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Category: Poultry

Anytime Turkey Meatballs

Anytime Turkey Meatballs

Anytime Turkey Meatballs

 

20 ounces lean ground turkey

1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs

1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley

1 large egg

3 tablespoons dried minced onion

2 tablespoons low-fat milk

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

 

Preheat oven to 400.  Line sheet pan with foil and spray with cooking spray; set aside.  In large bowl, with spoon or your hands, gently mix all ingredients until combined.  Roll mixture into 32 1 inch meatballs and place on baking sheet.  Bake 15 minutes or until tops and bottoms are browned and meat is cooked through.

Super Simple Chicken Pizzaiolo

Super Simple Chicken Pizzaiolo

Super Simple Chicken Pizzaiolo

 

1 (14-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or 1½ C.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)

½ tsp. black pepper

½ C. grated Parmesan cheese

½ C. shredded reduced-fat Italian blend cheese

16 slices turkey pepperoni and/or 2 C. sliced mushrooms*

½ tsp. dried oregano

 

Preheat the oven to 450ºF. Spread the marinara sauce in a 10-inch pie plate or 9 x 9-inch ceramic or glass baking dish. Crumble the dried oregano and sprinkle it over the sauce. Cover the chicken breasts in plastic wrap and gently pound to ½-inch thickness. Sprinkle the chicken breasts with the black pepper. Spread the Parmesan in a shallow dish. Roll the chicken in the Parmesan and lay the breasts on top of the marinara. Bake for 13 minutes. Remove the chicken from the oven, sprinkle with the Italian blend cheese and oregano, top with pepperoni slices (and/or prepped mushrooms) and bake another 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. * To prepare mushrooms before adding to the dish, place a paper towel on top of a flat plate and microwave for 45 seconds.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 275

Fat: 11g

Fiber: 0g

WIW: Buffalo Chicken Puff Pastry Waffles

WIW: Buffalo Chicken Puff Pastry Waffles

WIW: Buffalo Chicken Puff Pastry Waffles

All-purpose flour, for dusting

1 (1/2-lb.) sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

1 C. shredded chicken (see note, above)

1/4 C. crumbled blue cheese (about 2 oz.)

3 T. Frank’s RedHot, plus more for serving

Blue cheese dressing, for serving

 

Preheat a Belgian waffle iron according to manufacturer directions. Lightly dust a work surface. Lay out puff pastry sheet, lightly flour top, and roll into an approximate 16- by 16-inch square. Spread chicken on puff pastry, leaving a 1 inch border on all edges. Arrange blue cheese on top, then drizzle hot sauce all over, leaving a 1 inch border on all edges. Roll puff pastry sheet away from you like a jelly roll. When completely rolled, pinch seam to seal. Pinch ends of puff pastry to seal, then roll into a disk-shaped spiral. Place spiral in center of preheated waffle iron. Cook until puff pastry is deep golden brown on all surfaces and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 200°F, about 12 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board, cut into wedges, and serve immediately, serving blue cheese dressing and extra hot sauce on the side.

Za’atar Chicken with Lemon Yogurt

Za’atar Chicken with Lemon Yogurt

Za’atar Chicken with Lemon Yogurt

 

Intensely garlicky and lemony, this Middle Eastern-inspired dish gets an earthy, herbal character from za’atar, a mix of dried herbs, sumac, and sesame seeds that’s rubbed all over the boneless thighs along with garlic, olive oil, and plenty of fresh parsley. Don’t be surprised at the number of garlic cloves called for here. Grated into a puree, they melt into the chicken flesh, thoroughly perfuming it without making it overwhelmingly pungent.  These thighs work best cooked on the grill for maximum blackening at the edges. But they are still excellent under the broiler—just as long as you can get a deep, smoky char on the meat.  Try serving this with the Citrus Salad with Olives.

 

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)

8 garlic cloves, grated on a Microplane or minced

Grated zest and juice of 2 lemons

1 tablespoon za’atar

3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, plus more for serving

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving

1 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt

2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, preferably whole-milk

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)

Ground sumac, for garnish (optional)

Pomegranate seeds, for garnish (optional)

Mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

 

In a large bowl, combine the chicken with all but 1 teaspoon of the grated garlic (save that for the yogurt sauce), half of the lemon zest and juice, and the za’atar, parsley, olive oil, and 1 teaspoons of the salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 8 hours.  Heat a grill, or arrange a rack in the position closest to the heat source and heat the broiler. Remove the chicken from the bowl, reserving the marinade. If you are grilling, grill the chicken over high heat until it is charred in spots, 4 to 7 minutes. Baste the chicken with some of the reserved marinade, flip the pieces over, and continue cooking until they are just cooked through, another 4 to 7 minutes. If you are broiling, line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and spread the chicken out on it in a single layer. Broil the chicken, basting it with some of the reserved marinade and turning the pieces over halfway through, until well colored and charred in spots, 4 to 7 minutes per side. Be careful that the chicken doesn’t burn.  While the chicken cooks, place the yogurt in a small bowl. Stir in the reserved grated garlic, the remaining lemon zest, the pepper, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. To serve, drizzle olive oil and the remaining lemon juice, to taste, over the chicken. Sprinkle with parsley and ground sumac if using.  Pass yogurt for dipping.

Turkey Pasta Alfredo

Turkey Pasta Alfredo

Turkey Pasta Alfredo

8 oz. (3 1/2 C.) uncooked bow tie pasta (farfalle)

1 (10-oz.) container refrigerated Alfredo sauce

¼ C. milk

2 C. cubed cooked turkey

1 C. frozen sweet peas

 

In large saucepan or Dutch oven, cook pasta to desired doneness as directed on package. Drain in colander; cover to keep warm. In same saucepan, combine Alfredo sauce, milk, turkey and peas. Cook over medium heat until peas are tender and mixture is thoroughly heated, stirring frequently. Stir in cooked pasta. Cook until thoroughly heated.

