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Category: Poultry

Southwestern Chicken and Black Bean Burritos

Southwestern Chicken and Black Bean Burritos

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. chili powder

 Cayenne pepper sauce, to taste

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 medium Spanish onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 (15 oz. ) can black beans, rinsed and drained

3 T. smoky barbecue sauce

 Kosher salt

 Cracked black pepper

1 romaine lettuce, heart shredded

6 green onions, thinly sliced

2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped

4 (10-12 inch) flour tortillas

 

Rub chicken with cumin, chili powder, and cayenne sauce. Heat griddle pan over high heat; cook chicken breasts 4 minutes on each side; remove from heat. While the chicken is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat; add olive oil to the pan. Add in onions and garlic; cook about 5 minutes or until soft. Add in beans and barbecue sauce; stir to combine. Chop cooked chicken breasts and drop into barbecued beans; heat mixture through; season with salt and pepper to taste. Pile chicken and beans onto tortilla; top with lettuce, green onions, and tomatoes; wrap and roll. Serve with chips and salsa.

30 Minute Lemon Chicken

30 Minute Lemon Chicken

Cooking spray

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 1/2 inch strips

2 C. chopped onion

1 C. chopped red bell pepper

2 C. instant rice

1/4 C. fresh lemon juice

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper (black)

1 (14 oz) can chicken broth

1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained

2 T. grated Romano or parmesan cheese

 

Heat Dutch oven over med/high heat. coat pan with cooking spray. add chicken, onion, & bell pepper – sauté for 5 minutes. Stir in rice, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and broth. bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer about 15 minutes (until rice is tender) Stir in artichokes, cook 1 minute or until thoroughly heated. sprinkle with cheese & serve!

Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

 

Salad:

1 1/2 C. finely diced cooked chicken meat (6 oz., about 1 1/2 breast halves)

6 canned peeled water chestnuts, rinsed and chopped

1 carrot, peeled and shredded

1 small celery rib, finely diced

1/2 C. diced apple, such as Gala or Golden Delicious (about 1/2 apple)

 

Dressing:

1 T. natural peanut butter or sesame tahini

1 T. seasoned rice vinegar

3/4 T. soy sauce

2 T. mayonnaise

1 T. minced fresh chives (optional)

1/4 C. roasted soy nuts or coarsely chopped unsalted peanuts

1 tsp. hot sesame oil (optional)

 

Combine the chicken, water chestnuts, carrot, celery and apple in a bowl and stir to mix. Whisk together the peanut butter, vinegar and soy sauce until smooth. Whisk in the mayonnaise and chives, if using, spoon the dressing over the salad, and mix well. Sprinkle with soy nuts just before serving.

Chicken Yakitori with Scallions

Chicken Yakitori with Scallions

Chicken Yakitori with Scallions

Teriyaki sauce:

1/4 C. rice wine vinegar

2 T. brown sugar

1/4 C. soy sauce

1 T. fresh ginger root, coating scraped off with the tip of a spoon and finely minced

2 T. sliced scallions, white and tender green parts only (1 or 2 scallions)

1/4 C. cornstarch dissolved in 1/4 C. water

2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 C. sake

12 bamboo skewers

2 leeks, white parts only, soaked in salt water to remove grit and sliced on the bias into 1-inch lengths

To make the teriyaki sauce, heat the rice wine vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, and scallions to boiling over medium heat. Let cook for 7 minutes, then whisk in cornstarch slurry and cook for another 3 minutes or so, to allow to thicken. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.  Arrange the chicken cubes in a shallow nonreactive container such as a glass baking dish. Season with salt and pepper and rub into the chicken. Pour the sake over the chicken and then pour in the teriyaki sauce. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.  Begin soaking about 12 bamboo skewers in water so they won’t burn on the grill.  Heat the grill and thread alternate pieces of chicken and leeks on the skewers. Each skewer should have approximately 3 pieces of chicken, and each serving will consist of 3 skewers. Grill over indirect heat until the chicken is tender but not dry, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Sesame Noodles with Chicken

Sesame Noodles with Chicken

Kosher salt

1 pound spaghetti or Chinese egg noodles

2 T. toasted sesame oil

1 garlic clove, peeled

1 (1-inch) piece peeled fresh ginger

1/2 C. smooth peanut butter

1/4 C. soy sauce

2 T. dark brown sugar

1 T. rice vinegar

3/4 tsp. crushed red pepper

1/4 C. hot water

1 Kirby cucumber, halved and sliced

1 C. shredded cooked chicken

6 scallions (white and green parts), sliced

1/4 C. dry-roasted peanuts, chopped

 

Bring a large pot of cold water to a boil over high heat. When the pasta water boils, salt it generously, add the spaghetti or noodles, and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold running water. Put the spaghetti in a large bowl and toss with the sesame oil. To make the Peanut Sauce: In a blender drop in the garlic and ginger while the motor is running. When the chopping is complete, stop the machine and add the peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and red pepper. Process until smooth, then–with the blender running–slowly pour in the water. To serve, toss the spaghetti with the Peanut Sauce, then top with the cucumber, chicken, scallions, and peanuts.

Lemongrass Coq Au Vin

Lemongrass Coq Au Vin

Lemongrass Coq Au Vin

 

4- to 5-pound chicken, skinned and cut into 8 pieces (4 breast pieces, 2 legs, and 2 thighs)

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

3 1/2 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, if thickening the sauce

1 1/2 cups chopped shallots (1/4 pound)

5 cups quartered shiitake mushrooms (1/2 pound)

4 stalks fresh lemongrass

1 tablespoon minced garlic

3 cups dry vermouth

2 cups low-sodium stock

About 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, if thickening the sauce

 

Wash the chicken pieces and pat dry, then season each piece with salt and pepper. Set aside. In a large skillet with a lid, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil and the 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and golden brown, about 7 minutes. Transfer the shallots to a plate and set aside. Add the mushrooms to the hot pan and another 1/2 tablespoon oil if necessary and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are evenly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and add to the plate with the shallots. Add another 2 tablespoons oil to the pan and brown the chicken in batches, taking care not to crowd them in the pan. Transfer the pieces to a separate plate when they are fully browned.

