Fiesta Lime Chicken with Spanish Rice

Fiesta Lime Chicken with Spanish Rice

adapted from CopyMeThat

This is a riff on the Fiesta Lime Chicken served at Applebee's™. i chose not to serve the chicken on a bed of tortilla chips since I was serving the Spanish rice.

The sauce is a bit spicy. If people like different levels of heat, microwave the sauce until it is warm and serve on the side as opposed to under the cheese.

Makes 2 servings of chicken and 3 servings of rice

7 WW pts. / chicken*, 6 WW pts / 1/3 of the rice & 1 WW pts. / 1 Tbsp. of sauce

2 cups homemade or store bought mojo criollo marinade
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 
1/4 cup reduced fat mayonnaise
1/4 cup reduced fat sour cream
2 Tbsp your favorite salsa
3 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
10 dashes (or to taste) Texas Pete's hot sauce™or your favorite hot sauce

1 tsp. Slap Ya Mama™ or your favorite Cajun seasoning

1/4 tsp. cumin
1/4 tsp garlic powder

Cooking spray
1/2 cup Colby jack cheese, shredded

Spanish Rice

1/4 onion diced
Cooking spray
2 large garlic cloves, minced 
5 oz package yellow saffron rice, uncooked
3/4 cup fire roasted tomatoes, drained
1 cup Homemade chicken stock or canned broth
1 cup water

1. Place chicken breast in sealable bag with the marinade; Place in fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. The the bowl or a small food processor combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, salsa, lime juice, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, cumin, and garlic powder; Processor until well combined; Refrigerate until chilled.
3. Start the rice by sauteing the onion and garlic in a pot coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat until softened, about 2 minutes..
4. Add uncooked rice, tomatoes, chicken broth, water, smoked paprika and cumin.
5. Stir everything together and simmer on medium for 20 minutes. 
6. Preheat oven on Broil – Low
7. Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry; Discard the marinade.
8. Cook the chicken breasts in a pan coated with cooking spray until cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side.
9. Remove the spicy sauce from fridge, spoon 1-2 Tbsp, over the chicken, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and broil until cheese has melted, about 2-3 minutes.
10. Serve passing additional sauce as desired.

Enjoy!


* To calculate the WW points, I measured the volume of marinade remaining after the chicken was removed. It was reduced by 1/3 cup so I calculated the WW points based on 1/3 of a cup of the marinade total points divided between 2 servings. You can reduce the points by decreasing your serving size of rice or by substituting reduced fat Mexican blend cheese for the Colby.

Jerk Chicken

Jerk Chicken

adapted from Jerk from Jamaica by Helen Willinsky

Jerk chicken is a traditional Jamaican dish featuring chicken marinated in a spicy and aromatic blend of seasonings, then traditionally grilled or smoked. To make it easier for the home cook I put mine in the oven.

Makes 2 - 4 servings               7 WW pts for 4 servings / 14 WW pts for 2 servings

1 onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup finely chopped scallions

1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves

1/2 tsp. Kosher salt

1 tsp. sugar substitute

1/2 tsp ground allspice

1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 habanero chile, chopped

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 tsp. soy sauce

1 1/2 tsp. vegetable oil

1 1/2 tsp. apple cider vinegar

2 chicken legs, thigh separated from drumstick

1. Make the marinade by combining all ingredients except the chicken legs and cooking spray; Whisk to combine.
2. Place the chicken in a resealable container and add the marinade; Turn the chicken to coat.
3. Place the chicken in the refrigerate to marinate for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat the oven to 350F.
5. Place a rack over a baking sheet; Coat the rack with cooking spray.
6. Place chicken on the rack; Bake in the preheated oven until it registers 165F on an instant read thermometer, about 45 minutes.
7. Turn on the broiler; Broil the chicken until the chicken begins to crisp, about 5 minutes.

Enjoy!

