

2 tsp finely chopped crystallized ginger 

1/3 C chopped cilantro 

1 1/2 C reduced sodium chicken broth 

4 tsp finely grated lime zest 

1 tbsp fresh lime juice 

lime wedges (garnish) 

 

Preheat oven to 350ºF. Season chicken with half of the salt, allspice, and pepper. In ovenproof Dutch oven, heat oil over medium high heat. Cook chicken about 5 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer to plate. Add lentils, scallions, peaches, cherries, ginger, half of the cilantro, and the remaining salt, allspice, and pepper. Cook, stirring, 2 minutes. Pour in broth. Return chicken to Dutch oven and submerge. Bring to a boil over high heat. Remove from heat, cover, and bake 35 minutes. Uncover and bake 30 minutes longer or until lentils are cooked through. Remove chicken skins. Stir lime zest and juice into lentil mixture. Arrange lentils on serving plates, top with chicken, and sprinkle with the remaining cilantro. Garnish with lime wedges.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 343

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 14g

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Roulade

Spinach Stuffed Chicken Roulade

 

2 cups (2 ounces) baby spinach 

1/4 cup finely chopped onion 

2 teaspoons olive oil, divided 

1 teaspoon minced garlic 

1/3 teaspoon red-pepper flakes 

1 tablespoon water 

1/4 cup (1 ounce) grated parmesan cheese 

2 tablespoons chopped dry-packed sundried tomatoes 

4 chicken cutlets (about 4 ounces each) or chicken breast halves, trimmed and pounded thin into cutlets 

1/2 cup chicken broth or dry white wine 

 

Place the spinach in a large nonstick skillet with the washing water clinging to the leaves or a tablespoon or two of water if dried. Cover and cook for 2 minutes, tossing occasionally, or until wilted. Drain and press firmly with the back of a spoon or squeeze to remove excess moisture. There should be 1/2 cup spinach. Wipe out the skillet. Meanwhile, in a medium nonstick skillet, combine the onion, 1 teaspoon oil, garlic, red-pepper flakes, and 1 tablespoon water. Turn the heat to medium. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the onion sizzles. Reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook, stirring once, for about 3 minutes, or until softened. In a small bowl, combine the onion mixture, cheese, and spinach. Stir to mix. Set aside. Sprinkle the tomatoes evenly on the smooth side of the cutlets. Divide the spinach mixture among the cutlets. Spread to the edges of 3 sides, leaving about 1″ at the narrow tip free of spinach mixture. Loosely roll up the chicken, ending with the narrow tip, and secure with wooden picks. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon oil to the large skillet and set over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pan. Cook, turning, for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown on all sides. Add the broth or wine, cover, and cook over low heat for about 7 minutes. Uncover and transfer chicken to a serving platter. Cover with foil to keep warm. Boil the skillet juices for about 5 minutes, or until reduced to a glaze. Diagonally slice the chicken into 1″-thick pieces. Drizzle with pan juices and serve.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 194

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 2g

Blue Tortilla Chicken with Corn Salad

Blue Tortilla Chicken with Corn Salad

 

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4 ounces each) 

1 egg white, beaten slightly 

3/4 cup no-salt-added blue corn chips, crushed 

1 tablespoon chili powder 

1/4 teaspoon salt, divided 

2 cup fresh corn kernels or frozen corn kernels, thawed 

2 poblano chile or Cubanelle peppers, seeded and diced or 1/2 green pepper, seeded and diced (wear plastic glove when handling) 

1 jalapeno chile pepper, seeded and diced (optional) (wear plastic gloves when handling) 

1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro 

1 tablespoon lime juice 

2 teaspoons lime juice 

1 lime, cut into wedges (optional, for garnish) 

 

Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Coat a medium ovenproof skillet with vegetable oil spray. Dip the chicken into the egg white. Combine the chips with the chili powder, press mixture into chicken, and arrange in skillet, leaving space between each piece. Lightly coat the chicken with vegetable oil spray and sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon salt. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted in the thickest portion registers 160ºF and the juices run clear. Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine the corn; poblano, Cubanelle, or green bell pepper; jalapeno chile pepper (if using); cilantro; lime juice; and the remaining 1/8 teaspoon salt. Stir to mix. Set aside. Remove the chicken and allow to rest for 4 minutes. Slice each piece crosswise into 5 pieces. Serve with the corn salad. Garnish with lime wedges, if desired

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 330

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 4g

Broiled Cornish Hens with Lemon, Orange, and Basil

Broiled Cornish Hens with Lemon, Orange, and Basil

 