 

Meanwhile, cut the bottom third from each stalk of lemongrass, peel off any outer fibrous skin, and finely mince the tender portion inside; you should have about 1/4 cup minced lemongrass (don’t worry if it’s a little more or a little less). Cut the remaining upper two thirds of the stalks into 2-inch lengths and set aside. Turn the heat to low, add the minced lemongrass and the garlic to the pan, and cook for 10 to 25 seconds, until they release an aroma but are not browned. Turn the heat to high, add the vermouth, and deglaze the pan by scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom and sides of the pan with a wooden spoon. Boil until reduced by about a quarter, 8 to 10 minutes. Return the chicken to the pan and add the stock. Scatter the 2-inch pieces of lemongrass around the chicken, cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer until the chicken is tender and cooked through, 35 to 40 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and discard the pieces of lemongrass. If you want to thicken the sauce (I often don’t), knead the remaining 3 1/2 tablespoons butter with the flour until thoroughly mixed and whisk into the pan juices. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook until the floury taste is gone and the liquid is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. If it’s not thick enough, knead together an additional 2 teaspoons flour and 1/2 tablespoon butter and whisk it in, simmering until the liquid has thickened. Add the chicken, mushrooms, and shallots to the pan, lower the heat, and baste with the sauce. Cook until the chicken pieces are heated through, about 10 minutes, and serve.

Portuguese Chicken

Portuguese Chicken

4 all-purpose potatoes, such as russets, peeled and cut into quarters

4 carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces on a diagonal

3 ribs celery, cut into large pieces on an angle

1 large onion, cut into large chunks

1 C. dry white wine

2 tsp. sugar

1 tsp. salt

1 T. extra-virgin olive oil, eyeball it

2 C. chicken broth

3/4 pound chorizo, cut into 1 1/2 inch slices on an angle

4 pieces poached cooked chicken, leftover from potage, sliced on an angle into 1-inch strips

1 C. tomato sauce

1/4 C. chopped flat-leaf parsley

Crusty Portuguese bread or other chewy, farm bread, for passing at the table

 

Place potatoes, carrots, celery and onion in a pot. Pour in wine, add sugar, salt, and oil. Add 2 C. of chicken broth. Cover pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes. While vegetables cook, brown chorizo in a small nonstick skillet over medium high heat. If your leftover chicken was frozen, defrost in microwave. If the leftovers were refrigerated, continue with recipe method as below. Remove the cover from the vegetables and add chorizo to the vegetables. Stir in tomato sauce. Set cooked chicken into the pot and heat through, 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning. Ladle Portuguese Chicken into shallow bowls and garnish with parsley. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

 

Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken Noodle Soup

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 medium carrots, cut diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick slices

2 celery ribs, halved lengthwise, and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices

4 fresh thyme sprigs

1 bay leaf

2 quarts chicken stock

8 ounces dried wide egg noodles

1 1/2 C. shredded cooked chicken

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 handful fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped

 

Place a soup pot over medium heat and coat with the oil. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme and bay leaf. Cook and stir for about 6 minutes, until the vegetables are softened but not browned. Pour in the chicken stock and bring the liquid to a boil. Add the noodles and simmer for 5 minutes until tender. Fold in the chicken, and continue to simmer for another couple of minutes to heat through; season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Chicken Caliente

Chicken Caliente

Butter, for greasing casserole

2 1/2 C. large-diced cooked chicken

3 C. cooked rice

1 C. sliced celery

1 C. sliced green bell pepper

1 C. sliced onion

1/2 C. mayonnaise

1/2 C. sour cream

2 T. freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 T. chili powder

2 tsp. fine salt

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. hot sauce

3 tomatoes, cut into wedges

1 1/2 C. corn chips, crushed

 

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 2-quart casserole dish. In a bowl, combine all the ingredients except the chips and mix well. Transfer the mixture to the buttered dish, top with the chips, and bake until hot and bubbling, about 30 to 35 minutes. Serve immediately

Chicken Cakes with Tangy Remoulade Sauce

Chicken Cakes with Tangy Remoulade Sauce

1 T. unsalted butter

1/2 C. finely chopped yellow onions

1/4 C. finely chopped celery

3 T. seeded and finely chopped red bell pepper

3 T. seeded and finely chopped yellow bell pepper

2 tsp. minced garlic

3/4 tsp. salt

Pinch cayenne pepper

3 C. cooked chicken, finely shredded while warm

3 T. finely chopped green onion tops, green part only

3/4 C. dried fine bread crumbs

1/3 C. mayonnaise

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 T. Creole mustard

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

3/4 C. vegetable oil

1 recipe Tangy Remoulade Sauce, recipe follows

 

Melt the butter in a small saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, celery, and bell peppers. Cook, stirring, until the vegetables are soft and slightly golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the garlic, 1/4 tsp. of the salt, and the cayenne. Cook for 1 minute longer. Remove the pan from the heat and cool for 5 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooled vegetables, green onions, 1/2 C. of the bread crumbs, mayonnaise, eggs, and Creole mustard. Season mixture with the remaining 1/2 tsp. of the salt and the pepper and mix well. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions, about 1/4 C. each, and form them into round 1/2-inch thick cakes or patties. Place the remaining 1/4 C. of bread crumbs in a shallow dish and dredge each cake in the bread crumbs, pressing gently to coat. Place cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes. In a large saute pan with high sides heat the vegetable oil to 360 degrees F. Gently lay the chilled cakes in the oil, 3 to 4 at a time, and fry until lightly golden, 1 to 2 minutes on each side. Remove cakes with a slotted spatula and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with the Tangy Remoulade Sauce.

