Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken BItes for Dinner

Hey everyone!

Tonight, we are having the most amazing dinner: Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Bites. These little bites of heaven are a hit with everyone at the table, and I can't wait to share the recipe with you all. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or something delicious for a special occasion, these chicken bites are sure to impress.

Especially good for BULKING UP THE 14 YEAR OLD!

2 lbs chicken thighs cut into bites size pieces

season with:

garlic powder

onion powder

smoked paprika

salt & pepper

coat with mixture of flour and corn flour

toss in a splash of water and mix well until chicken is coated.

Place on a baking sheet and spray with cooking spray 

Bake at 425 degrees for 15 - 18 minutes

When the chicken is cooked toss with Garlic Butter:

4 tablespoons of butter(Melted in fry pay)

4 garlic cloves diced

1 tbsp soy sauce

-chopped parsley

As a condiment dip we like Garlic Aioli 

4 T mayo

2 tablespoon cream cheese

1 clove garlic

1 - 2 tsp lemon or lime juice

salt to taste 

splash of water for consistency

We serve this with a side of Crispy Season Potatoes and Aioli Sauce

There’s something incredibly satisfying about these bite-sized morsels of deliciousness. Here are some reasons why chicken bites are a staple in my home:

BESIDES BULKING UP THAT 14 Year old!

1. Versatility

Chicken bites are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, spicy, or sweet, there’s a recipe out there to satisfy your cravings. You can coat them in breadcrumbs, marinate them in your favorite sauce, or toss them in a stir-fry. The possibilities are endless!

2. Quick and Easy

When I’m pressed for time but still want a homemade meal, chicken bites are my go-to. They cook quickly and don’t require a lot of prep work. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.

3. Kid-Friendly

Chicken bites are a hit with kids (and adults too!). Their small size makes them easy to eat, and they’re perfect for dipping in a variety of sauces. Whether it’s ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce, kids love the fun of dipping each bite.

4. Great for Parties

When I’m hosting a gathering, chicken bites are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to serve and eat, making them perfect finger food. Plus, you can make large batches to feed a crowd without much hassle.

5. Healthier Option

Chicken bites can be a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. By baking or air frying them instead of deep frying, you can enjoy a crispy texture without the extra oil. Using whole, fresh ingredients also allows you to control what goes into your food.

6. Perfect for Meal Prep

Chicken bites are excellent for meal prep. You can make a big batch and use them throughout the week in different dishes. They’re great in salads, wraps, or just on their own as a quick snack.

7. Endless Flavor Combinations

From classic garlic butter to tangy buffalo, there’s a flavor combination for every palate. I love experimenting with different spices and marinades to create new and exciting chicken bites. They never get boring because you can always try something new.

8. Comfort Food

There’s something inherently comforting about chicken bites. They remind me of childhood dinners and family gatherings. The crispy, flavorful bites are like a warm hug in food form.

In conclusion, chicken bites are a beloved favorite in my kitchen because of their versatility, ease, and deliciousness. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, they never disappoint. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to give chicken bites a try and discover your own reasons to love them.

"Buona cucina!"

Bulking Up with Creamy Garlic Pasta: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe for our Teen

Looking to help a 14-year-old bulk up in a healthy and delicious way? Look no further! This creamy garlic pasta recipe is not only rich in flavor but also packed with the nutrients needed for growth and strength. Whether it's for a post-workout meal or a hearty dinner, this dish is sure to please.

Instructions:

-2 lbs ground beef minced with
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- smoked paprika
- salt & pepper

Cook thoroughly and set aside 

Other Ingredients
- 12 oz shell pasta cooked al-dante 
- 4 tbsp grated Parmesan 
- chopped basil (garnish)

Make: 
Creamy Garlic Sauce
- 1 medium chopped onion
- 4 cloves garlic diced

-2 tablespoon butter for sauteing 

Add
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 cup double (heavy) cream
- 1 tsp Italian herbs

Stir until smooth and ready to pour over pasta and ground beef

Here are the benefits of this over the top caloric dish!

• Protein-Packed: This dish is high in protein, especially if you add chicken or shrimp. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Calcium and Healthy Fats: The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese provide calcium for strong bones and healthy fats for energy.
• Carbohydrates for Energy: Pasta is a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy for active teens.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Adding spinach boosts the dish with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and magnesium.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic pasta is a perfect meal for a 14-year-old looking to bulk up. It's easy to make, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Whether it's served after a workout or as a family dinner, it's sure to become one of our family favorites!

Storage & Heating
- Store in meal prep boxes refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- When it’s time to eat, reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, and stir till creamy!

KFC's Mac and Cheese and Popcorn Chicken: A Perfect Comfort Food Combo

KFC, known globally for its finger-lickin' good fried chicken, offers a variety of side dishes that perfectly complement its main offerings. Among these, KFC's Mac and Cheese and Popcorn Chicken stand out as a beloved combination for many fast-food enthusiasts. These two items, each delicious in their own right, come together to create a satisfying and comforting meal experience. When you are trying to bulk up a 14 year old hockey player this seems like the perfect weekend dinner!

KFC’s Mac and Cheese: Creamy Delight

KFC's Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy dish that appeals to both children and adults. The pasta is cooked to a tender perfection and enveloped in a smooth, cheesy sauce that boasts a delightful balance of flavor. This side dish is a perfect example of comfort food, offering a taste that evokes nostalgia and satisfaction with every bite. The golden hue and the gooey texture of the cheese make it visually appealing, while the familiar taste of well-seasoned cheese sauce creates a comforting experience that diners often crave.

Popcorn Chicken: Bite-Sized Perfection

Popcorn Chicken, on the other hand, is a crunchy, bite-sized snack that has become a fan favorite since its introduction. Each piece is meticulously seasoned and fried to achieve a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tender chicken inside. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy the convenience of a finger food without compromising on flavor. The Popcorn Chicken can be enjoyed on its own, dipped in a variety of sauces, or, as many have discovered, paired with the creamy Mac and Cheese.

A Match Made in Fast-Food Heaven

The combination of KFC’s Mac and Cheese and Popcorn Chicken creates a dynamic duo that satisfies multiple cravings at once. The creamy, cheesy goodness of the Mac and Cheese provides a soothing counterpoint to the crunchy, savory bites of Popcorn Chicken. Together, they offer a balanced meal that delivers both comfort and excitement in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch, a snack, or part of a larger meal, this pairing has a way of making people feel content and happy.

Calories Per serving: 582 calories


Popcorn Chicken
-  chicken breast diced into bite-size pieces
- ¾ cup plain flour (use 40g for tracking - not all is used)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp ginger
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Cooking spray

KFC Mac N Cheese
-  cooked macaroni (1 ½ cups uncooked )
- ¾ cup low fat milk
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water from macaroni
- 4 tablespoons light cream cheese (brand: Philadelphia lightest)
-  (2 slices) reduced fat burger cheese (brand: Tesco)
- tsp garlic powder
- tsp onion powder
- tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup grated mozzarella


Storage & Heating 
- Store for up to 5 days in the fridge
- To reheat, microwave for 2 minutes covered then uncover and microwave for a further minute, mix well till cheesy (optionally reheat popcorn chicken separately in the Air fryer or Oven for added crispiness)

Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas

 

Ingredients:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups chicken broth
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
8 (6-inch) corn tortillas
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon lime juice
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro as garnish
Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced olives, chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.

2. Mix half of the cream cheese, chicken, 1 cup cheese, lime juice, and chili powder (if using) in a bowl. Season.

2. Fill tortillas with 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture, roll, and place seam side down in the dish.

3. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour for 2-3 minutes. Season, add chicken broth, green chiles, and remaining cream cheese. Cook until thickened.

4. Pour the green chile sauce over enchiladas and top with remaining cheese.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Optionally, broil for a lightly browned top.

Let rest before serving. Garnish with cilantro, and serve.

Zucchini Cookies Right From our Garden

Summer means zucchini and with it comes the bounty of fresh produce from the garden. One of my favorite summer vegetables is zucchini. It's versatile, nutritious, and abundant! If you're looking for a unique way to use your garden zucchini, why not try making zucchini cookies? They're a delightful treat that combines the goodness of fresh zucchini with the sweetness of cookies.

Why Zucchini?

Zucchini is a powerhouse of nutrients. It's low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. Its mild flavor makes it a perfect addition to both savory and sweet recipes. Plus, using zucchini in baking helps to add moisture, creating a soft and chewy cookie.

Here's how to turn your garden harvest into a delicious snack.

Ingredients

Cookies:

• 1 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar
• Sprinkle with nutmeg or cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars:

   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Egg and Vanilla:

   • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

5. Add Zucchini:

   • Gently fold in the shredded zucchini until evenly distributed.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

7. Bake the Cookies:

   • Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Prepare the Frosting:

   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, and beat until well combined and fluffy.

9. Frost the Cookies:

   • Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie. Sprinkle on the nutmeg or cinnamon.

The Perfect Garden Treat

There you have it – delicious zucchini cookies made right from your garden! These cookies are perfect for a summer snack, a picnic treat, or even as a dessert for a garden party. They’re a great way to use up an abundance of zucchini and introduce a healthy twist to your baking.

So next time you find yourself with a surplus of zucchini, give these cookies a try. They're sure to become a seasonal favorite in your household. Happy baking!

A Day At Granma Geri's Farm - Kyrie and Kaliyah's Visit to the Baby Horse

Morning Excitement

After an exciting visit to the dentist Kyrie and Kaliyah wanted to go to Grandma Geri's to see the baby horse again today. Grandma Geri had given Kyrie and Kaliyah the apples and carrots and they headed out to the pasture. 