2 Cornish hens (about 1 1/2 lb each) 

1 tbsp finely grated lemon zest 

2 tsp finely grated orange zest 

1 tsp extra virgin olive oil 

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 

1/2 tsp salt 

1/4 tsp black pepper 

12 fresh basil leaves 

8 C mixed baby greens 

2 tbsp fresh orange juice 

Orange segments (garnish) 

 

With kitchen shears, remove backbones of hens. Halve hens by cutting through breastbone. Trim fat. Discard wing tips. In small bowl, combine lemon and orange zests, 1 teaspoon of the oil, and half of the salt and pepper. Using fingers, separate skin from flesh of hens and carefully stuff zest mixture under skin, spreading over breast and thigh. Arrange 2 or 3 basil leaves under skin and over zest mixture in each half. Let stand 15 minutes at room temperature. Preheat broiler. Coat broiler pan with cooking spray. Brush both sides of hens with 1 tablespoon of the remaining oil and place skin side down on pan. Broil 10 minutes, 5″ to 6″ from heat. Turn and broil 8 to 10 minutes longer or until skin is browned and juices in thigh run clear when pierced with paring knife. Toss greens with the remaining oil, salt, and pepper. Add juice and toss. Arrange greens on serving plates, top with hens, and garnish with orange segments

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 430

Fat: 32g

Fiber: 3g

Ginger Glazed Chicken

Ginger Glazed Chicken

1 T. orange peel

1/2 C. fresh orange juice

1/4 C. honey  

1 shallot, peeled and finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 tbsp grated fresh ginger

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves

Orange slices (garnish)

In shallow bowl or pie plate, combine orange peel, orange juice, honey, shallot, garlic, and ginger, and salt and pepper to taste. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate at least 30 minutes, turning frequently (can be prepared ahead and marinated in refrigerator overnight). Preheat broiler and coat broiler pan with cooking spray. Remove chicken and place on pan. Reserve marinade. Broil 12 minutes, turning once, or until thermometer inserted into chicken reads 170ºF. Meanwhile, bring marinade to a boil in small saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes or until mixture is slightly thickened. Place chicken on 4 plates and top with marinade. Garnish with orange slices, if desired.

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 250

Fat: 2g

Fiber: 0g

Easy Chicken Fingers with Sweet Bean Dipping Sauce

Easy Chicken Fingers with Sweet Bean Dipping Sauce

 

SWEET BEAN DIPPING SAUCE: 

1 tablespoon olive oil 

1 small onion, chopped 

1 teaspoon minced garlic 

1 can (19 ounces) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 

3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

CHICKEN FINGERS: 

1 cup honey crunch toasted wheat germ 

1/4 cup whole wheat flour 

1/4 teaspoon paprika 

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 

1 large egg 

1 tablespoon fat-free milk 

1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders  

Assorted raw vegetables 

 

To make the sauce: Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the beans and applesauce. Cook for 4 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in the salt. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor fitted with a metal blade. Process until the mixture is smooth. To make the chicken fingers: Preheat the oven to 425F. Coat a baking sheet with vegetable oil spray. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the wheat germ, flour, paprika, and pepper. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg and milk. In batches, dip the chicken tenders into the egg-milk mixture. Place into the bag with the wheat germ mixture. Seal the bag and toss until the chicken tenders are evenly coated. Place the chicken tenders on the reserved pan. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until no longer pink and the juices run clear. Divide the chicken fingers among 6 plates and serve with vegetables and dipping sauce.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 306

Fat: 4g

Fiber: 3g

Turkey Tacos with Avocado-Corn Salsa

Turkey Tacos with Avocado-Corn Salsa

1 firm, ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and chopped 

1 cup canned sweet corn kernels, rinsed and drained 

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 

1 tablespoon lime juice 

1 package (12) corn taco shells 

12 ounces cooked boneless, skinless turkey breast, sliced into thin strips 

3/4 cup water 

1 package (1 1/4 ounces) reduced-sodium taco seasoning mix 

 

In a medium bowl, mix the avocado, corn, tomatoes, and lime juice. Set aside. Warm the shells in the oven according to the package directions. In a medium skillet, combine the turkey, water, and seasoning. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Spoon the turkey mixture into the shells. Top with the salsa.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 284

Fat: 11g

Chicken Cacciatore Pasta

Chicken Cacciatore Pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil 

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into bite-size chunks 

1 large green bell pepper, thinly sliced 

3 cloves garlic, minced 

3/4 teaspoon dried oregano 

1/2 teaspoon crushed red-pepper flakes 

Salt 

Ground black pepper 

1 box (10 ounces) baby portobello mushrooms, quartered 

2 tablespoons dry white wine or chicken broth 

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes 

1/2 pound whole wheat pasta 

 

In a large, deep nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, warm the oil. Add the chicken and bell pepper, and sprinkle with the garlic, oregano, and crushed red pepper. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is lightly browned. Add the mushrooms and wine or broth. Cook, stirring often, for 8 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender. Stir in the tomatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes, or until the sauce is lightly thickened. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and transfer to the skillet. Toss to mix well.

