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Category: Poultry

Instant Pot Chicken and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

Instant Pot Chicken and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

Instant Pot Chicken and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy

2 1/2 cups chicken broth

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp soy sauce

1/2 tsp minced garlic dried

1/2 tsp minced onion dried

1 tsp parsley dried

salt and pepper to taste

6 frozen chicken tenders

4 medium potatoes peeled and diced

1 T. cornstarch

1/4 cup water

 

Pour the chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, onion, and parsley into the Instant Pot liner. Add the chicken tenders to the pot. Peel and dice the potatoes and place in a steamer basket. Place the steamer basket on top of the chicken in the Instant Pot. Cook on manual HIGH for 6 minutes, allow for a 6 minute NPR. Remove the potatoes from the Instant Pot and mash the potatoes. I like to add 2 T. of butter and 1/4 cup of milk to the potatoes as I mash them. Then I season with salt and pepper.

Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and set aside. Turn the Instant Pot onto sauté. Create the cornstarch slurry with the cornstarch and water. Once the gravy is boiling, SLOWLY add the cornstarch slurry. Add only until the gravy is thickened to your liking. You may have some left over or you might not have quite enough, it just depends on how thick you like your gravy! Serve hot!

Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

1 chicken breast cut into 1 inch cubes

1 1/2 cup chicken broth

1 1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tsp minced garlic dried

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 lb linguine noodles broken in half

2 T. dry ranch mix

3/4-1 cup shredded parmesan cheese

1/2 cup bacon prepped and crumbled

 

Combine broth, heavy cream, garlic, salt and pepper in the liner of the Instant Pot. Put the 1 inch cubes of chicken into the broth and cream mixture in the Instant Pot liner. Take care to distribute the chunks evenly around the liner. Place the broken pasta on top of the chicken in the liquid. MAKE SURE ALL NOODLES ARE COVERED WITH LIQUID. Move the pasta around until they are all covered.

Secure lid in place, make sure the knob is set to seal. Cook on manual HIGH for 6 minutes NPR for 6 minutes and then QR. The sauce at this point will be very runny, don’t be scared. It is supposed to be that way.  Stir in the dry ranch dressing mix, mix thoroughly. Gradually add in the shredded parmesan cheese. Add in small amounts at a time, stirring in-between each addition. Serve in bowls and top with crispy bacon bits. Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken

Slow Cooker Creamy Lemon Chicken

5 chicken breasts boneless and skinless

6 tablespoons unsalted butter divided

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

2 lemons juiced and zested

2 garlic cloves minced

1 cup half and half

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon chicken base optional, but delicious!

 

In a large cast iron skillet add 1 tablespoon of butter to melt on medium high heat. Add the kosher salt, black pepper and Italian seasoning to the chicken and add it to the pan. Cook on each side for 4-6 minutes. Add the chicken to your slow cooker. Cover with lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic and the rest of the butter in pieces (I added the lemons in the before picture just for reference. Don’t cook the lemons in the slow cooker). Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. In a large measuring cup add the half and half, cornstarch and chicken base and whisk well. Add the liquid, mix, and cook an additional hour on high.

 

Yield: 5 servings

Calories: 465

Fat: 25g

Fiber: 1g

Seared Duck Breast with Huckleberry Gastrique

Seared Duck Breast with Huckleberry Gastrique

Seared Duck Breast with Huckleberry Gastrique

 

4 individual duck breasts, skin on, about 6-8 oz. each, patted dry

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup red wine vinegar

2 cups fruity, low-tannin zinfandel

1 1/2 cups huckleberries, fresh or frozen

1 cup roast chicken or duck stock

1 cup veal stock (I used 1/2 cup roast chicken stock and 1/2 cup beef stock)

sea salt

freshly ground black pepper

 

Use a sharp knife to score the duck skin of each breast in a criss cross pattern, about a 1-inch grid. Lightly salt the duck breasts on both sides and set aside. In a small nonreactive saucepan, combine the sugar and red wine vinegar. Set over medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar, then let the mixture boil until it reduces to about a third of the original volume. [The fumes will be quite potent, so open a window and run your hood vent.] When the liquid becomes syrupy enough that a spatula dragged across the bottom of the pan leaves a part for a second, remove from heat and set the vinegar syrup aside. In a larger saucepan, combine the wine and 1/2 cup of the huckleberries. Set over medium high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce the liquid until it is thick and syrupy (about 15-20 minutes for me). Add both stocks to the pan. Reduce the liquid by half (about 15-20 minutes). Stir half of the vinegar syrup into the sauce. Add more to taste until you achieve the right balance between sweet and sour. Stir in the rest of the huckleberries. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Heat a large sauté pan over high heat. When the pan is hot, place the duck breasts, skin-side down, in the pan in a single layer, taking care not to crowd them. Reduce the heat to medium and cook the duck, basting the tops of the duck breasts with the fat from the pan on occasion, until the skins are browned and crisp. Turn the breasts over and cook for another minute until seared. Remove the breasts from the stove and place each one skin-side down on the baking sheet. Bake in the oven for four minutes or until the duck is rare to medium rare. Medium rare should register 135°F on a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. Remove from oven and let the duck breasts rest on a plate for a few minutes. Slice each breast and serve with the huckleberry gastrique. Serves 4.

Sunshine Chicken

Sunshine Chicken

Sunshine Chicken

 

3 pounds chicken thighs

½ tsp. salt

¼ tsp. ground pepper

½ tsp. dried tarragon

1/2 C. orange juice

1 navel orange, peeled, sectioned

2 T. brandy

2 tsp. cider vinegar

1 tsp. grated orange peel

5 tsp. cornstarch

2 tsp. sugar or honey

1/2 seedless grapefruit, peeled, sectioned

1 C. chicken broth (from the last chicken you cooked)

 

Preheat to 350 deg. Arrange chicken skin up in 12x8x2″ baking dish. Season w/salt and pepper. Bake for 45 min.  In pan, mix cornstarch and sugar. Stir in broth, o.j., brandy, vinegar, peels and tarragon. Cook, stirring over med. heat until sauce boils and thickens, about 3 min. Stir in orange, grapefruit sections.  Spoon sauce and fruit over chicken. Return to oven for 15 min. longer, until chicken is “fork tender”.

Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

Slow-Cooker Lemon Chicken and Potatoes

1 red onion

6-8 chicken thighs

1-1.5 lb. baby potatoes

1 lemon

2 T. olive oil

2 T. honey

4 cloves garlic

1/2 T. fresh thyme leaves

sea salt

pepper

bunch thin green asparagus

 

Peel and slice red onion and add to the bottom of the slow cooker in one layer. Add chicken thighs on top in one layer. Wash and half baby potatoes and add to slow-cooker. In a small bowl mix zest of 1 lemon, juice of that same lemon, olive oil, honey, thyme, sea salt, pepper and finely chopped garlic and then pour over ingredients in slow cooker. Put lid on and secure, then set to high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours (depending on your schedule. 3 hours on high being the minimum and 4 the maximum and 6 hours being the minimum and 8 hours the maximum when set on low). 15-20 minutes before the time is over, set slow cooker to high and add asparagus on top and put lid back on. The thicker the asparagus, the longer it will take. optional but recommended: 5 minutes before the time is over, remove the chicken thighs, place on a baking sheet and put under the broiler on high for 3-5 minutes or until the skin is golden. Enjoy!

Chicken with Provençal White Bean and Vegetable Ragout

Chicken with Provençal White Bean and Vegetable Ragout

Chicken with Provençal White Bean and Vegetable Ragout

4 boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts (about 6 oz. each), pounded to ½” thickness

½ tsp. Salt, divided

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 small onion, chopped

1 large carrot, peeled and finely diced

1 small zucchini, diced

4 ounces thin green beans or haricots verts, trimmed and cut into i-inch pieces

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons chopped, fresh thyme, or 1/2 teaspoon dried

2 tablespoons tomato paste

cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 (15-ounce) can low-sodium white beans, such as cannellini, drained and rinsed

½ cup packed fresh basil leaves, sliced into ribbons, divided

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

 

Season the chicken with V4 teaspoon each of the salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add two pieces of the chicken, lower the heat to medium, and cook until they are browned on both sides and cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm. Repeat with another tablespoon of oil and the remaining two pieces of chicken, transferring the chicken to the plate and covering with foil. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan, then add the onion and carrot and cook, stirring frequently, to dissolve any browned bits from the chicken still in the pan, until the onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Add the zucchini, green beans, garlic, thyme, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon each of the salt and pepper and cook, stirring for 1 minute. Stir in the tomato paste to incorporate, then add the broth and beans and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in V4 cup of the basil and the lemon juice. To serve, spoon the vegetable mixture onto serving plates and top each with a piece of chicken. Garnish with fresh basil. The chicken and vegetable mixture will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Chicken Casalinga

Chicken Casalinga

Chicken Casalinga

 

1 dozen littleneck clams, scrubbed

21/2  lb. frying chicken, cut into 8 pieces

salt and pepper

paprika

1/2 cup flour

1/3 cup oil

1 garlic clove

1 medium-sized onion, chopped

1 cup chicken stock

1/2 tsp. dried marjoram leaves

1 bay leaf, crumbled

½ green pepper, seeded and cut into strips

½ sweet red pepper, seeded and cut into strips

4 tomatoes, quartered

1/2 lb. large fresh mushrooms sliced

 

Sprinkle the chicken pieces with salt, pepper and paprika and dredge them with flour. In a skillet, heat the oil, add the garlic clove and brown the chicken pieces. When the chicken is brown, remove it and the garlic. Set the chicken aside in a warm place. In the same skillet, cook the onion until soft. Add the stock, marjoram, bay leaf, 1/2 tsp. salt and1/4 tsp. pepper. Scrape the skillet with a spatula until this sauce is well blended. Layer the chicken, green and red pepper strips, tomato quarters and sliced mushrooms in a 2-quart casserole. Pour in the sauce, cover the casserole and bake it in a preheated 350″ F.  oven for 45 minutes. Add the clams and bake the casserole for an additional 10 minutes, or until the clams open. Serve over buttered rice or noodles.

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken with Vegetables

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken with Vegetables

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken with Vegetables

 

1 C. low sodium soy sauce

4-5 T. honey depending on how sweet you like it

3 1/2 T. rice wine vinegar

1 1/2 tsp. sesame oil plus more for drizzling on vegetables

3 garlic cloves minced

3/4 tsp. grated ginger

1 T. cornstarch

1/4 C. water

Salt and black pepper to taste

3 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise (about 1 1/2 lb.)

3 C. broccoli florets about 2 bunches

1 C. sliced carrots

Additional vegetables optional

1/4 C. edamame beans 1/4 C. pineapple chunks

Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

 

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch and water until combined. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and set aside. For the chicken and vegetables Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil coated with cooking spray and set aside. Season each side of the chicken with salt and black pepper then drizzle spoonfuls of glaze over the chicken coating well on both sides. Reserve at least half of the glaze for later. Cook in preheated oven for 20 minutes then remove the pan. Top chicken with additional glaze, flip chicken and glaze again. Arrange the broccoli florets, carrots, edamame and pineapples in a single layer around the chicken. Season with black pepper and drizzle with 1/4 tsp. of sesame oil and teriyaki glaze and toss to coat. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. ** Remove pan from oven, slice chicken into strips and drizzle with remaining sauce. Serve over rice or quinoa and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. *If chicken is not done after 20 minutes, remove vegetables from pan first then return the chicken back to the oven until cooked through. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on how thick your chicken pieces are.

Chicken Thighs with SAUSAGE, RED BEANS, and RICE

Chicken Thighs with SAUSAGE, RED BEANS, and RICE

Chicken Thighs with SAUSAGE, RED BEANS, and RICE

1 onion

1 green bell pepper

2 garlic cloves

1 carrot

1 lb [455 g] boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Seasoned or kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 T. olive oil

8 oz [230 g] mild Italian sausage links

1 T. Cajun seasoning or a blend of dried thyme, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper

One 15-oz [425-g] can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

One 15-oz [425-g] can diced tomatoes with juice

1 cup [240 ml] chicken broth

1 cup [130 g] instant brown rice

 

On a large cutting board, chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic and peel and thinly slice the carrot. As you work, transfer the vegetables to a medium bowl. Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces and season with 1/2 tsp of salt and a few grinds of pepper. Heat a 12-in [30.5-cm] skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken and brown it for about 3 minutes (if it sticks, give it another minute). Turn and brown the other side for another 3 minutes. Crumble the sausage and add to the pan with the vegetables and add the Cajun seasoning; cook, stirring and breaking up the sausage every now and then, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 4 minutes. Stir in the beans, tomatoes, and broth and 1/2 tsp salt and bring to a boil. Cover reduce the heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes to develop the flavors and soften the vegetables. Stir in the rice, pressing down so that it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and continue to cook until the rice, meat, and vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes. Taste and season with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if it needs it. Divide the stew among heated plates and serve hot.  It’s that easy: Cajun seasoning is worth having in your spice cupboard. It has a little heat and usually contains paprika, celery seed, garlic, basil, white pepper, cayenne, thyme, and parsley. Look for it on the grocery shelf with the other spice and herb blends and add it to burgers, stews, and chilis for an easy flavor boost.