Chicken Stir-Fry with Spicy Peanut Sauce

Chicken Stir-Fry with Spicy Peanut Sauce

adapted from Food Network

Need a way to make chicken more exciting? Try adding a spicy peanut sauce. Don't like spice? Just omit the hot sauce and the red pepper flakes. You can also substitute thinly sliced lean beef for the chicken or just make it a stir-fry with all vegetables.

Makes 2 serving                                                                    3 WW pts / serving

2 Tbsp. smooth peanut butter
1 Tbsp. soy sauce
1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
3/4 tsp. sugar substitute
3/4 tsp. Pacific Rim Teriyaki hot sauce™ or your favorite hot sauce*

3/4 tsp. sesame oil
3/4 tsp. grated fresh ginger 
1 large cloves garlic, grated

1 Tbsp, warm water
5 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/4-inch-thick strips
Kosher salt
pinch of red pepper flakes
Cooking spray
4 small red radishes, quartered, plus 1/4 loose cup radish greens, coarsely chopped
2 red baby bell pepper, cored, seeded and cut into 1/2-inch-thick strips
Zest and juice from 1/4 small lime

Dark green scallion tops, chopped for garnish (optional)

1. In a bowl, whisk the peanut butter with the soy sauce, vinegar, honey, hot sauce, sesame oil, ginger, 2/3  of the garlic and water until smooth. (If the sauce is too thick, thin with a little more warm water.); Set aside.
2. Arrange the pieces of chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer. 
3. Sprinkle on one side with salt and the red pepper flakes; Turn the pieces on their other side and sprinkle again with salt.
4. Cook, the chicken in a skillet coated with cooking spray, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked, 3 to 5 minutes; Remove chicken from the pan.
5. In the same skillet, stir in the remaining garlic, radishes, radish greens and peppers and season with salt. Mix so the radish greens wilt. 
6. Stir in the peanut sauce and simmer for an additional minute Adjust seasoning to taste. 
7. Mix in the chicken. Turn off the heat and let rest a couple of minutes on the stove. If the sauce becomes to thick, thin out with a little additional water.
8. Top with the lime zest and the juice.
9. Garnish with scallions, if using, prior to serving.

Enjoy!

* I tried to find a link to the Pacific Rim Hot Sauce that came as one of the hot sauces in a variety pack of hot sauces. It does not seem to be on the marfket any longer.

Ranch Chicken Skewers

Ranch Chicken Skewers

adapted from Hiddenvalleyranch.com

This is a simple chicken recipe that can be made ahead of time and cooked quickly at meal time.

These skewers can also be cooked on a grill, cooking for about 5 minutes per side.

Served with Seasoned Rice

Makes 2 servings                                                                0 WW. pts / serving

Cooking spray
12 1-inch cubes boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tsp. Hidden Valley™ Ranch Seasoning, Dressing & Dip Mix

1 mini red, yellow or orange pepper, cut into 4 long pieces, removing the stem and seeds.
1/4 red onion, cut into 4 chunks

4 baby bella mushrooms, stems removed
2 metal skewers or 2 wooden skewers, soaked for at least 20 minutes

1. Preheat the broiler.
2. Coat a metal rack with cooking spray, place on a rimmed baking sheet and set aside.
3. Toss the chicken cubes with the Hidden Valley™ Ranch Seasoning, Dressing & Dip Mix; Set aside.
4. Coat the metal skewers with cooking spray.
5. On each skewer, thread half of the chicken, pepper, onion, and mushrooms in the your preferred order.
6. Spray each side of the loaded skewers with cooking spray.
7. Cook in the preheated oven for for 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink inside. 
8. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

Chicken with Snap Peas and Shiitakes

Chicken with Snap Peas and Shiitakes

Adapted from Food Network

Blanch the snap peas by cooking them in boiling for for 1-1 1/2 minutes then transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking.

You can reduce the WW points bu using boneless skinless thighs.