15-Minute Pasta with Chicken and Fresh Pomodoro Sauce

15-Minute Pasta with Chicken and Fresh Pomodoro Sauce

15-Minute Pasta with Chicken and Fresh Pomodoro Sauce

 

6 ounces dry spaghetti
5 tsp. olive oil, divided
4 to 5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced very thin
2 C. cherry tomatoes, halved
2 T. sweet vermouth (or chicken broth)
1 T. balsamic vinegar
¼ tsp. salt (or more to taste)
½ C. fresh basil, leaves stacked, rolled, and thinly sliced
¼ C. shredded Parmesan cheese
Fresh ground black pepper to taste

 

Cook the pasta according to the package directions (because the sauce goes so quickly, be sure to start the pasta first). Drain, place in serving bowl, and cover. (Tip: Use the hot pasta water to warm the bowl before adding the pasta to it.). While pasta is cooking, heat 2 tsp. oil in a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté about 30 to 45 seconds, or until lightly browned. Add the chicken and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until browned on the underside. Turn the chicken, and cook 1 more minute, or until just cooked through. Stir in the tomatoes, vermouth, vinegar, and salt, and cook for 2 minutes. Pour the mixture over the pasta and toss. Add the basil, Parmesan, and remaining 1 T. of olive oil, and toss again lightly to evenly coat the pasta. Season with pepper to taste and serve immediately.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 320

Fat: 9g

Fiber: 6g

WIW: Waffled Chicken Breast Stuffed with Spinach, Pine Nuts, and Feta

WIW: Waffled Chicken Breast Stuffed with Spinach, Pine Nuts, and Feta

WIW: Waffled Chicken Breast Stuffed with Spinach, Pine Nuts, and Feta

2 oz. (about 1 C.) fresh baby spinach, finely chopped

2 oz. feta cheese, crumbled (about 1/2 C.)

2 T. pine nuts, toasted

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. dried thyme

PAM® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 6 oz. each)

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

Preheat the waffle iron on medium. Preheat the oven on its lowest setting. Combine the spinach, cheese, nuts, garlic and thyme in a small bowl. Smash them together with a fork until the filling is more cohesive and easier to handle. Coat both sides of the waffle iron grid with nonstick spray. Make a horizontal cut into the thickest portion of each chicken breast half to form a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Divide the stuffing mixture into 4 portions and fill each pocket, leaving a margin at the edge so the pocket can close. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Place as many pieces as will fit in the waffle iron as far away from the hinge as possible. (This allows the lid to press down on the chicken more evenly.) Close the lid. Cook the chicken for 7 minutes before checking it. If the breasts are thick, you may need to rotate the meat 180 degrees at this point and continue cooking for another 3 minutes. The chicken should be golden brown and no pink should remain inside. Cut into the thickest part to check, if necessary. (If you’re using an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature of the meat should reach 165°F.) Remove the chicken from the waffle iron and repeat Step 5 with any remaining chicken. Keep cooked chicken warm in the oven. Serve warm.

Party-Ready Chicken and Waffles

Party-Ready Chicken and Waffles

WIW: Party-Ready Chicken and Waffles

2 tsp. yeast

½ C. warm water

1 ¾ C. milk

6 T. melted butter

2 eggs

½ tsp. pure vanilla extract

2 C. all-purpose flour

1 T. sugar

Pinch of salt

Pinch of cinnamon

Canola or peanut oil, for frying

1 ¼ C. all-purpose flour

2 T. cornstarch

1 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 T. dried Italian herb seasoning

2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 C. buttermilk

1 ½ lb. chicken tenders, cut into bite-size (about 1-inch) pieces

Hot sauce, to taste

Make the batter: In a small bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes. In a medium bowl, whisk the milk with the melted butter, eggs and vanilla to combine. Gradually mix in the yeast mixture. In a large bowl, whisk the flour with the sugar, salt and cinnamon to combine. Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth. Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight. In a deep, medium-size pot, heat about 3 inches of oil over medium heat until it reads 350°F on a thermometer. While the oil heats, make the waffles. Let the waffles cool slightly, then cut them into bite-size (about 1-inch) squares and place them in a 250°F oven to keep warm. Make the fried chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk the flour with the cornstarch, cayenne pepper, Italian herb seasoning, salt and black pepper to combine. Pour the buttermilk into a shallow, medium-size bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture to coat. Working in batches, dip the floured chicken into the buttermilk, then return it to the flour and toss to coat. Working in batches, add the breaded chicken to the hot frying oil. Don’t overfill the pot with chicken, as it will bring down the temperature of the oil. Fry until the chicken is golden brown and floats on the surface of the oil, 3 to 4 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed if the chicken is browning too quickly. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on several layers of absorbent paper towels. Let cool slightly, then place a piece of chicken on top of a waffle square and secure with a toothpick. Serve immediately with hot sauce on the side.

Za’atar Chicken with Lemon and Yogurt

Za’atar Chicken with Lemon and Yogurt

Za’atar Chicken with Lemon and Yogurt

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)

8 garlic cloves, grated on a Microplane or minced Grated zest and juice of 2 lemons

1 T. za’atar

3 T. minced fresh parsley, plus more for serving

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving

1 ¾ tsp. kosher salt

2/3 C. plain Greek yogurt, preferably whole-milk

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)

Ground sumac, for garnish (optional)

Pomegranate seeds, for garnish (optional)

Mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

In a large bowl, combine the chicken with all but l tsp. of the grated garlic (save that for the yogurt sauce), half of the lemon zest and juice, and the za’atar, parsley, olive oil, and 1V2 tsp. of the salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 8 hours. Heat a grill, or arrange a rack in the position closest to the heat source and heat the broiler. Remove the chicken from the bowl, reserving the marinade. If you are grilling, grill the chicken over high heat until it is charred in spots, 4 to 7 minutes. Baste the chicken with some of the reserved marinade, flip the pieces over, and continue cooking until they are just cooked through, another 4 to 7 minutes. If you are broiling, line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and spread the chicken out on it in a single layer. Broil the chicken, basting it with some of the reserved marinade and turning the pieces over halfway through, until well colored and charred in spots, 4 to 7 minutes per side. Be careful that the chicken doesn’t burn. While the chicken cooks, place the yogurt in a small bowl. Stir in the reserved grated garlic, the remaining lemon zest, the pepper, and the remaining 1/4 tsp. salt. To serve, drizzle olive oil and the remaining lemon juice, to taste, over the chicken. Sprinkle with parsley and ground sumac if using. Pass the yogurt for dipping.   Serve this with the Citrus Salad with Olives if you like.

Harissa Chicken with Leeks, Potatoes and Yogurt (Sheet Pan)

Harissa Chicken with Leeks, Potatoes and Yogurt (Sheet Pan)

Harissa Chicken with Leeks, Potatoes and Yogurt (Sheet Pan)

1 1/2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks

1 1/4 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 x x/2-inch chunks

3 tsp. kosher salt

¾ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

2 T. harissa

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

4 1/2 T. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more as needed

2 leeks, white and light green parts, halved lengthwise, rinsed, and thinly sliced into half-moons

1/2 tsp. grated lemon zest

1/3 C. plain yogurt, preferably whole-milk (if using Greek, thin it down with a little milk to make it drizzle-able)

1 small garlic clove

1 C. mixed soft fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, mint, and/or cilantro leaves

Fresh lemon juice, as needed

Combine the chicken and potatoes in a large bowl. Season them with 2 1/2 tsp. of the salt and 1/2 tsp. of the pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together the harissa, cumin, and 3 T. of the olive oil. Pour this mixture over the chicken and potatoes, and toss to combine. Let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the leeks, lemon zest, 1/4 tsp. of the salt, and the remaining 1/2 T. olive oil. Heat the oven to 425°F. Arrange the chicken and potatoes in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet, and roast for 20 minutes. Then toss the potatoes lightly, and scatter the leeks over the baking sheet. Roast until the chicken is cooked through and everything is golden and slightly crisped, 20 to 25 minutes longer. While the chicken cooks, place the yogurt in a small bowl. Grate the garlic clove over the yogurt, and season with the remaining 1/4 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Spoon the yogurt over the chicken and vegetables in the baking sheet (or you can transfer everything to a platter if you want to be fancy about it). Scatter the herbs over the yogurt, drizzle some olive oil and lemon juice over the top, and serve.

Colombian-Style Chicken with Corn, Avocado, and Lime

Colombian-Style Chicken with Corn, Avocado, and Lime

Colombian-Style Chicken with Corn, Avocado, and Lime

This dish is very loosely based on a traditional Colombian dish called ajiaco. Somewhere between a soup and a stew, it’s made from short ribs and chicken slowly simmered with three different kinds of potatoes that practically melt into the broth, their starch thickening and enriching it.

My version is a more minimalist interpretation. I nix the beef and potatoes to create a cleaner, deeper, and more focused chicken flavor, then dress that up with nubby corn, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado bobbing in a spicy, tangy, lime-scented broth. It’s still a bountiful and richly diverse meal, but a little more manageable—even on a weeknight.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 to 8 ounces each)

2 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

2 ears corn, shucked

1 bunch fresh cilantro (about 3 ounces)

1 large white onion

1 T. dried oregano

4 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled

1 bay leaf

1 jalapeno or serrano chile, seeded and sliced

1 quart chicken stock

1/3 C. diced fresh tomato

Grated zest of 1/2 lime

1 1/2 tsp. fresh lime juice, plus more for serving

Salsa, for serving

Diced avocado, for serving

Drained, brined capers (optional)

Season the chicken breasts with 1 tsp. of the salt and let them stand while you prepare the remaining ingredients. Using a sturdy knife, cut the ears of corn into 1 1/2-inch-thick rounds. Divide the cilantro into stems and leaves; coarsely chop both, but keep them separate. Slice two-thirds of the onion into thick rounds, and finely dice the remainder (you should have about ½ C. diced).   Place a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion to the hot dry skillet and cook without moving until the undersides are well browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Carefully flip the onions over and repeat on the other side. Stir the cilantro stems, oregano, garlic, bay leaf, and jalapeno into the onions. Pour in the stock and 1 C. water, and season with 1 tsp. of the salt. Bring to a simmer. Then lower the heat and cook gently for 15 minutes. Lower the chicken into the poaching mixture. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat until the chicken is no longer pink, 7 to 10 minutes. Add the corn pieces during the last 3 minutes of cooking. While the chicken cooks, combine the reserved diced onion, chopped cilantro leaves, tomato, lime zest and juice, and the remaining 1/2 tsp. salt in a bowl. Transfer the chicken and corn from the broth to a cutting board. Strain the hot broth into soup bowls; discard the aromatics. Slice the chicken and divide it among the bowls. Top each portion with corn, a spoonful of salsa, some diced avocado, capers if using, and a sprinkling of lime juice.

Chicken & Dressing Sheet Pan Supper

Chicken & Dressing Sheet Pan Supper

Chicken & Dressing Sheet Pan Supper

1/2 loaf Ciabatta, Cut Into 1-inch Pieces

4 cups Cornbread Chunks (use Your Favorite Recipe)

1 whole Medium Red Onion, Cut into Chunks

3 stalks Celery, Sliced

2 whole Carrots, Peeled and Cut into Chunks

1-1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt

1 teaspoon Black Pepper

1/2 teaspoon Ground Sage

1/2 teaspoon Ground Thyme

8 whole Bone in Chicken Thighs

1 whole Half-Stick Land O Lakes® Salted Butter, Cut Into Small Pieces

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Place the bread cubes, cornbread cubes, onion, celery, and carrots on a sheet pan. Toss together with your hands. Nestle the chicken thighs all around the pan, skin side up. Mix together the salt, pepper, sage, and thyme and sprinkle it all over the chicken, bread, and veggies. Dot the top with the butter.  Place the pan in the oven for 15 minutes. Use a wooden spatula to stir the bread and veggies, mixing in the butter. Do not disturb the chicken. Return the pan to the oven and continue roasting for 25 to 30 minutes, until chicken is completely cooked.  Remove the pan from the oven, stir the bread and veggies, and serve!

Chicken Thighs with Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Sauce

Chicken Thighs with Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Sauce

Chicken Thighs with Creamy Bacon Mushroom Thyme Sauce

4 chicken thighs

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

salt and pepper

1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning (dried thyme, oregano)

 

6 oz. white mushrooms

5 slices bacon, cooked, chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1/8 teaspoon salt

5 sprigs snipped fresh thyme

 

Preheat oven to 350 F. Season both sides of chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper and Italian herb seasoning mix (usually a combination of dried thyme, oregano and other herbs). Heat vegetable oil on medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for about 5 minutes, on the skin side until nicely browned. Transfer chicken thighs, skin side up, to the foil-lined baking sheet and bake at 350 F for about 20 minutes or until chicken thighs are completely cooked through and no longer pink in the center. In the meantime, make the mushrooms sauce: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms (without salting – to ensure the mushrooms get caramelized) and cook on medium heat for about 3 minutes flipping once. Add chopped cooked bacon to the skillet. Add heavy creamy, 1/8 teaspoon salt and snipped fresh thyme, bring to boil, stir, immediately reduce to simmer and simmer for about 2 minutes on very low heat for flavors to blend and sauce to reduce a bit. Taste and add more salt if needed. When chicken is done baking and chicken thighs are completely cooked through, add cooked chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon the sauce and the mushrooms on top of chicken thighs.

Roast Chicken with Shallots, Thyme, Bacon and Garlic Confit Sauce

Roast Chicken with Shallots, Thyme, Bacon and Garlic Confit Sauce

Roast Chicken with Shallots, Thyme, Bacon and Garlic Confit Sauce

 

4 chicken thighs, bone in and skin on

Salt and black pepper

4 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

2 tsp. butter

10 shallots, peeled

5 garlic cloves, unpeeled

2 sprigs thyme

1 slice bacon, cut into 1/2-inch squares

1 C. dry white wine

1/2 C. chicken stock.

 

Pat chicken dry and season to taste with salt and pepper. Place a medium Dutch oven over high heat, and add 2 tsp. olive oil and 1 tsp. butter. When oil and butter barely begin to smoke, lay thighs skin side down in pan. Brown well on all sides until a rich amber color, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove chicken from pan, and discard fat. Return unwashed pan to medium heat, and add 2 remaining tsp. olive oil and 1 tsp. butter. Add shallots, garlic, thyme and bacon. Stir gently (so garlic cloves don’t lose their peels), until bacon is crisp and shallots and garlic are lightly browned. Raise heat, add wine and boil until reduced by half, about 3 minutes. Add chicken stock, bring to a boil and season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove pan from heat, and set aside at room temperature. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Return Dutch oven to high heat. When liquid begins to simmer, rest chicken thighs skin side up on vegetables. Baste quickly with stock and wine, and transfer, uncovered, to oven. Bake 15 minutes, baste again, and bake 15 minutes more. Remove from oven, and transfer garlic cloves to a small plate. Separate cloves from their skins, and discard skins. Mash cloves with a fork, and return to sauce, stirring to mix. To serve, discard thyme sprigs, and place equal portions of chicken and shallots on two plates. Top with sauce. If desired, serve with rice.

Barbecued Chicken Pasta

Barbecued Chicken Pasta

Barbecued Chicken Pasta

 

16 ounces Rigatoni, Mostaccioli or other medium pasta shape — uncooked

1 T. olive oil

3 boneless skinless chicken breast halves — cut into 1/2-inch cubes

¼ C. green bell pepper, sliced thin

¼ C. red onion, sliced thin

2 cloves garlic — pressed

½ C. spaghetti sauce (your favorite)

¼ C. barbecue sauce

1 C. grated Provolone cheese

3 green onions — chopped

¼ C. cilantro — chopped

 

Prepare pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sauté, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 3 minutes.  Add bell pepper, onion and garlic and cook until pepper turns bright green, about 1 minute. Add your favorite spaghetti sauce and barbecue sauce and heat just to a simmer. Remove from heat.  Drain pasta, reserving 1/4 C. of water and return pasta to the pot. Add chicken mixture and cheese to the pot. Stir over a low heat until pasta is coated with sauce. Add enough of the reserved cooking water, if needed, to make the sauce lightly coat the pasta (you don’t want it too thin, however). Serve up the pasta in bowls and top with green onions and chopped cilantro.

 

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 530

Fat: 11g

Fiber:   3g

Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Pork

Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Pork

Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Pork

1 T. olive oil

3 pork chops (1/2 lb.)

Salt and pepper

1 large red onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1 red bell pepper (i used yellow), cored, seeded, and chopped

1 jalapeno pepper, seeds removed, finely chopped

1 8-oz can pineapple chunks in juice

1/2 C. chicken broth

Cooking Spray

 

Preheat oven to 375. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat to high heat with cooking spray. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Place the chops in the skillet and sear for about 2 minutes on each side to caramelize. Transfer the chops to a rimmed cookie sheet and place in the oven to finish off, 8 to 10 minutes, until the meat is firm to the touch but not tough. Remove the oven and let them rest, covered with a piece of foil, for a few minutes. While the chops are in the oven, return the skillet to medium-high heat and add the remaining olive oil. Add the onions, garlic, peppers, jalapenos, salt, and pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the veggies wilt. Add the pineapple and its juice and the chicken stock. Continue to cook the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes. Pour the sauce over the chops and serve.

Baked Pasta with Chicken Sausage

Baked Pasta with Chicken Sausage

Baked Pasta with Chicken Sausage

Coarse salt and ground pepper

1 tsp. olive oil

1 medium red onion, chopped

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 C. vodka, (optional)

1 medium red onion, chopped

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 C. heavy cream

1 lb. rigatoni

10 oz. baby spinach

12 oz. smoked chicken sausage, halved lengthwise and sliced 1/4 inch thick

6 oz. fontina cheese, ; 4 oz. cut into 1/2-inch cubes and 2 oz. coarsely grated

1/4 C. grated Parmesan cheese

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add onion; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic. Remove from heat; add vodka, if desired. Return to heat; cook until almost evaporated, 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes and oregano; cook until tomatoes are falling apart, 10 to 15 minutes. Add cream; cook until warmed through, about 5 minutes. Season sauce with salt and pepper. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cook pasta in the boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Add spinach, and cook just until wilted. Drain, and return contents to pot. Add tomato sauce, sausage, and cubed fontina to pot; toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Divide evenly between two shallow 1 1/2-quart baking dishes. Top with grated fontina and Parmesan. Bake until browned and edges are crisp, 20 to 30 minutes.

Turkey Sausage in Sherry and Garlic

Turkey Sausage in Sherry and Garlic

Turkey Sausage in Sherry and Garlic

1 T. olive oil

1 onion, sliced into half moons

Salt and pepper

3 links hot turkey sausage

3 cloves garlic, minced

¼ c. dry sherry (not cooking wine)

1-14 oz. can diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning

 

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the onions and sauté until soft, about 4 minutes. Push the onions to the edge of the pan and add the sausage links. Sear the sausage for 3-4 minutes per side. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Deglaze the pan with the sherry, then add the can of tomatoes with their juice. Adjust heat so the liquid is at a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and the sauce is well-thickened. Remove sausage links from skillet and slice on the diagonal. Return to skillet to coat with sauce and serve.  Good with crisp polenta triangles.

BBQ Chicken Crescent Roll Ups & Green Beans

BBQ Chicken Crescent Roll Ups & Green Beans

BBQ Chicken Rollups

2 ounces cream cheese, softened

¼ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

1½ cups cooked shredded chicken

¼ cup BBQ sauce

1 (28 ounce) roll Pillsbury Crescent Rolls

4 slices jack cheese, sliced diagonally

 

2 (12 ounce) packages Green Beans

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons Progresso Panko Bread Crumbs

kosher salt to taste

 

Preheat the oven to 375°F.  Mix together the cream cheese, onion powder, and garlic powder. Set aside. Mix together the BBQ sauce and shredded chicken. Unroll the crescent rolls and pull them apart at the perforations. Place a triangle of cheese on each roll at the bottom (see crescent roll package instructions for where the “bottom” is located; it will be the portion of the roll that you roll away from you). Top the cheese with a spoonful of the BBQ chicken and then a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture. Roll the stuffed crescent up and place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 12 minutes.  While the crescents bake, place the green beans in a deep pan with about 2 inches of water. Cover and let the water come to a boil. After 3 minutes drain the green beans. Add the oil and garlic to the pot. Add the green beans back in and toss everything together over medium high heat. Sprinkle with the panko bread crumbs and kosher salt to taste.   Serve everything hot.

Cranberry Turkey Crescent Ring

Cranberry Turkey Crescent Ring

Cranberry Turkey Crescent Ring

2 cups cut-up cooked turkey (1/2-inch pieces)

2 cups lightly packed spinach leaves, chopped

7 oz Swiss cheese (about 10 slices), cut into 1/2-inch squares

½ cup canned whole berry cranberry sauce, and (if desired) extra for serving

2 cans (8 oz each) Pillsbury™ refrigerated crescent dinner rolls SAVE $

Heat oven to 375°F. In medium bowl, mix turkey, spinach, cheese and 1/2 cup cranberry sauce. Unroll both cans of dough; separate into 8 rectangles. On ungreased large cookie sheet, arrange rectangles in ring so short sides of rectangles form a 5-inch circle in center. Dough will overlap.

Spoon turkey filling on the half of each rectangle closest to center of ring.  Bring each dough rectangle up over filling, tucking dough under bottom layer of dough to secure it. Repeat around ring until entire filling is enclosed (some filling might show a little).

Gently separate dough perforations on top until filling peeks through. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until dough is golden brown and thoroughly baked. Cool 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into serving slices. Serve with extra cranberry sauce.

Roasted Sumac Chicken with Plums

Roasted Sumac Chicken with Plums

Roasted Sumac Chicken with Plums

1 large Lemon

1 T. ground Sumac

4 tsp. Salt

1 ½ tsp. Pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling 2 garlic cloves, grated on a Microplane or minced

1 whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds), patted dry with paper towels

1/2 bunch fresh thyme sprigs, about 6 sprigs, plus more for garnish 6 sprigs, plus more for garnish

 

5 medium plums, pitted and cut into 1-inch chunks (about 1 2/3 cups)

2 shallots, very thinly sliced

2 to 4 teaspoons honey, to taste

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground allspice

1 Bay Leaf, torn in half

 

Prepare the chicken: Grate the zest from the lemon and place it in a small bowl. Set aside the bald lemon.  Stir the sumac, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and allspice into the lemon zest until combined. Stir in 3 tablespoons of the olive oil and the garlic. The mixture should feel like wet sand. Rub it all over the chicken, including inside the cavity. Place the thyme in the chicken cavity. Place the chicken on a rimmed baking sheet and marinate, uncovered, in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. Heat the oven to 45O°F. Transfer the baking sheet to the oven, and roast the chicken for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the plums: In a medium bowl, mix together the plums, shallots, honey, salt, cinnamon, allspice, and bay leaf. Set aside. Squeeze 1 teaspoon juice from the reserved bald lemon into a small bowl, and mix it with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil; drizzle this over the chicken. Then add the plum mixture to the baking sheet and continue to roast until the bird is golden-skinned and cooked through, 20 to 35 minutes.  Let the chicken rest, covered lightly with aluminum foil, for 10 minutes. Then carve and serve it with the plums, garnished with thyme sprigs.

Steamed Cabbage with Potstickers

Steamed Cabbage with Potstickers

Steamed Cabbage with Potstickers

1 head green cabbage finely shredded
3 large peeled carrots shredded
1″ fresh ginger, peeled and minced
4 scallions finely chopped
1 bag meat or vegetable pot stickers
¼ C. tamari or soy sauce
1 tsp. sesame chili oil
dash of mirin (optional)

Close the drain and fill the steamer to the fill line, pre-heat on full steam. Combine the cabbage, carrots, ginger and scallions in the solid insert together with 1 C. of water. Steam for 10-12 minutes until tender, drain and toss with the tamari, sesame chili oil and mirin. Lightly oil the perforated container and steam as many of the pot stickers as you require for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Serve the pot stickers over the vegetables.

Skinny Chicken Fried Rice

Skinny Chicken Fried Rice

Skinny Chicken Fried Rice

2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 (8.8-ounce) pouch Uncle Ben’s® Ready Rice® brown rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cups frozen peas and carrots mix
6 green onions, thinly sliced
2 eggs
¼ cup less-sodium soy sauce
2 teaspoons oyster sauce

In a wok or a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and stir constantly using a wooden spoon or spatula for 1 minute or until fragrant. Increase the heat to high and add the chicken. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, turning and moving the chicken constantly while cooking. Scrape the chicken and garlic onto a plate and set aside. Microwave the rice according to package directions. Set aside. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to the pan. Once hot, add the onion, peas and carrots, and half of the green onions and stir-fry, constantly moving the mixture until the onions and carrots soften, 3 to 5 minutes. Push the vegetables to the outer edges of the wok or skillet to open up the center. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble. When the eggs are cooked through, combine with the vegetables. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the reserved chicken, cooked brown rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce to the vegetable mixture and stir to combine. Serve garnished with the remaining green onions.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving Size: 1 heaping cup
Calories: 290
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 5g

Chicken, Bacon & Spinach Spaghetti

Chicken, Bacon & Spinach Spaghetti

Chicken, Bacon & Spinach Spaghetti

12 oz. spaghetti or angel hair
1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
6 slices bacon
2 cloves garlic
2 c. diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
3 c. baby spinach
1/2 c. heavy cream
1/3 c. freshly grated Parmesan
Fresh basil, for garnish

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook spaghetti or angel hair according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water, and return to pot. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until cooked through and no longer pink, 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into strips. In a second skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and drain, then chop. Pour off half the bacon fat and add garlic, tomatoes, and spinach to skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then add heavy cream, Parmesan, and 1/2 cup pasta water; let simmer. Add spaghetti or angel hair and toss until fully coated. Add chicken and bacon and toss, then garnish with basil and serve.

Chicken Bacon Spaghetti

Chicken Bacon Spaghetti


12 oz. spaghetti or angel hair
1 T. extra-virgin olive oil
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
6 slices bacon
2 cloves garlic
2 c. diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
3 c. baby spinach
1/2 c. heavy cream
1/3 c. freshly grated Parmesan
Fresh basil, for garnish

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook spaghetti or angel hair according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water, and return to pot. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until cooked through and no longer pink, 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into strips. In a second skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and drain, then chop. Pour off half the bacon fat and add garlic, tomatoes, and spinach to skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then add heavy cream, Parmesan, and 1/2 cup pasta water; let simmer. Add spaghetti or angel hair and toss until fully coated. Add chicken and bacon and toss, then garnish with basil and serve.

Spicy Peanut Chicken (Sheet Pan)

Spicy Peanut Chicken (Sheet Pan)

1/4 C. smooth peanut butter
1/4 C. water
1/4 tsp. toasted sesame oil
2 tsp. soy sauce
2 tsp. sambal oelek
2 tsp. rice vinegar
4 skinless chicken thighs
1 bunch Broccolini

Preheat broiler. Mix together peanut butter, water, sesame oil, soy sauce, sambal oelek, and rice vinegar. Toss chicken thighs and Broccolini in sauce, and place on a rimmed baking sheet. Broil 10 inches from heat until chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes (watch to make sure it doesn’t burn).

One Pan Chicken & Potato Bake

One Pan Chicken & Potato Bake

4 Bone in Pieces Chicken
4 Large Potatoes, cut into wedges
¼ C. Italian Salad Dressing
¼ C. Parmesan Cheese
2 Stalks Celery, large dice
Parsley

Preheat oven to 400. Place Chicken, Potatoes, and Celery in a 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Pour dressing over all. Sprinkle with parmesan. Bake 45-60 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.

Coconut-Almond Chicken Stew with Cilantro

Coconut-Almond Chicken Stew with Cilantro

8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds), trimmed
1 tsp. Sea Salt
1/2 tsp. Black Pepper, Coarse Grind
2 tsp. olive oil
1 large onion, chopped (1 C.)
2 tsp. Roasted Red Chili Paste
2 C. Chicken Stock
1 can (13.66 oz.) Coconut Milk
1 large sweet potato (1 pound), peeled, quartered lengthwise and cut into 1-inch slices (about 2 C.)
1 small red bell pepper, cut into thin strips (1 C.)
1/2 C. smooth almond butter
1/4 C. fresh lime juice
1/2 C. chopped fresh cilantro
Cooked Jasmine Rice or basmati rice (optional)

Season chicken with sea salt and pepper. Heat oil in 5-quart nonstick Dutch oven or saucepot on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook 3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove chicken. Add onion; cook and stir 3 minutes or until lightly browned. Add chili paste; cook and stir 1 minute. Stir in chicken stock, coconut milk, sweet potato and bell pepper. Bring just to boil. Return chicken and any juices to Dutch oven. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potato is tender. Mix almond butter, lime juice and 1 C. sauce from the stew in medium bowl with wire whisk until smooth. Gradually stir back into stew. Simmer 5 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle with cilantro. Serve over cooked rice, if desired.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 447
Fat: 31g
Fiber: 3g

Peppery Ducks Steaks & Parsley Salad

Peppery Ducks Steaks & Parsley Salad

1 Muscovy duck breast (about 1 pound)
1 tsp. salt
4 garlic cloves, smashed to a paste, with a little salt
1 tsp. coarsely crushed peppercorns
Parsley salad (recipe follows)

With a sharp knife, remove the tenderloin from the underside of the duck breast and reserve for another purpose. Trim any ragged bits or gristle. Turn the breast over and trim any excess fat from the edges. Score the skin by making shallow diagonal cuts, 1/2 inch apart, in one direction and then repeating in the other direction, creating a diamond pattern. Season on both sides with the salt, then massage with the garlic paste. Press the crushed peppercorns evenly over both sides. Put the duck on a platter and leave to marinate for at least 1 hour at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight (if the latter, bring to room temperature before cooking).. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. After 5 minutes, when the pan is hot, carefully add the duck breast skin side down and let it begin to sizzle. Using tongs, check to see that the skin is not browning too quickly, and reduce the heat as necessary. Be careful: The duck breast will render a fair amount of hot fat. The skin should be golden and crisp after 6 or 7 minutes. Turn the breast over and cook for 2 minutes more. Remove to a carving board and let rest for 10 minutes. (When the rendered duck fat has cooled a bit, strain into a jar and save for future use). Cut at an angle into 1/4-inch-thick slices and arrange on a platter. Top with the parsley salad and serve. Serves 2 to 4.

To make the parsley salad:

1 large bunch flat-leaf parsley
2 tsp. lemon juice
Salt and pepper
1 small garlic clove, minced
2 tsp. olive oil
A chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for shaving (optional)

Pick the parsley leaves from the stems—you want about 2 C. Wash and gently dry with a clean towel. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste, garlic and olive oil. The parsley leaves must be dressed at the very last minute. Season with a sprinkle of salt, then toss with the dressing to coat lightly and serve in a fluffy pile. Garnish with shavings of Parmesan, if desired

Gypsy Garlic Chicken

Gypsy Garlic Chicken

21 or more cloves fresh garlic, peeled, divided
8 chicken breast halves and 4 legs
2 tsp. vegetable oil
2 medium onions, sliced
1 1/2 C. water
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1/2 C. Sherry
2 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. vinegar
1 tsp. each salt and chervil
2 large bay leaves
1 heaping tsp. whole peppercorns
1 cheesecloth square, 4×4 inches
Lemon slices and parsley for garnish
cooked buttered noodles

Cut 5 garlic cloves into thin slices. With sharp pointed knife, pierce chicken skin at 1 1/2 inch intervals and insert garlic slices between the skin and the flesh. Heat oil to medium heat and sauté chicken, onions and remaining whole garlic cloves until chicken is slightly browned, being careful that onions and garlic do not burn, stir often. Add water, tomato sauce, sherry, sugar, vinegar, salt and chervil; bring to a boil. Wrap bay leaves and peppercorns in cheesecloth and tie opposite ends to make a bag. Drop into the boiling sauce; reduce heat, cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until chicken is tender. Remove spice bag. Secure a parsley sprig into center of 8 lemon slices with a toothpick. Place on top of larger pieces of meat, cover and simmer for 8 minutes. Arrange on platter, decorated with additional fresh parsley, if desired. Serve at once, accompanied by buttered noodles.

Roast Chicken with Prosecco Herb Sauce

Roast Chicken with Prosecco Herb Sauce

2 lb. chicken thighs and drumsticks
3 T. butter
2 T. olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
½ C. flour
â…“ C. shallots, diced
1.5 C. Prosecco (or any champagne)
1.5 C. chicken stock
1 T. fresh oregano, chopped (see notes)
1 tsp Herbs de Provence
½ C. heavy cream
salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350º. In a Dutch oven, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Lightly dredge in flour. Place in skillet and let the chicken cook for ten minutes undisturbed. This is what creates that wonderful crispy skin. After ten minutes, turn the pieces and cook an additional ten minutes. Remove chicken and place on a plate. Set aside. Add shallots to the pan. Sauté until translucent, 4-5 minutes. Add Prosecco, stock and herbs. Using a wooden spoon, loosen the crusty browned chicken bits from the bottom of the pan. This is the good stuff and it will add so much flavor to the final dish. Simmer for ten minutes. Add chicken pieces back to pan, cover and place in the oven for thirty minutes. At that point, remove chicken from pan and pour in the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and add chicken pieces back in. Serve immediately. Notes: Herbs de Provence already has oregano in the mix, but the addition of fresh adds a different flavor. You could skip fresh oregano and replace with fresh parsley, but I do like the way the fresh oregano plays with the Prosecco in this dish.

Roast Chicken with Caramelized Lemons, Cherry Tomatoes and Olives

Roast Chicken with Caramelized Lemons, Cherry Tomatoes and Olives

1 T. vegetable or canola oil
4 chicken breasts, bone in and skin on
1 tsp. kosher salt
1 lemon cut in half
1/2 C. pitted black olives
1/2 C. cherry tomatoes
handful of thyme (about 8-10 stems)

Preheat oven to 450°F. Heat the oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry, make sure they are very dry, and sprinkle the top with the salt. Place the chicken breasts, skin side down, in the heated oil and sear for 5 minutes, or until skin is crisp and golden brown. Flip the chicken over. Add the lemon, olives, tomatoes and thyme to the skillet and transfer to the oven. Roast for 25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. The chicken breasts I used were 3/4 pound each.

Japanese Sticky Chicken

Japanese Sticky Chicken

1 T. minced fresh ginger
1/4 C. mirin
1/4 C. honey
1/4 C. low sodium soy sauce
1 T. rice vinegar
1 T. sesame oil
1 tsp. togarashi spice blend, optional
2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
3 scallions, chopped

In a large zipper bag or in 13 x 9 baking dish, whisk the first 7 ingredients. Add the chicken to the sauce, turning the pieces so they are completely coated. Marinate 1 hour in the refrigerator or up to overnight. Preheat the oven to 450F. Bake Chicken, skin side up, for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve sprinkled with scallions.

Bajan Hot Pepper Grilled Chicken

Bajan Hot Pepper Grilled Chicken

1 1/2 lbs. chicken pieces (breast, thighs, bone-in or boneless)
3 T. Bajan Seasoning
1/3 C. Bajan Hot Pepper Sauce

You can use your favorite type of chicken pieces here, boneless, bone-in, etc.

Place chicken pieces and Bajan Seasoning in a large plastic food-storage bag and shake to coat all chicken pieces with seasoning. Refrigerate chicken for 20 to 30 min. while grill preheats. Place hot sauce in a shallow plate or bowl. Remove chicken from refrigerator and dip each piece in hot sauce to coat. Grill until cooked through.

Chicken & Beans in Phyllo

Chicken & Beans in Phyllo

3 slices bacon, but into 1-inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, sliced
2 carrots, sliced
3 cloves garlic, halved
4 sprigs fresh or 1/2 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1 bay leaf
2 cans (15 1/2 oz. each) Great Northern beans or 3 C. cooked dry-packaged Great Northern beans, rinsed, drained
1 C. chicken stock
Salt
Pepper
8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into halves
3 to 4 T. olive oil
1 package (1 pound) frozen phyllo dough, thawed
1 to 1 1/2 C. unsalted butter, melted
Thyme Butter Sauce (recipe follows)

Cook bacon until beginning to brown in large skillet; add onion, celery, carrots and garlic. Sauté until onion is tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Add thyme and bay leaf; sauté 1 minute. Add beans and chicken stock; heat to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until vegetable are tender, 10 to 15 minutes; drain and discard any remaining stock. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sauté chicken in oil until browned on all sides in large skillet; drain and cool. Preheat oven to 350º F. Lay 1 phyllo sheet on clean surface; brush lightly with melted butter. Layer with 3 more sheets phyllo, brushing each with butter. Keep remaining phyllo covered with damp towel to prevent drying. Cut buttered phyllo stack into 4 equal squares. Place chicken breast piece in center of each square and top with about 1/4 C. bean mixture. Fold sides of squares in and roll up to form packets. Place packets, seam side down on parchment-lined cookie sheet; brush tops of packets with melted butter. Repeat with remaining phyllo, melted butter, chicken and bean mixture. Bake in preheated oven until phyllo is golden, 15 to 20 minutes. Place on plates; serve with Thyme Butter Sauce.

Thyme Butter Sauce

3 oz. shallots, chopped
1/2 C. dry white wine
1/2 C. white wine vinegar
1/4 C. heavy cream
1 pound unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch cubes, softened
Salt
White pepper
4 sprigs fresh or 1/2 tsp. dried thyme leaves

Heat shallots, wine and vinegar to boiling in medium saucepan; reduce heat and simmer rapidly until liquid is reduced to 2 T.. Stir in cream and simmer rapidly until very thick. Reduce heat to low. Add butter to saucepan, 1 piece at a time, whisking constantly. Strain; discard shallots. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove thyme leaves from stems; stir into sauce.

Cubed Steaks Parmigiana

Cubed Steaks Parmigiana

3 T. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 eggs
3 T. water
1/3 C. finely crushed saltines
1/3 C. grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. dried basil
4 beef cubed steaks (4 oz. each)
3 T. canola oil
1-1/4 C. tomato sauce
2-1/4 tsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. dried oregano, divided
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
4 slices part-skim mozzarella cheese
1/3 C. shredded Parmesan cheese

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat eggs and water. Place cracker crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese and basil in a third bowl. Coat steaks with flour mixture, then dip in egg mixture and coat with crumb mixture. In a large skillet, brown steaks in oil for 2-3 minutes on each side. Arrange steaks in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 25 minutes or until meat thermometer reads 160°. Combine the tomato sauce, sugar, 1/4 tsp. oregano and garlic powder; spoon over steaks. Bake 10 minutes longer. Top each steak with mozzarella cheese; sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese and remaining oregano. Bake 2-3 minutes longer or until cheese is melted

Curried Chicken & Mango Rice

Curried Chicken & Mango Rice

1 C. Rehydrated Mango, diced (This will likely have to sit a few hours, so start this first!) You CAN use the mango still dried, and it will soften a little bit while it cooks, but will still be pretty chewy. If you do this, add an extra ½ C. liquid with your rice in the skillet.

1 tsp. Curry Powder
½ tsp. Salt
¼ tsp. Black Pepper
2-3 C. Canned Chicken
1 C. Chicken Broth (or 1 C. Water + 1 Bouillon Cube)
½ C. Water
½ C. White Wine (or use additional water / broth)
1 C. Long Grain White Rice
1 tsp. Brown Sugar (make your own brown sugar with white sugar and molasses)
1 tsp. dried Parsley (Use 2 tsp. fresh, if you happen to have some in your garden plot)

Combine curry powder, ¼ tsp. salt and pepper and rub gently into the chicken gently to coat it well. In large skillet, combine chicken broth, water and wine with rice. Stir in brown sugar, parsley and ¼ tsp. salt. Stir in mango. Scatter your chicken over the top of the rice. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Remove from heat. If liquid is not all absorbed let stand, covered, an additional 5 minutes for remaining juices to be taken up by the rice.

Baked Chicken with Garlic and Sun Dried Tomatoes

Baked Chicken with Garlic and Sun Dried Tomatoes

Baked Chicken with Garlic and Sun Dried Tomatoes1 lb chicken breasts, boneless, cut into 4 oz. portions
1 oz. vegetable or olive oil
20 whole garlic cloves, peeled
1 medium yellow or white onion, cut in half root to tip then sliced thin
1/2 C. sun dried tomatoes, chopped, (not packed in oil)
1/4 C. white wine
1/2-3/4 C. chicken stock
1 tsp. dried oregano
White pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Rinse the chicken under cold running water and pat dry. Crush two of the 20 garlic cloves. Place an ovenproof skillet over moderate heat. Once warm add oil .Once oil is hot add crushed garlic to pan then place chicken in the pan on top of the garlic. Toss in remaining garlic cloves. Cook chicken for about 8 minutes or until it will release itself easily from the pan then flip to cook the other side. Continue to cook for 4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet. Set aside. Place onions and tomatoes over the caramelized garlic. Allow the onions and tomatoes to sweat in the pan for 3-4 minutes. Reduce heat and add wine. With a spoon stir the pan to remove the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This deglazing technique will remove the flavor stuck to the bottom of the pan and release it to the vegetables. Add chicken back to the skillet. Add stock just until the liquid level reaches halfway up the sides of the chicken. Add oregano and pepper to taste. Cover with tight fitting lid and place in oven. Bake 30 minutes.

Bacon, Chicken, and Avocado Salad

Bacon, Chicken, and Avocado Salad

Bacon, Chicken, and Avocado Salad¼ lb bacon, or 4–5 slices, cut into ½-inch bits
8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into 2 inch pieces, seasoned with salt and pepper
1 avocado – peeled, pitted and cut into 1-inch chunks
1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
¼ C. chopped red onion
½ C. chopped walnut
1 apple – cut into 1 inch chunks (optional)

In a pan over medium heat, cook the bacon “bits” until crisp. Remove and set aside, but save the bacon grease in the pan. Add the chopped and seasoned chicken thighs to the pan and sauté in the bacon grease. Cook the chicken and turn so that every side is browned. Allow it to simmer over low heat while you prepare the rest of the salad. Toss the chopped romaine, avocado, chicken and bacon together. Top with red onion and walnuts. Dress with your favorite vinaigrette.

Classic Roast Canvasback with Fried Hominy

Classic Roast Canvasback with Fried Hominy

There is no substitute for canvasback duck. It is a unique taste in the animal world, one you cannot replicate with a domestic duck or even another worthy wild duck, like a mallard or pintail. That is not to say you cannot do this with any of these lesser stand-ins, but be prepared to be in awe when you finally get the chance, someday, to taste the real thing.

As for the other things on this plate, white hominy grits are easily bought in much of this country, but California (where I live) is not one of them. So I use polenta instead. Any breadcrumbs are fine. For the fat I went authentic and fried the little cakes in lard, but I would only recommend this if you can get fresh-rendered lard. Never use the hydrogenated stuff that needs not be refrigerated. Use butter instead. Keep in mind you need to make the hominy a few hours ahead to let it cool.

Red currant jelly is sold in many supermarkets, but you can use any red fruit jelly really. I used chokecherry syrup from Montana, but cherry syrup or jelly would be ideal, as would cranberry jelly or syrup. You are looking for red and tart.

I use glace de viande for my pan sauces, and so should you. You can either use my recipe for duck demi-glace and make it yourself, or you can buy it online.

Serve this with a bitter green salad, dressed with a light coating of walnut oil and white wine vinegar, and serve with a big, burly red wine. This would be the time to break out the Bordeaux.

Classic Roast Canvasback with Fried Hominy

1 cup finely ground hominy or polenta
Salt
5 cups water
1 canvasback duck or other whole duck, plucked and gutted
1/4 cup butter or duck fat, divided
1 egg, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 shallot, minced
1/3 cup red currant jelly or syrup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup demi-glace (or 1 cup stock reduced to 1/4 cup)
A dash of hot sauce

Make the hominy by bringing the water and about a tablespoon of salt to a boil. Start stirring the water and pour the hominy grits into the water in a steady stream. Turn the heat to low and cook this for at least 20 minutes, and up to an hour, stirring occasionally. Turn out the grits into a loaf pan or other small, high-sided container and let cool for at least 1 hour. Preheat the oven to 500°F, or if your oven won’t get that high, as high as it will go. This would be the time to fire up the pizza oven, if you have one. Pat the canvasback dry with a paper towel and salt the inside. Smear duck fat or butter all over the bird and salt it well on the outside. Let this sit at room temperature for at least 2o minutes, while your oven heats up. Meanwhile, turn the cooled hominy grits out onto a cutting board and slice off the side that had been exposed to air. Cut the rest into shapes of your choice. Get a bowl with your egg ready, and another bowl for the breadcrumbs. Put the canvasback in an oven-proof pan — I use a cast-iron pan — and set the timer for 18 minutes. Once you do this, put the remaining butter or lard into a frying pan and heat it on medium-high. As soon as it is hot, dredge the hominy grits in egg, then the breadcrumbs and fry in the lard until golden. Set aside on a paper towel to drain. At the 10-minute mark of roasting, baste the canvasback with some butter or duck fat. When it is done to your liking, take the duck out, remove it from the hot pan and set it on the cutting board tented loosely with foil. A medium-rare duck will be about 18 minutes, medium 20-22, and don’t go past 25 minutes unless the canvasback is really fatty. Domestic ducks will need this extra time. Look for a temperature in the breast of about 135-140°F. As the duck is resting, make sure you have at least 2 tablespoons of fat in the pan you roasted the bird in. Set this on the stove over medium heat. Be careful, as the pan will be hot. Add the shallots and sauté for 2 minutes, or until they begin to brown. Add the remaining sauce ingredients and any salt if needed. Bring this to a rolling boil and let it cook down until a wooden spoon dragged through it leaves a noticeable trail. You want a thick consistency, but not so much as syrup or gravy. Carve the canvasback (save the carcass for duck stock) and add any juices to the sauce. Pour some sauce on the plate, add a hominy cake or two and top with the duck. Serve at once.