 

Healthy Sheet Pan Greek Chicken & Veggies

Healthy Sheet Pan Greek Chicken & Veggies

Healthy Sheet Pan Greek Chicken & Veggies

4 5oz chicken breasts, cut into small cubes

2 cups bell peppers any colors, cut into squares or slices

1 medium red onion cut into squares or slices

1 cup of zucchini broccoli, mushrooms , diced sweet potatoes or plum tomatoes (optional)

 

4 cloves garlic minced

2 T. olive oil

2 T. fresh lemon juice

1 tsp. dried oregano

1 tsp. dried basil or thyme

1 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. black pepper

 

Pre-Heat oven to 450F. Arrange chicken and veggies on a large sheet pan to create a rainbow pattern.

In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the marinade. Brush mixture onto chicken and veggies or toss chicken and veggies in mixture. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until veggies are charred and chicken is tender. Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes before serving.

 

Serve on rice, quinoa, with pita & tzatziki or alone with a fork.

Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken

Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken

Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken

3 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced

3 C. broccoli florets

For the sweet & spicy sauce:

2 C. all-fruit apricot jam

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 T. coconut aminos

2 T. dry mustard

2 tsp. dried minced onion

2 tsp. sea salt

1/2 tsp. ground ginger

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (use more for a spicier sauce)

2 T. arrowroot powder (for thickening sauce)

 

 

Cut chicken thighs into bite-size chunks and place into a 6-quart slow cooker. Cut the veggies as noted above. Place in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use, as noted below. In a medium bowl, whisk together the apricot jam, garlic, soy sauce or coconut aminos, mustard, onion, salt, ginger, and red-pepper flakes. Pour over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Check chicken at the 4-hour mark, if it’s not cooked through, continue cooking. Once the chicken is cooked through, add the sliced bell peppers and broccoli florets. Then, continue cooking on low until veggies are al dente (about 30-45 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to remove chicken and veggies from slow cooker and place in a serving dish. Whisk in the arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce, if desired. To serve, ladle the sauce over the chicken and veggies. Serve over basmati rice or cauli-rice.

Sheet Pan Orange Chicken with Garlicky Green Beans

Sheet Pan Orange Chicken with Garlicky Green Beans

Sheet Pan Orange Chicken with Garlicky Green Beans

8 (6-oz.) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil, divided

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

3/4 teaspoons black pepper, divided

3/4 cup orange marmalade

1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 teaspoon hot mustard

1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

8 ounces haricots verts (French green beans), trimmed

2 teaspoons Asian chili-garlic sauce

 

Preheat oven to 400°F. Rub chicken thighs with 1/2 tablespoon of the canola oil, and place on an aluminum foil-lined sheet pan or rimmed baking sheet. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the salt and 1/2 teaspoon of the pepper. Bake in preheated oven until a meat thermometer inserted in the thickest portion of chicken registers 165°F, about 35 minutes.  Meanwhile, stir together orange marmalade, soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium, and cook, stirring often, until slightly thickened and reduced to about 1/2 cup, about 8 minutes. Set aside. Toss green beans with chili-garlic sauce and remaining 1 tablespoon canola oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a large bowl. Increase oven temperature to broil. Brush orange marmalade mixture on chicken thighs, and spread green beans around chicken. Broil until green beans are tender and chicken is browned and glazed, about 3 minutes.

Sheet Pan Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs with Veggies

Sheet Pan Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs with Veggies

Sheet Pan Honey Balsamic Chicken Thighs with Veggies

1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar

1/4 cup Honey

1 tablespoon minced Garlic

1 teaspoon Chilli Powder or smoked Paprika

1/4 cup Olive Oil

2 tablespoons whole grain Mustard

1 tablespoon Oregano

Salt to taste

6 bone-in, skin-on Chicken Thighs

6-7 cups Vegetables (Root vegetables will be better for 30 minutes (Potatoes, Onions, Carrots, etc).  Smaller, lighter vegetables (Green Beans, Broccoli, Peppers, etc) can be added halfway through)

2 tablespoons Garlic Powder or fresh garlic

3 tablespoons Olive Oil

Salt and Pepper to taste

Pre-heat oven to 220C/425F. Chicken: Mix together all the ingredients under honey balsamic chicken and toss the chicken thighs well. Set aside while you prep the veggies. Veggies: Add all the veggies to the sheet pan or jelly roll pan and toss them in garlic powder, olive oil, salt and pepper and spread them out on the pan. Bake: Place the chicken thighs on top of the veggies and bake for 30-35 minutes or till the internal temperature of the chicken reads 165F.  (You can remove the chicken once its cooked and place the sheet pan with veggies back into the oven on the top rack. Turn the broiler or the top element on and let the veggies broil for 3-4 minutes. This will get them nice and crispy and evaporate all the juices in the sheet pan.)

Orzo, Pancetta, and Provolone Bake with Turkey Meatballs

Orzo, Pancetta, and Provolone Bake with Turkey Meatballs

Orzo, Pancetta, and Provolone Bake with Turkey Meatballs

Nonstick cooking spray

4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

16 ounces dried orzo pasta

6 ounces thinly sliced pancetta, chopped, or 6 slices bacon, chopped

1 cup chopped onion (1 large)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup dry white wine or reduced-sodium chicken broth

1 cup shredded provolone cheese (4 ounces)

½ cup chopped roasted red sweet peppers

½ cup whipping cream

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 12 ounce package (12) refrigerated cooked turkey Italian meatballs

½ cup panko (Japanese-style bread crumbs)

â…“ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed

2 T. olive oil

Snipped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley (optional)

 

Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly coat a 3-quart rectangular baking dish with cooking spray; set aside. In a 4-quart Dutch oven bring broth to boiling. Stir in orzo. Cook, uncovered, for 6 to 7 minutes or until orzo is almost tender and liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. In a large skillet cook and stir pancetta over medium heat until brown and crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove pancetta and drain on paper towels, reserving 1 T. drippings in skillet. Add onion to the reserved drippings; cook over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook and stir for 1 minute. Remove from heat. Add wine, stirring to scrape up crusty brown bits. Return to heat and simmer, uncovered, about 5 minutes or until wine is reduced by half. Add wine mixture to orzo in Dutch oven. Stir in pancetta, provolone cheese, roasted peppers, whipping cream, salt, and black pepper. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Add meatballs to baking dish, pressing lightly into orzo mixture. In a small bowl combine panko, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Drizzle with oil; toss to coat. Sprinkle mixture over meatballs and orzo mixture. Bake, uncovered, about 25 minutes or until bubbly and crumbs are golden. If desired, sprinkle with parsley.