Served with Scallion Speckled Rice

Makes 2 servings                                                            10 WW pts / serving

2 boneless, skin on chicken thighs
1 tsp. sesame oil
2 Tbsp. oyster sauce
2 tsp. cornstarch
2 garlic cloves, minced and, divided
2 tsp. grated ginger, divided
3 oz. snap peas, blanched and held in ice bath
2 Tbsp. grapeseed oil or other neutral oil
2 sliced scallion, light green and white only
2 Tbsp. Homemade chicken stock or low sodium canned broth
2/3 cup sliced shiitakes mushroom caps
Penzeys Szechuan Pepper Salt or Kosher salt and freshly crushed black pepper to taste

1. Marinate chicken in sesame oil, oyster sauce, cornstarch, half of the garlic and half of the ginger for at least 30 minutes. 
2. In a hot wok, coat bottom with oil and add the remaining garlic, ginger and white scallions; Stir quickly to avoid burning. 
3. Season chicken with Szechuan pepper salt and cook until it reaches 165F, about 8 minutes. and remove from the pan.
4. Add chicken stock and reduce by half, about 1 minute.
5. Add mushrooms quickly stir for 1 minute.; Add peas just to heat up 
6. Adjust seasoning then serve the vegetables with the chicken.

Enjoy!

Greek Chicken Thighs

Greek Chicken Thighs

adapted from America's Test Kitchen

This is the moistest chicken I think I have ever cooked. Cutting slits into the chicken allowed the marinade to better penetrate the meat.

served with Cream-less Creamed Corn

Makes 2 servings                                                                10 WW pts / serving

1 Tbsp. olive oil
2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary
2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1 1/2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 (3-inch) strips lemon zest, chopped
3/4 tsp. Kosher salt
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 ground coriander
1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper pepper

2 bone-in chicken thighs

1. Cut 4 slits about 1/2 inch deep in each piece for marinade to penetrate.
2. In a bowl, combine oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, salt, oregano, coriander, pepper flakes, and pepper; Whisk to combine.s
3. Transfer chicken to bowl with marinade and turn to thoroughly coating; Make sure marinade gets into slits. 
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat the oven to 425F.
6. Place chicken, skin side up, in an oven-safe skillet; Scrape any remaining marinade from bowl over chicken. 
7. Roast until the thighs register 175 degrees, about 30 minutes.
8. Remove skillet from oven; Turn on the broiler.
9. Spoon pan juices over top of chicken to moisten the skin. 
10. Broil chicken until skin is lightly browned, about 3 minutes.
11. Let chicken rest in skillet for 10 minutes. 

Enjoy!

Barefoot Contessa Barbecued Chicken

Barefoot Contessa Barbecued Chicken

adapted from The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook©

One of the things I like about Ina Garten's recipes is that she makes real food without hard to find ingredients.

This can be cooked in the oven or on the grill.

Makes 6 servings

6 lbs. chicken thighs
1 recipe Barefoot Contessa's BBQ Sauce

1. Marinate the thighs in 1-2 cups of the barbecue sauce overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat the oven to 375F
3. Arrange the chicken in  ne layer on two rimmed baking sheet.
4. Cook in the preheated oven 30 minutes; Rotate sheets and cook another 25 minutes.
5. Turn on the broiler.
6. Slather the chicken with additional BBQ sauce. Place each sheet under the broiler to char, about 5 minutes per sheet.
7. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.

Enjoy!

Chicken Shawarma

Chicken Shawarma

Adapted from Milk Street©

Traditionally shawarma, which originated in Turkey, is made on a vertical rotating spit. As the outside of the meat cooks it is sliced off for serving. Milk Street figured out that broiling the chicken creates the same type of char as the spit.

Do not substitute breasts for thighs because broiling will dry it out. The sauce ends up being 0 points by using the fat free yogurt so all of the points are coming from the chicken and olive oil.

Makes 4 servings                                                  4 WW pts / serving 1 thigh

1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1 1/2 tsp. ground coriander

1 tsp. hot paprika

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

3/4 tsp. Kosher salt

1 tsp. Freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp. + 2 tsp. olive oil

1 1/2  Tbsp. tahini

1/2 tsp. lemon zest

1 1/2 Tbsp. lemon juice, divided

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken thighs

1/2 medium red onion, cut into 1/2 inch thick sliced

1/2 cup plain fat free yogurt

2 Tbsp. parsley leaves, chopped

1. In a bowl, combine the cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt and pepper.; Set aside 1/2 tsp of the mixture.
2. Into the remaining spice mixture add 2 Tbsp. olive oil, 1 1/2 tsp. tahini and 1 Tbsp. lemon juice; Whisk to combine.
3. Add the chicken and onion slices to the mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chicken can stand at room temperature until  the broiler comes to temperature.
5. Meanwhile, to the spice mixture that was set aside all the yogurt, remaining olive oil, remaining tahini, lemon zest and 1 tsp. parsley; Season to taste with salt and set aside until serving.
6. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil; Transfer the chicken and onions to the baking sheet in a single layer.
7. Broil 6 inches from the heat source, until both sides are slightly charred on both sides, about 20 minutes, turning at the halfway point.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with the remaining parsley.
9. Serve the chicken with the yogurt-tahini sauce.

Enjoy!

Tangy Chicken Steak Sub

Tangy Chicken Steak Sub

adapted from Food Network

Growing up in Boston, sandwiches on long roll were call subs. When I moved to Western Mass, I had to adjust to referring to them as grinders. Now is  South Central PA, we are back to subs again. Other  regional terms include hoagies and heroes. What are they called in your area ?

Makes 2 servings                                                              10 WW pts / serving *

1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
1 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 lb. shaved chicken

Cooking spray
1/2 onion, sliced
1 1/2 tsp. minced garlic

1 Tbsp. chopped scallion. green part only
1/2 oz. turkey pepperoni slices
2 oz. reduced fat provolone, slices
2 steak rolls, split and toasted

2 Tbsp. reduced fat mayo

2 Tbsp. hot pepper spread or your favorite spicy peppers

1. In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar, oil, mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. 
2. Add the shaved chicken and toss to coat; Marinade in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
3. In a frying pan coated with cooking spray, cook the onions until slightly softened, about 2 minutes. 
4. Add the garlic and chicken meat; Sauté  until the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes. 
5. Stir in the chives. 
6. Divide the chicken into 2 piles in the pan, spread out about the length of the rolls.
7. Place the pepperoni on top of the chicken and repeat with the cheese. 
8. Turn off the heat and allow the heat from the meat to melt the provolone.
9. Meanwhile spread the mayonnaise and hot pepper spread on the rolls.
10. With a large spatula scoop up the chicken with the cheese and put it n the rolls. 
11. Cut in half prior to serving if desired.

Enjoy!

* I calculated the points minus the marinade that was not absorbed into the chicken by straining the chicken before cooking and measuring the oil that was not used. Approximately half of the oil

Foolproof Chicken Thighs

Foolproof Chicken Thighs

adapted from Olivia Adriance

This method was found on Instagram and claimed to be foolproof for tender and juicy chicken thighs.

It’s important not to move them around while cooking because you want a nice golden crust to form.

Makes 3 servings                                                              0 WW points / serving

3 boneless skinless chicken thighs
salt and pepper to season (about 1/4 tsp salt per thigh, and 1/8 tsp pepper)
1/2 cup homemade chicken stock or canned broth

1. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat
2. Season the chicken thighs generously on both sides with salt and pepper
3. Add the chicken thighs to the dry skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and cook, undisturbed, for 10-12 minutes or until they are white around the edges and are no longer sticking to the pan. 
4. Flip the chicken when it easily releases from the pan; Cook for another 5 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Lower the heat to medium low and add 1/4 cup of chicken broth, scraping up any chicken bits as the broth deglazes the pan, then add another 1/4 cup to cover the bottom on the pan in a thin layer.
6. Allow the sauce to reduce until there is only a thin, sticky glaze over the bottom of the pan, tossing the chicken in the sauce as you go, for another 3-5 minutes.
7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup

adapted from  Allrecipes

We had Marry Me Chicken and Marry Me Pasta so why not Marry Me Chicken Soup with pasta.

