Category Archives: Dinner Ideas

Triple Chocolate Pancakes

Dinner Ideas June 27, 2026 Leave a comment
Stack of chocolate pancakes with butter, raspberries, blueberries, and chocolate drizzle on plate

Imagine a breakfast-to-dessert treat bursting with three kinds of chocolate—gooey, indulgent, and utterly irresistible. Pair with hot fudge, tangy fresh fruit, or a creamy white chocolate yogurt sauce for playful decadence. Start by preparing a velvety batter that includes high-quality cocoa powder for depth and a hint of espresso to intensify the chocolate notes. Fold in a generous handful of chocolate chips and white chocolate chunks so they melt into gooey pockets as the pancakes cook. Stack the pancakes high, brushing each layer with a thin spread of chocolate-hazelnut spread or a smear of whipped chocolate butter for extra richness.

Top your stack with a warm chocolate ganache made from dark chocolate and cream, or a white chocolate syrup (recipe below), allow it to cascade down the sides. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar, shaved chocolate, or a few fresh berries to cut through the richness. Serve with a side of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top experience.

Triple Chocolate Pancakes are not just a dessert for breakfast; they’re a celebration of chocolate in three complementary forms. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating someone special, or simply craving a luxurious morning indulgence, these pancakes deliver comfort and decadence in every forkful.

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled
  • 2 eggs, separated
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips
  • 3 ounces white chocolate, chopped
  • Purchased or homemade Hot Fudge sauce

Process

  1. Mix first 5 dry ingredients in a bowl, set aside
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, buttermilk, egg yolks, and cooled melted butter until smooth.
  3. Add flour to the milk/buttermilk mixture and mix well
  4. Put egg whites in another bowl and beat until stiff peaks form
  5. Fold a small amount of beaten egg white into the chocolate batter, then add the remaining egg white and fold until mixed.
  6. Add the bittersweet chocolate chips and white chocolate chips to the batter
  7. Heat the skillet and spray it with cooking spray
  8. Pour about 2 tablespoons of batter onto the skillet and cook on medium-low heat until tiny bubbles appear on the top, flip and cook for one minute more.
  9. Keep cakes warm in a 250° F oven until all cakes are finished cooking.

White Chocolate Yogurt Sauce

Ingredients

  • 6 oz White Chocolate chopped
  • ¼ cup plain yogurt

Process

  1. Put the chopped white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and melt it, stirring every 10 seconds.
  2. When melted, remove from heat and let cool slightly, beat in the yogurt until smooth and shiny. Serve cakes with hot fudge sauce and White Chocolate Sauce. Yummy

Chicken Saltimbocca

Dinner Ideas June 25, 2026 Leave a comment
Replace polenta with pasta; drizzle pan sauce
Chicken Saltimbocca

Chicken saltimbocca dances between rustic charm and joyful indulgence. Imagine feather-thin chicken cutlets cloaked in salty prosciutto and studded with bright sage, sizzling in butter or olive oil until edges crisp and aromas pop. A cheeky splash of dry white wine or a spritz of lemon lifts pan juices into a glossy, lively sauce that winks at your taste buds without stealing the show. Each bite delivers contrast: the prosciutto’s savory-sweet snap, the sage’s herbal pep, and chicken so tender it practically sighs. Textures play together—crisp, juicy, and silky—making every forkful a little celebration of simple, spirited cooking.

Ingredients

Serves 4

  • 2 boneless, skinless large chicken breasts, butterflied and pounded to ¼-inch thickness
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 fresh sage leaves
  • 4 thin slices of prosciutto
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
  • ½ cup chicken stock (low sodium)
  • Optional: parsley, fresh lemon juice, or cream for finishing the sauce