 

Tangy Remoulade Sauce

 

2 T. Creole or whole-grain mustard

2 T. chopped green onion tops, green part only

1 1/2 tsp. prepared horseradish

1 tsp. chopped garlic

1 tsp. yellow mustard

1 tsp. hot sauce

1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 T. fresh lemon juice

1 large egg

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

1/2 C. plus 2 T. vegetable oil

2 T. chopped fresh parsley leaves

1 to 2 hard boiled eggs, chopped

1 1/2 T. drained and coarsely chopped capers

 

In the bowl of a food processor or blender, add the Creole mustard, green onions, horseradish, garlic, mustard, hot sauce, Worcestershire, lemon juice, egg, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth, about 30 seconds. With the motor running, slowly pour the vegetable oil into the blender or food processor in a slow, steady stream. Add the parsley and pulse to combine. Transfer to a container, fold in the chopped eggs and capers, cover, and refrigerate for 1 hour before using. This sauce will keep, refrigerated, for up to 24 hours.

Chicken Scarpariello

Chicken Scarpariello

1 small red bell pepper

1 small yellow bell pepper

1/4 C. olive oil

1 (4 pound chicken) cut into 12 pieces

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

6 ounces fresh sweet fennel sausage, cut on the diagonal into 16 thin slices

2 C. thinly sliced white or cremini mushrooms

1 T. plus 1 tsp. all-purpose flour

1 T. plus 1 tsp. red wine vinegar (preferably Italian)

1 1/2 C. chicken broth

1/2 C. homemade tomato sauce or good quality store bought sauce

1 heaping T. chopped parsley leaves

 

Spear the peppers with a kitchen fork or skewer and hold them over an open flame until charred all over. Place the charred peppers in a paper bag or in a covered container until they are cool enough to handle. (This step completes the cooking of the peppers and facilitates removing the skin.) Rub off the skins (never run them under water, which washes away the flavorful oils), cut the peppers in half lengthwise, and discard the stems and seeds. Cut the pepper halves into 1/4-inch wide strips and set aside. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the chicken pieces with 1 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. pepper and cook until lightly browned, about 2 minutes on each side. Transfer the chicken to a plate and reserve. Add the sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, about 2 minutes. (Reduce the heat as needed to keep the skillet from burning.) Toss in the mushrooms and cook along with the sausage, stirring until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the peppers and stir in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, stir in the vinegar, broth and tomato sauce and bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Season with 1/2 tsp. salt and a pinch of pepper. Return the sauteed chicken pieces to the skillet along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Cover the skillet and simmer gently, until the chicken is just cooked through, 30 to 35 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a warm serving platter. Return the skillet to the heat and reduce the liquid until it thickens to a sauce consistency, about 1 to 2 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Spoon the sauce, mushrooms, peppers and sausage over the chicken. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Mini Mex Rolls

Mini Mex Rolls

1 chicken breast, cooked and finely chopped

1/4 C. taco seasoning

1/2 C. water

1 1/2 C. shredded pepper Jack cheese

1/2 C. diced roasted red pepper

1/2 C. chopped pickled jalapenos

1/2 C. corn

1 scallion, chopped

1/2 C. black beans

1 egg

2 T. water

Wonton or egg roll wrappers

Canola oil, for frying

 

Heat the cooked chicken, seasoning and water on medium heat until the liquid thickens and gets absorbed into the chicken. Set aside. Combine the cheese, red peppers and jalapenos in a blender until finely chopped. Place in a mixing bowl and stir in corn, scallions, beans, and chicken mixture. Combine well and set aside. Whisk together the egg and water and set aside. Place wonton or egg roll wrappers on a flat surface and brush the outer edges with egg wash mixture. If you’re using wonton wrappers, attach 2 together with egg wash mixture to make a longer rectangle. Place 2 heaping T. of Mex mixture onto wrapper and spread into a log shape. Fold over ends of wrapper approximately 1/2-inch to cover ends of log shaped mixture. After ends are turned in, roll up and seal. Deep-fry the Mini Mex Rolls in canola oil heated to 375 degrees F until they float. Remove and drain, and allow to cool for several minutes before serving.

Mexican Chopped Salad with Toasted Cumin Vinaigrette

Mexican Chopped Salad with Toasted Cumin Vinaigrette

Cooking spray

2 ears fresh or frozen cob corn, thawed

4 reserved cooked chicken breast halves, diced

1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained

1 C. Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese, shredded

1/2 C. Spanish olives, sliced

1/2 C. tomatoes, diced

1 Granny Smith apple, cored and diced

1/4 C. pickled jalapenos, sliced

2 T. chopped fresh cilantro leaves

2 T. olive oil

1 tsp. ground cumin

1/4 C. cider vinegar

 

Heat a stove-top grill pan or griddle with cooking spray and set over medium-high heat to preheat. Place corn on hot pan and cook 3 to 5 minutes, until golden brown on all sides, turning frequently. Remove from heat and cool. When cool enough to handle, slice kernels from cob. Transfer kernels to a large bowl and add chicken, beans, cheese, olives, tomatoes, apple, jalapenos, and cilantro. Toss to combine. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin and cook 1 minute, or until fragrant. Remove from heat and whisk in vinegar. Add dressing to chicken mixture and toss to coat. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Chicken-Green Chili Straws with Jalapeno-Honey Dip

Chicken-Green Chili Straws with Jalapeno-Honey Dip

Cooking spray

1 1/2 C. cooked chicken thigh meat, chopped

1/2 C. sour cream

1/3 C. shredded Mexican cheese blend (recommended: Kraft or Sargento)

1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles

2 T. chopped fresh cilantro leaves

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 package egg roll wrappers

1 C. honey

3 T. chopped pickled jalapenos

1 T. cider vinegar

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine chicken, sour cream, cheese, green chiles, cilantro, and cumin. Mix well to combine. Arrange egg roll wrappers on a flat surface. Place a small amount of filling in the lower third (towards 1 corner) of each wrapper. Fold over the bottom corner of the wrapper, tightly roll up 1 turn and then fold in the sides. Dip your finger in water and run it along the corner and edge. Tightly roll up the rest of the way, sealing the edges and seam shut. Place “straws” on prepared baking sheet and spray with cooking spray. Bake 10 to 12 minutes, until golden brown. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine honey, pickled jalapenos and vinegar. Mix well and serve alongside straws.