By baking the chicken with the seasoning rather than buying a rotisserie chicken, you get to keep the flavor on the chicken rather than losing it when you remove the skin to shred the chicken; not to mention it is cheaper.

This recipe is not designed for someone who is watching their fat and calories. To lighten it up and to reduce the number of WW points, you can substitute the fat free cream cheese for the cream cheese and half & half (6-5 WW points / serving) or fat-free evaporated milk (4-3 WW points / serving) for the heavy cream.

Serves 2-3                                                            17-11 WW points / serving

1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast

1 tsp. Homemade Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning or store bought

2 2/3 Tbsp. drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil with Italian herbs
1 tsp. oil from sun-dried tomato jar, divided
1/2 cups chopped yellow onion
1 medium garlic cloves, minced (about 1 1/3 teaspoons)
1 Tbsp. tomato paste
2 2/3 cups Homemade chicken stock or canned broth
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
1 1/3 tsp. chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish (optional)
2/3 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. dried Italian seasoning
1/3 tsp. garlic powder
pinch crushed red pepper, plus more for garnish
2 oz. small shell pasta, cooked
1 cup packed fresh baby spinach, chopped
2 oz. cream cheese, cubed, at room temperature
1/2 oz. Parmesan cheese, finely shredded, plus more for garnish

1. Preheat the oven to 375F
2. Season the chicken with the Homemade Rotisserie Seasoning and place in a baking dish.
3. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven until cooked to 155F, about 20 minutes; Set aside to cool.
4. Preheat the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes in a soup pot; when shimmering add the onions and garlic.
5. Cook until the onions have softened, about 3-4 minutes
6. Add tomato paste and sun-dried tomatoes; cook, until tomato paste turns a deeper red, about 2 minutes.
7. Stir in broth, cream, basil, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper; Bring to a simmer over medium, stirring occasionally for about 20 minutes to blend flavors.
8. Meanwhile shred the cooled chicken.
9. Reduce heat to low; Add the spinach, 2/3 cup shredded chicken, cream cheese, and Parmesan.
10. Cook, stirring often, until cream cheese and Parmesan are melted and chicken is heated through, about 5 minutes.
11. To serve place,  divide the pasta between the soup bowls; Ladle the soup over the pasta.
12. Prior to serving, garnish with additional Parmesan, basil, and red pepper, if desired.

Enjoy!

Chicken Fajita Quesadilla

Chicken Fajita Quesadilla

adapted from hunt4shredz

Couldn't decide if we wanted fajitas or quesadillas so we combined the two!

When I don't feel like making my own fajita seasoning, I use Bolner's Fiesta Fajita Seasoning™

Makes 2 servings                                                        2 WW points / serving

2 Tumaro wraps or your favorite carb-wise or regular 8 inch tortillas
Cooking spray
6 oz chicken breast, cut into bite size pieces
1 1/2 tsp. Fajita seasoning
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup low fat cheddar cheese
2 Tbsp. low fat sour cream
2 tsp. fresh lime juice
Your favorite salsa for serving

1. Coat a skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium heat.
2. When the pan is hot add the chicken, onions and peppers to the pan; Sprinkle with fajita seasoning.
3. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables have softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from the heat; Transfer the chicken and vegetables to a small bowl.
5. Wipe out the skillet with a damp paper towel and recoat with cooking spay.
6. Add one wrap to the skillet; Top with the chicken, vegetables and cheese.
7. Coat the remaining wrap with cooking spray and place spray side up on top if the filling.
8. Cook the quesadilla until the cheese melts and you reach your desired level of toastiness, about 3 minutes per side.
9. Mix the sour cream with the lime juice to make a lime crema.
10. Serve passing the crema and salsa.

