Saturday, December 21, 2024

White Chocolate Nanaimo Bars


A brand new twist on the classic no bake Canadian cookie bar, featuring the flavors of white chocolate and vanilla. From rockrecipes.com .



White Chocolate Nanaimo Bars


Ingredients:

Bottom Layer
3/4 cup butter
1/3 cup sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (without problem ingredients)
3/4 cup fine or medium unsweetened coconut (without problem ingredients)
1/2 cup chopped almonds (toasted and finely chopped)

Middle Layer (filling)
3 cups icing sugar
2/3 cup butter at room temperature
3/4 cup white chocolate chips, melted (without problem ingredients)
2 tsp vanilla extract
4 tbsp milk or whipping cream (approximately)

Top Layer
1 cup white chocolate chips (without problem ingredients)
1/4 cup whipping cream


Directions:

1. Melt together the butter and sugar over low heat.

2. Add the eggs continue to cook, stirring constantly to fully cook the egg to a soft scrambled texture.

3. Add the graham cracker crumbs, coconut and finely chopped almonds.

4. Mix together until well combined, then press into the bottom of a parchment paper lined 9x9 inch baking pan.


To prepare Filling-

1. With an electric mixer, beat together the butter and icing sugar until it just starts to come together.

2. Add the vanilla extract and melted chocolate chips and beat well, adding just enough milk, a tablespoon or two at a time, until smooth.

3. This frosting should be very stiff but spreadable. (Much thicker than you would use to frost a cake for example) If you think it's too thick, you may add a few drops of milk at a time to bring it to the right consistency.

4. Spread evenly over the bottom layer.

5. Chill in the fridge for a couple of hours before adding the white chocolate topping.


To Prepare the White Chocolate Topping-

1. Melt together the white chocolate chips and whipping cream over low heat, just until the chocolate is melted, don't over heat it. A double boiler is probably best for this purpose.

2. Allow the melted mixture to cool to room temperature.

3. Use a hand mixer to beat the cooled white chocolate mixture, until it stiffens enough to spread like a soft frosting.

4. Spread evenly over the middle layer and return to the fridge until the chocolate sets.

5. Cut into squares or bars. These freeze very well.



Saturday, December 14, 2024

The Best Coffee Cake


A delicious coffee cake recipe that is easy to mix in 5 minutes with just a few staple ingredients. This family recipe has been passed down for 3 generations and is perfect for breakfast, snack time or even dinner! From ellaclaireinspired.com . I give it ★ ★ ★ ★ ★






The Best Coffee Cake


Ingredients:

Cake
1 egg
1/4 cup oil vegetable or canola
1 tsp. vanilla
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/4 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 cups flour

Streusel
2 T butter melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tsp. Ceylon cinnamon (if tolerated)
2 T flour
1/2 cup walnuts chopped, optional

Icing Drizzle
1 T butter room temperature
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 T milk extra, if needed


Directions:

Cake
Preheat oven to 375°.

Beat egg in mixing bowl. Mix in sugar, milk, salt, oil, and vanilla.

Spoon flour into measuring cup. Dump flour on top of the batter. Sprinkle baking pwder over flour and gently mix into the top half of the flour. Stir flour mixture into batter until combined. Pour into greased, or parchment lined, 9x9 baking dish.

Streusel
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter in microwave. Remove and mix in brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour and stir until well combined. Add nuts if desired.

Sprinkle streusel onto the cake. Use a finger or the small end of a wooden spoon to poke the streusel halfway down into the cake batter, randomly 12-18 times.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out with moist crumbs (not runny batter). Do not overbake or it will dry out the cake!

Icing (optional)
Mix butter and powdered sugar. Thin with milk until desired consistency. Lightly drizzle cake with icing.


Friday, December 6, 2024

White Chocolate Brownies


These White Chocolate Brownies have melted white chocolate in the batter for a perfectly fudgy texture. The recipe is carefully balanced (not too sweet!) and has the same shiny, crackly tops you’re used to! From sugarspunrun.com .



White Chocolate Brownies


Ingredients:

10 Tablespoons (141 g) unsalted butter cut into pieces
6 oz (170 g) premium white chocolate bar like Ghirardelli or Lindt, chopped (without problem ingredients)
1 ¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs + 1 large egg yolk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking powder
1 cup (170 g) white chocolate chips (without problem ingredients)


Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325F (165C) and line a 9×9” baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Combine butter and chopped white chocolate pieces in a microwave safe bowl. Heat in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar, eggs, and egg yolk and whisk vigorously until pale yellow (about 30 seconds, you can also use an electric mixer on high speed for about 15 seconds).

4. Stir in vanilla extract then add chocolate mixture and stir until completely combined.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir into white chocolate mixture until thoroughly combined.

6. Use a spatula to fold in chocolate chips and spread evenly into prepared baking pan.

7. Transfer to center rack of 325F (165C) oven and bake for 42 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.

8. Allow to cool before slicing and serving (otherwise they may appear underbaked/gooey in the center, if you don't mind this then feel free to disregard!).



Notes

White Chocolate- White chocolate chips may be substituted in a pinch (you would need 1 cup), but I’ve found best results using a quality chocolate bar. For the additional white chocolate at the end, you can substitute another 6 oz of chopped chocolate for the white chocolate chips if desired.

Baking notes- I recommend using a metal pan as a glass pan will take longer (sometimes much longer).

Storing- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.



Friday, November 29, 2024

Crock Pot Pork Chops


Crock Pot Pork Chops are such an easy and delicious dinner. This low-carb dinner has only 10 minutes of hands-on time and your slow cooker does the rest! From simplejoy.com.



Crock Pot Pork Chops


Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
kosher salt and black pepper (if tolerated)
1 pound thick cut boneless pork chops (look for chops that 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick)
1 cup beef stock (without problem ingredients)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (if using table salt, start with less) 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 garlic cloves
1 small yellow onion diced fine (if tolerated)
8 ounces mushrooms sliced
2 tablespoons corn starch


Directions:

1. In a heavy bottomed skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper. Sear for about 2 minutes on each side. Remove the pork chops and discard the oil.

2. Spray the bottom of a crockpot with cooking spray. Add the beef stock, salt, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, garlic, and diced onion. Add the seared pork chops. Top with the mushrooms.

3. Cook on low for 1 to 2 hours. For best results, leave an oven safe instant read thermometer in the pork chops. Pork chops can be removed from the slow cooker when they reach 135 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. At the end of the cooking time, remove the pork chops and tent with foil. Turn the slow cooker to high.

5. In a small bowl whisk together 2 tablespoon corn starch and 2 tablespoons hot water to create a slurry. When it it is smooth, stir it into the liquid in the crockpot. Let the gravy cook for 5 minutes.

6. Taste and add more salt and pepper as necessary.

7. Serve the pork chops topped with gravy and enjoy!



Friday, November 22, 2024

Amish Breakfast Casserole


Amish breakfast casserole is a trusty recipe to follow when you need to feed a crowd. If make-ahead breakfast recipes are what get you through the week, this one will appease nearly everyone at the table. Prep it the night before and pop it in the oven to cook while you brew your pot of coffee.

The 12-serving dish has all the breakfast and brunch favorites like bacon, eggs, hash browns and three cheeses. Use your favorite bacon type, or try a new one if you’re feeling adventurous. We also recommend buying blocks of cheddar and Swiss cheeses because they’re easier to melt without the stabilizers in preshredded cheese. Unlike egg-based frittata recipes, a breakfast casserole like this one features a starchy base of potato hash browns. From tasteofhome.com.



Amish Breakfast Casserole


Ingredients:

1 pound sliced bacon, diced (without problem ingredients)
1 medium sweet onion, chopped (if tolerated)
6 large eggs, lightly beaten
4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed (without problem ingredients)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1-1/2 cups 4% cottage cheese (without problem ingredients)
1-1/4 cups shredded Swiss cheese (if tolerated)


Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°. In a large skillet, cook bacon and onion over medium heat until bacon is crisp; drain. In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients; stir in bacon mixture. Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking dish.

2. Bake, uncovered, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 35-40 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting.



Recipe Variations

Switch it up with sausage: Replace half or all of the bacon with chopped or crumbled plain, breakfast or Italian sausage.
Heap on some herbs: Create a pretty burst of color and fresh flavor by adding a pinch of minced herbs to the egg mixture. Thyme and parsley are perfect candidates; try 1 teaspoon fresh or 1/4 teaspoon dried.
Pack in the veggies: Use 1/2 to 1 cup of sauteed chopped bell pepper for sweet flavor. Chopped broccoli, asparagus or spinach also work well. Saute them in advance to remove some of the moisture (this prevents soggy casserole!).



How to Store Amish Breakfast Casserole

This cheesy Amish breakfast casserole is so delicious you might not have any leftovers! But if you do, either cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.

How long does Amish breakfast casserole last?
Amish breakfast casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can you freeze Amish breakfast casserole?
You can definitely freeze Amish breakfast casserole. If you’re planning to cook it as a make-ahead meal, bake the casserole in a foil baking dish. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap in a single layer of plastic wrap followed by a double-layer of foil. Label and freeze for up to three months. You can also place single-servings of casserole in individual freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months.

Another option is to prepare the casserole, then freeze before baking. Use a freezer-safe baking dish or foil container and wrap tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and double layer of foil before freezing for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then proceed with Step 2.

How do you reheat Amish breakfast casserole?
To reheat refrigerated cheesy Amish breakfast casserole, bake in a 350° oven until heated through. Or you can microwave individual slices until warm.

To reheat frozen breakfast casserole, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then bake in a 350° oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until heated through.

Can you make Amish breakfast casserole ahead of time?
Yes! To make serving a breakfast crowd a breeze, prep the casserole up to one day in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.



Amish Breakfast Casserole Tips

• How do you prevent a soggy breakfast casserole?
Make sure to drain off the grease from the bacon before adding to the casserole dish. If you add any veggies, be sure to saute them first to remove extra moisture. After baking the casserole, don’t skip the resting time. This allows the ingredients to set and prevents the release of liquid when serving the casserole.

• Can you use fresh potatoes in Amish breakfast casserole?
Frozen hash browns make easy prep work for an Amish breakfast casserole recipe, but you can use fresh potatoes to make hash browns. The grater attachment on your food processor will make quick work of it. However, in order to prevent a soggy casserole, be sure to remove moisture by making crispy hash brown potatoes.

• What can you serve with Amish breakfast casserole?
Amish breakfast casserole is hearty enough to satisfy any breakfast appetite. However, to make it part of a full brunch spread, serve alongside one of our fruit salad recipes. Or to satisfy sweet tooths, bake up warm cinnamon roll to serve on the side.



Friday, November 15, 2024

Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella


Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella – All of the delicious flavors of cream cheese, spinach, and chicken are packed into this delicious dinner recipe! This easy spinach chicken breasts casserole recipe comes together quickly and makes a nice combination for a busy meal. As a bonus, this chicken casserole recipe is also keto diet-friendly, gluten-free, and low carb. Enjoy! From eatwell101.com .



Spinach Chicken Casserole with Cream Cheese and Mozzarella


Ingredients:

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut horizontally
8 oz cream cheese, softened (best if room temperature to spread easily)
2 cup spinach, rinsed (I'm going to try 10 oz. of frozen spinach thawed, drained, and press out all excess moisture)
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 oz Mozzarella cheese, shredded
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional (if tolerated)
1/2 teaspoon salt (*see TIPS below)
1/2 teaspoon pepper (if tolerated)
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, optional


Directions:

1. To prepare the spinach chicken casserole: Add olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes into a Ziplock bag along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Seal the bag and shake until mixed. Add the chicken breasts, seal, and massage so the chicken breasts are covered in the marinade, set aside for 10-15 minutes on the counter while you prep the remaining ingredients. Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 400ºF (200°C).

2. Quickly wilt the spinach in a skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil and set aside.

3. Arrange chicken breasts drained from the marinade in a baking dish. Spread the softened cream cheese over the chicken breasts and lay spinach on top of the cream cheese. Finally, sprinkle mozzarella over the top.

4. Bake the spinach chicken casserole for 20-30 minutes. Chicken casserole is done when cooked to an internal temperature of 165˚F (75°C). Serve the spinach chicken casserole warm with a side of cauliflower rice, or baked veggies. Enjoy!



TIPS:

• You can cut the chicken breasts into cubes to help the marinade coat the chicken deeper, and speed up the baking time of the casserole.

• Freeze individual portions of the spinach chicken breasts casserole so you have a comforting dinner for evenings when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch. See instructions below for reheating frozen chicken casserole.

• Cream cheese and mozzarella should provide enough salt so go easy with the salt in the marinade.



Can we freeze the chicken casserole?

Absolutely! This easy chicken casserole with spinach makes an amazing make-ahead meal or freezer meal. You can freeze the casserole baked or unbaked:

To bake the uncooked chicken casserole after freezing: thaw the chicken casserole overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed in the instructions. We do not recommend baking the chicken casserole straight out of the freezer because it would take a very long time and not cook evenly.

To reheat the baked casserole after freezing: same method, thaw overnight in the refrigerator; then cover the chicken casserole with foil and bake at 350ºF (180ºC) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.



Saturday, November 9, 2024

Bladder-Friendly Blueberry Daiquiri


Quench your thirst with a burst of fruity goodness with our IC-friendly Blueberry Amor Daiquiri! This delightful concoction is a celebration of vibrant flavors and easy-breezy vibes, perfect for sipping on lazy afternoons or sharing with friends during laid-back gatherings.

Imagine the sweet-tart allure of blueberry juice mingling with the frosty chill of frozen blueberries, all blended together with succulent pear halves and icy cubes to create a lusciously smooth texture. But here's the kicker – a hint of natural almond extract adds a subtle nutty undertone that elevates the drink to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Top it all off with a sprinkle of zesty lime zest for an extra pop of citrusy freshness, and you've got yourself a cocktail that's as irresistible as it is gentle on the bladder. With our IC-friendly recipe, you won't have to worry about feeling left out this summer due to dietary restrictions. So, whether you're lounging by the poolside or kicking back on the patio, our Blueberry Amor Daiquiri is the perfect companion for those moments when you just want to sit back, relax, and savor the simple pleasures of life.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Makes: 1 daquiri

From callieknutrition.com.



Bladder-Friendly Blueberry Daiquiri


Ingredients:

1⁄2 cup blueberry juice
1⁄4 cup blueberries, frozen
2 pear halves, canned
1⁄2 cup ice cubes
2 tsp. natural almond extract
Garnish with lime zest (if tolerated)


Directions:

Puree juice, blueberries, pears, ice, almond extract in a blender until smooth. Garnish with lime zest and serve.


Friday, November 1, 2024

Crock Pot Pork Chops


Crock Pot pork chops with are so tender and easy! This slow cooker pork chop recipe uses simple ingredients and has an irresistible gravy. This recipe has been adapted to be IC friendly. From wholesomeyum.com .



Crock Pot Pork Chops


Ingredients:

4 8-oz bone-in pork chops (1 inch thick; boneless pork chops work as well)
1 tsp sea salt (if tolerated)
1/2 tsp black pepper (if tolerated)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced), if tolerated
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp arrowroot powder (or cornstarch, or 1/4 tsp xanthan gum)
2 cups chicken broth, reduced sodium (without problem ingredients)
1 tbsp Coconut Aminos
1 tbsp fresh thyme (finely chopped) or use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
1 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped) or use 1 teaspoon dried rosemary


Directions:

1. Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and sear for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. (They don't have to be cooked through at this point.) Remove the pork chops from the skillet and place them in a Crock Pot.

3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until it begins to soften, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

5. Sprinkle the arrowroot powder over the onions and garlic, stir to combine, and cook for 1 minute, until the arrowroot powder is well incorporated.

6. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened slightly.

7. Stir in the Coconut Aminos, thyme, and rosemary.

8. Pour the gravy over the pork chops in the Crock Pot.

9. Cover and cook until the pork chops are tender:
* Bone-in pork chops: 5-6 hours on Low or 2-3 hours on High.
* Boneless pork chops: 3-4 hours on Low or 1-2 hours on High.



INGREDIENTS & SUBSTITUTIONS:

Pork Chops – I used bone-in pork chops for this recipe, but boneless pork chops work as well. The kind with the bone are just a bit more flavorful. For best results, look for thick cut pork chops that are at least 1 inch thick.

Garlic – Fresh garlic will give you the best flavor, but 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic will also work. If you don’t have either, you can simply season the pork chops with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.

Fresh Herbs – This slow cooker pork chops recipe calls for fresh thyme and rosemary, but you can use other fresh herbs, such as fresh parsley, sage, or oregano. You can also use 2 teaspoons of dried herbs (or simply Italian seasoning) in place of the 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs.



Saturday, October 26, 2024

Creamy Chicken and Cauliflower


This chicken thighs recipe features diced bacon, fresh cauliflower, and baby spinach, all cooked in a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s Creamy Chicken and Cauliflower, your new favorite dinner recipe! Nothing says comfort food like juicy chicken thighs and tender cauliflower florets smothered in a creamy Parmesan sauce with bacon. Seriously, this dinner is so tasty, it’ll blow your taste buds! All the flavors here meld together perfectly, which is part of its comforting magic. A nice contrast and mild flavor from the cauliflower adds texture to the chicken, while spinach gives it a nutritional boost. From diethood.com.



Creamy Chicken and Cauliflower


Ingredients:

1 pound cauliflower,, cut into small bite-sized florets
4 slices thick cut bacon, diced (without problem ingredients)
2 pounds boneless, skinless, chicken thighs
salt and pepper, to taste (if tolerated)
1 teaspoon dried rosemary or any other dried herbs that you like
½ teaspoon onion powder (if tolerated)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika (if tolerated)
1 tablespoon butter
5 to 6 cups baby spinach
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup low sodium chicken broth (without problem ingredients)
⅔ cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese (if tolerated)
chopped fresh parsley,, for garnish


Directions:

1. Place cauliflower florets in a cooking pot and cover with cold water; set over high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes or until cauliflower is fork tender, but not mushy.

2. Drain the cauliflower and run it under cold water to stop it from cooking further. Season the florets with salt and pepper, and set aside.

3. In the meantime, set a 12-inch skillet over medium heat and heat up the skillet.

4. Add diced bacon to the hot skillet and cook for about 4 minutes or until crispy, stirring frequently. Remove the bacon pieces from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Do not drain the bacon grease.

5. Set skillet back over medium-high heat; add butter and let it melt.

6. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, dried rosemary, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Transfer the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes or until golden brown on the bottom.

7. Flip over and cook for 6 to 8 more minutes or until cooked through. Remove the chicken and transfer it to a plate; set aside.

8. Return the skillet to the burner and add in the baby spinach; cook for 2 minutes or until wilted. Remove from skillet and set aside.

9. Add garlic to the pan and cook for 15 seconds or until fragrant. Add chicken broth and stir the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the cream and bring to a boil; cook for 1 minute. Then, whisk in the parmesan cheese.

10. Add cooked cauliflower, spinach, and cooked chicken back to the skillet and cook for a minute or two or until heated through. Taste for salt and adjust accordingly.

11. Remove from heat.

12. Garnish with the bacon and parsley, and serve.



Friday, October 18, 2024

Creamy Baked Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms & Bacon


An easy weeknight dinner packed full of flavor the whole family will love! Another tasty low carb and Keto approved recipe.

Golden, crispy skinned and juicy bone-in baked chicken thighs with tender cremini mushrooms and crispy fried bacon pieces, simmered in a garlic parmesan cream sauce? YES please! Another ripper chicken dinner… readers have been loving this recipe since forever! Accidentally gluten free and low carb with maximum deliciousness. From cafedelites.com.



Creamy Baked Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms & Bacon

Serves 6


Ingredients:

For the chicken

6 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on or off
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic crushed
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
1 pinch Kosher salt to taste
1 pinch ground black pepper to taste (if tolerated)


For the cream sauce

4 cloves garlic crushed
7 ounces diced bacon (without problem ingredients)
14 ounces brown mushrooms Cremini, sliced
1 cup heavy cream or half and half
½ cup chicken broth (without problem ingredients)
½ cup parmesan freshly grated (if tolerated)
¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground to taste (if tolerated)
1 pinch salt only if needed to your taste
1 pinch fresh parsley extra chopped, to garnish
1 pinch parmesan fresh shaved or grated, to garnish (if tolerated)


Directions:

Baked chicken thighs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Arrange chicken on a plate. Combine together the olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt and pepper in a jug. Rub the oil mixture over the chicken to completely coat.

3. Heat a large oven proof pan or skillet over medium high heat. Sear the chicken, skin-side down first, until skin is crisp and golden brown. Rotate and sear the other side (about 2-3 minutes per side).

4. Transfer to oven and roast until completely cooked through, about 25-30 minutes.

5. Once chicken is done, remove from skillet; set aside. Pour out HALF of the chicken juices left in the pan.



Sauce

1. Using the same skillet the chicken was in, fry the garlic in the reserved chicken juices over medium heat, stirring frequently until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the bacon and fry until just beginning to crisp. Add in the mushrooms and cook until mushrooms begin to soften.

2. Pour in the cream, chicken broth and Parmesan. Let simmer until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.

3. Season with pepper. Taste first before adding in any extra salt, as the bacon will add the salt.

4. Add the chicken back into the pan; allow to simmer for 1-2 minutes in the cream to take on the flavors.

5. Garnish with parsley and shaved or grated parmesan, if desired. Serve over rice, pasta, or steamed/grilled vegetables.


TIPS

If using cream: Thickened cream, heavy cream, light or reduced fat cooking cream are all fine to use. If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together 1 level teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cream until lump free and well blended. Add the mixture into the cream sauce, while stirring continuously, until thickened.

If using half and half: Bring to a gentle simmer; whisk 2 teaspoons of cornstarch into 1-2 tablespoons of *extra* half and half; pour cornstarch mixture into the centre of the pan; stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes a 'cream'.



Thursday, October 10, 2024

Homestyle Ranch Dressing


Indulge in the comforting flavors of the countryside with our homemade IC-friendly Homestyle Ranch Dressing! Crafted with care to cater to sensitive bladders, this creamy delight brings the essence of rustic charm to your table without compromising on taste or healthfulness.

Picture this: a velvety blend of cottage cheese and milk, infused with aromatic dill, garlic powder, and parsley, coming together in perfect harmony to create a dressing that's as wholesome as it is flavorful. With just a hint of salt to enhance the natural goodness of the ingredients, every spoonful offers a symphony of savory delights that will leave you craving more.

But here's the best part – our Homestyle Ranch Dressing is not only delicious but also gentle on the bladder, making it the perfect choice for those following an IC diet. Whether you're drizzling it over a crisp garden salad, using it as a dip for fresh vegetables, or adding a dollop to your favorite chicken wings, this dressing is sure to elevate any dish with its homely charm and comforting taste. So, go ahead, indulge in the goodness of homemade ranch dressing, and savor the simple pleasures of wholesome cooking made with love. From callieknutrition.com.



Homestyle Ranch Dressing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Makes: 1 cup (4 servings)
Contains Dairy


Ingredients:

1⁄2 cup cottage cheese
1⁄4 cup milk
1 tsp. Dill or 1 Tbsp. Fresh Dill, Minced
1 tsp. Garlic Powder
1 tsp. Parsley
1⁄4 tsp Salt (if tolerated)


Directions:

Add all ingredients to a food processor or Ninja Blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass jar and chill for several hours.


TIPS:

• Let the flavors blend overnight in the refrigerator for the best taste.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

• Great as a fresh vegetable dip, chicken wing dip or with your favorite salad.



Thursday, October 3, 2024

Honey Sesame Chicken


Skip the takeout and make this Honey Sesame Chicken instead! It’s LOADED with veggies and is delicious! Easy to make and made with a sweet and savory sauce. Perfect for lunch or dinner and even better for those that meal prep. From healthyfitnessmeals.com. This recipe has been adapted to be IC friendly.




Honey Sesame Chicken


Ingredients:

1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
3 cups sugar snap peas, trimmed
salt and pepper to taste (if tolerated)
1 teaspoon minced garlic
¼ cup honey, brown sugar or agave
¼ cup low sodium chicken broth or water
¼ cup coconut aminos
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons sesame seeds


Directions:

1. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the snap peas and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

2. Remove the snap peas from the pan; place them on a plate and cover.

3. Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel and turn the heat to high. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil.

4. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and add them to the pan in a single layer – you may need to do this step in batches. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.

5. Add the snap peas back to the pan and cook for 2 more minutes or until the vegetables are warmed through.

6. In a bowl whisk together the chicken broth, honey, sesame oil, garlic and coconut aminos. In a small bowl mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water.

7. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and snap peas; cook for 30 seconds. Add the cornstarch and bring to a boil; cook for 1 more minute or until sauce has just started to thicken.

8. Serve immediately, topped with sesame seeds.



Notes

• Use fresh garlic.

• Swap the sugar snap peas with either broccoli, green beans, asparagus, zucchini, or pea pods.

• You may use boneless and skinless chicken thighs or any other protein of your choice.



Thursday, September 26, 2024

Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Garlic and Brown Sugar


Slow cooker pork chops are so juicy and tender that they practically melt in your mouth, and the flavors are perfectly balanced, thanks to the heavenly combination of garlic and brown sugar. It's the ultimate comfort food that not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your soul. From jerseygirlcooks.com.



Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Garlic and Brown Sugar


Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
6 bone-in pork chops ½ inch thick
1 teaspoon salt (if tolerated)
½ teaspoon pepper (if tolerated)
6 cloves of garlic minced (for the best flavor, use freshly minced garlic)
½ cup brown sugar


Directions:

1. Add olive oil to a large pan on medium to high heat. Season the Pork chops with the salt and pepper and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side or until brown.

2. Add the pork chops to the 6 quart slow cooker in a single layer then spread the garlic all over the pork chops. (It is ok if they are overlapping). Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top. You can do a double layer but you might have to adjust the cooking time if you adding more than the recipe calls for.

3. Cook on low for 6 hours. Remove from the slow cooker, top with the sauce and enjoy!



Variations/ Substitutions/Questions

Depending on your dietary preferences or ingredient availability, you can customize this recipe further. For example, if you prefer leaner protein, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs instead of pork chops. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking. You can adapt this recipe for beef (steaks or cubes), or even tofu/tempeh for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.

Can I use boneless pork chops for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork chops if you prefer. Keep in mind that boneless chops may cook faster than bone-in chops, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.

Can I prepare this in advance?
You can sear the pork chops and assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before. Store the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator, and in the morning, simply place it in the slow cooker base and start cooking. This is a great time-saving option for busy mornings but you will still have a great dinner on busy weeknights.

Can I double the recipe?
You can easily double the recipe, however, don't overfill your slow cooker. A larger 8-quart slow cooker may be a better option if you plan to double the recipe.



Thursday, September 19, 2024

Creamy Chicken Breast in Spinach Parmesan Sauce


This creamy chicken breast recipe is an easy one-pan chicken dish that will wow the entire family for dinner! This recipe has been modified to make it IC friendly. From eatwell101.com.



Creamy Chicken Breast in Spinach Parmesan Sauce

Yield: 3 servings


Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts (This recipe says 2 chicken breasts for 3 servings and the picture provided has 3 chicken breasts in it so you decide how much chicken you will need.)
3 tablespoons butter, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper, or to taste (if tolerated)
1 teaspoon oregano
1 medium onion, minced (if tolerated)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small jar roasted red bell pepper, (without problem ingredients) drained and chopped or make your own
1/2 cup chicken broth (without problem ingredients)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (if tolerated)
1 cup spinach (or more if you like)


Directions:

1. Thoroughly season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon oregano on both sides.

2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 4 minutes on each side until browned. Once done and no longer pink, transfer grilled chicken breasts to a plate and set aside.

3. To make the creamy spinach parmesan sauce, add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the same pan. Cook onion, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and roasted bell pepper. Slowly add chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese and mix to combine until smooth while simmering for 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Add spinach to the mixture and continue cooking until wilted.

5. Add the chicken breasts back to the pan and reheat for 2-3 minutes.

6. Serve the creamy chicken breasts with spinach and parmesan sauce immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy! ❤️



TIPS

If you have large chicken breasts, pound them or slice them horizontally to even out the thickness. This will cook the chicken faster.

You can substitute crispy bacon (without problem ingredients) for roasted red bell pepper for a nice flavor.

For a variant of this creamy chicken breasts recipe, you can use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts. They’re delicious and cook faster! Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook.


Thursday, September 12, 2024

Blueberry Jam


Recipe was created/modified by Kerri Cole. (@icfood4u) From Kerri "This blueberry recipe does not have any lemon or irritating bladder ingredients (unless you are sensitive to sugar). It is delicious!" From callieknutrition.com.



Blueberry Jam


Ingredients:

2 cups fresh blueberries
1/4 cup sugar
3 tbsp water
1 overflowing spoonful of cornstarch


Directions:

1. In a blender, pulse the blueberries, water and sugar.

2. Add to a small sauce pan with the cornstarch and heat on medium-low for about 10-12 minutes until it becomes thick and sticks to the spoon. Taste and add more sugar if you like it sweeter.

3. Cool and store in the refrigerator.



Thursday, September 5, 2024

Aunt Lou’s Fresh Apple Cake


My Great-Aunt Lou made a luscious fresh apple cake recipe that became a family tradition. My mom makes it for our annual beach trip to the Outer Banks. —Cristy King, Scott Depot, West Virginia. From tasteofhome.com .



Aunt Lou’s Fresh Apple Cake


Ingredients:

2 cups sugar
1 cup canola oil
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
3 cups chopped peeled Gala or Fuji apples (about 3 medium)
Confectioners' sugar


Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Grease and flour a 10-in. fluted tube pan.

2. In a large bowl, beat sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla until well blended. In another bowl, whisk flour, salt and baking powder; gradually beat into oil mixture. Stir in apples. Transfer batter to prepared pan.

3. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 50-60 minutes. Cool in pan 10 minutes. Run a knife around sides and center tube of pan. Remove cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with confectioners' sugar.


TIPS

Add 1 t. cinnamon (if tolerated) and 1/4 c. brown sugar to the apples before stirring them in. Substituted 1 t. baking soda for the baking powder. With these changes this is a moist cake with a bit of a crisp 'crust.' Each slice is packed full of apples. Ice it nor dust it with powdered sugar and it is delicious.



Friday, August 30, 2024

Million Dollar Dip


I have no idea why this is called Million Dollar Dip but it sure does taste like a million bucks! This is the perfect appetizer to bring to your next get together! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed full of flavor. Plus, it’s so easy to make that it’ll be ready in no time! Serve this dip with crackers, chips, or even a fresh vegetable tray and I can guarantee, it will not last long! From thecountrycook.net .



Million Dollar Dip (this has been adapted to be IC friendly)


Ingredients:

8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 ¼ cups sour cream
2 cups mild shredded cheddar cheese
¾ cup real bacon bits or real bacon or use diced ham (all without problem ingredients)
4 green onions, thinly sliced (if tolerated)
1 teaspoon garlic powder


Directions:

1. Whip the 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature and 1 1/4 cups sour cream together in a large bowl with an electric hand mixer.

2. Add 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 3/4 cup real bacon bits, 4 green onions, thinly sliced and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Whip until combined.

3. Serve immediately or chill before serving with crackers or chips that are without problem ingredients.



FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What should I serve with this dip?
My favorite way to serve it is with a side of crackers or chips but it’s also delicious with tortilla chips (all without problem ingredients), or even veggies.

Can I make this ahead of time?
This dip is perfect to prepare ahead of time, and it only gets better with time. Alternatively, you can serve it straight away. However, if you choose to make it in advance and store it in the fridge, the consistency will firm up slightly. Just don’t forget to give it a stir before serving.

What other cheese can I use?
For a bit of variety in your cheese selection, try adding mozzarella or another cheese that you can tolerate.

What else can I add in?
I haven’t tried it, but I have heard that slivered almonds are tasty and you could try a teaspoon of dried ranch seasoning (McCormick Just Five Homestyle Ranch Dip, Dressing & Seasoning Mix if tolerated) to mix it up.

How to store Million Dollar Dip?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.



Friday, August 23, 2024

Chicken Salad Sandwich


Satisfy your cravings with our IC-friendly Chicken Salad Sandwich – a delightful blend of tender shredded chicken, creamy cream cheese, and a burst of freshness from blueberries and celery. Crafted with care to cater to sensitive bladders, this recipe promises to deliver all the flavor and comfort of a classic chicken salad without any worry of discomfort. It’s versatile too! Serve it on IC-friendly crackers, rice cakes, or your favorite bread, or even enjoy on cucumber slices or as part of a refreshing lettuce salad. From callieknutrition.com.



Chicken Salad Sandwich


Ingredients:

1 cup shredded cooked chicken
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1⁄4 cup small blueberries
1⁄4 cup celery, minced
1⁄8 tsp. dill
1 tsp. brown sugar
Salt to taste


Directions:

Mix softened cream cheese (can microwave block for 10 seconds) with other ingredients.

Serve on IC friendly crackers, rice cakes or bread. Also delicious served on cucumber slices or with lettuce salad.


*Tips- You can make this with dinner leftovers or rotisserie chicken.



Friday, August 16, 2024

Chicken Stew


Okay guys, this chicken stew recipe is definitely at the top of my list of all-time favorite recipes! Chicken Stew is thicker and heartier than chicken soup, but lighter than a beef stew. The flavor is absolutely on point, it’s totally cozy, and it’s just one of those things that I could happily eat for three meals per day and still want more the next day. In other words, you have to try this chicken stew! From budgetbytes.com .



Chicken Stew


Ingredients:

1 yellow onion (if tolerated)
3 ribs celery
4 cloves garlic
1/2 lb. carrots
1.75 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 Tbsp all-purpose flour, divided
2 Tbsp butter
1 Tbsp olive oil
1.5 lbs. baby potatoes
1 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp dried sage
1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper (if tolerated)
2 cups chicken broth (without problem ingredients)
2 cups vegetable broth (without problem ingredients)
1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)


Directions:

1. Dice the onion and celery, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and cut the baby potatoes in half before you begin.

2. Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp of the flour over the chicken and toss until the chicken is evenly coated.

3. Add the butter and olive oil to a large pot. Heat the butter and oil over medium until they are hot and sizzling.

4. Add the flour-coated chicken to the pot with the butter and oil and allow the chicken to brown on all sides (avoid stirring until browned on the bottom). When the chicken is browned and there is a nice brown layer of flour on the bottom of the pot, remove the chicken to a clean bowl with a slotted spoon. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this point, just browned on the outside.

5. Add the onion, celery, garlic, and carrots to the pot and continue to sauté until the onions are soft. Use the moisture released by the vegetables to dissolve and scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pot.

6. Once the vegetables are slightly softened, add the remaining 2 Tbsp flour to the pot and continue to sauté over medium for about two minutes more. The flour will begin to coat the bottom of the pot again.

7. Return the browned chicken to the pot. Also add the potatoes, parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage, pepper, chicken broth, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine and dissolve any flour off the bottom of the pot.

8. Place a lid on the pot and allow it to come up to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, remove the lid and turn the heat down to medium-low. Allow the stew to simmer over medium-low, without a lid and stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the broth has thickened.

9. Taste the stew and add salt if needed (I did not add any, but it will depend on the salt content of the broth you used). Add a tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.


How To Store Leftovers

This chicken stew gets even tastier the next day! Divide the stew into single serving portions, then refrigerate. The stew will stay good in the refrigerator for four to five days, or after chilling, you can transfer the portions to the freezer and store for about 3 months. Refrigerated or frozen chicken stew can be reheated using the microwave, or in a saucepot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often.



Friday, August 9, 2024

Butter Cream Chicken


I hadn't tried a new main dish recipe in so long it feels like. And this was a hit to motivate me to keep trying new stuff!! YUMMY!!! It tasted like chicken fried chicken... but a tad healthier. :) A definite keeper!!!! From nikicooks.blogspot.com.



Butter Cream Chicken


Ingredients:

4 Chicken Breasts
2 Cups Bread Crumbs (without problem ingredients)
2 Egg
Olive Oil
1 Cup Chicken Broth (without problem ingredients)
4 Tbsp Butter
1 Cup plus 2 Tbsp Half & Half
1 tsp Thyme
2 Tsp Cornstarch
Salt & Pepper (if tolerated)


Directions:

Whisk egg in a bowl. In a separate bowl, add bread crumbs. Dip Chicken in Egg, then Breadcrumbs and fry in a few tablespoons of oil. Cook chicken until golden brown. Remove and set aside. Using the same pan, add butter and chicken broth. Whisk the mixture around and scrap up all the brown bits leftover from the chicken. Add the half & half, thyme. Whisk around and allow it to come to a boil. Into a small bowl, add 2 Tbsp half and half and the Cornstarch. Stir around until smooth. Pour Cornstarch Mixture in the pan and allow it to continue to boil until desired thickness. Add a bit of salt and pepper and pour over chicken to serve.



Thursday, August 1, 2024

Asian Chicken Salad


This recipe was created/modified by Kerri Cole (@icfood4u). From callieknutrition.com.



Asian Chicken Salad


Ingredients:

Salad:
shredded romaine
cucumbers
Shredded purple cabbage
shredded carrots
chicken (rotisserie without problem ingredients or grilled with marinade below)
almonds, toasted
🌟
Peanut Dressing:
1/4 cup peanut butter (or almond or cashew)
2.5 tablespoons coconut aminos
1 tsp sesame oil
2 T brown sugar, honey, or agave
a clove of fresh garlic, peeled (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
3 T of hot water (or more for desired consistency)
1/4 tsp ginger (if you can handle it)
🌟
Asian Chicken Marinade:
3 Tablespoons coconut aminos
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (if you can tolerate it)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder


Directions:

For Chicken Marinade: Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour over chicken and marinate at least 15 minutes before grilling.

For Salad: Combine vegetables, toss with dressing, and top with toasted almonds before serving.

For Peanut Dressing: Blend all the sauce ingredients together in a small blender or food processor until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed for a thinner consistency.



Thursday, July 25, 2024

Down East Blueberry Buckle


This buckle won a contest at my daughter’s college. The prize was four lobsters, but the real reward was the smile on our daughter’s face. —Dianne van der Veen, Plymouth, Massachusetts. From tasteofhome.com .



Down East Blueberry Buckle


Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup sugar
2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg, room temperature
3/4 cup 2% milk
1/4 cup butter, melted
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

Topping:
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (if tolerated)
1/4 cup butter, softened


Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, whisk egg, milk and melted butter until blended. Add to flour mixture; stir just until moistened. Fold in blueberries. Transfer to a greased 9-in. square baking pan.

2. For topping, in a small bowl, mix sugar, flour and cinnamon. Using a fork, stir in softened butter until mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle over batter.

3. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 30-35 minutes (do not overbake) . Cool in pan on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.


Note- If using frozen blueberries, use without thawing to avoid discoloring the batter.



Thursday, July 18, 2024

Creamy Garlic Chicken


Creamy garlic chicken is ready in less than 30 minutes and perfect for any weeknight dinner… Even on special occasions! This chicken breast recipe is a total crowd-pleaser! From eatwell101.com.



Creamy Garlic Chicken


Ingredients:

2 large boneless and skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4
4 tablespoons flour
3/4 cup finely grated fresh Parmesan cheese (if tolerated)
2 teaspoons salt
3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper (if tolerated)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, finely chopped (if tolerated)
1 whole head of garlic peeled and divided into 10-12 cloves, smashed with the side of a knife blade
1 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (stock, without problem ingredients)
1 1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, to serve


Directions:

1. To make the creamy garlic chicken: Season the halved chicken breasts with salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and pepper.

2. In a shallow bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of flour, and 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture and shake off the excess.

3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly.

4. Sear the chicken breasts until golden on each side, until cooked through and no longer pink – about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness. Transfer cooked chicken breasts to a warm plate. Set aside.

5. Reduce the heat to medium. Sauté the onion in the remaining oil and chicken juices in the same pan, until softened.

6. Add the garlic and sauté with the onion until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, then add the chicken broth to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits and let simmer and reduce to half, about 5 minutes.

7. Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes, combining all of the flavors together.

8. Mix in the parmesan cheese and continue cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Adjust seasoning to your taste with salt and pepper.

9. Add the cooked chicken breasts back into the pan and let simmer for a further 2-3 minutes to thicken the sauce to your liking. The chicken breast will soak up all of the delicious flavors.

10. Garnish with parsley and a little black cracked pepper. Serve the creamy garlic chicken over mashed potatoes, zucchini noodles, rice, or mashed cauliflower. Enjoy!



Thursday, July 11, 2024

Chicken Lasagna


This white sauce Chicken Lasagna is so satisfying with layers of lasagna noodles and tender chicken in a creamy spinach sauce. This white lasagna reheats really well, making it perfect for meal planning. Make it and you will receive lots of recipe requests. From natashaskitchen.com.



Chicken Lasagna

Serves 12

Ingredients:

Chicken Lasagna Ingredients:
9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (without problem ingredients), or cooked from 2 lbs chicken breast

Spinach Cream Sauce:
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped (if tolerated)
4 Tbsp unsalted butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups chicken broth (without problem ingredients)
1 1/2 cups half and half, (or equal parts of heavy cream and milk)
5 oz fresh spinach, coarsely chopped
2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper (if tolerated or omit)
3 garlic cloves, minced

Ricotta Cheese Sauce:
15 oz ricotta
1 large egg
1/4 cup parsley
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
3 cups mozzarella cheese, 12 oz by weight, divided (reserve 1 cup for topping)


Directions:

Cook Noodles & Prep: 1. Preheat oven to 375˚F. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente according to package instructions then drain hot water and add cold water to the pot to stop the cooking process and prevent noodles from sticking together. Shred 4 cups of chicken.

Make the Belachamel (Spinach Sauce): 1. Place a pot or large saucepan over medium heat, add 1 Tbsp olive oil and saute onions for 3-4 minutes or until softened. Add 4 Tbsp butter and whisk in 1/3 cup flour. Continue whisking 3 minutes or until flour mixture is golden.

2. Add 2 1/2 cups chicken broth, 1 1/2 cups half and half, 2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth and simmer 5 minutes until thickened to a light gravy consistency.

3. Add minced garlic and chopped spinach, and stir to combine then remove from heat.

Make the Ricotta Cheese Sauce: 1. In a large bowl, whisk together: ricotta, egg, 2 cups mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup parmesan, and 1/4 cup parsley.
To Assemble Chicken Lasagna: 1. Add a little bechamel sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 casserole dish, add 3 noodles, Add 1/2 ricotta sauce, 1/2 shredded chicken then ladle 1/3 of spinach sauce over the chicken.

2. Add 3 noodles, 1/2 ricotta cheese, 1/2 shredded chicken, and 1/3 spinach sauce

3. Add 3 noodles, remaining 1/3 sauce, and sprinkle on reserved 1 cup cheese.

Cover and Bake: Arrange 10-12 toothpicks over the top to keep the foil from touching the cheese then cover with a large sheet of foil. Bake on the center rack in a preheated oven at 375˚F for 45 minutes then uncover and broil 2-3 minutes to brown the cheese. Rest at least 10 minutes uncovered before slicing.



Thursday, July 4, 2024

Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Dinner (in a Skillet)


This Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Dinner made in a skillet is so delicious, you won’t believe how easy and fast it is to cook. Perfect for weeknights, with flavors everyone will enjoy – you’ll be fighting over the leftover sauce! From kyleecooks.com.



Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Dinner

Serves 4

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (sliced into cutlets)
Salt and pepper (if tolerated)
2 Tbs butter
1 onion (diced) (if tolerated or omit)
4 garlic cloves (minced)
12 oz roasted red peppers (finely diced)
1 1/2 cups chicken stock (divided and without problem ingredients)
4 oz cream cheese
2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
2 cups freshly cooked pasta


Directions:

Cook the chicken

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter.

2. Season the chicken and cook at medium high heat until browned and done. (About 3-4 minutes per side – needs to be 165F in the middle). Remove to a plate and keep warm.

Make the sauce

1. In the same skillet, cook the onions until softened (I deglaze the pan with a little stock as well), then add the garlic and roasted red peppers.

2. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Cook for 2 minutes then add the cream cheese and the remaining stock.

4. Whisk the sauce until blended, then simmer for around 7 minutes – allowing the sauce to reduce.

Add the spinach, and the cooked chicken back in

1. Add the spinach and toss into the sauce until wilted.

2. Add the chicken and any juices back into the pan and allow to warm through.

Serve

1. Plate the pasta, add chicken and spoon a good helping of the sauce over the top.

2. Devour.



Notes:

Kylee’s Notes for Creamy Mediterranean Chicken Skillet:

• Skip a step and buy chicken already sliced into cutlets.

• If you want to change the flavor profile you can mix it up and use different flavored cream cheese, or just go for plain if you want a simpler flavor.

• Add some white beans to bulk up the protein content.

• Always use more garlic (because #delicious)

• Store in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat until it is piping hot!

• Cook the pasta ahead and assemble all your ingredients the night before, and really streamline the process. You could have this on the table REALLY quick if you do this!



Thursday, June 27, 2024

Poppy Seed Dressing


Elevate your salads and add a burst of flavor with our homemade Poppyseed Dressing – a delightful creation that's not only dairy and gluten-free but also crafted with sensitivity in mind. Perfect for those following an IC diet, this dressing promises to bring a touch of sweetness and tanginess to your meals without any worry of discomfort. From callieknutrition.com.



Poppyseed Dressing


Ingredients:

1⁄2 cup pear juice
1⁄2 cup olive oil
1 Tbsp cornstarch (to thicken)
1⁄4 tsp garlic powder
1⁄2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp honey
2 tsp poppy seeds


Directions:

Blend all ingredients, except the poppyseeds, in a food processor or blender. Transfer mixture to a glass jar and stir in the poppyseeds.

Chill about an hour before serving. Store in the refrigerator for about a week.


Tips:

Delicious with salads and fruit!



Thursday, June 20, 2024

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken


For this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken they combined a rich and garlicky cream sauce with fresh spinach and chopped artichoke hearts, then spooned it over the skillet seared chicken breasts. It’s quick, easy, and totally impressive enough for date night. This recipe includes quite a bit of luscious creamy sauce, so you’ll probably want to serve this over either pasta, rice, or with some crusty bread to wipe up all that sauce. If you’re trying to keep things low carb, you can serve this chicken over a steamed vegetable, like asparagus or broccoli, which would also be awesome with the creamy sauce. So let’s get this dinner started! From budgetbytes.com.



Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken


Serves 4

Ingredients:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1-1.25 lb. total)
salt & pepper to taste(if tolerated)
1 Tbsp cooking oil
4 oz. fresh spinach (or frozen *see notes below)
1 12oz. jar quartered artichoke hearts in water (without problem ingredients)
4 cloves garlic
1 Tbsp butter
1/2 cup chicken broth (without problem ingredients)
1/2 cup sour cream
4 oz. cream cheese
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup grated parmesan (if tolerated)


Directions:

1. Place the chicken on a cutting board and cover with a sheet of plastic to prevent splatter. Use a mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken out to an even thickness (about 3/4-inch thick). Slice each chicken breast in half to create two pieces each. Or, use thin sliced chicken breast filets. Season the breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper.

2. Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium. Once hot, swirl the oil to coat the surface of the skillet. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on each side and cooked through (5-7 minutes each side).

3. While the chicken is cooking, roughly chop the spinach into smaller pieces. Drain the artichoke hearts and roughly chop them as well. Mince the garlic.

4. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it to a clean plate and cover to keep warm. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet and continue to sauté over medium for one minute or just until the garlic begins to soften.

5. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and stir to dissolve the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cut the cream cheese into chunks and add it to the skillet along with the sour cream. Whisk the ingredients together and continue to cook over medium, whisking continuously, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the milk and stir until smooth again.

6. Add the Parmesan, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and some freshly ground pepper to the skillet. Continue to heat and whisk for a couple minutes more. Finally, stir the spinach into the sauce, a handful or two at a time, until wilted (this should only take about a minute), then stir in the artichoke hearts.

7. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy spinach artichoke sauce over top. Serve hot.


Notes:

To use frozen spinach in place of the fresh spinach, just thaw the spinach and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Add it to the sauce at the same point in the recipe as the fresh spinach is added in the directions.


Thursday, June 13, 2024

Grilled Chicken Salad with Poppyseed Dressing


Tasty, nutritious, what more could you want! Recipe created by Kerri Cole (@icfood4u). From callieknutrition.com.



Grilled Chicken Salad with Poppyseed Dressing


Ingredients:

✨Chicken
8 chicken breasts
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tsp kosher salt
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder (if tolerated)
1/4 cup brown sugar

✨Salad
Romaine, chopped
Cucumbers, chopped
Almonds
Goat Cheese

✨Poppyseed Dressing
1/4 cup pear juice
1/4 cup light olive oil (or canola oil)
1/8 teaspoon onion powder (if tolerated)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 Tablespoon honey (more or less to taste)
1 teaspoon poppyseeds


Directions:

Marinate Chicken: Mix oil and seasonings in a bowl. Pour over chicken and marinade for at least one hour but not more than 24 hours. Grill the chicken until done.

Mix the dressing: Blend all ingredients except the poppyseeds. Taste and adjust honey and seasonings as needed. Blend completely. Finally, add poppyseeds and stir.

Serve chicken and dressing over a bed of lettuce and cucumbers, and top with almonds and goat cheese.



Thursday, June 6, 2024

Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach and Bacon


Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Spinach and Bacon – Rich, creamy, and hearty, the entire family will love this easy chicken recipe. It has an amazing flavor because of sauteed garlic, bacon, and parmesan that cut through the cream and spinach. You can make this chicken, bacon and spinach recipe on a weeknight right on your stove top. With only 30 minutes of total work, this chicken dinner recipe is simple, fast and delicious – Enjoy! From eatwell101.com.



Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach and Bacon


Ingredients:

6 chicken thighs, boneless and skin off (or chicken breast)
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
6 cloves garlic, finely diced
1 small yellow onion, diced (if tolerated)
1/3 cup chicken broth (without problem ingredients) or dry white wine if tolerated
1/2 cup crispy bacon, chopped (without problem ingredients)
1 3/4 cups half and half
3 cups baby spinach leaves
Salt and fresh cracked pepper (if tolerated)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese (if tolerated)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (corn flour) mixed with 1 tablespoon of water (optional, if you like a thicker sauce)


Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper, and sear in the pan for 5-8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Once cooked, remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Melt the butter in the remaining cooking juices leftover in the pan. Add in the onion and garlic and fry until fragrant (about one minute). Pour in the chicken stock (or white wine, if using), and allow to reduce down slightly. Add the crispy bacon and fry for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.

3. Reduce heat to low heat, add the half and half (or heavy cream), and bring to a gentle simmer, while stirring occasionally. Make sure to lower the heat to avoid the sauce to separate. Add Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to your taste.

4. Add in the spinach leaves and allow to wilt in the sauce, and add in the parmesan cheese. Allow sauce to simmer for a further minute until cheese melts through the sauce. For a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixture (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water, see the ingredients list) to the skillet, and continue to simmer while quickly stirring the mixture through until the sauce thickens.

5. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan; sprinkle and spoon the sauce over each chicken thigh. Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach and Bacon over pasta, rice, or a low-carb favorite like zoodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed veggies. Enjoy!



Thursday, May 30, 2024

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussel Sprouts With Bacon


Sautéed creamy Brussels Sprouts and bacon oven baked in a cheesy garlic sauce topped with bubbling mozzarella and parmesan cheese! This recipe is guaranteed to convert ANY sprouts hating fan to fall in love (me included)! From cafedelites.com.



Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussel Sprouts With Bacon


Ingredients:

10 ounces (300 g) bacon, cut into strips (without problem ingredients)
2 tablespoons butter
2 pounds (1 kg) Brussel sprouts, washed, (trim bottoms and cut sprouts in half)
Salt and pepper to season (if tolerated)
5 cloves garlic finely chopped
1 1/2 cups (400 ml) light or heavy cream, (thickened cream)
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (cornstarch slurry -- optional)
1/3 cup fresh shredded or grated mozzarella
1/4 cup fresh shredded or grated parmesan cheese


Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F | 190°C.

2. Fry the bacon in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel lined plate to soak up some of the oil. Set aside.

3. Drain most of the bacon fat from the pan, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons for added flavour (adjust this amount to your liking). In the same pan, melt the butter, then add the Brussels sprouts and season with salt and pepper. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and cook while stirring occasionally, for about 6 minutes. The edges should start crisping and slightly charring.

4. Add in the garlic and stir it through the sprouts for a minute, until fragrant. Pour in the cream, reduce heat down to low and allow them to simmer until tender (another 3-4 minutes).

5. If the cream is too thin for your liking, add in the cornstarch slurry, stirring it through immediately, until combined.

6. Add the bacon in and give everything a good mix to combine all of the flavours together. Top the sprouts with the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Bake until cheese is bubbly and sprouts are done to your liking (about 15 minutes). If you like your cheese browned, change oven settings to broil for 2-3 minutes, until golden.

7. Season with a little extra pepper, if desired, before serving. You can also sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, thyme or rosemary.