 

Note: to make with precooked chicken, follow the recipe, but omit the chicken in the first step.  Once you add the tomatoes and reduce heat, add the chicken.  This will warm it through without shredding it into itty bitty pieces, which will happen if you add it already cooked from the beginning.

Crockpot Roast Chicken

Crockpot Roast Chicken

Several celery stalks

1 roasting chicken, 4 to 5 pounds (to fit in crockpot)

Little evoo or butter

salt

pepper

paprika, poultry seasoning, or other desired herb

6 cloves garlic, mashed

1/2 cup chicken broth

 

Spread chicken lightly with oil or butter (you can omit this, but it helps the seasonings adhere).  Sprinkle the chicken, inside and out, with salt, pepper and paprika. Spread half of the garlic in the cavity and spread the rest on the outside of the bird. Layer the celery on the bottom of the crock and set the chicken on top.  This will prevent the chicken from sitting in the fat as it cooks. Add the remaining ingredients and butter and cook on HIGH for 1 hour. Reduce to LOW and cook for 4 to 6 hours longer, until chicken is tender and juices run clear. Serve the hot garlic butter sauce with the chicken.

Chicken Paprikash

Chicken Paprikash

1 pound shredded chicken

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 tablespoon canola oil

2 large green bell peppers, thinly sliced

1 large onion,halved and thinly sliced

2 teaspoons hot or sweet paprika

1/2 cup dry white wine

1 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup reduced-fat sour cream

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

 

Add bell peppers and onion to a saute pan with oil and cook, covered, over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add paprika and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add wine; increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring, until mostly evaporated, about 1 1/2 minutes. Add tomatoes, broth and lemon juice; bring to a boil. Add shredded chicken to the pan; reduce heat to a lively simmer. Spoon some sauce over the chicken and cook, turning occasionally, until the sauce is reduced and the chicken is warmed through, several minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in sour cream. Sprinkle with parsley.

Sloppy Toms

Sloppy Toms

1 1/2 teaspoons olive or canola oil 

1/2 finely chopped green bell peppe 

1/4 medium onion, finely chopped 

1 teaspoon minced garlic 

1 finely chopped rib celery 

8 ounces 99 percent lean ground turkey breast 

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 

2 tablespoons tomato paste 

1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar 

1/3 cup chopped tomatoes 

dash of nutmeg 

pinch of salt 

ground black pepper 

2 large whole wheat hamburger buns 

chopped scallions, for garnish 

 

Preheat the broiler. Heat the oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add the bell pepper, onion, garlic, and celery. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and translucent. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Raise the heat to medium-high. Add the turkey to the side without vegetables. Cook, stirring, about 7 minutes, or until almost cooked through. Combine the turkey and vegetables. Add the vinegar and stir. Add the tomato paste and sugar, if desired. Cook, stirring occasionally, about 4 minutes, or until lightly browned. Add the tomatoes, nutmeg, and salt. Season to taste with black pepper. Lower the heat and simmer for about 3 minutes, or until thickened. Open the buns and toast in a broiler until golden brown. Divide the meat between the buns. Garnish with scallions.

 

Yield: 2 servings

Calories: 306

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 5g

Real Food Chicken Nuggets

Real Food Chicken Nuggets

Real Food Chicken Nuggets

 

1 teaspoon creole seasoning (or your favorite seasoning), divided

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 pound (450 g) ground chicken

1/4 cup (20 g) old-fashioned oats

1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, divided

3/4 cup (90 g) bread crumbs

Olive oil or cooking spray

 

Preheat the oven to 3 75 °F (190°C).  In a small ramekin, mix creole seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper. In large bowl, combine the chicken, oats, half the Parmesan, and half of the seasoning mixture. Knead well to combine.  With wet hands to prevent sticking, form a small ball of chicken mixture. Press into a cookie cutter for shaped nuggets or flatten with your fingers for a basic nugget shape. In small bowl, combine the bread crumbs with the remaining seasoning mix and cheese. Press the nuggets into the bread crumb mixture and turn over, patting the crumbs into the surface to coat evenly. Arrange the nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray the nuggets with cooking spray or olive oil for a crispier crust. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, turning once, and checking for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer. The temperature should be 165°F(78°C). For a school lunch: Warm nuggets in the toaster oven, pan, or broiler for a few minutes. Place in a lunchbox with a favorite dipping sauce. My daughter enjoys these at room temperature; but if keeping them warm is a concern, send them inside a thermos.  Kitchen Note:  When you shape them, don’t make them too flat, or they will overcook. Thicker is better in this case. To freeze, flash-freeze nuggets, uncooked, on the baking sheet for one hour. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer ziplock bag to store.