 

Servings: 6

743 calories, (12 g saturated fat, 1 g polyunsaturated fat, 7 g monounsaturated fat), 81 mg cholesterol, 1211 mg sodium, 72 g carbohydrates, 3 g fiber, 5 g sugar, 35 g protein.

Confit de Canard

Confit de Canard

Confit de Canard

This recipe is adapted from Cuisine de France by Paul Bocuse (Flammarion, 1992).

 

2 duck legs

1/2 cup coarse sea salt or kosher salt

1 cup (250 g) rendered duck fat, or more

2 cloves garlic, unpeeled

2 branches fresh thyme

1 bay leaf

1/2 cup water

 

The day before you plan to cook the duck, place the legs in a bowl and cover them with the coarse salt. Refrigerate for 24 hours.  The next day, thoroughly rinse the salt off the duck under cold running water. Place on a rack to drain and pat dry with paper towels. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or skillet, heat the duck fat, garlic, thyme, bay and water to a high simmer. Place the duck legs in the hot fat, skin side down. Turn down the heat — the fat should remain at a very low simmer throughout the cooking process. Check the duck occasionally to make sure the fat is simmering but not boiling. After an hour, turn the legs over so that they are skin side up, being very careful not to pierce the skin. Allow to cook at a low simmer for one hour more. Turn off the heat and remove the legs to a rack to drain. Strain the fat through a sieve into a bowl. Place the browned bits and garlic that remain in the sieve in a separate small bowl. Discard the thyme and bay leaf. When the duck has cooled, place it in a dish, cover with the strained duck fat and refrigerate. When the fat has cooled sufficiently, use a knife or spatula to spread it over the duck. You may continue with the recipe later in the day or leave the duck in the fridge for a day until ready to complete the cooking process. (If you are preparing your confit well ahead of time, you can preserve it in a large glass jar, sealed with the fat. In this case the fat must entirely cover the duck. It may be preserved in this way for up to 6 months, refrigerated.)  About 40 minutes before serving, preheat the oven to gas mark 7 (425 F, 220 C). Allow to preheat for 10 minutes.  Remove the duck from its dish or jar, scraping away most of the fat, and place in a baking dish, skin side down. Roast the duck in the hot oven for 15 minutes. Turn the legs over so that they are skin side up. Continue roasting for another 15 minutes, or until the skin is a crispy brown. Serve immediately, accompanied with seasonal vegetables and a hearty red wine. Serves 2. You may use the garlic cloves that you’ve set aside as garnish. The brown bits left over from cooking — known as ‘grattons’ in French — may be spread on toast and served during cocktail hour.

Crunchy Chicken Fingers

Crunchy Chicken Fingers

Crunchy Chicken Fingers

Salt and Pepper

¼ C. Flour

1 Chicken Breast Fillet, about ¼ lb., cut into 6 strips

1 small Egg, lightly beaten

1 2/3 C. Cornflakes, crushed with rolling pin

2 T. Vegetable Oil

 

Lightly season the flour and put into a plastic bag.  Add chicken pieces and shake until coated.  Dip the chicken fingers in beaten egg, and then roll in corn flakes.  Heat oil in frying pan, add chicken and sauté for about 6 minutes on each side, until crunchy on the outside and cooked through.

 

 

From First Meals

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken with Wild Mushroom Sauce

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken with Wild Mushroom Sauce

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken with Wild Mushroom Sauce

1 whole chicken

4 ounces goat cheese, room temperature

1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for sauteing

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Wild Mushroom Sauce:

 

1 tablespoon butter, plus 1 tablespoon

1/4 cup chopped shallots

4 ounces morel mushrooms, cleaned and sliced in half lengthwise (substitute 1 ounce dried morels, rehydrated)

4 ounces black trumpet mushrooms, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

3/4 cup chicken stock or broth

2 tablespoons chopped chives

 

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Remove the backbone and wings from the chicken. Press the chicken open like a book. Carefully remove the bones from the chicken leaving the whole chicken intact with the skin. You can ask your butcher to do this for you. In a small bowl, combine the goat cheese, rosemary, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and mash together with the back of a fork. Turn the chicken over so the skin side is up. Gently loosen the skin by inserting your fingers underneath it to make a pocket. Stuff the rosemary goat cheese under the skin evenly over the breasts and legs. Tuck the skin back over the chicken. Season both sides of the chicken well with salt and pepper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken and rub well. Heat a large, ovenproof sauté pan over high heat. When the pan is hot, add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil is hot and begins to shimmer when swirled, add the chicken, skin side down. Cook the chicken until the skin side is a deep golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. Carefully turn the chicken over and transfer to the oven. Roast for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep warm. Remove all but 2 tablespoons of the fat from the pan and return to the heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the butter and the shallots and sauté for 2 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to loosen the browned bits. Add the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 2 minutes, or until the mushrooms begin to brown. Add the stock and bring to a simmer. Cook 5 minutes or until reduced by 1/3. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and remove from the heat. Pour the sauce over the chicken and garnish with the chives. Serve immediately.

One Pot Skillet Turkey Pot Pie

One Pot Skillet Turkey Pot Pie

One Pot Skillet Turkey Pot Pie

1 tsp. vegetable oil

1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1 medium white or yellow onion, thinly sliced

8 oz button mushrooms, sliced

2 tsp. tomato paste

20 oz ground turkey (preferably dark meat)

1/2 to 1 tsp. chili powder*

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1 C. all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

3 tsp. unsalted butter

1/3 C. buttermilk

6 oz (1 1/2 C.) grated cheddar cheese

 

Preheat the oven to 425ºF. In a large, heavy, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the bell pepper, onion and mushrooms and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add the tomato paste and cook for a minute or two until fragrant. Add the turkey and chili powder and cook, breaking up the turkey, until the turkey is browned and cooked, about 3-5 minutes. Add the tomatoes (undrained) and cook until some of the liquid has evaporated, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the heat. Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut the butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or a fork. Stir in the buttermilk and the cheese just until moistened. Divide the mixture into 9 equal pieces and form into 9 biscuits. Place over the turkey mixture. Bake in the preheated oven until the biscuits are golden brown, about 20 minutes.