Process

  1. To prepare the chicken, slice chicken breasts horizontally into thin cutlets. Pound between wax paper to a uniform thickness and pat dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Place a slice of prosciutto on the cutlet, then a sage leaf, and secure with a wooden toothpick. Dredge the plain side in flour, shaking off excess.
  3. 3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken, prosciutto, and sage, side down, and sear for 2–3 minutes, until golden. Turn the chicken and cook 2–3 more minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
  4. Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up browned bits. Add chicken stock and simmer until reduced, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and swirl in remaining butter (and optional lemon juice or cream) to create a silky sauce.
  5. Return chicken to the pan briefly to coat with sauce. Serve immediately with the prosciutto and sage side up, and remove the toothpick. Spoon sauce over the top. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

  • Use thin chicken cutlets for quick, even cooking.
  • Fresh sage is essential for authentic flavor.
  • Prosciutto can be substituted with pancetta if desired.
  • For a richer sauce, add a splash of cream or a small amount of butter at the end.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables, creamy polenta, pasta, or a light salad to balance the richness.
  • Chicken saltimbocca can be prepped ahead by layering chicken, prosciutto, and sage, then refrigerating until ready to cook.
  • This dish is elegant yet quick, typically ready in 20–30 minutes, and delivers a restaurant-quality Italian flavor at home 

How to Butterfly a Chicken Breast:

  1. If the chicken breast has skin attached, loosen it with your fingers and remove.
  2. Place the chicken breast on the cutting board. Place one hand on the chicken breast, curving your fingers up slightly for safety. Insert the knife into the middle of the thickest part and cut horizontally; cut almost to the other side. Open it like a book.
Four-step sequence showing how to butterfly a chicken breast on a wooden board with a knife
Step-by-step guide to butterfly and flatten a chicken breast for cooking.

Butterflying raw chicken breast

Chicken Roulade with Tomato Sauce

Dinner Ideas June 24, 2026 Leave a comment
Baked chicken breasts stuffed with spinach and cheese topped with melted cheese and tomato sauce in a casserole dish
Delicious baked chicken roulades

These cheese-stuffed chicken rolls are a harmonious blend of tender poultry, melted cheese, and bright tomato sauce. Boneless chicken breasts are carefully pounded thin, layered with fresh spinach leaves and a flavorful cheese filling for savory depth—then rolled tightly, secured, and lightly seared to develop color. The rolls finish in a simple tomato sauce made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs, which infuses the chicken with acidity and aromatic complexity as it simmers.

The contrast between the golden exterior and the molten, gooey interior is what makes this dish especially appealing. Each slice reveals a ribbon of cheese that complements the juicy chicken, while the tomato sauce cuts through the richness, adding brightness and moisture. Texturally, the dish balances tender meat, silky cheese, and a velvety sauce, making it satisfying and approachable. Serve with any pasta or polenta.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of Italian plum tomatoes, drain the sauce into a cup, and chop the tomatoes
  • 1 small can of tomato sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, grated or pressed
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 4 skinless, large boneless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
  1. Combine the tomato sauce and the liquid from the canned tomatoes until you have ½ cup.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic, bell pepper, onion, oregano, and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes – stirring occasionally.
  3. Butterfly each chicken breast and pound between two pieces of wax paper to ¼ inch thickness (see Note)
  4. In a small bowl, beat the egg, then blend in Ricotta, Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, and parsley.
  5. Place fresh spinach leaves onto each flattened chicken breast. Spread 2 tablespoons of the filling over each piece, roll the chicken tightly, and secure with a toothpick or kitchen twine.
  6. Sear each chicken breast in 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until browned on both sides.
  7. Spoon half the tomato sauce into an 8-inch square baking dish. Arrange chicken rolls in the baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over chicken. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for 40 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F.

Notes:

The culinary term “to butterfly” means splitting a food, almost—but not completely—through. It’s a technique used for everything from shrimp to turkey breast. The two halves are then opened so they resemble a butterfly. With a chicken breast, it’s more like cutting the chicken breast horizontally so it opens up like a book.

How to Butterfly a Chicken Breast:

  1. If the chicken breast has skin attached, loosen it with your fingers and remove.
  2. Place the chicken breast on the cutting board. Place one hand on the chicken breast, curving your fingers up slightly for safety. Insert the knife into the middle of the thickest part and cut horizontally; cut almost to the other side. Open it like a book.
Hands cutting raw chicken breast fillets on wooden cutting board with knife
Butterflying raw chicken breast

Garlicky Marsala Mushrooms with Tortellini

Dinner Ideas June 23, 2026 Leave a comment
Bowl of tortellini pasta with mushrooms, red and yellow bell peppers, and herbs
Marsala Tortellini

Warm, comforting, and richly flavored, this savory mushroom and tortellini dish celebrates the earthy depth of wild mushrooms paired with pillowy cheese-stuffed tortellini. Quartered mushrooms are gently sautéed with garlic and shallot until golden, then deglazed with a splash of Marsala wine to lift the caramelized fond. A touch of fresh rosemary infuses the pan with herbal warmth while a knob of butter and a drizzle of olive oil round out the mouthfeel, creating a silky coating that clings to each pasta parcel.

The tortellini are cooked al dente and folded into the mushroom mixture, allowing the pasta to absorb the savory pan juices. Finishing the dish with a swirl of cream or a generous handful of grated Parmesan adds luminosity and salt-balanced richness, while a squeeze of lemon and a scattering of chopped parsley brighten the overall profile and cut through the creaminess.

Ingredients

  • 5 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound of white mushrooms – cleaned & quartered or mushrooms of your choice
  • 1 pound of portabella mushrooms – cleaned & quartered
  • 4 large garlic cloves
    • 2 cloves sliced thin
    • 2 cloves minced (set aside)
  • 1 medium shallot, thinly diced
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons of fresh minced rosemary
  • ½ cup dry Marsala wine
  • 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
  • 1 cup of minced green, yellow, and red peppers
  • 1 package of frozen or fresh Tortellini or pasta of your choice
  • 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large garlic cloves, grated or minced

Process

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
  2. In a very large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the mushrooms, season with salt and pepper,
  3. Cook over high heat, stirring until the mushrooms are browned all over, about 2 – 3 minutes.
  4. Add the sliced garlic, shallot, peppers, and rosemary; cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the Marsala wine and cook until nearly evaporated,
  5. Add the balsamic vinegar and cook, stirring for 30 seconds.
  6. Stir in the minced garlic and the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.
  7. Prepare pasta according to directions
  8. After draining the pasta, return it to a large bowl and stir in the melted butter and mushroom mixture. Stir in 1/3 cup of fresh Parmesan cheese until melted. Garnish with chopped parsley and a swirl of fresh cream if desired.

Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Dinner Ideas June 22, 2026 Leave a comment
Stuffed chicken breast with spinach and cheese, served with roasted cherry tomatoes, asparagus, and red onions on a plate
Delicious stuffed chicken breast

This dish is versatile and approachable: serve it over a bed of fluffy couscous or herbed rice to soak up the flavorful juices, or pair it with roasted vegetables and a crisp salad for a lighter meal. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs such as dill or parsley add brightness and tie the components together. For an added layer of flavor, a splash of white wine or a smear of Dijon mustard can be included in the filling or pan sauce.

Perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining, spinach-and-feta–stuffed chicken balances comfort and sophistication. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that highlights simple, high-quality ingredients and straightforward technique, delivering a satisfying plate with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

  • 1 package of fresh spinach
  • 1 cup Feta cheese, crumbled (you can use flavored)
  • ½ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 onion, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon of Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 6 large boneless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of butter

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Make a horizontal slit in the thickest part of the chicken breast to create a pocket, making sure not to cut all the way through.
  3. Sear chicken breasts in a mix of olive oil and butter until lightly browned on both sides, about 3 minutes total. They do not need to be fully cooked; they will finish cooking in the oven.
  4. In a bowl, combine the spinach, feta cheese, parmesan, egg, onion, salt, and pepper.
  5. Stuff the mixture evenly inside the chicken breast, then use a couple of toothpicks to close each pocket.
  6. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest briefly before serving.