Curry Chicken Pot Pie

Curry Chicken Pot Pie

4 C. frozen vegetable mix, peas, carrots

1 to 2 T. canola oil

3 T. butter

1 C. chopped onion

1 C. chopped celery

1 1/2 C. low sodium chicken broth

1/2 C. milk

3 T. flour

1 tsp. curry powder

2 T. dried parsley

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. fresh ground pepper

2 C. cubed cooked chicken

1 package puff pastry

 

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Toss frozen vegetables with canola oil and spread evenly onto a sheet pan. Place into oven and cook until golden brown. In a saute pan heat 1 T. of butter and sweat the onion and celery. In another saucepan, heat the broth and milk. Add 2 more T. of butter to the celery mix and cook out the water. Add the flour and curry and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk in the hot milk mixture and cook until thickened. Add the parsley, salt and pepper. Toss the browned vegetables and the chicken. Pour into a shallow baking pan, or a large terra cotta pot base, lined with foil, and top with 6 to 8 circles of puff pastry. Place into the oven and cook until puff pastry has browned and the mixture is hot and bubbly, about 25 minutes.

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

1 tsp. olive oil 

1 1/2 C. sliced onion 

1 T. minced garlic 

1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced 

1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced 

10 whole nicoise olives or 5 pitted black olives, chopped 

1/4 tsp. fennel seeds 

1/8 tsp. dried rosemary 

1/8 tsp. dried thyme 

pinch of red pepper flakes 

1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs 

2 tsp. red wine vinegar 

1/8 tsp. ground black pepper 

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a large, nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Add the bell peppers. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5 to 6 minutes, or until softened. Add the olives, fennel, rosemary, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute longer. Place the chicken in a shallow baking dish and arrange in a single layer. Drizzle with the vinegar and sprinkle with the black pepper. Spoon the vegetable mixture over the chicken. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.

Oak Town Garlic Vinegar Chicken

Oak Town Garlic Vinegar Chicken

6 T. olive oil, divided

2 medium yellow onions, julienned

2 Anaheim chiles, cleaned and julienned

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

3/4 C. minced garlic, divided

8 ounces beer

8 ounces chicken stock

2 T. all-purpose flour

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tsp. dried oregano

1 tsp. paprika

1/2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 C. red wine vinegar

3 T. green onions, sliced

 

In large saute pan over medium heat add 2 T. oil, onions, chiles and saute for 3 minutes until translucent. Add chicken thighs and lightly brown. Add 1/4 C. garlic and saute. Deglaze with beer and chicken stock. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until chicken is 3/4 of the way cooked. Remove chicken from saute pan, and let cool, reserve pan and braising broth. In medium saute pan heat another 2 T. olive oil and lightly caramelize remaining 1/2 C. garlic. When done, remove from heat, and let cool. In medium mixing bowl, combine, flour, salt and pepper, oregano, paprika, and chili powder. Combine thoroughly, add cooked garlic and mix into a paste. Take cooled, cooked chicken and press paste on to the chicken. Heat remaining 2 T. of olive oil in garlic pan, and gently place chicken in the pan. Lightly brown chicken on both sides. Simmer reserved braising broth and add red wine vinegar. When chicken is cooked on both sides, pour vinegar broth over chicken and let simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions.

Red-Cooked Chicken Thighs

Red-Cooked Chicken Thighs

4 pounds chicken thighs (about 8)

2 T. Asian seasoning (Toasted Sesame Seeds, Salt, Onion, Garlic, Thyme, Red Pepper, Coriander, White Pepper, Lemon Grass and Cilantro)

1 1/4 C. chopped green onions

2 T. minced ginger

4 C. chicken stock

2 C. water

1 C. soy sauce

1/2 C. Chinese wine or medium-dry Sherry

2 T. rice wine vinegar

4 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks

4 whole star anise

4 tsp. cornstarch dissolved in 8 tsp. water

 

Season the chicken thighs with the Asian seasoning. Heat a large Dutch oven over high heat. Add the chicken and cook, turning, until brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. With tongs, transfer to a plate. Lower the heat to medium and add 1 C. of the green onions and cook until tender, about 1 minute. Add the ginger and cook for 30 seconds. Add the stock, water, soy sauce, wine, vinegar, cinnamon and star anise and bring to a boil. Lower the temperature and simmer for 20 minutes. Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and braise over medium-low heat until tender, about 45 minutes. Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Increase the heat to medium, add the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring, until the sauce is thick and shiny, about 5 minutes. To serve, spoon the rice into the center of each of 4 large plates. Arrange 2 thighs on the rice and spoon the sauce over the chicken. Garnish with the remaining 1/4 C. of green onions.

Chicken and Egg Soup with Pastina

Chicken and Egg Soup with Pastina

1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

1/2 (2 1/2-to-3-pound) rotisserie chicken (on the bone)

2 C. low-sodium chicken broth

2 lemons

1/2 C. pastina (small pasta)

2 large eggs plus 2 egg yolks

2 C. baby spinach or other baby greens

1/4 C. chopped fresh dill

Crumbled feta cheese, for garnish (optional)

 

Heat the 1/4 C. olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the onion, 1 tsp. salt, and pepper to taste; cook until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken, the broth, 4 C. water and the juice of 1 lemon; cover and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium, add the pastina and simmer until the pasta is cooked and the soup thickens slightly, about 15 minutes. Remove the chicken; when cool enough to handle, pull the meat off the bone and shred into bite-size pieces.

 

Remove the soup from the heat. Whisk the juice of the remaining lemon with the whole eggs and yolks in a medium bowl until frothy. Gradually whisk a ladleful of the hot soup into the egg mixture, then stir the warm egg mixture into the soup and return to medium-low heat. Cook until creamy, about 1 minute. Stir in the shredded chicken, spinach and dill, and season with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls; garnish with feta, if desired.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 425

Fat: 27g

Fiber: 1g

Indian Chicken in Tomato Cream Sauce

Indian Chicken in Tomato Cream Sauce

Spice Blend:

1 T. garam masala seasoning

1 1/2 tsp. ground ginger

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp. cayenne

Sauce:

3 T. butter

1 large onion, chopped (about 1 C.)

2 tsp. jarred minced garlic

1 T. tomato paste

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes in juice

1 skinless rotisserie chicken, boned out and pulled into 1 1/2 by 1/2-inch chunks

1 (10-ounce) box frozen peas, placed in a colander and run under hot water to thaw

1/3 C. heavy whipping cream

 

Hot basmati rice, for serving

Pita bread, warmed according to package directions, for serving

 

To make the spice blend: Stir the ingredients together in a small bowl and set aside. To make the sauce: Melt the butter in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the pieces just begin to turn gold, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, tomato paste and spice blend, and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The spices will be fragrant. Add the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes and stir will. Add the chicken pieces, spoon the sauce over the top and bring to a simmer. Turn the heat to low and cook, uncovered, until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is flavorful, about 10 minutes. Stir frequently. Remove the chicken to a serving dish and cover to keep warm. Shake any excess water from the peas. Add the peas and cream to the sauce in the pan, stir well and heat through. Do not boil. Spoon the sauce over the chicken. Serve with rice and warmed pita bread. Variation: If you prefer shreds of chicken to whole pieces, remove the skin from the chicken and pull the meat into large chunks by hand. Add to the pan along with the garlic, tomato paste and spice blend. Cook for 3 minutes and then add the tomato sauce and continue with the recipe. Serve over basmati rice.

Spicy Chicken Empanadas with Orange Salsa Verde

Spicy Chicken Empanadas with Orange Salsa Verde

2 T. vegetable oil

1 medium yellow onion, finely diced

1 can diced green chiles

1/2 jalapeno, seeded and finely diced, optional

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1 rotisserie chicken, picked and finely chopped

2 T. fresh lime juice

1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro leaves

2 C. grated pepper jack cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Prepared pie dough

1 egg mixed with 1 T. water, for egg wash

Peanut oil, for fryer

Orange Salsa Verde dipping sauce, recipe follows

 

Heat vegetable oil in a medium sauté pan, add onions, green chiles, jalapenos, garlic and cumin and sauté until onions are translucent. In large bowl combine chicken, lime juice and cilantro. Add the onion-chili mixture and mix. Stir in cheese and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Using a 4-inch ring mold, cut circles from prepared pie dough. Put about 1 T. of the chicken mixture in center of dough. Brush egg wash around circumference of the dough. Fold top half over to form a half circle. Seal with the tines of a fork. Heat a deep-fryer to 325 degrees F. with peanut oil. Submerge a few empanadas into oil until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels. Cool slightly and serve with Orange Salsa Verde dipping sauce. Cook’s Note: Make sure to flip so both sides cook evenly.

 

Orange Salsa Verde:

 

1 jar prepared salsa verde

1/4 C. fresh orange juice

1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper or 1/2 tsp. hot sauce (recommended: Tabasco)

 

In a large bowl combine all ingredients.

Stuffed Shells with Chicken and Arugula and Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Stuffed Shells with Chicken and Arugula and Creamy Alfredo Sauce

6 jumbo pasta shells (conchiglioni)

2 1/2 C. ricotta cheese

1/2 C. grated Parmesan

1 T. olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 C. arugula

2 C. chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

4 T. butter

1 clove garlic, minced

2 T. all-purpose flour

2 C. heavy cream

1/2 C. milk

3 T. chopped fresh chives

1 C. plus 3 T. grated Parmesan

1 C. grape tomato halved

Italian parsley for garnish

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Butter a 9 by 13-inch glass baking dish and set aside. Bring a large pot of water to a boil add the pasta shells and cook for approximately 9 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water being careful not to break the shells. Set aside. Meanwhile prepare the filling. In a large bowl mix together the ricotta and Parmesan. Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat, add the garlic, and cook 1 minute, being careful not to brown it. Stir in the arugula until just wilted, about 2 minutes. Add the chopped chicken and stir well. Remove from heat and let cool for about 10 minutes. Add chicken mixture to cheese mixture and stir carefully. Stuff each shell with approximately 1/2 C. of the cheese filling and place in prepared baking dish. For sauce, heat the butter in medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not brown. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add the cream and milk and whisk until mixture begins to thicken and bubble. Remove from heat and add the chives, 1 C. Parmesan, cherry tomatoes and stir gently. Pour sauce over shells and sprinkle with remaining 3 T. of Parmesan. Bake for 30 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and cheese is golden brown. Sprinkle with parsley. FNK Notes: Recipe makes too much filling

Mango Honey Chicken with Mango Slices

Mango Honey Chicken with Mango Slices

2 C. honey

1 C. mango juice

1/2 C. light brown sugar

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 (3 to 4-pound) whole rotisserie chicken

2 mangos, peeled and sliced 1-inch thick

Toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes

1 bunch basil, for garnish

 

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. For the glaze: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the honey, mango juice, brown sugar and lemon juice. Bring to a boil and cook until the sauce coats the back of a spoon, about 5 minutes. Place chicken on a nonstick cookie sheet. Using a pastry brush, coat chicken with a generous amount of glaze. Place mango slices over breast meat to create a zebra stripe. Insert toothpicks to secure slices into chicken. Bake chicken just until warmed throughout, about 12 minutes. Remove chicken and discard toothpicks. Garnish with fresh basil.

Rotisserie Turkey Posole

Rotisserie Turkey Posole

2 T. vegetable oil, 2 turns of the pan

2 medium onions, chopped

4 cloves garlic, chopped

2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped

1 T. ground cumin, a palm full

2 T. chopped fresh thyme leaves, eyeball it, 5 to 6 sprigs

Coarse salt and pepper

1 C. beer

16 tomatillos, peeled and coarsely chopped or coarsely processed in food processor

1 (15-ounce) can hominy (looks like jumbo corn and found on specialty food or canned vegetable aisle)

1 quart chicken stock (also stir in any leftover gravy)

1 1/2 to 2 pounds light and dark cooked turkey meat, chopped

1 lime, juiced

Finely chopped cilantro leaves, for garnish

Corn chips of choice, to top soup or dip

 

Heat a medium soup pot or large deep skillet over medium high heat. Add vegetable oil, 2 turns of the pan, then add the onions, garlic, jalapenos, cumin, thyme, and salt and pepper, to taste. Cook 5 to 6 minutes to soften onions then add beer and cook it off, 1 minute. Stir in tomatillos and cook 5 minute more then stir in the hominy, chicken stock, any leftover gravy (up to 2 C.) and the turkey. Heat through, adjust salt and pepper and simmer the posole 10 to 15 minutes over low heat. Stir in lime juice and remove from heat. Garnish soup with cilantro and serve with corn chips to top or dip. You may use thick cut deli turkey breast or cut up a rotisserie turkey breast in any flavor, widely available at larger markets who offer rotisserie chickens.

Individual Chicken Pot Pies

Individual Chicken Pot Pies

4 C. chicken broth

1 bouillon cube

1/2 C. (1 stick) butter

1 onion, finely chopped

2 large carrots cut in 1/2-inch rounds

1 rib celery, sliced

3 T. chopped chives

2 cloves garlic, chopped fine

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 C. all-purpose flour

1/4 C. heavy cream

3 T. dry sherry

1 store-bought 2-pound rotisserie chicken, shredded

1 (7-ounce) bag frozen pearl onions

1 (9-ounce) box frozen peas

2 (9-ounce) packages store-bought rolled out pie dough

1 egg beaten with 1 T. water

 

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. In a large saucepan heat chicken broth and bouillon cube over medium heat until hot. In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, chives and garlic, and saute until tender. Season with salt and pepper. Add the flour and stir together until it becomes pasty and lump-free, about 2 minutes. Stir in the hot broth, heavy cream, sherry, chicken and frozen onions and peas. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. With a ladle, fill 6ovenproof ramekins or bowls with the filling. Place on baking sheet. Sprinkle flour on countertop. Roll out dough an extra inch. Using a biscuit round or mold, cut out dough to cover the tops of your oven-proof bowls, with about 1/2-inch hangover, depending on their size. Crimp the dough over the edge of the ramekin. Brush with the egg wash and make 4 small slits on the top. Sprinkle with kosher salt and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and serve.

Better-For-You Burritos

Better-For-You Burritos

8 100 percent whole wheat flour tortillas (8″ diameter)

12 ounces ground turkey breast

3/4 C. chopped green bell pepper

1/2 C. chopped scallions

2 C. seeded and chopped plum tomatoes, divided

1/3 C. shredded carrot

1/4 C. low-sodium salsa

1 tsp. mild chili powder

8 romaine lettuce leaves

1/4 C. (1 ounce) shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

1/4 C. fat-free sour cream

 

Preheat the oven to 200ºF. Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil and heat in the oven. Meanwhile, coat a large nonstick skillet with vegetable oil spray and place over medium-high heat. Add the turkey, pepper, and scallions. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, for 8 minutes, or until the turkey is no longer pink. Drain the fat. Add 1 C. of the tomatoes and the carrot, salsa, and chili powder. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the cover and continue to cook until any liquid is evaporated. Trim the lettuce leaves so they are about 6″ long. Place a leaf onto the center of a warm tortilla. Press lightly to flatten the center. Spoon one-eighth of the turkey mixture over the leaf. Sprinkle with some of the cheese and some of the remaining tomatoes. Top with a dollop of sour cream. Roll up the tortilla to cover the filling and then fold in the ends. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Fat: 380

Fat: 8g

Fiber: 9g

Honey-Jalapeno Chicken with Sesame Soba Noodles

Honey-Jalapeno Chicken with Sesame Soba Noodles

12 ounces soba noodles

1 jalapeno, seeds removed

1/3 C. honey

1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro leaves

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

2 to 3 T. water

2 tsp. olive oil

1/2 rotisserie chicken, shredded or sliced

3 T. soy sauce

2 tsp. sesame oil

1/4 C. chopped scallions, green part only

2 T. pickled ginger, minced

 

Cook soba noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside (or refrigerate until later in the week). In a blender or food processor, combine jalapenos, honey, cilantro, and 1/2 tsp. each salt and black pepper and puree until smooth. Add 2 to 3 T. of water to the mixture until desired consistency is achieved. Pour the 2 tsp. of olive oil into a preheated skillet. Add the shredded chicken and the blended sauce and cook until heated through. In a medium bowl, combine cooked soba noodles, soy sauce, sesame oil, scallions, and pickled ginger. Toss and then transfer to serving bowl. Pour heated chicken and sauce over noodles.

Ravioli Caprese

Ravioli Caprese

Dough:

2 1/2 C. all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

1 C. very hot water

Filling:

3/4 C. whole milk ricotta

1 egg

1/2 C. finely shredded store-bought rotisserie chicken

1/4 C. grated Parmesan

2 T. finely chopped fresh basil leaves

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Sauce:

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil

3 T. chopped fresh basil leaves

2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

For the dough: In a large bowl combine the flour and the water. Using a wooden spoon, stir to combine into a large ball. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit for 10 minutes. For the filling: Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl and stir to combine. To form the ravioli, cut the dough into 4 evenly sized pieces. The dough should be slightly sticky. Add extra flour as necessary for rolling, but use only a little as necessary. Form each piece into a 2 by 6-inch rectangle. Recover the dough with the plastic wrap. Lightly dust the work surface and a rolling pin. Working with 1 piece of dough at a time, roll the dough into a 4 by 19-inch rectangle. Place 9 rounded tsp. of filling about 1-inch apart down the center of the dough. Fold the dough over the filling. Press down around the edges of each of the ravioli with your fingertips. Cut the ravioli into small squares and press down around the edges again with your fingertips to seal. Place the finished ravioli on a baking tray and continue forming the remaining ravioli. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add half the ravioli and cook until the ravioli float stirring occasionally, about 3 to 4 minutes. Drain into a large bowl and cook the remaining ravioli. Pour the olive oil over the cooked ravioli. Add the basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Gently toss to coat and serve immediately.

Chicken Carbonara

Chicken Carbonara

2 tsp. olive oil

4 ounces thinly sliced pancetta, chopped

2 tsp. minced garlic

2 1/2 C. whipping cream

1 C. freshly grated Parmesan

8 large egg yolks

1/4 C. chopped fresh basil leaves

1/4 C. chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves

Salt

1 pound spaghetti

4 C. coarsely shredded chicken (from 1 roasted rotisserie chicken)

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 C. chopped walnuts, toasted

1 T. finely grated lemon peel

 

Heat the oil in a heavy large frying pan over medium heat. Add the pancetta and garlic and saute until it is brown and crisp, about 8 minutes. Cool slightly. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream, cheese, yolks, basil, and parsley to blend. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook until it is just tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Drain. Add the chicken to the pan with the pancetta and stir to combine. Next, add the spaghetti and the cream mixture and toss over medium-low heat until the chicken is heated through and the sauce coats the spaghetti thickly, about 4 minutes (do not boil or you might end up scrambling the eggs). Season the pasta, to taste, with pepper and salt if needed (the pancetta will likely add all the salt you need). Transfer the pasta to a large wide serving bowl. Sprinkle the walnuts and lemon zest over, and serve.

Bell Peppers Stuffed with Quail (PIMIENTOS RELLENOS DE CODORNICES)

Bell Peppers Stuffed with Quail (PIMIENTOS RELLENOS DE CODORNICES)

Bell Peppers Stuffed with Quail (PIMIENTOS RELLENOS DE CODORNICES)5 T. olive oil

6– 12 boneless quail

6 slices of bacon

6 – 12 large bell peppers

¼ C. (½ stick) butter

salt

Sauce:

1 onion, finely chopped

20 grapes, peeled and seeded

5 T. red wine

5 T. white wine

a little meat sauce

1 bay leaf

 

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Heat the oil in a skillet. Add the quail and cook over low heat, turning occasionally, for a few minutes, but do not let them brown. Remove the quail from the pan and reserve the oil. Lightly season the quail with salt and put a slice of bacon into the cavity of each one. Cut out the stalks and remove the seeds from the bell peppers. Put each quail into a bell pepper and add a little butter. Put into an ovenproof baking dish and bake for about 1 hour. Meanwhile, make the sauce. Reheat the oil in the skillet. Add the onion and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, until softened. Add the grapes, red and white wine, meat sauce, and bay leaf, season to taste with salt, and cook for 10 minutes. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Serve the quail in the bell peppers and offer the sauce separately.

Tortilla Crusted Chicken with Fajita Veggies

Tortilla Crusted Chicken with Fajita Veggies

1 -2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin

1 T. Blackening or Taco seasoning

1 C. finely crushed tortilla chips

3 T. butter, melted

1 T. olive oil

1/2 green pepper, thinly sliced

1/2 onion, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 green onions, cut into 1 inch pieces

2 t. Blackening or Taco seasoning

1 tomato, sliced

 

Sprinkle chicken breasts on both sides with the blackening or taco seasoning. Coat both sides with crushed tortilla chips. Place on a cookie sheet and drizzle melted butter evenly over all the pieces. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes, until fully cooked. While the chicken cooks, heat the olive oil in a small skillet. Add the pepper and onion slices. Cook for 3 minutes. Add the garlic, green onions and seasoning. Cook an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in tomatoes. Serve the fajita veggies on top of or on the side of the chicken. Enjoy!

Spinach Artichoke Dip Casserole

Spinach Artichoke Dip Casserole

1 lb. pasta, fully cooked and drained (I used small shells.)

1/2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and cubed

1/2 bag frozen spinach, thawed

1 15 oz. can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

1 C. mayonnaise

1/3 C. sour cream

1 6 oz. bag shredded Parmesan cheese

1 T. horseradish, optional

1/2 t. each salt, black pepper, garlic powder

1/4 t. each nutmeg and cayenne pepper

1/2 C. grated Parmesan cheese, optional

 

Place all of the ingredients, except pasta, in a large bowl and stir until combined. Add pasta and toss to coat. Pour into a 13×9 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly. (For Stolen Moments style, simply cover the casserole dish with foil and refrigerate. Place in a preheated oven 30 minutes before dinner time.)

Monterrey Chicken Quesadillas

Monterrey Chicken Quesadillas

1/2 lb. shredded or diced cooked chicken (I used one large boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked in the oven)

3/4 C. barbecue sauce (bottled or homemade)

1/2 lb. bacon

1 onion, thinly sliced

2 C. shredded cheese (I use Monterrey Jack, but anything would work)

6 burrito-sized flour tortillas

Butter

 

Combine chicken and barbecue sauce. Set aside. Dice the bacon and add to a small skillet. Cook until desired crispness. Remove bacon from skillet with a slotted spoon to drain. Add the sliced onion to the bacon grease in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, until fully cooked. Remove onions with a slotted spoon and drain. Build quesadillas – on a tortilla layer cheese, chicken, bacon, onion, more cheese and top with a second tortilla. Cook quesadillas in a large skillet with melted butter.

Chicken Pesto Presto

Chicken Pesto Presto

4 plum tomatoes

1/2 C. shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

2 T. grated Parmesan cheese

1 pound thinly sliced chicken breast cutlets (8 pieces)

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. crushed red-pepper flakes

2 T. prepared pesto sauce

 

Preheat the broiler. Coat a rimmed baking sheet with olive oil cooking spray. Thinly slice the tomatoes lengthwise, discarding the core and the outside slices, to get 16 slices. Mix the mozzarella and Parmesan in a small bowl. Arrange the chicken cutlets on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with the salt and red-pepper flakes, and spread each with equal amounts of pesto. Broil the chicken 2″ to 4″ from the heat for 5 minutes, or until no longer pink in the thickest part and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven. Top each piece of chicken with 2 tomato slices, overlapping if necessary, and sprinkle evenly with the mixed cheeses. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes longer, just until the cheese is melted and the tomatoes are heated. Serve right away.

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

1 T. olive oil

1/2 C. chopped onion

1/2 C. chopped green bell pepper

1/2 C. chopped celery

2 tsp. minced garlic

1 tsp. dried thyme

1/4 tsp. salt

2 bay leaves

4 ounces turkey sausage links, cut into chunks

3 C. cooked red beans or canned red beans, rinsed and drained

1/2 C. chicken broth

Hot-pepper sauce

2 C. hot cooked instant brown rice

 

Set a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil. Heat for 30 seconds. Add the onion, pepper, celery, garlic, thyme, salt, and bay leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 minutes, or until starting to soften. Scrape the vegetables to one side of the pan. Add the sausage to the empty side. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the sausage is lightly browned. Add the beans and broth. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the flavors blend. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Add up to 1 tsp. of hot-pepper sauce. Serve over the rice. Pass the hot-pepper sauce at the table.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 403

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 12g

Simply Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas

Simply Sour Cream Chicken Enchiladas

1 lb chicken breast, diced

1 medium onion, chopped

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

8 (8 inch) flour tortillas, softened

1 1/2 cups grated Monterey jack cheese or Mexican blend cheese, divided

1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup flour

1 (15 ounce) can chicken broth

1 cup sour cream

1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies

 

In frying pan, cook chicken and onion together in oil over medium-high heat until chicken is just done. Divide cooked chicken evenly between 8 tortillas; add 1 1/2 tablespoons cheese to each tortilla. Roll enchiladas and place seam-side down in 9×13″ baking dish that has been lightly sprayed with no-stick cooking spray. Melt butter in a medium saucepan; stir in flour to make a roux; stir and cook until bubbly; gradually whisk in chicken broth then bring to boiling, stirring frequently. Remove from heat; stir in sour cream and green chiles; pour sauce evenly over enchiladas. Top with remaining 3/4 cup cheese (baking dish may be double-wrapped and frozen at this point) and bake at 400° for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and sauce near edges of baking dish is bubbly.

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice

3 large eggs

Salt and freshly ground pepper

Vegetable oil for frying

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into thin strips

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, finely minced

4 cups cold, cooked rice

6 green (spring) onions, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

Additional sliced green onions for garnish

 

Beat eggs with salt and pepper to taste. Heat very little oil in a frying pan and make an omelet with half the beaten eggs. Turn on to a plate to cool (do not fold omelet). Repeat process with remaining beaten eggs. Place one omelet on top of the other, fold and coarsely chop. Set aside.  In a medium bowl, toss chicken strips with the sesame oil; salt and pepper to taste.  Heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil over high heat in large frying pan or wok and stir-fry the prepared chicken strips until lightly golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes or until onion has softened. Add 2 tablespoons more vegetable oil and when hot, stir in the cooked rice and green onions, tossing and mixing thoroughly until very hot. Sprinkle with soy sauce and mix evenly. Remove from heat and stir in diced cooked egg. If desired, garnish with additional sliced green onions.

Chicken Mix and Broth

Chicken Mix and Broth

11 lb. chicken (4 medium fryers) cut up or 12 to 14 whole boneless chicken breasts instead of fryers

4 qt. cold water

3 T parsley flakes

4 carrots, peeled and chopped

4 t salt

1/2 t pepper

2 t dried basil leaves

 

Combine all ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover and cook over high heat until water boils. Simmer until chicken is tender about 1-1/2 hours. (Less time is required if you are using Chicken Breasts). Remove from heat. Strain broth and refrigerate until fat can be skimmed. Cool chicken, remove and discard bones and skin. Put chicken into six 1-pint freezer containers, leaving 1/2 inch space at top. Pour skimmed chicken broth into six more 1-pint containers, with 1/2-inch space at top. Seal and label with date and contents. Freeze. Use within 3 months. Makes 6 pints of Chicken Mix. Makes 6 pints of chicken broth.

Chinese Crock Pot Dinner

Chinese Crock Pot Dinner

1 lb. Chicken breasts cut into strips

1 large onion sliced

1 small green pepper sliced

1 can tomato sauce – (8 oz)

4 carrots sliced

3 T. brown sugar

1 T. vinegar

1 tsp. salt

2 tsp. Soy sauce

 

Cook chicken in a skillet with a small amount of oil until browned. Place all ingredients with pork in crock pot and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. Serve with hot rice.

Pretzel Chicken Fingers

Pretzel Chicken Fingers

1 lb. chicken breasts pounded flat and cut into fingers

½ C. butter or margarine, melted

2 t. hot sauce

2 1/2 C. finely crushed pretzel crumbs

1 t. dried thyme

1 t. pepper

Canola oil for frying

 

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the melted butter or margarine and hot sauce. In a second shallow bowl, mix pretzel crumbs, thyme and pepper. Dip chicken fingers in pretzels, then in butter mixture, then in pretzels again. For best results, coat the chicken early in the day and let sit in the refrigerator all day. This really helps the breading stay on when frying. Fry chicken in 1 1/2″ of hot oil in a medium-sized skillet. Cook 5 minutes on the first side, 3-4minutes on the second side. (If the chicken starts browning faster, you can finish the cooking process in the oven at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes.) Serve the chicken with any dipping sauces that you like. We really like ranch dressing or a cheese sauce.