Easy Meal Ideas with Chicken

Hi, Blog Readers.

How easy it is sometimes to get into the routine of the "same ole' thing" during our weekly meal planning. Shows, such as the one hosted by Robin Miller on Food Network, show you how to buy once, cook once, reheat, and eat happily and healthy.

One idea I like that I have done is with Chicken. Simply marinate 4-6 chicken breasts in lite Caesar dressing (or other garlic-herb marinade), bake for 22-25 minutes at 350 degrees on a prepared baking sheet, let cool--and watch the creativity come alive!

Idea #1: CAESAR SALAD OR GREENS SALAD...Slice a chicken breasts and put over mixed greens for a quick lunch. Feel free to add lots of tomatoes and other veggies.

Idea #2: CHICKEN SALAD...Cube up 1 or 2 breasts, toss with mayo (I use Smart Balance), a pinch of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, and chopped celery for a delicious Chicken Salad (with, or without the bread!) I like this with a plain toasted onion bagel. Yum!

Idea #3: FAJITA FUN...Saute some sliced bell peppers, onions, sliced marinated chicken, and fajita seasonings for a wrap better than take-out. Garnish with cheese, sour cream, and salsa, if desired.

Idea #4: CHICKEN PARMESAN...Slice the cooked marinated chicken. Saute peppers, and onions. Add chicken. Add pasta sauce (homemade, if possible!), a splash of chicken/veggie stock, and simmer. Add "blop" of tomato paste, if thin. Serve over whole grain pasta. Top with Parmesan Cheese. For CHICKEN CACCIATORE, add quartered fresh mushrooms to the veggie step.

Basic recipes, for sure but...Think of your favorite restaurant meals and know you can prepare these at home, taking control of the ingredients for your optimal diet. Consolidate your cooking during the Summer heat by using the oven as few times as possible. You'll also save money in the process!

Hope your day is going super. Keep cooking!


Your Maine Innkeeper,
Keith
Inn at Long Lake