Enjoy!

Baked Chicken Breasts with Parmesan-Garlic Crust

Baked Chicken Breasts with Parmesan-Garlic Crust

adapted from American's Test Kitchen

Lots of  basil, garlic, and Parmesan livens brightens up baked chicken breasts that are usually bland. 

I made the breadcrumbs from a day old baguette but any heaty white bread will work.

Makes 2 servings                                                                4 WW pts / serving

1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2  cloves garlic cloves, minced
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1/4 tsp. Kosher salt
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 to 7 ounces each)
2 Tbsp. minced fresh basil
2 Tbsp. reduced fat mayonnaise

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. 
2. Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, oil, salt, and pepper to taste in a small bowl.
3. Place a rack on a baking sheet and coat with cooking spray.
4. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and place on a the rack.
5. Combine basil and mayonnaise in small bowl; Spread it evenly over chicken. 
6. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the mayonnaise; Press lightly to adhere.
7. Bake in the preheated oven until crumbs are golden brown and instant-read thermometer inserted in thickest part of chicken registers 160 degrees, about 18 minutes.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

Chicken with Tomato and Capers

Chicken with Tomato and Capers

adapted from Epicurious

The sweetness of the tomatoes combine nicely with the brininess of the capers.

Makes 2 servings                                                        2 WW points / serving

2 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets, about 3/4 lbs.
Kosher salt and ground white pepper to taste

Cooking spray  
1 tsp. olive oil
1 1/2 Tbsp. finely chopped shallots
1/2 tsp. finely chopped garlic
1 tsp. finely chopped fresh tarragon or 1/3 tsp. dried
1 cup canned petit diced tomatoes, pureed
1  Tbsp. red wine vinegar
4 tsp. drained capers
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 1/2 tsp. tomato paste

1/2-1 tsp. sugar substitute, if needed
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley leaves

1. Sprinkle the chicken well with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the oil in a skillet coated with cooking spray.
3. Add the chicken breasts and sauté until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan; Keep warm.
5. Scatter the shallots and garlic around the chicken; Cook briefly.
6. Add the tarragon, tomatoes, vinegar, capers, wine, and tomato paste; Stir to dissolve the fond (brown bits sticking to the bottom of the skillet).
7. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning, using the sugar substitute if needed.
9. Return the chicken to the pan; Cook for 2 minutes or until heated through.
10. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Enjoy!

Hoisin Five-Spice Chicken Drumsticks

Hoisin Five-Spice Chicken Drumsticks

adapted from Gourmet, March 2000

I am forever trying to find new way of cooking chicken. Sometimes the simplest recipes are the best ones. With only three ingredients, it is simple to make and very tasty.

It is sticky but not too sweet chicken that pairs well with rice and steamed veggies.

4 chicken drumsticks
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder

1. Preheat oven to 500°F.
2. Combine the hoisin sauce and five spice powder in a small bowl and mix thoroughly. 
3. Line the pan with foil otherwise you will have a very sticky clean up.
4. Place the chicken drumsticks on a rack over the lined baking pan .  
5. Brush the chicken liberally with the hoisin mixture. 
6. Bake in the preheated oven until the skin is browned and chicken is cooked through, about 25 to 30 minutes.

Enjoy!

Chicken Bolognese

Chicken Bolognese

adapted from Food Network

Using ground chicken instead pf the traditional beef make the sauce lighter and reduces the calories.

I'm usually a little behind the times when it comes to technology. It's only been the past year that I have begun listening to podcasts. I was listening to some older Sporkful™  and learned that the author, Dan Pashman, developed his own pasta shape - cascatelli ™. So we had to try it and see if it lived up to the hype of providing a good bite, stays on the fork and holds on to sauce. It did not disappoint.

Serves 2 with leftover sauce                                            9 WW points / serving

Cooking spray
1/2 lb. ground chicken

1/2 large carrot, shredded

1/4 onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

1 1/2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 small bay leaf

3 Tbsp. tomato paste

1/4 cup dry white wine

1/4 cup fat free evaporated milk

1 8 oz can tomato sauceedsw32

1/4 cup water

3/4 tsp. Kosher salt

1/2 tsp Freshly ground black pepper

4 oz. Cascatelli ™ pasta or your favorite pasta, cooked according to package directions, reserving the pasta water.

Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil (optional)

1. Heat a 2-3 quart pot over medium heat; When hot coat with cooking spray and cook the ground chicken until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the carrots and onions and cook until tender, about 7 minutes
3. Add the garlic, chili powder, Italian seasoning and bay leaf; all the seasonings to toast for about a minute.
4. Add the tomato paste and let it toast and gets dark, about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in the wine and simmer until it is absorbed
6. Stir in the evaporated milk and continue simmering until it thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
7. Stir in the tomato sauce and water; Cover and cook until the sauce is thick, about 45 minutes.
8. While the sauce is cooking, bring a pot of heavily salted water to a boil.
9. Add the sauce to the pasta and thin with the pasta water to taste.
10. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and basil if using prior to serving.

Enjoy!

Roasted Drumsticks with Butternut Squash and Cannellini Beans

Roasted Drumsticks with Butternut Squash and Cannellini Beans

adapted from Food Network

When you are cooking for two, a sheet pan meal is really just a baking pan meal. Although you could use a sheet pan, since we are adding chicken stock part way through cooking I didn't want it to spread out too much.

If you do not have cannellini beans substitute any canned beans you have on hand.

Makes 2 servings                                                            10 WW points / serving

6 oz butternut squash, peeled and cubed

1/2 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 lemon, zest removed in large strips

1/2 small red onion, sliced

1 Tbsp. olive oil

Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper

4 chicken drumsticks

1 tsp. Dan-O's Original Seasoning™ or your favorite chicken seasoning

2 Tbsp. golden raisins

1/2 cup Homemade Chicken Stock or canned broth

Fresh snipped parsley or cilantro for serving (optional)

1. Place your baking pan on the bottom rack of the oven and preheat the oven to 500F.
2. In a medium bowl combine the squash, beans, lemon zest, lemon, onion, olive oil and salt and pepper to taste; Toss to coat.
3. Season the chicken with Dan-O's Original Seasoning™; set aside.
4. Coat the heated pan with cooking spray and spread the squash mixture out evenly.
5. Nestle the chicken into the vegetables; return the pan to the oven and bake 20 minutes.
6. Add the chicken stock and raisins to the pan; Continue cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked to an internal temperature of 165F, about 10 more minutes.
7. When you remove the pan from the oven, use tongs to squeeze the roasted lemon juice over everything.
8. Serve the chicken with the vegetables and a garnish of parsley.

Enjoy!

Crispy Chicken Thighs with Lemon Vinaigrette

Crispy Chicken Thighs with Lemon Vinaigrette

Adapted from Food & Wine

I made this recipe with bone in skin on thighs because I had them in the freezer. Replace them with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and you will only have to count the points from the vinaigrette. Just remember to adjust your cook time.

This can be made in the oven, convection oven or air fryer.

Makes 2 servings                                                           10 WW points / serving

2 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1/2 tsp Kosher salt

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Cooking spray

2 Tbsp. Whole Lemon Vinaigrette

1. If you have the time, dry off the chicken, sprinkle with salt and return to the refrigerator for about an hour. This will help the chicken to brown.
2. Preheat the convection over or air fryer to 350F or the oven to 400F.
3. Place a rack on a baking sheet; coat the rack with cooking spray.
4. Place the chicken on a rack and coat with cooking spray
5. Sprinkle with black pepper.
6. Cook in the convection oven / air fryer for about 20 minutes or in the oven for 45 minutes; internal temperature should be 165F. Flip the chicken half way through cooking.
7. Transfer the chicken to plates and top with the vinaigrette.

Enjoy!

Quinoa with Chicken, Peas and Capers

Quinoa with Chicken, Peas and Capers

adapted from Bobby Flay Fit ©

This is a healthier version of the Puerto Rico dish arroz con pollo. Quinoa containing more protein, fiber, and more micronutrients compared to both white and brown rice

The original recipe contained chopped, pitted olives. Since my husband doesn't like olives, I used capers instead

Makes 2 servings                                                            3 WW points / serving

1 Tbsp. capers, drained and rinsed

2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley, and fresh torn leaves for garnish

1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar

Pinch of Flatiron Pepper Company Four Pepper Blend ™ or your favorite red pepper flakes

8 oz. boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 Tbsp. adobe seasoning

Cooking spray

1 Tbsp. olive oil

1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced

1/2 bell pepper color of your choice, seeded thinly sliced

1/2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and deveined, finely chopped

1 cup Homemade Chicken stock or canned broth

1/2 tsp. Kosher salt

1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup quinoa

1/2 bay leaf

1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

1. In a small bowl combine the olives, parsley, vinegar and red pepper flakes; set aside at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Season the chicken with the adobe; set aside at room temperature for 15 minutes.
3. In a medium saucepan, cook the onion, bell pepper and jalapeño with cooking spray until soft, about 4 minutes.
4. Add the stock, salt and pepper and bring to a boil; Stir in the quinoa and bay leaf
5. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Add the peas and continue to simmer until the liquid has been absorbed by the quinoa, about 5 more minutes; Remove the bay leaf.
7. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet; when hot add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
8. Remove the chicken from the heat and let rest covered for about 5 minutes before cutting it into slices.
9. To plate, put the quinoa into bowls, top with the chicken then the olive mixture,
10. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Enjoy!

Sesame Chicken Noodle Soup

Sesame Chicken Noodle Soup

Adapted from Ian Knauer recipe 2014

Update: Received Honorable Mention - 4th Place in The Soup Cook Off

This is a family favorite that I adapted from an Ian Knauer recipe from 2014 which I think was in Food & Wine but I can no longer find the link on the website. I created this adaptation after I attended The Soup Cook Off and loved an Asian soup that was in the competition.

This soup is on the spicy side. For the competition this year I am toning down the spice by adding less ginger syrup that what I add for my family.

I prefer to cook pasta separate from the soup so if there are leftovers it will not absorb too much of the broth and become soggy.

Makes 12 servings

2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite size pieces
3 Tbsp. + 3 Tbsp soy sauce, separated
1 Tbsp. minced ginger
2 garlic cloves
1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 Tbsp sriracha or your favorite chile sauce
1 1/2 tsp sugar
¼ tsp Kosher salt
¼ tsp Freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
8 cups Homemade chicken stock or canned broth
2 Tbsp DaVinci Ginger syrup™ to taste
2 (3 oz) packages ramen noodles
2 scallions, sliced

1. In a bowl, whisk together the 3 Tbsp soy sauce, ginger, garlic, vinegar, sriracha, sugar, salt and pepper; add the chicken; set aside.
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil; add the ramen and cook until tender; 3-4 minutes.
3. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat; add the oil.
4. When the oil is hot add the chicken along with the marinade and cook until cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in the stock, 6 Tbsp soy sauce and ginger syrup.
6. To serve add ramen to a bowl, ladle in soup and top with scallions.

Enjoy!

Note: If you do not want to buy a bottle of ginger syrup to try the recipe, you can make your own.