 

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

Chicken Parmesan Pasta Skillet

1-1/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 medium sweet onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, ziti)

1/2 cup red wine

1-1/2 cups chicken broth

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

2 teaspoons dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup bread crumbs

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

 

In a large skillet or dutch oven heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and onion; season with salt and pepper. Cook and brown for 8 to 10 minutes or until onion is soft and chicken is nearly cooked through. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the pasta, wine, broth, tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes and stir to combine. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender. Meanwhile, in a small bowl combine the Parmesan cheese and the bread crumbs; set aside. When the pasta is tender, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and then the parmesan and bread crumb mixture. Broil for 3-4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove from oven and sprinkle parsley on top. Serve.

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers with Polynesian Sauce

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers with Polynesian Sauce

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers with Polynesian Sauce

1 cup Pineapple juice

½ cup Water

3 tbsp Ketchup

3 tbsp Apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp Cornstarch

2 tbsp Soy sauce

2 tbsp Brown sugar

2 lb. Boneless skinless chicken thighs

1 Onion

1 Yellow bell pepper

1 Orange bell pepper

Fresh pineapple chunks

Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

 

In a small saucepan, whisk together pineapple juice, water, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, soy sauce, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. Heat over medium heat, stirring often, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. While the sauce is cooling, prepare ingredients for the skewers. Cut chicken thighs into 2-3 in. cubes. Chop the onion and bell pepper into thick pieces that will easily slide onto the skewers without breaking. Assemble skewers by threading pieces of onion, peppers, chicken, and pineapple onto your skewers. Place skewers on grill over medium heat. Cook until the chicken is done in the center. Baste the skewers with the prepared Polynesian sauce on both sides as you turn them to cook all sides evenly.

WIW: Chicken & Waffle Sandwiches

WIW: Chicken & Waffle Sandwiches

WIW: Chicken & Waffle Sandwiches

3 C. buttermilk

2 T. hot sauce

4 thin chicken breasts (about 1½ lb.)

2½ C. all-purpose flour

2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1½ tsp. baking powder

½ tsp. cayenne pepper

Oil, for frying

 

1 recipe Savory Cheese Waffles (8 waffles total)

1 C. arugula

2 tomatoes, thickly sliced

 

In a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator (and up to overnight). In a large, shallow bowl, whisk the flour with the salt, pepper, baking powder and cayenne to combine. . In a large sauté pan, heat 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reads 350°F on a thermometer. While the oil heats, remove each chicken breast from the buttermilk and shake off the excess. Dredge the chicken in the flour to coat well. Dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture. . When the oil is very hot (test it by dropping in a piece of extra breading–it should sizzle and immediately float to the surface), add the chicken and cook until golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken from the oil to a plate lined with absorbent paper towels; let drain. . To build the sandwiches, place a waffle on a plate. Top it with ¼ C. arugula and 1 or 2 tomato slices. Top with a piece of chicken and another waffle. Serve immediately.

Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Wings

Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Wings

Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Wings

2 pounds chicken wings

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Parmesan mixture

1/4 C. Parmesan cheese grated

1/4 C. chopped parsley

1 tsp red pepper chili flakes

1/2 tsp garlic powder

salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 425 F degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, this will save you from scrubbing the baking pan until tomorrow. Season the wings generously with salt, pepper and the 1/2 tsp of garlic powder. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking pan. Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until they’re golden crisp. While wings are baking, mix all the Parmesan mixture ingredients together in a small bowl. When the wings are done baking, transfer them to a bowl right away. Dump the Parmesan mixture over the wings and toss well, making sure each wing is fully covered with the Parmesan mixture. Serve right away.

WIW: Chicken Parmesan with Waffled Vegetables

WIW: Chicken Parmesan with Waffled Vegetables

WIW: Chicken Parmesan with Waffled Vegetables

 

3/4 C. (180 mL) all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

Hot sauce, such as Tabasco, to taste

1 1/2 C. (375 mL) plain bread crumbs

1/4 C. (60 mL) grated Parmesan cheese

Finely grated zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp. (5 mL) salt

1 tsp. (5 mL) freshly ground black pepper

2 C. marinara sauce

4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets (1 1/2 lb/750 g total)

Non-stick cooking spray

1/2 C. (125 mL) grated mozzarella cheese

Waffled vegetables (recipe below)

Fresh whole basil leaves (optional)

 

Preheat the waffle iron on medium. Place the flour in a shallow bowl or deep plate. In a second shallow bowl or deep plate, beat the eggs with a few drops of hot sauce. In a third shallow bowl or deep plate, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan and lemon zest. Add 1/2 tsp. (2 mL) of the salt and 1/2 tsp. (2 mL) of the pepper. Bring the marinara sauce to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Put a single layer of the chicken in a zip-top bag, set it on a flat surface and press down on the chicken with a cutting board, rolling pin or heavy frying pan until the chicken is about 1/4-inch (6-mm) thick. Remove the chicken from the bag, place it on a clean cutting board and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 tsp. (2 mL) each of salt and pepper over it. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Dredge a chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Transfer it to the bowl with the egg and turn the chicken to coat. Allow the excess egg mixture to drip back into the bowl, then coat the chicken with the bread crumb mixture, pressing the mixture to the chicken so it sticks. Set it aside on a platter and repeat with the remaining chicken. Coat both sides of the waffle iron grid with non-stick spray. Place the chicken in the waffle iron, close the lid and cook until golden brown and cooked through, 4 minutes. Top the chicken with the grated mozzarella and close the lid for 20 seconds to allow the cheese to melt. Remove the chicken from the waffle iron. Ladle about 1/2 C. (125 mL) marinara sauce per portion onto a plate and then place the chicken on top of the sauce. Drizzle with a little more sauce, add the waffled vegetables to the plate and garnish everything with the basil.

 

Waffled Vegetables

 

2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb/500 g), cut into 1/2-inch-thick (1-cm) chunks

1 large red bell pepper (about 1/2 lb/250 g), stemmed, seeded and cut into 1/4-inch-wide (6-mm) strips

2 T. (30 mL) extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 tsp. (1 mL) salt

 

Preheat the waffle iron on medium. Toss the zucchini and the pepper with the olive oil and salt in a large bowl. Place as many vegetables as will fit on the waffle iron, close the lid and cook until the zucchini has softened but is not mushy, 4 minutes. Use silicone-tipped tongs to remove the vegetables and place them on a serving plate. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 with the remaining vegetables

 

Chicken with Sautéed Mushrooms

Chicken with Sautéed Mushrooms

Chicken with Sautéed Mushrooms

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 1/2 pounds chicken cutlets

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped

1 pound button mushrooms, trimmed and quartered

1/4 cup dry white wine

1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

Place flour in a shallow dish. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off excess. In a large skillet, heat oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high. Working in batches, cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.  Reduce heat to medium, add thyme, mushrooms, and remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and cook until softened, 6 minutes. Add wine and broth, and cook, stirring, until reduced by half, 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Return chicken to pan along with any accumulated juices. Top with chopped parsley before serving.