Alternative method to sear Stuffed Chicken Breasts

  1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then add the stuffed chicken and sear until lightly golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
  2. Transfer the skillet to the oven uncovered and bake until cooked through, about 15-18 minutes.

Amazing Cabbage Rolls (Golabki)

Dinner Ideas June 21, 2026 Leave a comment
Baked cabbage rolls in tomato sauce topped with chopped herbs
Delicious baked stuffed cabbage rolls

Call them old-fashioned if you like, but these stuffed cabbage rolls are pure comfort food with a wink. Once you master the roll, you can unleash creativity: swap meats, try different grains or surprise fillings — the cabbage is your edible envelope. Picture warm Polish Golabki like my mom’s: a cozy mix of ground beef and pork with rice, baked in a savory tomato bath until everything sings.

The history is a tasty mystery: cabbage rolls have been travelling kitchens for millennia, picking up local personalities along the way. Some say they started in Turkey and wandered north, becoming Eastern European favorites. In Ukraine you’ll find buckwheat inside; in China, minced chicken with shiitake; in Egypt, spiced lamb. Polish Golabki often use beef or pork with rice or barley, finished with tomato sauce or a dollop of sour cream. Each version feels like a hug from another culture — simple, homey, and endlessly adaptable.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cabbage (3 pounds)
  • 1/2-pound uncooked ground beef
  • 1/2-pound uncooked ground pork
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce, divided
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cooked long grain rice (See Note)
  • 3 tablespoons of fresh parsley, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dill weed (or marjoram)
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained or your favorite marinara sauce

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Boil a whole head of cabbage until the outer leaves loosen and can be easily removed from the core.
  3. Set aside 12 large leaves for rolls. Cut out the thick vein from the bottom of each leaf, making a V-shaped cut.
  4. In a small bowl, combine the beef, pork, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, egg, onion, rice, parsley, salt, dill, and cayenne; mix well.
  5. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture on a cabbage leaf. Fold the leaf sides over the filling, then roll from the cut end until sealed. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
  6. Slice the remaining cabbage; place in a Dutch oven. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down on the sliced cabbage.
  7. Combine the canned tomatoes and remaining tomato sauce; pour over the rolls. Cover and bake until cabbage rolls are tender, about 1-1/2 hours.

Note: Use precooked rice or another cooked grain (for example, barley, farro, or lentils).

German Potato Pancakes

Breakfast, Dinner Ideas, Vegetables June 19, 2026 Leave a comment
Stack of crispy potato latkes topped with applesauce and chopped chives on a plate
A tall stack of golden-brown potato latkes topped with applesauce and herbs

Crispy German potato pancakes are a joyful comfort food that livens up any meal from breakfast through dinner. Top them with applesauce, a dollop of sour cream, or a perfectly poached egg for extra delight. Serve alongside steak or chicken, or enjoy them on their own. Golden and crunchy on the outside, tender and moist inside, these potato pancakes are irresistibly tasty and fun to share with family or friends.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. potatoes, about 2 or 3 large russets, grated (see note below)
  • 1/2 onion, grated
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • Dash of Ground pepper
  • ¼ tsp of Nutmeg
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
  • Oil for frying

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 250°F to keep potatoes warm while frying.
  2. Finely grate potatoes and onion into a large bowl. Drain off any excess liquid.
  3. Combine the egg, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Gradually add 2–4 tablespoons of flour until the mixture becomes thick.
  4. Heat 1/4 inch of oil in the bottom of a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Drop 1/4-cup mounds of batter, two or three at a time, into hot oil and flatten with back of a spatula to make 1/2-inch-thick pancakes.
  5. Fry over medium-high heat, turning pancakes once, until golden brown and crisp, about 5 minutes on each side. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Keep warm in the preheated oven until ready to serve. Repeat until all potato mixture is used.

Note: You can use both russet potatoes and sweet potatoes for added sweetness and color.

Party Wings: Honey, BBQ, Mexican, Parmesan, and Buffalo !!!

Appetizers, Chicken, dinner June 17, 2026 Leave a comment
Picnic table with plates of chicken wings, celery, carrot sticks, salad, sauces, and drinks by the ocean
Party Wings!

Throwing a party? Fire up the grill and delight guests with wings in honey, barbecue, Mexican, Parmesan, or Buffalo styles — perfect bite-sized starters or a star main course. For fuss-free cleanup, line a cookie sheet with foil and spray lightly before baking. Want maximum crisp? Use a lipped cookie sheet so the wings bake rather than steam. Pro hack: remove the wing tip and split at the joint to create a tidy, mini drumstick — playful, easy to grab, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve with dipping sauces and napkins for a festive, hands-on experience.

HONEY CHICKEN WINGS

  • 1 large white onion, chopped
  • ½ cup honey
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons mustard powder, or 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic
  • 5 pounds chicken wings

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Combine onion, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, butter, mustard powder, and garlic together in a saucepan over medium heat; cook until hot, about 5 minutes.
  3. Place wings in a single layer in a shallow baking dish. Pour the sauce over the wings and toss to coat. Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate to marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven until wings are no longer pink at the bone and juices run clear, turning occasionally, for about 90 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone should read 165°F (74 °C).

 MEXICAN STYLE CHICKEN WINGS

  • ½ cup corn oil
  • ¼ cup chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 12 ounces tortilla corn chips
  • 1 pound chicken wings
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  1. In a bowl, whisk together the oil, chili powder, oregano, and cumin to blend well.
  2. Pulverize the tortilla chips in a food processor or in a plastic bag with a rolling pin; pour into a shallow bowl.
  3. Dip the chicken pieces in the seasoned oil; then dredge in the ground chips until covered.
  4. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake 45 minutes, until the outside is browned and crisp and the inside is tender. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone should read 165°F (74 °C). Serve hot.

 PARMESAN CHICKEN WINGS

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (4 ounces)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (fresh)
  • 2 teaspoons of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
  • 1 pound chicken wings
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
  2. In a bag, combine cheese, parsley, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper
  3. Pour melted butter into a shallow bowl
  4. Dip chicken pieces into butter, then place in bag and shake to coat
  5. Place chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone should read 165°F (74 °C). Serve hot

 BUFFALO CHICKEN WINGS

Step 1

  • 3 Lbs. Chicken wings, wings and drummettes split, wingtips removed
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 teaspoons of garlic powder

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
  2. Thoroughly pat dry the chicken with paper towels.
  3. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack over the pan.
  4. Combine the baking powder, salt, and garlic powder in a bowl. Sprinkle over chicken and toss to combine.
  5. Arrange chicken on the prepared wire rack.
  6. Bake the chicken for 25 minutes, flip it over, and bake for another 25 minutes or until crisp and cooked through. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone should read 165°F (74 °C).
  7. Drizzle the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat.

BUFFALO SAUCE

Step 2

  • ⅔ cup hot pepper sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • ½ cup cold butter
  • 1 ½ tablespoons white vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
  1. Combine hot sauce, butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in a small pot over medium heat. Stir with a whisk until the butter melts and the mixture simmers. Taste and add more salt if needed.
  2. Combine the remaining ingredients- vinegar and pepper and whisk until smooth.

BLUE CHEESE DIPPING SAUCE

Step 3

  • ¾ pound blue cheese; Roquefort or Gorgonzola
  • ½ cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon wine vinegar
  • Several dashes of hot pepper sauce to taste
  1. Combine the blue cheese and mayonnaise: In a small bowl, mash the blue cheese, leaving some small pieces. Stir in the mayonnaise until smooth and evenly mixed.
  2. Add the remaining ingredients and whisk to blend well.
  3. Cover and refrigerate until serving time.

BARBECUED CHICKEN WINGS

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed through a press or grated
  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients except the chicken
  3. Mix to blend well.  Add the chicken and toss to coat
  4. Marinate at room temperature for a minimum of 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator
  5. Place the wings in a single layer on a large, rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, turning the wings once halfway through. Wings are done when an instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone reads 165°F (74 °C).

Oven-Fried Coconut Chicken

Chicken, Dinner Ideas June 16, 2026 Leave a comment
Picnic table with fried chicken, corn on the cob, coleslaw, macaroni salad, drinks, and condiments in a park.
A picnic table set with oven-fried coconut chicken

Tasty Oven-Fried Coconut Chicken combines the crunchy satisfaction of fried chicken with a lighter, oven-baked finish and a tropical coconut twist. This dish offers a delightful contrast of textures—the crispy coconut and crumbs give way to juicy, flavorful chicken—while the coconut adds subtle sweetness and a toasted aroma. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or as an impressive entrée for guests. Serve it with tangy mango salsa, a creamy lime aioli, or a simple honey-mustard dip to highlight the coconut’s mild sweetness and enhance the savory profile.

Ingredients

  • 1-1/2 cups (loosely packed) flaked coconut
  • 1-1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 4 tablespoons of butter, melted
  • 1 pound of chicken thighs and legs
  • ¼ teaspoon of salt and pepper to taste

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 400° F.
  2. Brush a rimmed, foil-lined baking sheet with 4 tablespoons of melted butter and set aside.
  3. In a shallow dish, mix coconut and breadcrumbs
  4. In a separate bowl, beat eggs until foamy.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, salt, and pepper.
  6. Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, then dip in the egg mixture. Press the coconut-breadcrumb blend onto the wet chicken pieces.
  7. Arrange chicken on the rimmed baking sheet, skin side up, leaving space between pieces so they don’t steam. Roast in a single layer.
  8. Bake for 40 – 45 minutes until chicken is tender and lightly browned, and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).

Salmon Burgers

Dinner Ideas, Fish June 14, 2026 Leave a comment
Three salmon burgers with lettuce, tomato, red onion, cheese, and sauce on sesame buns with sweet potato fries and dipping sauce
Salmon burgers with fresh toppings, served with sweet potato fries

Salmon burgers turn dinnertime into a tasty adventure, blending flaky salmon with bright lemon zest, fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of Dijon for a lively flavor kick. These patties come together in no time and sizzle on the stovetop, grill, or in the oven, delivering juicy, savory bites that beat ho-hum meals. Skip heavy toppings and celebrate simplicity: crisp lettuce, a juicy tomato slice, and a scoop of yogurt-dill sauce create the perfect balance. Packed with omega-3s and lean protein, they’re a clever, feel-good choice for busy evenings or casual gatherings. Make them ahead and reheat briefly under the broiler or in a skillet to revive that fresh-off-the-grill charm whenever you need a quick, delightful meal.

Makes 4 burgers

Ingredients

Salmon Burgers

  • 1 5oz pouch of Chicken of the Sea Skinless & Boneless Pink Salmon or 1 14.75 ounce can of wild salmon *See notes below regarding canned salmon
  • 1/4 cup minced red onion
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 medium egg (beaten)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of Olive oil or Avocado Oil if pan frying

Process

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Combine onion, lemon juice, lemon zest, and seasonings in a bowl.
  3. Combine salmon, beaten egg, and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs. If the mixture is too loose to shape, add 1 tablespoon more of breadcrumbs. The mixture should be soft and hold together, but not stiff or sticky.
  4. Gather about 1/2 cup of the salmon mixture and shape it into a loose ball. Roll the ball in the remaining 3/4 cup of breadcrumbs to coat it. Place the coated patty on a plate and repeat with the remaining mixture.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the burgers from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray or olive oil.
  6. Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each burger.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the burgers are cooked through and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  8. Allow the burgers to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moister burger.

Dill Sauce

  • 1/2 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 2 tbsp chopped dill
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • salt and pepper to taste

 Process

  1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.

Note: Drain cans of salmon thoroughly so patties bind and brown perfectly. You don’t have to worry about the fish bones: The canning process makes them soft and edible.  The dense, meaty flesh is ideal for forming into patties, so it’s a natural for burgers.