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Tag: Using Leftovers

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

Aged Cheddar, Smoked Ham, and Apple Galette

1 T. salted butter

2 T. all-purpose flour

¾ cups milk

2 T. grainy mustard

2 cups grated aged cheddar cheese

1 cup (1-inch) cubed smoked ham

2–3 large baking apples, cored, cut into ¼-inch slices (peel left on)

1 tsp. grated lemon zest

Flaked sea salt and cracked black pepper

1½ cups all-purpose flour

2 T. thyme leaves

½ tsp. fine sea salt

½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch cubes

5–6 T. cold water

1 large egg

1 T. milk

 

To make the pastry, place the flour, thyme, and salt in a food processor. Pulse once to combine. Add all the butter and pulse a few more times until the mixture is crumbly and the butter is cut down into pea-sized pieces. Add the cold water, 1 Tbsp at a time, pulsing in between to bring the dough together. Dump the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and form it into a disc. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. To make the filling, first melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and add the flour. Stir to combine and cook until the flour begins to brown and has a slightly nutty aroma. While whisking constantly, add the milk and continue to stir until the roux thickens. Remove from the heat and add the grainy mustard. Set aside.  In a large bowl, place the cheese, ham, apple slices, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss lightly just to combine. Place the dough on a well-floured work surface and roll it into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet. Spread the mustard roux over the middle of the pastry, leaving a 2-inch-wide border along the perimeter. Top with the cheese, ham, and apple mixture. Fold the bare edges of the dough in towards the centre to form a rustic crust. Make an egg wash by beating the egg with the milk. Brush the crust with the egg wash and bake the galette for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remove the galette from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before serving

Hoisin Turkey Lettuce Cups

Hoisin Turkey Lettuce Cups

Hoisin Turkey Lettuce Cups

 

6 T. hoisin sauce

1 T. soy sauce

1 T. sriracha

1 1/2 tsp. oil

1/3 cup seeded and small-diced red bell pepper

2 cups diced leftover turkey

10 Bibb lettuce cups, each roughly the size of a small hand

1/4 cup finely diced green onion

About 1/2 cup of something crunchy: crispy chow mein noodles are ideal; peanuts or cashews would work great, too

 

Combine the hoisin, soy sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the oil and swirl it around. Add the bell pepper and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the diced turkey and stir well to combine. When the turkey mixture has been warmed through, add the hoisin mixture and stir quickly, making sure all is coated well. Remove from the heat and divide among the lettuce cups. Top each with green onion and crunchies.

Leftover Short Rib Pasta

Leftover Short Rib Pasta

Leftover Short Rib Pasta

 

leftover short ribs, bones removed and meat pulled, including any sauce (If sauce is short, blend with a bit of heavy cream

kosher salt

1 pound rigatoni

1/2 cup grated Parmigiano cheese

extra-virgin olive oil, for finishing

chopped Parsley, for garnish

 

Heat up the shredded short ribs and sauce in a large pot along with 1 cup of water. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Taste the water to make sure it is as salty as the ocean. Toss in the rigatoni and cook 2 minutes less than it says on the package or bite a noodle to check for doneness (the pasta should be just underdone). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and toss it into the pot with the short ribs and sauce along with the reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes. Turn off the heat. Toss in the grated Parmesan and drizzle with olive oil. Stir vigorously to combine.

Easy Short Rib Stroganoff {leftovers}

Easy Short Rib Stroganoff {leftovers}

Easy Short Rib Stroganoff {leftovers}

 

3 T. cornstarch

3 T. cold water

1 1/2 cups beef stock

2 T. butter

1/2 medium onion, diced

8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and thinly sliced

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup sour cream

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 T. prepared horseradish

1 T. finely chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish

8 ounces shredded leftover Short Ribs

 

Mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until very smooth. Put the stock in a small pot over medium heat and, once warm, add the cornstarch slurry and stir or whisk until it thickens, then remove from the heat and set aside. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the onion and mushrooms until lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the thickened stock, sour cream, Worcestershire, horseradish, and dill. Stir to combine and add the short ribs. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Serve over egg noodles, rice, or whatever makes sense, maybe with a little more dill for garnish.

Grilled Hoisin Meatballs

Grilled Hoisin Meatballs

Grilled Hoisin Meatballs

 

32 small leftover meatballs, about a pound

1/2 cup Hoisin sauce

2 T. chili sauce (Sambal)

1 tsp. sesame oil

2 T. soy sauce

Green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

 

Combine hoisin, chili sauce, sesame oil and soy in a small bowl and mix well to combine – set aside. Heat grill to medium/high (or oven to 400). Grill meatballs until fully warmed through and just starting to brown with grill markings (or bake in oven until heated thru and beginning to sizzle, about 15 minutes). Put meatballs in a large bowl and toss with some of the sauce, plate and sprinkle with green onion & sesame seeds.

Pesto French Bread Pizza

Pesto French Bread Pizza

Pesto French Bread Pizza

 

10 leftover meatballs, sliced into rounds

2 T. butter

1 large clove garlic, minced

2 T. flour

1 cup milk

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

½ C. pesto

1 loaf French bread

1 cup Mozzarella, grated

 

Put slices of meatball in a bowl and toss with pesto – set aside. Melt butter in a medium pot on low heat, add garlic. Cook about a minute or until just fragrant then whisk in flour. Continue stirring and cook about a minute until it becomes a thick paste. Add milk and whisk to incorporate. When it starts to thicken, add Parmesan cheese and stir well until thick & smooth. Preheat broiler. Cut french bread lengthwise and add a generous layer of the cheese sauce to both cut sides. Add a layer of meatballs and top with mozzarella. Place under the broiler until bubbly, melty and gorgeous. Slice & serve.

Beer Braised Short Ribs (double for planned leftovers)

Beer Braised Short Ribs (double for planned leftovers)

Beer Braised Short Ribs (double for planned leftovers)

 

4 pounds bone in short ribs (about 8)

Kosher salt & fresh ground pepper

Neutral oil, like avocado

4 carrots, cut into 1 inch pieces

4 celery stalks, cut into 1 inch pieces

1 small yellow onion, cut into a medium dice

3 cloves garlic

3 T. tomato paste

3 T. flour

2 cups beef broth

1 bottle (12 ounces) Guinness stout

6 fresh thyme stalks

 

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Season short ribs well with salt & pepper. Heat a heavy oven proof pot (like a Dutch oven) and sear short ribs until browned on all sides – (except bone side) until golden brown – about 3-4 minutes total then remove & set aside. Add carrot, celery & onion to the pot and cook until just beginning to soften, about 3 minutes, then add garlic and stir in to combine – cook another 2 minutes. Add tomato paste and flour to vegetables – stir well to combine and cook another minute or so. Put in beef broth & Guinness, stirring well and bring to a boil – turn off heat and add ribs back to the pot long with the thyme. Cover with lid, put in the oven and cook until fork tender – 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Serve with the vegetables and some of the gravy/broth on anything – rice, potatoes, pasta, cauliflower mash.

 

 

 

Chicken Noodle Wonton Soup

Chicken Noodle Wonton Soup

Chicken Noodle Wonton Soup

 

2 T. oil

1/2 small onion, sliced

2 medium carrots, cut diagonally into thin slices

1 celery stalk, cut diagonally into thin slices

One 1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced

3 garlic cloves, crushed and roughly chopped

6 cups chicken stock

6 green onions, white and light green parts, cut into 1-inch pieces

8 frozen chicken or pork pot stickers

4 baby bok choy, root end cut off so leaves can separate, then sliced lengthwise

One 3-ounce package instant ramen noodles, seasoning pack removed

8 shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and thinly sliced

8 ounces leftover Chicken

1 T. soy sauce

1 tsp. sesame chili oil (or just sesame oil)

 

Heat the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ginger and garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about a minute. Add the stock and green onions and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes. Put in the pot stickers and cook for 5 minutes, then add the bok choy, noodles, shiitakes, and chicken. Cook until the noodles are softened, about 5 minutes, then stir in the soy sauce and sesame chib oil. Serve.

Asian Chicken and Cellophane Noodle Salad

Asian Chicken and Cellophane Noodle Salad

Asian Chicken and Cellophane Noodle Salad

Cellophane noodles, also known as glass noodles, are thin, transparent Asian noodles usually made from mung bean starch and water. They’re great in soups and stir-fries, but we also love them as an interesting base of a chilled, hearty, summery dinner salad.

 

8 ounces cellophane noodles

3 carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch-long matchsticks

2 English cucumbers, peeled and cut into 2-inch-long matchsticks

6 T. rice vinegar, divided

1/3 cup soy sauce

2 T. vegetable oil

1 T. toasted sesame oil

1 T. grated fresh ginger

1 garlic clove, minced

2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken

 

Bring 4 quarts water to boil in large pot. Add noodles and cook until tender. Drain, rinse with cold water, and drain again to remove as much water as possible. Meanwhile, toss carrots and cucumbers with 2 T. vinegar in large bowl; set aside to marinate for 10 minutes. Whisk soy sauce, remaining 1/4 cup vinegar, vegetable oil, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic together in bowl. Drain and discard vinegar from marinating vegetables. Add noodles, chicken, and dressing to bowl with vegetables and toss to thoroughly combine. Serve.

Coconut Curry Meatballs

Coconut Curry Meatballs

Coconut Curry Meatballs

 

30 leftover Meatballs

1 T. olive oil

4 cloves garlic minced

1 medium yellow onion diced

13.5 oz coconut milk

6 oz tomato paste

1 tsp cayenne pepper

2 tsp garam masala

1 tsp curry powder

1/2 tsp ginger powder

1 tsp chili powder

salt and pepper

1 T. tapioca flour optional for thickening

water or broth for thinning

 

In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium high heat. Add onions and cook for 3-5 minutes or until soft. Add in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in coconut milk. Whisk in tomato paste, cayenne pepper, garam masala, curry powder, ginger powder, chili powder, and salt and pepper. Sauce should start to thicken. If you want a thicker sauce, dissolve tapioca starch or corn starch in a bit of warm water and whisk in, bring to boil, reduce to low and simmer. Add meatballs and cover. Cook on med-low for 10-15 minutes or until meatballs are heated through. If sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or broth. Taste for seasoning and adjust spice level as needed. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice, and a side of pita or naan bread. Yum!

Glorious Meatball Pho

Glorious Meatball Pho

Glorious Meatball Pho

 

32 ounces beef stock

2 star anise

3 limes

One 1-inch piece fresh ginger, cut into 4 slices

8 ounces rice noodles

8 leftover Meatballs, warmed slightly in a microwave

One 8-ounce bag bean sprouts

1 bunch green onions, white and light green parts only, sliced into thin strips

1 big handful fresh cilantro

1 small red chile, sliced very thinly

Hoisin sauce for serving

Sriracha for serving

 

Combine the stock, star anise, the juice of two of the limes, and the ginger in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, lower the heat slightly, and simmer for about 15 minutes. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the noodles, and cook for 3 minutes. Drain the noodles well and divide among four bowls. Add the meatballs and cover with the stock. Then add some bean sprouts, green onion, cilantro, red chile, and a squeeze of juice from one-quarter of the remaining lime to each bowl. Add some hoisin and sriracha to taste to each bowl and eat.

Pantry Friendly Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto Chicken and Walnuts

Pantry Friendly Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto Chicken and Walnuts

Pantry Friendly Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto Chicken and Walnuts

 

1 lb bow tie pasta

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded

10 ounces jar pesto sauce

1⁄2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

 

Cook pasta according to package directions, drain. Place chicken in a large bowl. While pasta is still warm, add it to the chicken and toss thoroughly. Add entire jar of pesto sauce and toss to coat. Add the walnuts and toss once more. Serve warm or chilled. Garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

Sweet & Sour Meatballs

 

1/2 cup ketchup

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 T. apple cider vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

1 T. brown sugar

1 T. cornstarch

1 pound ready made mini meatballs

2 cups cooked brown rice

2 green onions, white & light green parts only, thinly sliced on an angle

sesame seeds for garnish

 

Combine first 6 ingredients in a pot and heat on the stove over medium heat until sauce comes to a slight boil – then turn down heat and simmer. Place the meatballs in the pot, simmer 10-15 minutes until heated through. Serve over rice, garnish sesame seeds and green onions on top.

Chicken Club Ring

Chicken Club Ring

Chicken Club Ring

 

2 cups cooked chicken breast meat, chopped fine

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

4 oz. cream cheese, softened

1 T. dry Ranch dressing mix

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

4-5 slices crisp cooked bacon, crumbled

1/4 cup sliced green onion, including some of the green blades (optional)

8 slices Swiss or Provolone cheese slices, cut in half

2 cans refrigerated crescent rolls

 

Dice the chicken in a fairly small dice.  Not as fine as for chicken salad, but small.  In a bowl mix the mayonnaise, mustard, cream cheese, and Ranch dressing until smooth.  Mix in the chicken.  Stir in the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon and green onion.  Mix just until blended.

Croque Monsieur Croissant Bake

Croque Monsieur Croissant Bake

Croque Monsieur Croissant Bake

 

6 large day old croissants or 9 mini croissants

1/2 lb sliced ham

1/2 lb sliced Gruyère, or Swiss cheese

3 large eggs

1 c milk

1 tsp. kosher salt

 

2 T. flour

2 T. butter

1 1/2 c milk

2 T. mustard dijon or whole grain

1 tsp. kosher salt

 

First, make the béchamel. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking continuously until the butter and flour are well combined and foaming but still very pale in color, about 2 minutes. Slowly stream in the milk whisking continuously until the mixture is pale and smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Turn off the heat, whisk in the mustard, salt and freshly cracked pepper. Set aside. Preheat your oven to 350 F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of butter. Slice the croissants in half through the middle so you have a top and bottom. Brush each half with a generous layer of béchamel then layer 1-2 slices each of ham and cheese, reserve a few few slices of cheese to top the croissants at the end. Put the tops and bottoms back together and arrange them into the baking dish. Depending on the size of your croissants they may not fit perfectly you will have to play around with it a bit. You can cut a few in half if you need to. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Whisk together the eggs, milk and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the croissants. Press down on the croissants to help them absorb the eggs and milk. Let sit for 30 minutes (or up to 12 hrs) before baking. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the croissants, bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately!

 

Croissants: Day old, slightly stale croissants are best because they will soak up more liquid from the custard.

Ham : any type of ham will be just fine for this recipe.

Gruyère Cheese: If you can’t find Gruyère use swiss cheese instead.

Frito Casserole

Frito Casserole

Frito Casserole

 

10 oz. bag Fritos Original corn chips

10 oz. cooked and shredded white meat chicken (pulled from a store-bought roasted chicken)

1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. dry oregano leaves

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

16 oz. can refried beans, any flavor

8 oz. jar salsa or picante sauce

4 oz. can diced green chiles

2.25 oz. can sliced black olives, drained

12 oz. bag shredded cheese (Mexican, cheddar or Colby/jack)

 

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Spray a deep (at least 4 inches) casserole dish with nonstick spray. Pour approximately one-third of the Fritos into the bottom of the casserole, and crush them down slightly with your knuckles. They don’t have to be flat; just break them enough so that they’re not all sticking up. In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, combine the chicken, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix well, breaking up the large chunks and coating the chicken well with the spices. Cook, stirring often, for about 3 minutes, or until spices are fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside in a medium bowl. In the same skillet (no need to clean it), combine refried beans and salsa. Stir until hot and combined, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Drop half of the bean mixture over the top of the Fritos in the casserole dish, in dollops. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the beans, as evenly as possible. Sprinkle half of the green chilis and half of the black olives over the chicken. Spread half of the cheese over the top. Reserve a couple of handfuls of the Fritos for garnish; pour the rest over the top of the cheese (crushing in your hands as you drop them in). Repeat the layering of the beans, chicken, chilis, olives and cheese.

Quick Uses for  Leftover Chicken

Quick Uses for  Leftover Chicken

Quick Uses for  Leftover Chicken

 

  1. QUICK COCONUT CURRY Simmer a can of coconut milk with grated fresh ginger and finely chopped garlic until it has thickened and slightly reduced. Stir in a few handfuls of shredded chicken, get everything warm, and serve over basmati rice with fresh cilantro.

 

  1. GREEN SALSA TACOS Warm shredded chicken with some store-bought salsa, and pile into tortillas with shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, and hot sauce.

 

  1. GREEN CHICKEN SALAD In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with a few spoonfuls of Roasted Garlic–Herb Sauce (here). Stir in whatever you’ve got in the fridge—sliced radishes and/or celery, chopped fennel, arugula or other soft salad greens, more fresh herbs, crumbled feta or other soft cheese, sliced tomatoes, maybe a little yogurt or mayo to make it creamy—and eat it on thick pieces of toast.

 

  1. CHICKEN STIR-FRY In a large skillet, heat the cooked chicken with a little soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, finely chopped garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Add some quick-cooking vegetables like thinly sliced bell peppers and/or onions, sliced mushrooms, baby bok choy, or chopped greens (kale, escarole, chard) and cook, tossing, until the vegetables are where you want them.

 

  1. CHICKEN SOUP All it takes is some chicken broth, some noodles or rice, and maybe a sliced carrot or two. Add the shredded chicken, warm it through, and serve with lemon wedges.

 

  1. CHICKEN QUESADILLA: Mix shredded chicken with shredded cheese, sour cream or cream cheese, garlic powder and cilantro. Spread some mixture on a flour tortilla and cook in a dry skillet 2-3 minutes per side until crispy and filling is warm and the cheese melting.  You can do this by using only one tortilla and filling half to it and folding it in half or r by laying one tortilla flat on the pan and filling the entire tortilla and then covering with another tortilla. Serve with a sauce for dipping.

 

  1. BBQ CHICKEN SWEET POTATOES: Mix chicken with BBQ sauce and minced garlic.  Split warm cooked sweet potatoes and add filling.  Top with shredded cheese, thinly sliced red onion and thinly sliced jalapeno.  Bake 15 minutes until filling is warmed and cheese melted.  Drizzle with extra BBQ if desired.
Sheet-Pan Pasta Bake with (leftover) Chicken and Kale

Sheet-Pan Pasta Bake with (leftover) Chicken and Kale

Sheet-Pan Pasta Bake with (leftover) Chicken and Kale

 

Kosher salt

12 ounces penne pasta

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided

4 T. olive oil divided

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 tsp. Italian seasoning

3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper divided

1 bunch curly kale ribs and stems removed, leaves torn into bite-size pieces

1 pint cherry tomatoes halved

1 cup sour cream or crème fraiche

1 T. Dijon mustard

4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided

 

Set a rack in the top third of the oven and preheat to 450 degrees F. Bring a pot of salty water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook the pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, mix the panko, ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese, 2 T. of the olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, ¼ tsp. black pepper, and ¼ tsp. salt in a medium bowl and set aside. Toss the kale and tomatoes with ½ tsp. salt and the remaining 2 T. olive oil on a rimmed baking sheet. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the pot along with the sour cream, Dijon mustard, 1 tsp. salt, ¼ cup pasta water, and the remaining ¾ cup Parmesan cheese and ½ tsp. black pepper; stir until smooth. Stir in the shredded chicken and 1 cup of the mozzarella, adding more pasta water to keep everything mixable if needed, until well combined. (You can add additional aromatics and seasoning at this point to pump up the flavor.  Garlic powder, roasted red bell peppers, red pepper flakes, scallions or chives, etc.).  Transfer the mixture to the baking sheet with the kale and tomatoes. Toss to combine and spread everything in an even layer on the baking sheet. Top with the panko mixture and the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese. Place the pan in the oven and roast the pasta until the cheese is melted and the top is lightly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Serve warm.

Coconut Curry Ramen

Coconut Curry Ramen

Coconut Curry Ramen

1 package ramen noodles

11/2 C. chicken or vegetable stock

1/2 C. coconut milk or cream

1-1 1/2 tsp. red or green Thai curry paste

Optional: 1/2 C. shredded or cubed chicken

 

Pour the chicken stock and coconut milk into a medium saucepan and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add the curry paste and stir to dissolve and combine. Add the ramen noodles and cook until al dente (about 5 minutes). Pour the ramen noodles and liquid into a large bowl. Top with the chicken and enjoy.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepes

Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepes

Chicken Cordon Bleu Crepes

7-10 store bought, prepared crepes (or you can make your own)

2 C. cooked chicken, chopped

1/2 C. chopped (cooked) ham

1 C. shredded Swiss cheese

2 T. butter

2 T. flour

1 chicken bouillon cube, mashed into powder

1 1/2 C. warm milk

1/3 C. shredded Swiss cheese

For Garnish: chopped Parsley, optional

 

Assemble crepes: On each crepe, pile some chicken, some ham and Swiss cheese. Roll up or fold in quarters and place in a greased casserole dish (9×13).  Make sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter. Add in flour and mashed bouillon cube. Stir and let cook for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring this to a boil but watch so it doesn’t burn. Continue to stir and cook for a few minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and add in 1/3 C. Swiss cheese. Stir until it melts. Pour 3/4 C. of sauce on top of the crepes. Bake 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Sprinkle with parsley, if using. Heat remaining sauce and serve with crepes.  I made the crepes the day before and kept them in the fridge between sheets of wax paper.

Bacon Chicken Chopped Salad

Bacon Chicken Chopped Salad

Bacon Chicken Chopped Salad

1 package (22 ounces) frozen grilled chicken breast strips

1 cup crumbled blue cheese

3 tablespoons white wine vinegar

1 tablespoon water

1/8 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper

1/4 cup canola oil

8 cups chopped romaine

3 medium tomatoes, chopped

6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

 

Heat chicken according to package directions. Cool slightly; coarsely chop chicken. For dressing, place cheese, vinegar, water and pepper in a small food processor; cover and process until smooth. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. In a large bowl, combine romaine, chicken, tomatoes and bacon. Serve with dressing.

 

Serving Size: 2 1/3  C.

Calories: 348

Fat: 22g

Fiber: 2g

Rubber Chicken Meals

Rubber Chicken Meals

Meal 1 Rubber Chicken Version: Lemon-Thyme Spatchcock Chicken

 

1 large Lemon

¼ C. EVOO

1 T. chopped fresh Thyme

1 tsp. dried Oregano

3-4 lb. whole Chicken, spatchcocked

2 ½ tsp. Salt, divided

½ tsp. Pepper

1 lb. New Potatoes, halved

1 head Garlic, cloves separated and peeled

 

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Zest half the lemon; juice the whole lemon. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, thyme and oregano. Lay the chicken skin side up in a large roasting pan and brush the herb mixture over the chicken. (If you have the time, allow the chicken to marinate in this mix in an extra-large plastic bag for an hour.) Season the chicken with 2 tsp. (10 ml) salt and ¥2 tsp. (2 ml) pepper. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, toss your potatoes, garlic cloves, oil and remaining ¥2 tsp. (2 ml) salt. Scatter the potatoes and garlic around the chicken in a single layer. Roast for 40 to 45 minutes, until a thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of the breast reads 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes. Carve—putting some meat aside for your next transformer—and serve with the potatoes, garlic and side salad.

 

 

Meal 2 Rubber Chicken Version: Lemon Thyme Chicken Dinner Salad

 

1 ½ -2 C. leftover diced chicken breast

4 C. sliced romaine lettuce

2 C. mini kale

2 C. small halved multi-colored potatoes, boiled and tossed with oil and salt

4 soft boiled eggs, cut in half

1 C. sliced carrot (I use a mandolin)

1 C. halved cherry tomatoes

1 C. diced cucumber

1/2 C. shaved asiago or parmesan cheese

1/4 C. diced green onion

1/2 tsp. fresh chopped thyme

Dressing

1/4 C. extra virgin olive oil

zest of 1/2 lemon

2 T. .Mayonnaise

1 T.. white wine vinegar

1/2 tsp. honey

1/4 tsp. Dijon mustard

salt and pepper

Method

 

In a very large bowl, mix romaine lettuce and mini kale. Place cooked potatoes, eggs, carrot, cherry tomatoes, cucumber and cheese in groups on top of the salad. Add leftover chicken to top of salad. In a bowl, whisk the olive oil, zest, mayo, vinegar, honey, mustard and salt and pepper. Set aside. Sprinkle the entire salad with the green onions and fresh thyme. Allow each person to dress their own salad.

Meal 3 Rubber Chicken Leftover Lunch Apple and Chicken Salad Boats

 

In a medium bowl, mix the first five ingredients together until mayo is incorporated throughout. Remove small center leaves from romaine hearts to create a little pocket. Spoon chicken salad into the boat halves.

Chicken, Spinach and Gruyère Turnovers

Chicken, Spinach and Gruyère Turnovers

Chicken, Spinach and Gruyère Turnovers

 

2 small skinless, boneless chicken breasts, about 3/4 lb. (375 g) total weight, or 1 1/2 cups (9 oz./280 g) shredded rotisserie chicken

1 T. olive oil

2 T. chopped shallots

1/2 lb. (250 g) fresh spinach leaves, tough stems removed

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

2 T. heavy cream

All-purpose flour for rolling

2 sheets frozen puff pastry (one 17 oz./530 g package), thawed

1 large egg, lightly beaten

1/4 lb. (125 g) Gruyère cheese, shredded

Dijon mustard for serving

 

If using chicken breasts, place them in a saucepan with cold water to cover by 1 inch (2.5 cm) and 1/2 tsp. salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer until the chicken is opaque throughout, about 18 minutes. Drain and let cool. When cool enough to handle, shred the chicken. Set aside. Preheat an oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a fry pan over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the shallots and sauté until soft, about 2 minutes. Add the spinach, season with salt and pepper, and sauté just until wilted, about 3 minutes. Stir in the cream and cook just until combined, about 1 minute. On a floured work surface, cut the puff pastry sheets in half to make 4 rectangles. Brush the edges with the egg. Pile the cooked chicken, spinach, and cheese on half of each of the rectangles, leaving a 1/2-inch (12-mm) border. Fold the uncovered half of each rectangle over to cover the lower half. Crimp the edges with the tines of a fork. Using the tip of a sharp knife, cut a few small slits in the top of each turnover. Brush the tops with egg and place on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until golden brown, 22 to 24 minutes. Let cool slightly and serve with mustard on the side. Serves 4.

Chicken Avocado Lime Soup

Chicken Avocado Lime Soup

Chicken Avocado Lime Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup chopped green onions

2 jalapeños, seeded and minced

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 14.5 ounce cans chicken broth

1 1/2 cups water

2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

3 Roma tomatoes, diced

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon oregano

1/4 teaspoon ground coriander

Salt & Pepper, to taste

4 radishes, sliced into thin disks

1/3 cup chopped cilantro

3 tablespoons lime juice

3 medium avocados, peeled and diced

 

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the green onions and jalapeno and saute for 2 minutes, just until tender. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds more. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the chicken breasts, tomatoes, cumin, oregano, and coriander, and salt and pepper, to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and cover with a lid. Allow the soup to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken breasts are cooked through. Remove the chicken and turn the heat down to medium-low. Add the radishes. When the chicken is cool enough to handle (about 5 minutes) shred with two forks or put it in the bowl of a KitchenAid mixer and use the beater to shred it quickly (such a great kitchen trick that I use whenever I need to shred meat!). Add the shredded chicken back into the soup, along with the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Add the avocados just before serving the soup, or put about 1/2 cup of chopped avocado into each serving bowl before ladling soup over the top. You can also add crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, or shredded cheese, if you desire.

 

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 122

Fat: 5g

Fiber: 1g

Crispy Baked Chicken Tacos

Crispy Baked Chicken Tacos

Crispy Baked Chicken Tacos

1/2 C. chopped onion
1 T. homemade taco seasoning (or 1/2 store-bought packet)
1 C. cooked shredded chicken breast
1/2 16-oz can fat-free refried black beans
1/4 C. salsa
1/4 C. light sour cream
1/4 C. fresh cilantro, finely chopped
20 thin corn tortillas
10 T. reduced-fat cheese (Mexican Blend or Jalapeno Jack)
Shredded iceberg lettuce
Hot sauce, salsa, or guacamole (optional)

 

Preheat oven to 400° degrees. Set out a cookie sheet. Spray a non-stick pan with cooking spray, add the onion and cook for 1 to 2 minutes or until it starts to soften. Add the taco seasoning and cook one more minute. Gently mix in chicken, coating with seasoned onions. Push to one side of the pan and add the refried beans and salsa to the other side. When warm and softened, fold into the chicken. Gently stir in the sour cream and cilantro and heat until warm. Set aside. Lightly spray the cooking sheet with baking spray. Slightly wet 3 or 4 tortillas at a time and place in the microwave. Heat on high for 20 to 30 seconds or until softened. Place about 3 T. of filling on one side of the tortilla, fold in half, and place on cookie sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas and chicken/bean filling. Lightly spray the top of tacos with cooking spray. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are crisp of the tortillas are crisp, the middle starting to crisp, and the filling is hot. Serve stuffed or topped with cheese (1 T. each), lettuce and sauce.

 

Yield: 10 tacos

Serving Size: 2 Tacos

Calories: 220

Fat: 4g

Fiber: 4g

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.

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.

Enchilada Suizas

Enchilada Suizas

Enchiladas SuizasA3[5]3 cups of Salsa Verde
3/4 cup Mexican crema
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1 garlic clove, chopped
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken meat (or leftover chicken)
1 ½ cup shredded Oaxaca or Fresh Mozzarella Cheese
12 corn tortillas
1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
Salt & Pepper to taste

If you want to make this dish spicy, add 1 or 2 chopped jalapeño peppers with the salsa verde in the blender.

Place 1 cup of Salsa Verde, Mexican Cream, cilantro and garlic clove in a blender, process until you have a smooth sauce. Mix with the rest of the salsa verde and set aside. Heat a skillet over medium heat; warm one tablespoon of oil and warm the tortillas one at a time to soften, giving it just a few seconds per side. Add the rest of the oil as needed. Besides softening them for easy rolling, another reason is that we do this is to keep the tortillas from breaking. Transfer onto a plate covered with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic powder if you like. Spread 1/3 of the sauce in a greased 9″ X 12” baking dish. Fill the center of each tortilla with the chicken and roll it up. Arrange the enchiladas in 1 layer, seam side down. Cover with the rest of sauce; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 25-30 minutes or until cheese starts to brown. Serve immediately and garnish with onion slices.

Sheet Pan Supper: Pesto Chicken Turnovers

Sheet Pan Supper: Pesto Chicken Turnovers

Pesto Chicken Turnovers1 box frozen puff pastry, thawed
2 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 cup pesto
1 cup frozen peas, unthawed
1 large egg, beaten
2 T. grated parmesan
kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F with racks in upper and lower thirds. Line two sheet pans with parchment paper. On a floured surface, unfold the puff pastry sheets and cut into each sheet into four pieces. Use a rolling pin to roll each piece to a 7in by 9in rectangle. Set on one of the prepared pans, layering between extra parchment as necessary and place in refrigerator to keep cool. Mix together chicken, pesto, and peas in a medium bowl. Place a heaping 1/2 cup of the chicken filling onto the bottom half of each pastry rectangle. Leave a small border on the bottom. Fold the top half of the pastry over the filing, lining up the edges. Press the edges with a fork to seal the turnover. Brush each one with beaten egg and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and pepper. Bake the turnovers, switching the pans from upper to lower and lower to upper halfway through cooking, until pastry is deep golden brown and turnovers are starting to bubble at the seams, 25-30 minutes. Serve hot.

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw

Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Slaw

pulled-chicken-apple-cucumber-slaw-med108372_vert1 rotisserie chicken (about 2 1/2 pounds)
1 Granny Smith apple, cut into matchsticks
2 English cucumbers, cut into matchsticks
2 scallions (green parts only), thinly sliced
1/4 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1/4 cup honey
Coarse salt and ground pepper
4 hamburger buns

Shred chicken, discarding skin. In a large skillet, heat chicken, mustard, vinegar, honey, and 1/4 cup water over medium-high, tossing to combine, until warmed through, 3 to 5 minutes; season with salt and pepper. Meanwhile, stir together apple, cucumbers, scallions, and mayonnaise. Divide chicken mixture among buns and top with apple-cucumber slaw.

Savory Chicken Pocket Pies

Savory Chicken Pocket Pies

mh_1047_pocket_pies_hd8 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons, plus more for rolling out the dough
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

1 heaping cup of cooked, shredded chicken
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/3 cup chopped celery (1 large stalk)
1/3 cup chopped carrot (1 carrot)
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, for egg wash

Process the butter, cream cheese, and cream in a food processor, electric mixer, or by hand to thoroughly combine. Add the flour and salt. Process just until combined and the dough holds together in a ball. Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Divide into 2 pieces. Flatten into disks and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out. If the dough is chilled overnight, take it out 15 minutes before rolling out. Rub flour all over a rolling pin. Working with one dough disk at a time, place the disk on a clean, well-floured surface. Applying some pressure with the rolling pin, roll gently from the center of the dough to the top and bottom edges. Rotate the disk and roll to the top and bottom edges again. Reflour the work surface and rolling pin, turn the dough over, and continue to roll the dough from the center out to the edges. Turn over and roll again, rotating the disk to ensure even rolling until the dough is about 12 inches in diameter, thin but not transparent. To make the filling, melt the butter in a medium-sized hot skillet and add the onion, celery, and carrot. Saute over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the salt and flour and cook for 1 minute more. Add the chicken broth and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in 1 heaping cup shredded chicken and the Parmesan cheese. Cool in the fridge. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Butter or line a baking sheet. To form the pocket pies, work with half of a disk of dough at a time, rolling it out on a floured surface. Using an overturned bowl (about 5 inches across), cut out circles about 3 at a time from each piece of dough. After cutting out all your circles, gather all dough scraps, reroll, and cut out a final time. Place 1/4 cup filling on one side of a dough circle. Wet the edges of the dough with the water. Fold the dough over to form a half circle. Pinch the edge of the dough together. Crimp the edge with a fork. Repeat the process until all the filling is used. The pocket pies can be frozen at this point. Place the pocket pies on the prepared baking sheet and chill for a few minutes. Prick each pie on top twice with a fork. When ready to bake, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush the egg wash over each pocket pie. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. The pies can be cooled and frozen to reheat in the microwave.

Caribbean Chicken Chili

Caribbean Chicken Chili

1 medium-size sweet onion
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups cubed cooked chicken
1 teaspoon jerk seasoning
2 (15-ounce) cans beans, with liquid
1 chicken-flavored bouillon cube
Dash hot red pepper sauce

Slice onions; you’ll need 1 cup. Place oil in a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon until soft, 3 minutes. Add chicken and jerk seasoning and cook, stirring until chicken is coated with seasoning, 1 minute longer. Remove pan from heat and stir in beans with their liquid and bouillon cube and hot red pepper sauce. Fill one of the bean cans with water, add water to the pan and stir. Place pan over high heat until liquid comes to a boil and bouillon cube dissolves. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and let chili simmer 10 minutes. (OLD)

Thai Chicken Crescent Sandwiches

Thai Chicken Crescent Sandwiches

58162907-32e7-48c4-b7b2-53e658379cc62 T. plain yogurt or sour cream
1 T. peanut butter
2 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 1/2 tsp. soy sauce
1 C. frozen cooked chicken breast, thawed
1 1/2 C. shredded carrots
4oz (1C) shredded hot pepper Monterey Jack cheese
1 (8oz) can Pillsbury Refrigerated Crescent Dinner Rolls
1/2 C. mango chutney

Heat oven to 375. Spray cookie sheet with nonstick cooking spray. In large bowl, combine yogurt, peanut butter, curry powder, ginger, garlic powder and soy sauce; mix well. Add chicken, carrots and cheese; mix well. Separate dough into 4 rectangles. Place on cookie sheet. Firmly press perforations to seal. Press each rectangle to form 5″ square. Spoon chicken mixture onto squares. Bring 4 corners of each dough square up over filling; press edges to seal.
Bake at 375 for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, heat chutney in small saucepan over low heat until hot, stirring occasionally. Serve chutney with sandwiches.

Chicken Picadillo

Chicken Picadillo

5a66ca51be40a101257d0e30b9add04a2 tsp. olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, rinsed and finely chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, rinsed and finely chopped
1½ T. garlic, mashed (about 3 cloves)
12 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
1/3 C. no-salt-added tomato sauce
1/3 C. low-sodium chicken broth
1/3 C. lemon juice
¼ tsp. ground cumin
2 bay leaves
1/3 C. water
¼ C. golden seedless raisins

1 T. fresh cilantro, rinsed, dried, and chopped (or substitute 1 tsp. dried coriander)
1 T. capers, drained
2 T. green olives, chopped

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken, and stir fry for another 5–10 minutes, until chicken is no longer pink inside. Add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, lemon juice, cumin, bay leaves, water, and raisins to the vegetables and chicken. Cover the pan, and reduce the heat. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the bay leaves, and garnish with fresh cilantro, capers, and green olives, and serve.

Enchiladas de Mole Rojo

Enchiladas de Mole Rojo

enchiladas-de-mole-negro-o-mole-rojo-oxacan-cuisine3 ½ C. Mole Rojo
24 Corn Tortillas
1 C. Canola Oil
2 ½ C. Cooked Chicken, shredded
¾ C. Queso Fresco, finely crumbled
Small White Onion and thinly sliced
Parsley sprig

Heat the mole over low heat and dilute with water (the mole should be thin). Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes or until the mole is heated through. Heat the oil in a medium skillet. Using tongs, quickly pass the tortillas in the hot oil to soften. Do not let the tortillas get crispy. Immediately drain the tortillas on paper towels or on a wire rack. Place a tortilla on a serving plate. Place the shredded chicken on one end and roll to close. Repeat with remaining tortillas.  Cover the enchiladas with the warm mole and heat through for 10 minutes. Garnish with queso fresco, onion, and parsley sprigs.

Honey Ginger Chicken Salad

Honey Ginger Chicken Salad

Honey Ginger Chicken Salad

1 C. shredded cooked Chicken

¼ C. thinly sliced Carrot

¼ C. thinly sliced Celery

3 T. Mayo

2 T. finely chopped Red Onion

1 T. slivered Almonds

1 ½ tsp. Coconut Aminos

½ tsp. Honey

1/8 tsp. ground Ginger

1/8 tsp. Garlic Powder

 

Using a spoon, mix all the ingredients together in a medium bowl. Divide the salad into two equal portions and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Rotisserie Chicken with Fire & Ice Salsa

Rotisserie Chicken with Fire & Ice Salsa

1 cup chopped seeded watermelon
1 cup chopped strawberries
1/4 cup chopped red onion
2 tablespoons chopped jalapeño pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
1 (3- to 4-pound) store-bought rotisserie chicken

Combine watermelon, strawberries, onion, jalapeño and mint in medium bowl. Pour olive oil and lime juice over salsa and sprinkle with sugar. Stir gently. Cover bowl and refrigerate. Salsa can be made up to 1 day in advance.

Tiny Fried Tacos

Tiny Fried Tacos

14_01_culinary_tacos2 quarts vegetable oil, for frying

1/2 store-bought cooked rotisserie chicken

Juice of 1 lime

1 tablespoon ancho chili powder

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper, to taste

24 (3-inch) yellow corn tortillas*

 

Toppings

1/4 cup crema mexicana or sour cream

1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce

1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese

Hot sauce, to taste

 

In a large pot, preheat oil to 375°F. Remove skin and bones from the chicken and shred meat into a medium bowl. Add lime juice, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and salt and pepper and toss to combine. Place a big pinch of chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla. Using tongs gently fold each tortilla around filling and hold under the oil for a minute before releasing; let it fry for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until crisp and golden brown. Fry tacos a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Drain on paper towels and season with salt to taste. Gently hold each taco open and add toppings as desired.

 

* If tiny tortillas are difficult to find, use a 3-inch circle cutter to cut mini tortillas out of larger ones.