Chicken Scarpariello

Chicken Scarpariello

Chicken Scarpariello

 

4 pounds chicken, cut into 2- to 3-inch pieces

Salt

Black pepper

4 tablespoons olive oil

8 to 12 garlic cloves, finely minced

8 medium-hot cherry peppers, quartered (or non-spicy bottled cherry peppers in vinaigrette)

â…“ cup red wine vinegar

â…“ cup white wine

½ cup chicken stock

¼ C. chopped Flat Leaf Parsley

 

Preheat broiler.  Season chicken with salt and pepper.  Heat 3 tablespoons of oil and sauté chicken until golden brown on all sides, 6 to 7 minutes total. Drain chicken and place in single layer on baking pan. Wipe skillet, add 1 tablespoon oil, and sauté garlic until golden. Add cherry peppers, salt, and pepper, and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add vinegar, bring to a boil, and reduce liquid by half. Add wine and reduce by half again. Add stock and bring to a boil. Pour stock mixture over chicken in baking pan. Place in oven and broil for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid thickens slightly and chicken is cooked through.  Stir in parsley and serve.

 

from The Mediterranean Prescription

Roasted Turkey Breast with Rosemary and Anchovies

Roasted Turkey Breast with Rosemary and Anchovies

Roasted Turkey Breast with Rosemary and Anchovies

1 boneless turkey breast (2 1/2 pounds)

1 bunch of fresh rosemary, about 8 large sprigs

8 to 12 oil-packed anchovies

2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped

Finely grated zest of 1 lime

1 tsp. kosher salt

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

2 T. EVOO

If the turkey breast is pre-tied, untie it. Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Finely chop enough rosemary leaves to make l T.; reserve the remaining rosemary. Using a mortar and pestle, or a bowl and the back of a wooden spoon, mash together the anchovies, chopped rosemary, garlic, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Stir in the oil. Spread this mixture all over the turkey, place the turkey in a bowl, and cover it loosely with plastic wrap. Marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Heat the oven to 4OO°F. Place the reserved rosemary sprigs on a small rimmed baking sheet. Roll the turkey breast up into a nice, even roast and tie it with kitchen twine so it keeps its shape and doesn’t unroll as it cooks. Put the turkey, skin-side up, on top of the rosemary. Roast the turkey for 25 minutes. Then reduce the heat to 35O°F and continue roasting until a thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the meat registers 145°F, another 20 to 30 minutes. Allow the meat to rest for 10 minutes before untying and slicing. Serve with aioli & tapenade, if desired.

 

Chicken Thighs with Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dressing

Chicken Thighs with Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dressing

Chicken Thighs with Caramelized Onion and Bacon Dressing

3 slices lower sodium less fat bacon

3 large onions, halved and sliced (3 C.)

2 C. multigrain ciabatta rolls cut into 1/2-inch cubes and dried* (2 1/2 ounces)

1/2 C. reduced-sodium chicken broth

1/4 C. refrigerated or frozen egg product, thawed, or 1 egg, lightly beaten

2 T. snipped fresh parsley

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

4 large skinless, boneless chicken thighs (about 1 pound)

1 T. olive oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon in hot skillet about 10 minutes or until brown and crispy, turning once. Remove and drain bacon on paper towels. Reserve 1 T. of the bacon drippings in skillet. Add onions. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, covered, for 13 to 15 minutes or until onions are tender, stirring occasionally. Uncover; cook and stir over medium-high heat for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden. Remove from heat. Chop the bacon. In a medium bowl combine the bacon, caramelized onions, bread cubes, broth, egg product, 2 T. parsley, and the pepper. Stir gently to combine. Divide dressing mixture among four individual 12- to 14-ounce casserole dishes; set aside. In the same skillet cook the chicken in hot oil over medium heat about 5 minutes or until browned, turning once. Place one chicken thigh on dressing mixture in each casserole. Bake, uncovered, for 15 to 20 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted in stuffing registers 165 degrees F. Before serving, sprinkle with additional parsley. *Tip: To dry bread cubes, spread them in an even layer in a 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan. Bake in a 300 degrees F oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until cubes are dry, stirring twice; cool. (Cubes will continue to dry and crisp as they cool.) Or let bread cubes stand loosely covered at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 288

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 3g

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast and Stuffing (Thanksgiving for a Small Crowd)

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast and Stuffing (Thanksgiving for a Small Crowd)

Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast and Stuffing (Thanksgiving for a Small Crowd)

8 T. (1 stick) butter, divided

1 1/2 pounds sage sausage, removed from casing

1 large onion, finely chopped (about 2 C.)

4 large stalks celery, finely chopped (about 2 C.)

4 cloves garlic, minced or grated on microplane, divided

1/4 C. minced fresh sage leaves (or 2 tsp. dried sage leaves)

32 ounces (4 C.) low-sodium chicken or turkey broth, preferably homemade

3 whole eggs

2 1/2 pounds (about 2 loaves) high quality sandwich bread or soft Italian or French bread, stale or dried in the oven

1/2 C. minced fresh parsley leaves

2 T. minced fresh oregano leaves

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 whole bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (about 4 to 5 pounds), patted dry

 

Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 450°F. In large Dutch oven, melt 5 T. butter over medium high heat until foaming subsides (don’t allow butter to brown), about 2 minutes. Add sausage and mash with stiff whisk or potato masher to break up into fine pieces (largest pieces should be no greater than 1/4-inch). Cook, stirring frequently until only a few bits of pink remain, about 8 minutes. Add onions, celery, garlic, and sage and cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and add half of chicken stock. Whisk remaining chicken stock, eggs, and 3 T. parsley in medium bowl until homogeneous. Stirring constantly with wooden spoon, slowly pour egg mixture into sausage mixture. Add bread cubes and fold gently until evenly mixed. Using poultry shears, cut off and remove any back portion that may be attached to the turkey (there may not be any). Fill cavity under turkey breast and under flap of fat around neck with stuffing. Transfer remaining stuffing to a buttered 9- by 13-inch casserole dish and place turkey on top. Using your hands, carefully separate the turkey skin from the meat by inserting at the bottom of the breast, being careful not to tear it. In a small bowl, combine remaining butter with remaining parsley and oregano. Add 1 T. kosher salt and 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper. Stir with a fork until homogenous. Rub mixture evenly over and under turkey skin. Transfer to oven and roast until stuffing starts to brown, about 45 minutes. Remove from oven, transfer turkey to a wire rack set in a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet, and return turkey to oven. Continue roasting until turkey is golden brown and crisp, and thickest part near bone registers 145 to 150°F on an instant read thermometer, about 30 minutes longer. Remove from oven, transfer to a plate, and let rest for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, pour exuded juices back over stuffing. Return stuffing to oven and cook until it’s golden brown and registers 160°F on an instant read thermometer, about 15 minutes. Carve turkey, spread over stuffing, and serve.