Chicken Thighs with Sweet Red Onions and Balsamic Vinegar

Chicken Thighs with Sweet Red Onions and Balsamic Vinegar

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 pound red onion, cut into (1/2-inch-thick) slices and separated into rings (about 3 medium)

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, divided

1/4 teaspoon salt, divided

4 (6-ounce) chicken thighs, skinned

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram

4 teaspoons balsamic vinegar, divided

2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

4 lemon wedges

Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon salt; sauté for 5 minutes. Add 1/4 teaspoon pepper, 1/8 teaspoon salt, chicken, oregano, and marjoram to pan, and sprinkle with 3 teaspoons vinegar. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 25 minutes or until chicken is done. Uncover, increase heat, and cook 2 minutes or until liquid almost evaporates. Stir in 1 teaspoon vinegar, and sprinkle with the parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.

Yield: 2 servings

Serving size: 2 thighs and 1 cup onion mixture

Calories: 371

Fat; 12.8g

Fiber: 3.6g

Dutch Oven Sweet Tart Chicken

Dutch Oven Sweet Tart Chicken

Dutch Oven Sweet Tart Chicken

 

Canola oil spray

½ medium onion, halved and sliced

3 or 4 chicken thighs (½ to ¾ pound)

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 T. pomegranate molasses

2 T. whole-grain mustard

2 or 3 unpeeled boiling potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes

⅓ acorn squash, peeled or not, seeded, and cut in large chunks

6 ounces Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise

4 to 6 cremini mushrooms, thickly sliced

 

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Spray the inside and lid of a cast iron Dutch oven with canola oil. Scatter the onion evenly in the pot. Arrange the chicken in a layer and lightly season with salt. In a small bowl, whisk the pomegranate molasses and mustard until the mustard is almost emulsified. Pour half the mixture over the chicken.  Arrange the potatoes on top, followed by the squash, and lightly season with salt and pepper. Scatter the Brussels sprouts over the squash, then top with the mushrooms. Pour the rest of the mustard mixture over all. Cover and bake for about 45 minutes, or until 3 minutes after the aroma of a fully cooked meal escapes the oven. Serve immediately

Chicken Thighs with Marsala-Mushroom Cream Sauce over Noodles

Chicken Thighs with Marsala-Mushroom Cream Sauce over Noodles

 

1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed without oil

4 (6-ounce) chicken thighs, skinned

1/2 teaspoon salt, divided

1/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided

2 teaspoons olive oil

2 cups quartered button mushrooms

1 1/2 cups sliced fresh shiitake mushroom caps (about 3 ounces)

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1-3 garlic clove, minced

1 bay leaf

1/3 cup fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth

5 tablespoons Marsala wine, divided

3 tablespoons half-and-half

4 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

2 cups hot cooked wide egg noodles

 

Combine boiling water and the sun-dried tomatoes in a bowl; let stand 15 minutes. Drain and chop. Sprinkle chicken with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sauté 5 minutes, turning once. Remove chicken from pan. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, and mushrooms; sauté 2 minutes. Add thyme, garlic, and bay leaf; sauté for 30 seconds. Return chicken to pan. Add sun-dried tomatoes, broth, and 1/4 cup wine. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 25 minutes, turning chicken once. Add 1 tablespoon wine and half-and-half, and bring to a boil. Discard bay leaf. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve over noodles.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Serving size: 1 thigh, 1/4 cup sauce, and 1/2 cup noodles

 

Calories: 333

Fat: 10.2g

Fiber: 3.4g

Dutch Oven Pomegranate Chicken

Dutch Oven Pomegranate Chicken

Dutch Oven Pomegranate Chicken

 

2 tsp. sesame oil

1 medium sweet potato, cubed

3 or 4 chicken thighs (½ to ¾ pound)

Sea salt and freshly ground white pepper

2 T. pomegranate molasses

2 T. peanut butter

1 T. soy sauce

½ head broccoli, cut into florets (about 2 cups)

One 15-ounce can diced tomatoes (not drained)

 

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Wipe the inside and lid of a cast iron Dutch oven with sesame oil. Scatter the sweet potato in the pot. Top with the chicken and lightly season with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, whisk the pomegranate molasses, peanut butter, and soy sauce. Pour over the chicken. Add the broccoli in an even layer. Pour the can of tomatoes and their juice evenly overall.  Cover and bake for 45 minutes, or until 3 minutes after the aroma of a fully cooked meal escapes the oven. Serve immediately.