Crock Pot Mexican Shredded Chicken

March 24, 2015 by Susan

My crock pot has been in a box, in my storage room, for years. More years than I care to admit, really. My issue with crock pots is this: if I have to pre-cook, or brown, meat prior to putting it into the crock pot then I might as well just cook the meal on the stove top or in the oven. After all, I’ve already dirtied a pot. For me, the only way I can get excited about using the crock pot is if there is zero ‘cooking’ prior.

It was this recipe that got me to unearth my crock pot and get on the bandwagon. No prepping the meat at all beforehand, simply dump all the ingredients into the pot, turn it on and walk away. It was great! I absolutely loved having dinner cooking while I was busy doing other things all day long. I suppose that’s the beauty of using a slow cooker, right?

I made quite a bit of changes to the original recipe from Skinnytaste. I liked the idea of the recipe, and I did like the original recipe, but for me it was lacking a little something. A few ideas immediately came to mind the first time I made it, and over the next few times I prepared this meal I perfected each change. It is now exactly how we like it. The main changes I made are overall more spices, the addition of the poblano pepper and adding the frozen peas and corn at the very end, giving just enough time for them to thaw out. I like my frozen veggies to still have their bright colors and a bit of a snap to them. I always serve this dish over white long-grain rice, it really soaks up all the liquid nicely. But I’m sure it would be perfect with brown rice too.

Other than the flavor, my favorite thing about this meal is the amount of leftovers. This recipe makes a large amount and holds well in the fridge for at least 3-4 days. When I make this, we usually eat it again for dinner once during the week, but also several times for lunch. Sometimes, after I shred the chicken but before I add it back to the pot, I set some dry shredded chicken aside and use it in wraps the following day. Delicious!

If your crock pot is in storage maybe this recipe will encourage you to dig it out. I really like crock pot cooking now and look forward to trying another recipe soon. Suggestions are welcome!

Here’s what you will need to serve 8-10….

Recipe

4 medium chicken breasts, boneless, skinless

1 large poblano pepper, diced (or one green pepper & one jalapeño, seeds and ribs mostly removed)

2-10 oz cans diced tomatoes with mild green chilies

15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

20 oz low sodium chicken stock

1 bunch scallions, chopped and divided in half

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp cumin (plus some more for sprinkling)

1 tsp coriander (plus some more for sprinkling)

1 tsp chili powder (plus some more for sprinkling)

1 tsp cayenne pepper

1 cup frozen corn

1 cup frozen peas

1/2 lime, juiced

1/2 bunch of cilantro

salt & pepper to taste

your favorite rice, cooked

Method

Lay chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish. Sprinkle both sides with some cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt & pepper. Set aside.

To the bowl of a crock pot combine chicken stock, black beans, diced tomatoes, 1/2 the chopped scallions, poblano pepper, garlic & onion powder, cumin, coriander, chili and cayenne. Stir to combine. Lay chicken breasts on top of mixture, cover and turn the crock pot on for 6 hours.

Once the crock pot turns off (or just before), remove all the chicken breasts and shred (use 2 forks). Return all the shredded chicken back to the pot, add in the remaining scallions, frozen corn & peas and most of the cilantro. Stir to combine. Put the cover back on and allow to sit for about 15 minutes. Just before serving add the juice of 1/2 lime, stir and portion into bowls, on top of rice. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.

Original recipe: http://www.skinnytaste.com/2009/02/crock-pot-santa-fe-chicken-425-pts.html

Mexican Shredded Chicken

Author: Feasts And Fotos

Ingredients

4 medium chicken breasts, boneless, skinless
1 large poblano pepper, diced (or one green pepper & one jalapeño, seeds and ribs mostly removed)
2-10 oz cans diced tomatoes with mild green chilies
15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
20 oz low sodium chicken stock
1 bunch scallions, chopped and divided in half
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp cumin (plus some more for sprinkling)
1 tsp coriander (plus some more for sprinkling)
1 tsp chili powder (plus some more for sprinkling)
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup frozen peas
½ lime, juiced
½ bunch of cilantro
salt & pepper to taste
your favorite rice, cooked

Method

Lay chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish. Sprinkle both sides with some cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt & pepper. Set aside.
To the bowl of a crock pot combine black beans, diced tomatoes, ½ the chopped scallions, poblano pepper, garlic & onion powder, cumin, coriander, chili and cayenne. Stir to combine. Lay chicken breasts on top of mixture, cover and turn the crock pot on for 6 hours.
Once the crock pot turns off (or just before), remove all the chicken breasts and shred (use 2 forks). Return all the shredded chicken back to the pot, add in the remaining scallions, frozen corn & peas and most of the cilantro. Stir to combine. Put the cover back on and allow to sit for about 15 minutes. Just before serving add the juice of ½ lime, stir and portion into bowls, on top of rice. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.

Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce

January 28, 2015 by Susan

The big game is this weekend and that means we get to eat things this Sunday that we normally would not. Right? Cheesy dips. Sticky, gooey chicken wings. Let’s do it!

Ok, so if you are not willing to let this Sunday be a huge ‘cheat day’ from your regular eating pattern you can make these chicken tenders. You might think they would be bad for you, but they are not. There is no egg and flour or frying involved. Just some buttermilk, breadcrumbs and cheese. And they are baked! Even though they are not fried, they still are slightly crunchy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside.

These chicken tenders would make a wonderful appetizer but, truthfully, we often eat these as a meal. The preparation is quick and easy and if you pair it with a cup or bowl of soup (which we do) you will be satisfied. Depending on the size of the tenders, of course. Most of the time the tenders are quite large so eating 4-5 each is usually enough. I love honey mustard sauce for these (a little more honey tasting than mustard), however, feel free to use your favorite sauce. We sometimes use BBQ sauce.

Although I am not a huge follower of football during the season, I do love watching the Superbowl. Mostly for the commercials and the half-time entertainment. This year I don’t think I’m going to go crazy with all the fried food and cheesy goodness. Instead, I am going to make these. I’ll feel better about things and I won’t have to log in extra time on the elliptical machine. And that is always a good thing!

Here’s what you will need to make approximately 15 tenders…

Recipe

1-2 packages chicken tenders

buttermilk

1/2 cup panko, mounded

1/2 cup Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs, mounded

1/3 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

salt & pepper to taste

Honey Mustard Sauce

3 Tbsp honey

2 Tbsp mustard

1/2 tsp mayo

lemon juice (about 10 drops)

salt & pepper to taste

Method

In a medium bowl add the chicken tenders and enough buttermilk to cover all the chicken. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, preferably 4-5 hours.

Preheat oven to 500 degrees.

In a flat, rimmed pan add the panko, seasoned breadcrumbs, cheese, salt & pepper. Mix with your fingers until ingredients are fully incorporated.

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray parchment paper with cooking spray.

Once the chicken is done marinating, remove from refrigerator. Take one tender at a time, drain off some of the buttermilk and dredge it in the bread crumb mixture. I use tongs for this and I usually pat down the breadcrumbs on each side. Lift out of the breadcrumb mixture and gently shake off any excess. Lay on the baking sheet. Continue with all the tenders.

Once you have all the tenders lined up drizzle a touch of olive oil over each one. Place in the oven for approximately 15-17 minutes total, flipping over when the bottoms are starting to turn golden (after about 8-10 minutes or so). I usually don’t cook the 2nd side for as long as the first side.

Meanwhile, prepare the honey mustard sauce by simply adding all ingredients to a small bowl and mixing well. Set aside.

Allow tenders to cool slightly (they will be piping hot!) and serve with the honey mustard sauce for dipping.

Recipe adapted from Giada De Laurentiis

Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard Sauce

Author: Feasts And Fotos

Ingredients

1-2 packages chicken tenders
buttermilk
½ cup panko, mounded
½ cup Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs, mounded
⅓ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
salt & pepper to taste
Honey Mustard Sauce
3 Tbsp honey
2 Tbsp mustard
½ tsp mayo
lemon juice (about 10 drops)
salt & pepper to taste

Method

In a medium bowl add the chicken tenders and enough buttermilk to cover all the chicken. Allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, preferably 4-5 hours.
Preheat oven to 500 degrees.
In a flat, rimmed pan add the panko, seasoned breadcrumbs, cheese, salt & pepper. Mix with your fingers until ingredients are fully incorporated.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray parchment paper with cooking spray.
Once the chicken is done marinating, remove from refrigerator. Take one tender at a time, drain off some of the buttermilk and dredge it in the bread crumb mixture. I use tongs for this and I usually pat down the breadcrumbs on each side. Lift out of the breadcrumb mixture and gently shake off any excess. Lay on the baking sheet. Continue with all the tenders.
Once you have all the tenders lined up drizzle a touch of olive oil over each one. Place in the oven for approximately 15-17 minutes total, flipping over when the bottoms are starting to turn golden (after about 8-10 minutes or so). I usually don't cook the 2nd side for as long as the first side.
Meanwhile, prepare the honey mustard sauce by simply adding all ingredients to a small bowl and mixing well. Set aside.

Mexican Chicken Soup

February 2, 2013 by Susan

I have been eyeing this recipe for a few years now and never got around to making it. Until now. Not sure why it took me so long – maybe because I make many different soups that we love and want to eat all the time. I am happy to now report that this recipe will also be put into the winter soup rotation. We really liked it! If you can get your hands on a pre-made rotisserie chicken, this will be super easy and quick to prepare. And lately, I’m all about quick and easy preparations.

The main change (addition) I made to the recipe is adding corn. I just felt that a mexican chicken soup needed corn in it. Plus, i like the pop of yellow color in here. Oh, and we don’t really add all the extras when serving, but you are free to add some tortillas and sour cream to each bowl when serving.

Here’s what you will need to serve approximately 6-8 people (one pot of soup)…

Recipe

1 rotisserie chicken, meat shredded

2 medium onions, chopped

2 stalks celery, chopped

4 medium carrots, chopped

3/4 cup frozen corn

4 large garlic cloves, minced

2 1/2 quarts chicken stock, low sodium

1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes, break up with a hand blender or in a food processor

4 jalapenos, seeded and minced (you can leave some seeds for some spice)

1 teaspoon (heaping) ground cumin

1 teaspoon (heaping) ground coriander

1 small bunch cilantro, chopped

salt & pepper to taste

Method

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the onions, celery, and carrots and cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, or until the onions become translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the chicken stock, tomatoes with their juice, jalapenos, cumin, coriander and some salt and pepper to taste.

Bring soup to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 25 minutes. Add frozen corn and shredded chicken, continue to simmer soup for another 10 minutes.

Add all of the cilantro, mix to combine and ladle into bowls. Yum!

Recipe adapted from Ina Garten

Mexican Chicken Soup

Author: Feasts And Fotos

Ingredients

1 rotisserie chicken, meat shredded
2 medium onions, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 medium carrots, chopped
¾ cup frozen corn
4 large garlic cloves, minced
2½ quarts chicken stock, low sodium
1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes, break up with a hand blender or in a food processor
4 jalapenos, seeded and minced (you can leave some seeds for some spice)
1 teaspoon (heaping) ground cumin
1 teaspoon (heaping) ground coriander
1 small bunch cilantro, chopped
salt & pepper to taste

Method

Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the onions, celery, and carrots and cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, or until the onions become translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the chicken stock, tomatoes with their juice, jalapenos, cumin, coriander and some salt and pepper to taste.
Bring soup to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 25 minutes. Add frozen corn and shredded chicken, continue to simmer soup for another 10 minutes.
Add all of the cilantro, mix to combine and ladle into bowls.

Chicken Madison

December 14, 2011 by Susan

A few years ago, while my husband and I were planning our wedding, we went out for dinner near the reception hall we had just chosen for our wedding day. We both ordered the same chicken entrée because it sounded so delicious. And it was. We loved it so much that as I was eating it I thought…I’m going to try to recreate this dish at home. How hard can it be?

Well, here’s the dish. And I must say, it’s pretty darn close to the original one we had at the restaurant that night – minus the tons of butter I’m sure they put in it. It has turned out to be one of our favorite meals. I named this dish after the town the restaurant is in and every time I make it we are reminded of our wedding and all the planning that went into it.

Hopefully by following this recipe you will have extra sauce leftover once you have eaten all the chicken. Absolutely do not throw that sauce away. It is utterly spectacular over pasta.

Here’s what you will need to serve 4….

Recipe

6 thin chicken cutlets (they come butterflied in my store, I usually cut them in 1/2 down the center).

whole wheat flour

4 cloves garlic, smashed

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 box crimini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced (not too thin)

1 12 oz bag of frozen artichoke hearts, slightly defrosted, cut in half lengthwise

1 Tbsp tomato paste

1 7 ounce jar of sun dried tomatoes, drained and sliced, 2-3 tbsp of oil reserved

1/2 – 3/4 cup white wine

3/4 – 1 cup chicken stock, low sodium

1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt & Pepper

Olive oil

1 Tbsp butter, optional

Method

Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 smashed garlic cloves, to season the oil. Season chicken with salt & pepper and coat in the flour, tapping off excess. Add some of the chicken to oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan, cooking them until golden brown on each side. Remove from skillet and transfer to a plate. Be careful to watch the cloves of garlic and be sure to remove them once they appear to be getting too golden. You don’t want them to burn. Repeat with remaining chicken and smashed garlic.

In the same skillet you just cooked all the chicken in add the oil you reserved from the sun dried tomatoes. Into that oil add the artichoke hearts and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes. To the artichokes add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften a bit. Next, add the tomato paste and garlic and stir into the vegetables, cooking for 2-3 minutes. At this point I usually add some salt and pepper. Next comes the liquids…add the wine first, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. Finally add the chicken stock and the fresh thyme. Allow liquids to simmer together for 4-5 minutes. To thicken this liquid mixture a bit, add approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the leftover whole wheat flour to the skillet, whisking to mix.

Add the chicken cutlets back into the skillet, nestling them all in under the veggies, gently, as best as you can. Ideally you want most of the chicken to be submerged into the liquid. It is ok if the tops of a few pieces are not submerged. If you feel you need a bit more liquid, add some more chicken stock. Put a cover on the skillet, lower heat to low and gently simmer for 15 – 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Once cooked, turn off heat and add the parsley. If you so choose, you can also add the butter, just to finish the sauce a bit. A little tablespoon of butter won’t hurt!

I always serve this over a creamy white bean puree (recipe coming soon!). However, it would be equally as delicious served over mashed potatoes or white rice.

Chicken Madison

Author: Feasts And Fotos

Ingredients

6 thin chicken cutlets (they come butterflied in my store, I usually cut them in ½ down the center).
whole wheat flour
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 box crimini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced (not too thin)
1 12 oz bag of frozen artichoke hearts, slightly defrosted, cut in half lengthwise
1 Tbsp tomato paste
1 7 ounce jar of sun dried tomatoes, drained and sliced, 2-3 tbsp of oil reserved
½ - ¾ cup white wine
¾ - 1 cup chicken stock, low sodium
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt & Pepper
Olive oil
1 Tbsp butter, optional

Method

Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 smashed garlic cloves, to season the oil. Season chicken with salt & pepper and coat in the flour, tapping off excess. Add some of the chicken to oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan, cooking them until golden brown on each side. Remove from skillet and transfer to a plate. Be careful to watch the cloves of garlic and be sure to remove them once they appear to be getting too golden. You don't want them to burn. Repeat with remaining chicken and smashed garlic.
In the same skillet you just cooked all the chicken in add the oil you reserved from the sun dried tomatoes. Into that oil add the artichoke hearts and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes. To the artichokes add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften a bit. Next, add the tomato paste and garlic and stir into the vegetables, cooking for 2-3 minutes. At this point I usually add some salt and pepper. Next comes the liquids...add the wine first, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. Finally add the chicken stock and the fresh thyme. Allow liquids to simmer together for 4-5 minutes. To thicken this liquid mixture a bit, add approximately 1-2 tablespoons of the leftover whole wheat flour to the skillet, whisking to mix.
Add the chicken cutlets back into the skillet, nestling them all in under the veggies, gently, as best as you can. Ideally you want most of the chicken to be submerged into the liquid. It is ok if the tops of a few pieces are not submerged. If you feel you need a bit more liquid, add some more chicken stock. Put a cover on the skillet, lower heat to low and gently simmer for 15 - 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Once cooked, turn off heat and add the parsley. If you so choose, you can also add the butter, just to finish the sauce a bit.

Quinoa with Chicken and Zucchini

September 28, 2011 by Susan

A few years back I posted a recipe for chicken and vegetable couscous. After making the dish a few times I substituted the couscous with quinoa and have been making it that way ever since. Quinoa is a super food, afterall, so I try to incorporate it whenever I can. And it’s just so easy to cook!

Over the past few months I have made one more adjustment, substituting the olives with mushrooms. I just can’t seem to stomach olives during this pregnancy. And you know what – the dish is just as great! I give this quinoa dish to my husband for lunch alot and he loves mushrooms, so I’ve gotten zero complaints from him. It is quick to make and hearty to eat, an all around winner.

Here’s what you will need to serve 4…
2 tbsp olive oil

2 large thin, boneless chicken breasts, cubed

1 large onion

2 zucchini, cubed or cut into 1/2 moons

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp grated lemon zest

Juice of one lemon

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper

1-2 pinches of cinnamon

8-10 crimini mushrooms, sliced (not too thin)

1 1/2 cup quinoa

3 cups chicken stock, low sodium

1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped

1/4 cup mint leaves, finely chopped

Salt & pepper
Add quinoa and chicken stock in a pot, bring to a boil, reduce to simmer and cook for approximately 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the chicken cubes and cook until lightly browned on both sides, 3-5 minutes. Push the chicken to one side of the pan and add the onion, zucchini and mushrooms. Cook for 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic, lemon zest, red pepper and cinnamon. Season with salt & pepper. Cook for 3 more minutes.

Add the cooked quinoa to the chicken mixture and stir to combine. Turn off heat and add the parsley, mint and lemon juice. Mix well.
Recipe originally adapted from Rachael Ray

Curry Yogurt Chicken

July 29, 2011 by Susan

Every time I make this dish the two of us can’t stop exclaiming how much we love it. I now try to make it once a week, regardless of what season it is or what the temperature is outside. Hot out? Don’t care, still going to make it. We love it that much.

As my husband was quick to point out to me, this dish has just about everything anyone could want in a meal. The chicken and rice help to fill you up, the curry, ginger and chili give it just the right amount of tingle (be sure to de-seed the chili pepper if you don’t want the fire!) and the yogurt gives the sauce just the right amount of velvety goodness. Yet, it’s not too heavy.

Another thing I love about this meal…you can eat it in a bowl sitting in front of the TV. Casual and comforting. And the leftovers – amazing.

Here’s what you will need to serve 4-5 people…

Recipe

1/4 cup canola oil

2 pounds thin chicken cutlets, cubed

whole wheat flour, for dusting

2 tbsp finely chopped fresh ginger

1.5 tbsp curry powder

1 large garlic clove, minced

1 red chili pepper, sliced thin (seeds and ribs removed if you don’t want it spicy)

1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded and cut into large dice

6-7 large vine ripened tomatoes, cut into large chunks

1/2 cup frozen corn kernels

1/3 cup frozen peas

7 oz container Greek yogurt, plain

1/2 – 2/3 cup water

1/3 cup chopped cilantro leaves, for garnish

salt & pepper

basmati rice

Method

In a large, deep skillet heat the oil. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper then dust lightly with flour, coating all sides. Tap off the excess flour and add chicken to hot oil in batches (don’t overload the skillet). Cook chicken until lightly browned. Transfer chicken to a plate.

In the same skillet add the ginger, red pepper, chile pepper and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until peppers are slightly softened, about 2 minutes. Add the curry powder and cook for one minute longer. Add the chopped tomatoes, corn, peas and water. Bring to a soft boil. Next add most of the yogurt. Stir until smooth.

Add the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for approximately 20 – 25 minutes stirring occasionally. Turn off heat, add the remaining yogurt, stir until smooth and sprinkle with cilantro. Serve over basmati rice.

Recipe adapted from Food & Wine Magazine

Curry Yogurt Chicken

Author: Feasts And Fotos

Ingredients

¼ cup canola oil
2 pounds thin chicken cutlets, cubed
whole wheat flour, for dusting
2 tbsp finely chopped fresh ginger
1.5 tbsp curry powder
1 large garlic clove, minced
1 red chili pepper, sliced thin (seeds and ribs removed if you don't want it spicy)
1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded and cut into large dice
6-7 large vine ripened tomatoes, cut into large chunks
½ cup frozen corn kernels
⅓ cup frozen peas
7 oz container Greek yogurt, plain
½ - ⅔ cup water
⅓ cup chopped cilantro leaves, for garnish
salt & pepper
basmati rice

Method

In a large, deep skillet heat the oil. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper then dust lightly with flour, coating all sides. Tap off the excess flour and add chicken to hot oil in batches (don't overload the skillet). Cook chicken until lightly browned. Transfer chicken to a plate.
In the same skillet add the ginger, red pepper, chile pepper and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until peppers are slightly softened, about 2 minutes. Add the curry powder and cook for one minute longer. Add the chopped tomatoes, corn, peas and water. Bring to a soft boil. Next add most of the yogurt. Stir until smooth.
Add the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for approximately 20 - 25 minutes stirring occasionally. Turn off heat, add the remaining yogurt, stir until smooth and sprinkle with cilantro. Serve over basmati rice.

Chicken and Orzo Frittata

July 13, 2011 by Susan

I am finally back in the kitchen! Let me just say that morning sickness is no joke. Or shall I say all day sickness. Yes, that’s more accurate. All. Day. Sickness.

But that phase seems to be mostly over and I can now stand up long enough to prepare some food! Yay! Since I took a few months off I decided to ease my way back into the kitchen by preparing some yummy things that could be eaten any time of day, since I now eat all day long. This frittata is perfect, it can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, a light dinner with a side salad, a snack, heated or at room temperature. And it’s a very substantial frittata with the inclusion of chicken and pasta. It is filling and satisfying…and delicious.

Here’s what you need to make one frittata…

Recipe

3/4 cup orzo pasta

6 eggs

1/3 cup whole milk ricotta

1/4 cup creme fraiche (optional)

2 cooked chicken breasts, cubed (about 2 cups)

4 scallions, chopped

1/4 cup chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley

1/3 cup (heaping) diced roasted red bell peppers

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Method

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the orzo and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 – 10 minutes. Drain pasta.

In a large bowl combine the eggs, ricotta, and creme fraiche (if using) and stir until the eggs are beaten and the ingredients are combined. Add the cooked orzo, chicken, scallions, parsley, red bell peppers, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart baking dish. Bake for 25 – 30 minutes or until firm to the touch and the center is no longer soft. Turn on the broiler. Place the pan under the broiler until golden on top, about 5 minutes. It is best to not leave the stove while doing this, things have a way of burning quickly under the broiler. Remove from the oven and let set for 5-10 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve.

Recipe courtesy Giada DeLaurentiis

Chicken and Orzo Frittata

Author: Feasts And Fotos

Ingredients

¾ cup orzo pasta
6 eggs
⅓ cup whole milk ricotta
¼ cup creme fraiche (optional)
2 cooked chicken breasts, cubed (about 2 cups)
4 scallions, chopped
¼ cup chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley
⅓ cup (heaping) diced roasted red bell peppers
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Method

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the orzo and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 - 10 minutes. Drain pasta.
In a large bowl combine the eggs, ricotta, and creme fraiche (if using) and stir until the eggs are beaten and the ingredients are combined. Add the cooked orzo, chicken, scallions, parsley, red bell peppers, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour the mixture into a 1½-quart baking dish. Bake for 25 - 30 minutes or until firm to the touch and the center is no longer soft. Turn on the broiler. Place the pan under the broiler until golden on top, about 5 minutes. It is best to not leave the stove while doing this, things have a way of burning quickly under the broiler. Remove from the oven and let set for 5-10 minutes. Cut into wedges and serve.

Chicken Salad

May 13, 2009 by Susan

It’s always a challenge for me to figure out what to make for lunch. Usually I’m having some type of leftover from the night before but when I have no leftovers in the fridge I’m stumped.

I was always turned off by tuna salads and chicken salads growing up for one main reason…excessive mayonnaise. Can’t stand it. I see the container of the stuff in the deli, want to give it another try, take the plunge and then end up hating it. Thick gloppy mayo, ugh. I’ve had luck in creating my favorite tuna fish sandwich ever, so I ventured out to try to create a chicken salad.

I love chicken. Whenever possible I buy organic chicken and 9 times out of 10 I get the split chicken breasts on the bone with the skins on and bake them in the oven. Perfection every single time. Succulent. Not exactly sure if the reason is because the chicken is organic or because of the way I’m baking it (or a combination of both). Whatever the reason, I’m happy about it.

With all that said, I knew that would be how I would actually cook the chicken. Then I set out to decide on the other ingredients, keeping flavor, texture and color in mind. I finally decided on shredded carrots and chopped celery. I always love the crunch and flavor of a nut, so I chose walnuts for this chicken salad. And the herb….knew it had to be dill. I love dill.

Now the serious stuff – the glue that holds it all together. The component that will make or break the chicken salad. I knew I could not tolerate thick mayo, so I tested out a few combinations of yogurt and mayo combined and finally arrived at a perfect combination. You can use regular yogurt, but I prefer the consistency of Greek yogurt.

You might be thinking it is a bit strange to add yogurt to a chicken salad, but I’ll tell you, it works. It is light and provides a great tang to the sandwich, pairing wonderfully with the dill. This yogurt mixture would also be great as a dip for cut up veggies.

I love this chicken salad so much, I find I’m making it once a week. I make extra and keep it in the fridge (it lasts for a few days). It’s delicious in between two slices of hearty, whole grain bread…equally delicious eaten by the spoonful right out of the container.

Here’s what you will need to make approximately 3 medium sandwiches…

Recipe

2 large split chicken breasts, bone in, skin on

2 tsp chopped dill

1/2 cup chopped celery

1 medium carrot, shredded (1/2 cup)

1/3 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 tbsp mayo

2 tbsp chopped dill

small squeeze of lemon juice

salt & pepper

olive oil

your favorite bread

Method

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put chicken breasts in a baking dish, sprinkle with olive oil, salt & pepper and bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes or until skin is lightly browned and juices run clear. Allow to cool.

Meanwhile, add the shredded carrot and chopped celery to a large bowl with 2 tsp of dill and the toasted walnuts. Mix well. Set aside.

In a small bowl combine the Greek yogurt, mayo, 2 tbsp chopped dill and lemon juice. Mix well. Add salt & pepper to taste.

Once the chicken has cooled enough to handle, remove the skin and pull all the meat off the bone. Cut into medium sized cubes and place into a separate bowl. Allow chicken to sit for a few minutes to cool off completely. Drain any excess chicken juice from bowl. (Draining the juice is an important step, this will eliminate the yogurt dressing from getting too watery).

Add cubed chicken into the bowl with the carrot and celery mixture. Mix well. Add the yogurt mixture to the chicken until it reaches the desired consistency. I usually add half the mixture first, then mix. I add the remaining yogurt a spoonful at a time so it doesn’t get too creamy.

Place a few mounds in between slices of your favorite bread and enjoy!

Chicken Salad

Author: Feasts And Fotos

Ingredients

2 large split chicken breasts, bone in, skin on
2 tsp chopped dill
½ cup chopped celery
1 medium carrot, shredded (1/2 cup)
⅓ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp mayo
2 tbsp chopped dill
small squeeze of lemon juice
salt & pepper
olive oil
your favorite bread

Method

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put chicken breasts in a baking dish, sprinkle with olive oil, salt & pepper and bake in the oven for 35-45 minutes or until skin is lightly browned and juices run clear. Allow to cool.
Meanwhile, add the shredded carrot and chopped celery to a large bowl with 2 tsp of dill and the toasted walnuts. Mix well. Set aside.
In a small bowl combine the Greek yogurt, mayo, 2 tbsp chopped dill and lemon juice. Mix well. Add salt & pepper to taste.

Chicken Vegetable Couscous

March 19, 2009 by Susan

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Quick and simple dishes that actually taste good are my favorite things to make. If the dish stands up well to being left in the fridge for a few days, even better! I discovered this recipe from the Rachael Ray magazine and only made a few small changes. It’s a wonderful side dish, however, I eat it as my main meal, in a bowl, sitting in front of the TV…

I doubled the amount of zucchini as well as eliminating the fennel seeds (her recipe called for 1/2 tsp). The other change I sometimes make is not sauteing the chicken in the pan – sometimes I have leftover oven roasted chicken that I shred up or cut into cubes and throw in. Also note that I have made this dish with quinoa instead of couscous many times and it’s delicious. Actually, I think I prefer it. Just cook the quinoa separately (as directed on the box) and add to the zucchini mixture for a gluten-free, protein packed version of this meal.

Here’s what you need to serve 4…

Recipe

2 tbsp olive oil

1 pound boneless chicken breasts, chopped (or leftover chicken)

1 onion

2 zucchini, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp grated lemon zest

Juice of one lemon

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper

Pinch of cinnamon

1 cup green olives, chopped

Low sodium chicken stock (use amount as directed on couscous box)

One 10 oz box couscous (or 1 cup quinoa)

1/4 cup parsley, chopped

1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped

Salt & pepper

hot sauce (optional)

Method

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned, 3 minutes. Add the onion, zucchini, garlic, lemon zest, red pepper and cinnamon. Season with salt & pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, then add the olives. Cook for 3 more minutes.

Stir in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover the pan, turn off the heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and then add the parsley, mint and lemon juice. Toss to combine. If you are so inclined, sprinkle some hot sauce on it and enjoy!

Chicken Vegetable Couscous

Author: Feasts And Fotos

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 pound boneless chicken breasts, chopped (or leftover chicken)
1 onion
2 zucchini, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp grated lemon zest
Juice of one lemon
½ tsp crushed red pepper
Pinch of cinnamon
1 cup green olives, chopped
Low sodium chicken stock (use amount as directed on couscous box)
One 10 oz box couscous (or 1 cup quinoa)
¼ cup parsley, chopped
¼ cup mint leaves, chopped
Salt & pepper
hot sauce (optional)

Method

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned, 3 minutes. Add the onion, zucchini, garlic, lemon zest, red pepper and cinnamon. Season with salt & pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, then add the olives. Cook for 3 more minutes.
Stir in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover the pan, turn off the heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and then add the parsley, mint and lemon juice. Toss to combine. If you are so inclined, sprinkle some hot sauce on it and enjoy!