Stuffing Crusted Turkey Sheet Pan Supper

Stuffing Crusted Turkey Sheet Pan Supper

Stuffing Crusted Turkey Sheet Pan Supper

1 pound fresh green beans
1 tsp. olive oil
1/4 tsp. garlic salt with parsley
1 box reduced-sodium chicken stuffing
1 T. margarine or butter
1 tsp. fennel seeds, crushed

1/4 tsp. black pepper

3 T. low-sugar raspberry jam
2 T. Dijon mustard

4 turkey cutlets, about 1/4 inch thick (about 1 pound)

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F, and place 2 racks in the oven, evenly spaced. Line 2 sheet pans with foil and set aside. In a large bowl, combine the green beans with olive oil and salt, and toss to coat. Transfer beans to one of the sheet pans. In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix, margarine, fennel seeds, and black pepper. Boil 1 2/3 C. water, pour it over the stuffing mix, and stir lightly to combine. Let stuffing sit for 5 minutes. In a small bowl, combine the jam and mustard. Place the turkey on one of the sheet pans, spread each piece with the jam mixture, and top each tenderloin with 3A C. stuffing mix. Spray tenderloins with cooking spray and transfer pan to the top oven rack. Place the green beans on the lower rack. Bake for 17 minutes, or until stuffing is browned and turkey and green beans are cooked.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 350

Fat: 5g

Fiber: 5g

Asian Flavors Chicken Wings

Asian Flavors Chicken Wings

Asian Flavors Chicken Wings

4 pounds chicken wings

1 1/4 C. hoisin sauce

3/4 C. plum sauce

1/2 C. soy sauce

1/3 C. cider vinegar

1/4 C. dry sherry

1/4 C. honey

6 green onions — minced

6 cloves garlic — minced

 

Cut off and discard wing tips. Separate wing at joint. At the drumstick joint, separate bones with small knife and push meat to tip. Remove smaller bone and discard. Mix all other ingredients in large bowl. Add chicken and coat well. After refrigerating coated chicken for at least 24 hours. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line baking pan with foil and place rack over foil, first coating rack with cooking spray. Drain chicken, reserving liquid. Place chicken on rack and roast for 30 min. Baste, turn wings and return to oven for an additional 30 min.

Chicken and Asparagus Skillet Supper

Chicken and Asparagus Skillet Supper

Chicken and Asparagus Skillet Supper

1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves

4slices bacon, coarsely chopped

Salt and Pepper

14.5 oz. can chicken broth (or use 1 C. Chicken Broth and ½ C. White Wine)

1 small yellow summer squash, halved crosswise and cut in 1/2-inch strips

2 T. Flour

½ tsp. Lemon Zest

 

In a large saucepan cook asparagus in boiling water about 3 minutes or until crisp-tender; drain. Immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking; set aside. In a very large skillet cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove from skillet with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels. Drain all but 1 T. bacon drippings from skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook chicken in hot drippings over medium-high heat about 12 minutes or until browned, turning once halfway through cooking time. Remove chicken from skillet; keep warm. Add squash to skillet; cook for 3 minutes. In a medium bowl whisk together broth, flour, and lemon peel. Add to skillet. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Return chicken and asparagus to skillet. Cook about 6 minutes more or until chicken is no longer pink (170 degrees F). Sprinkle with bacon.

 

Serve with baby kale, sliced red onion, halved grape tomatoes, sprinkling of sunflower kernels and light Caesar dressing and serve on side (not included in calorie count)

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 238

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 2g

Dutch Oven Chicken with Creamy Corn and Bacon

Dutch Oven Chicken with Creamy Corn and Bacon

Dutch Oven Chicken with Creamy Corn and Bacon

4 whole bone-in chicken legs

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

6 ounces thick-cut bacon (about 3 slices), cut into1/2-inch pieces

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

1 head garlic, separated and left unpeeled

3/4 cup Israeli, or pearl, couscous

2 1/2 cups whole milk

3 sprigs thyme, plus 2 teaspoons leaves

1 cup frozen corn, thawed

2 ounces baby arugula (about 2 cups)

Fresh lemon juice, for drizzling

 

Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Working in batches, add chicken and cook until browned all over, about 7 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate; discard fat. Add bacon to the pot; cook until crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain all but 1 tablespoon fat. Add onion, garlic, and couscous; cook until couscous is golden, about 5 minutes. Add milk and thyme sprigs, and bring to a simmer. Add chicken, skin-side up. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 30 minutes. Stir in corn and thyme leaves; cover and cook until liquid is absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes. Divide couscous mixture among 4 plates. Top with chicken and arugula. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with lemon juice and oil before serving.

Sheet Pan Spanish-Style Chicken Legs with Potatoes

Sheet Pan Spanish-Style Chicken Legs with Potatoes

Sheet Pan Spanish-Style Chicken Legs with Potatoes

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks (about 1 lb)

2 T. olive oil, divided

½ T. smoked paprika (or use other paprika)

½ tsp. salt, divided

½ tsp. pepper, divided

¾ lb. small red potatoes, quartered

1 red onion, cut into thin wedges

1 lemon, cut into wedges

½ T. bottled minced garlic

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

 

Preheat oven to 450°F. Toss together chicken, 1 T. oil, paprika, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper in a large bowl; place on a foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Toss potatoes with onion, lemon, garlic, remaining 1 T. oil, ¼ tsp each salt and pepper; surround chicken on pan with potato mixture. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until chicken legs are done and potatoes are tender; sprinkle with parsley. Note: For extra-crispy chicken, increase the oven temperature to broil after the 20-minute bake time and broil 3 minutes. Or to save fat and calories, remove chicken skin before serving.  Serve with Radicchio, Orange and Olive Salad

One-Pan Chicken with Lemon and Potatoes

One-Pan Chicken with Lemon and Potatoes

One-Pan Chicken with Lemon and Potatoes

Scant 1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/2 tablespoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper

1 1/2 pounds unpeeled potatoes (small red- or white-skinned are nice here), cut into 1-inch pieces

1 small red or yellow onion, cut into 8 wedges

4 cloves garlic, smashed

5 large chicken thighs or 10 drumsticks or a combination (about 2 1/2 lbs total), patted dry

1 small lemon, sliced (optional)

 

Heat oven to 450 degrees , with a rack in middle position. In a 15 x 10-inch or larger baking dish, add oil, lemon juice, oregano and paprika, season very generously with salt and pepper, and stir. Add potatoes, onion, garlic and chicken. Using your hands, combine well, coating ingredients with as much oil mixture as possible.  Spread potatoes and onion across dish and top with chicken, skin side up. Sprinkle a little more salt and pepper on chicken and top with lemon slices, if using. (It’s a nice touch, but the dish will be fine without it.)  Bake until potatoes are tender and chicken is just cooked through, about 35 minutes. If chicken is cooked but potatoes aren’t tender yet, transfer chicken to a platter and tent with foil to keep warm. Toss potatoes, return them to oven and cook until tender, 5 to 10 minutes more. Check seasonings, then serve topped with pan juices (spoon off any excess fat first, if needed). Tip: Serve hot or warm. It will keep, covered, in a 200 degrees oven for about 1 hour.