Meeting Daisy and Buttercup - I'm not sure if theses are the names given to the horses but this is what Kaliyah wants to call them. 

As we approached the barn, the sun was making the pasture and everything around it look magical. Daisy, the momma horse, greeted us with a gentle nicker. Right beside her was Buttercup, the adorable baby horse with big, curious eyes.

"Hi, Daisy! Hi, Buttercup!"  Kyrie and Kaliyah both called to the horses. 

Feeding Time

Kyrie carefully held out a carrot to Daisy. She started eating right away, her gentle nature shining through.

Kaliyah knelt down and offered an apple slice to Buttercup. The little foal sniffed it cautiously before taking a small bite. "She's so cute!" Kaliyah exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight.

As we fed the horses, Grandma Geri told us about caring for animals. "Feeding them is just one part of it," she said. "You also need to show them love and make sure they feel safe."

A Memorable Day

The morning flew by, filled with laughter and the joy of being close to such gentle creatures. Feeding the momma and baby horse was the highlight of our day. As we walked back to the house, we chatted excitedly about our experience, already planning our next visit. But then we spotted the swings. 

Stay tuned - we will be back soon to visit our friends Daisy and Buttercup! 

Paddle Boarding with Friends at Willard Bay

Paddle boarding at Willard Bay with Landon and Jared was a great experience filled with adventure, laughter, and a deep connection with nature. Located in northern Utah, Willard Bay offers a perfect setting for a day of fun on the water. We arrived in the early afternoon and the sun was sparkling on the water's surface, couldn't wait to get in the water. 

We began our adventure by unloading the paddle boards and putting on our life jackets. (I had a brand new jacket and a new pair of water shoes waiting for me when I got home from the ice sheet today.) The bay's calm waters made it easy for us to get started, even for those trying paddle boarding for the first time, yup that's me! With a gentle push, we were off, gliding across the water. The movement of paddling was both soothing and exhilarating, providing a unique perspective of the bay and its surroundings. I was up and then down many times. Thanks Tanesha for the great captures.

Exploring the bay, we discovered hidden coves and watched fish darting below the surface. The natural beauty of Willard Bay was all around us, from the distant mountains to the clear, blue sky above. Paddling together, we encouraged each other, shared stories, and laughed when someone lost their balance and splashed into the water. These moments of joy are something I won't easily forget!

As the day progressed, we took breaks to play a little football and enjoy the peacefulness of the bay. There was plenty of food for us to munch on as we sat under the shade of the trees. 

In the end, paddle boarding at Willard Bay was not just about the activity itself, but about the shared experience with friends. It was a day filled with adventure, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. 

As we packed up our gear and headed home, we knew that this day would be filled with memories reminding us of the joy of friendship and how amazing it is to be outdoors. 

The sunset as we drove home was breathtaking!  What a great day!

Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake: A Comfort Food Delight

Are you ready for a dish that combines the rich, comforting flavors of tacos with the satisfying heartiness of pasta? Look no further! 

This Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake is a mouthwatering fusion that’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious, easy-to-make meal that pleases everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of lean ground beef
• 1 package of cubed Velveeta cheese (8 ounces)
• 1 packet of taco seasoning (1 ounce)
• 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 ounces)
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)
• 1 and 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 box of spaghetti pasta (8 ounces)
• 2/3 cup of water
• chives and diced tomatoes for topping 
• sour cream for those who love it!

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden and bubbly.

2. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Al dente pasta will hold up better during baking, giving your dish the perfect texture.

3. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until it's browned and cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.

4. Add Seasoning and Vegetables: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef and stir to coat evenly. Then, add the can of undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies. This combination brings a zesty kick and a burst of flavor to the dish.

5. Combine Ingredients: To the skillet, add the cubed Velveeta cheese, cream of chicken soup, and 2/3 cup of water. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This luscious cheese sauce is the heart of the dish, bringing everything together.

6. Mix in the Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, gently stirring until every strand is coated with the cheesy taco mixture. This step ensures that every bite is loaded with flavor.

7. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the cheesy spaghetti mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, adding an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese is melted and bubbly. The top should be golden brown and irresistible.

9. Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This little bit of waiting helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve. Top with your favorite toppings. I use chives and diced tomatoes. 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: The familiar flavors of tacos combined with pasta make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Tips for Success:

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Lean beef helps keep the dish from becoming too oily while still providing plenty of flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Velveeta: Velveeta melts smoothly and creates the perfect creamy sauce that brings all the ingredients together.
• Try Different Pastas: If you’re out of spaghetti, other pasta shapes like penne or rotini work just as well.

This Cheesy Taco Spaghetti Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a dish. Perfect for those nights when you need something quick, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try, and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation!

Share Your Thoughts:

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out and any variations you made.