 

Yield: 5 servings

Calories: 404

Fat: 18g

Fiber: 4g

Sheet Pan Chicken Tikka

Sheet Pan Chicken Tikka

Sheet Pan Chicken Tikka

For the chicken

1 3/4-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced (see Note up top)

4 cloves of garlic, minced or pressed

1 fresh green chili (I used a jalapeno), seeded and minced

1/2 cup whole-milk yogurt

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne, or adjusted to taste (I used 1/4 teaspoon)

1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

3/4 teaspoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garam masala

2 pounds chicken thighs, drumsticks or halved chicken breasts (all skin-on, bone-in)

 

For the vegetables

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 1/4 pounds (about 4 medium) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled if desired, cut into 3/4-inch chunks

1 3/4 pounds (1 small or half a very large head) cauliflower, cut into 3/4-inch-wide florets

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

 

To finish, if desired

A few thin slices of red onion

Lemon wedges

Salt

Dollops of yogurt

A few tablespoons roughly chopped cilantro, parsley or mint, or a mix therof

 

Combine ginger, garlic, fresh chili, yogurt, salt, spices and sugar in a freezer bag, bowl or container. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for 15 minutes or up to a day in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook the dish, heat your oven to 425°F. Line a half-sheet (13×18-inch) with foil and coat it with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Add potatoes, cauliflower, salt, cumin and remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and toss together with you hands until evenly coated. Remove chicken from marinade and leave excess behind. Make spaces in the vegetables for chicken parts throughout the pan. Roast in oven for 20 minutes, then toss the potato and cauliflower to ensure they’re cooking evenly, and return the pan to the oven for 10 to 20 minutes more (i.e. 30 to 40 minutes total roasting time), until chicken and vegetables are cooked through. While it roasts, if you’d like to use the lightly pickled onion rings that we did on top, which added a nice tangy fresh zip to the dish, separate the rings and toss them in a small bowl with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Set aside until needed.   When chicken and vegetables are cooked, top with garnishes of your choice — we used dollops of yogurt, herbs and scattered the above onion rings all over. Serve right in the pan.

Skillet Chicken Parmesan

Skillet Chicken Parmesan

Skillet Chicken Parmesan

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds total), patted dry

Salt and pepper to taste

2 garlic cloves, minced

Large pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

½ teaspoon dried oregano

1 (28 ounce) can (785-g) can crushed tomatoes

2 cups (8 ounces) shredded packaged mozzarella or sliced fresh mozzarella, patted dry

Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese (optional)

Handful of fresh basil leaves (optional)

 

Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C), with a rack in the middle position. In a large high-sided sauté pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper; add to the pan and cook until lightly golden, about 2 minutes. Flip the pieces over and cook 1 minute more. Sprinkle the garlic around the chicken, followed by the pepper flakes and oregano. Pour the tomatoes evenly over the chicken, season with salt and pepper, then gently shake the pan to distribute the sauce (you can also do this with a small spoon). Top the chicken with the mozzarella and Parmesan (if using) to taste. Bake until the sauce is bubbling and the chicken is just cooked through, 12 to 14 minutes. (Brown it under the broiler, if you like.) Off the heat, top with the basil leaves (if using), tearing any large ones. Let the Parm rest for about 5 minutes before serving, and keep the pan’s handle covered with an oven mitt; it’s easy to forget it’s hot. Serve with more Parmesan cheese, if you like.  Tips: Small chicken breasts work best here in terms of timing and the ratio of meat thickness to cheese and sauce. If you need to use larger ones, pound them between pieces of plastic wrap with a meat mallet or a small skillet to about ½-inch (12-mm) thickness.  For Staggered Serving: Serve hot or warm. We often keep the Parm at the back of the stove alongside a pot of spaghetti so plates can be made up as needed, but it will also keep, covered, in a 200°F (90°C) oven, for about 1 hour.

Sheet Pan Baked Ranch Chicken Tenders and Veggies

Sheet Pan Baked Ranch Chicken Tenders and Veggies

Sheet Pan Baked Ranch Chicken Tenders and Veggies

16 ounces baby red potatoes, halved

2 tablespoons olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

1 (1-ounce) package Ranch Seasoning and Salad Dressing Mix

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

2 large eggs, beaten

3 cups crushed Corn Flakes

4 zucchini, chopped

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with nonstick spray. Place potatoes in a single layer onto one side of the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste; set aside. In a small bowl, combine flour and Ranch Seasoning. Working in batches, dredge chicken in flour mixture, dip into eggs, then dredge in crushed Corn Flakes, pressing to coat. Place onto the opposite side of the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and coat with nonstick spray. Place into oven and bake until golden brown and crisp, about 16-18 minutes. Stir in zucchini during the last 10 minutes of cooking time. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired.

 

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 549

Fat: 9.5g

Fiber: 4g

Sheet Pan Chicken and Gnocchi with Broccoli Rabe

Sheet Pan Chicken and Gnocchi with Broccoli Rabe

Sheet Pan Chicken and Gnocchi with Broccoli Rabe

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (preferably organic)

16 ounces shelf stable gnocchi

1 lemon, thinly sliced

1 lemon, juiced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

salt and pepper

1 bunch broccoli rabe or broccolini

Parmesan shreds, for serving (optional)

 

Heat your oven to 450ºF. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, gnocchi and lemon slices. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. Mix well, then pour onto a sheet pan and spread in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes. Stir well, then add the broccoli rabe to the pan. Bake for another 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Top with parmesan, if desired.  Recipe Notes:  You can use broccoli rabe or broccolini for this recipe. Broccoli rabe is leafy and slightly bitter. Broccolini looks more like long broccoli, and has a mild flavor. I prefer broccolini, but can’t always find it.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 482

Fat: 11g

Fiber: