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Crockpot Philly Cheesesteak {Great for a Crowd!}

Three Slow Cooker Cheesesteaks in a tray

Crockpot Philly Cheesesteaks make a great meal perfect for busy weeknights or when the big game is on!

Tender beef and onions, and with melted provolone cheese (bell peppers are optional) all come together in the slow cooker.

With all the flavors of our favorite Cheesesteak sandwich everyone raves about this recipe!

Three prepared Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches.

What is a Philly Cheesesteak?

We’ve all seen a version of this recipe, with Whiz, with peppers (or without). According to Philadelphia’s official tourism site, the Philly cheesesteak was invented in 1930.

The combination of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and onions in a hoagie roll is just too irresistible.

Bell Peppers?

Not traditional but still delicious! A cheesesteak is sometimes served with bell peppers and more often served without.  We love the flavor so we add them in.

Not a fan? Leave them out!

Beef roast cooked in a slow cooker with onions.

Ingredients & Variations

BEEF The best beef for the crock pot is a cut that becomes perfectly tender when slow slow-cooked in the crockpot.

A beef roast or a chuck or pot roast is just right (and the same cut I use in French dip sandwiches). It makes savory and extra tender slices of meat for Philly cheesesteaks with minimal effort.

CHEESE Traditionally, a Philly cheesesteak is topped with provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese but nowadays you can use almost any cheese you wish! Try melting on mozzarella, cheddar, or havarti for a change.

BUNS Hoagie or sub buns are the best options for this sandwich! They are hearty and hold up well under the weight of this hearty sandwich.

Don’t have time to grab those buns? You could serve mini cheesesteak sliders on dinner rolls or even make a sandwich with a classic loaf of bread in a pinch.

Philly Cheesesteak ingredients in a slow cooker.

How To Make Philly Cheesesteaks in the Slow Cooker

The best cheesesteak sandwich is easy to prepare. Just pop in the slow cooker and let it cook away!

  1. Season, brown the beef, and place in the crockpot (per recipe below).
  2. Add remaining ingredients and cook on low, adding bell peppers in the last 45 minutes if desired.
  3. Remove the beef and slice thinly against the grain and return to the crockpot (or shred if you prefer).
  4. Assemble sandwiches and bake until the cheese is melted.

Serve immediately for the best results and the most delicious flavor!

Prepared Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches in a tray.

Perfect Sides

Philly cheesesteaks are great with oven-baked french fries, or this broccoli pasta salad is fit for a crowd, give it a try here!

Make ahead sides:

Sandwiches Best Served Hot

Did you enjoy this Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Recipe? Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!

Three Slow Cooker Cheesesteaks in a tray
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Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Recipe

Tender beef and onions snuggled in a roll make the perfect easy meal.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes
Servings 8 rolls
Calories 350
Author Holly Nilsson

Ingredients

  • 2 lb beef roast chuck or pot roast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 10.5 oz beef broth low sodium
  • 2 onions sliced
  • 10.5 oz onion soup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon garlic minced
  • 2 bell peppers sliced (yellow, red or green), optional
  • 8 oz sliced provolone or American cheese
  • 8 hoagie or sub rolls

Instructions

  • Season beef with salt & pepper. Heat olive oil over medium high heat and brown beef on all sides. Place in the slow cooker.
  • Add broth to the pan scraping up any brown bits. Add to the slow cooker with onions, onion soup, soy sauce, and garlic.
  • Cook on low 8 hours adding peppers during last 45 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Open sub rolls top with cheese on each side. Bake about 5 minutes or just until cheese is melted. Top with beef and peppers.

Notes

Note: If you prefer softer onions, add them along with the beef. If you prefer your onions to be slightly firmer, add them during the last 45 minutes of cook time.
Browning the beef before placing in the slow cooker is optional but adds extra flavor.
Beef can be sliced or pulled.

Nutrition

Calories: 350 | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 2186mg | Potassium: 430mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 931IU | Vitamin C: 91mg | Calcium: 334mg | Iron: 13mg
Cheesesteak ingredients in a slow cooker with writing
Three prepared cheesesteaks in a tray with writing
Cheesesteak ingredients in a crockpot with writing
Top image - Three prepared cheesesteaks in a tray. Bottom image - cheesesteak ingredients in a slow cooker with writing
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Cheese Tortellini {with tomato sauce}

Cheese Tortellini is tossed in a quick homemade tomato sauce for an easy weeknight meal!

The sauce is made from pantry staples plus a heavy dose of garlic and simmered with a cheese tortellini pasta. Serve with a fresh salad and crusty bread.

Cheese tortellini with tomato sauce in a white serving bowl with a fork.

 

 

Why We Love This Recipe

Everyone loves a good hearty pasta. It’s hard to believe that the simple ingredients in this cheese tortellini recipe create so much flavor.

  • It’s Quick Any meal that can be on the table in 30 minutes or less is a win in our books!
  • Serve as a Side or Main Dish This makes a nice side with grilled chicken or double the recipe to main a meatless main dish.
  • Fresh Flavor This uses canned tomatoes but has a delicious fresh tomato flavor. If you have fresh herbs, sprinkle them on just before serving.
  • Simple Ingredients The easy sauce is made with items I always have on hand meaning this is a go-to any day of the week!

Overview of ingredients for Garlic Tomato Tortellini in a frying pan.

Ingredients

TORTELLINI Cheese tortellini can be replaced with meat filled tortellini or any filled pasta. Fresh or frozen ravioli works well too.

CANNED TOMATOES Canned diced tomatoes make this recipe quick and easy. Whole tomatoes are a good replacement, get messy and squish them up with your hands before adding to the pan.

ONION & GARLIC If you’ve run out of onion or garlic, you can still go ahead with this recipe! Cook up a bit of celery (or carrot) to start and add in either garlic or onion powder or even dried onion flakes if you have some.

How To Make Cheese Tortellini

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 to make this amazing tasting pasta skillet!

  1. Cook the tortellini per package directions, drain and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, saute onion and garlic with spices. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
  3. Let the sauce thicken then add tortellini.

Top with parmesan cheese and parsley and serve immediately.

 

Cheese tortellini on top of homemade tomato sauce in a pan

Other Delicious Additions

A tortellini pasta skillet screams for veggies, doesn’t it? This pasta is a great way to use up all kinds of leftovers!

Here are some great add-ins that make this hearty dish even heartier!

Cheese tortellini with tomato sauce in a pan

What to Serve with Tomato Tortellini Pasta

Serve cheese tortellini like any hearty pasta skillet, it goes well with salad and bread.

Salad Ceasar salad or tossed salad with a simple vinaigrette.

Bread Fresh bread is the perfect way to sop up the juicy sauce in this recipe! Try french bread, dinner rolls or homemade garlic bread.

Overview of Garlic Tomato Tortellini in a white serving bowl with a fork.

Leftover Tortellini?

Leftover tortellini pasta reheats well in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tasty Pasta Skillets

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Garlic Tomato Tortellini

This easy pasta skillet is an easy side or even main dish!
Course Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine American, Italian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 side dish servings
Calories 273
Author Holly Nilsson

Ingredients

  • 9 oz cheese tortellini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1/2 cup onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • parmesan cheese, basil and parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

  • Cook onion in 1 tablespoon olive oil until tender. Add garlic, basil, and oregano and stir until fragrant.
  • Add tomatoes with juices, water, and sugar and use a spoon to slightly smash the tomatoes.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Allow sauce to simmer and thicken while cooking the tortellini, about 10 minutes. Stir in remaining olive oil.
  • Cook tortellini al dente according to package directions. Drain but do not rinse.
  • Gently mix cooked tortellini with prepared tomato sauce. Top with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil and serve.

Notes

SERVING SIZE This recipe makes four 1 cup servings. If serving as a main dish, I would suggest doubling the recipe for 4 people.
Any filled pasta will work well in this recipe (meat filled tortellini or ravioli).
Cooked ground beef or sausage can be added to the sauce as it simmers.
If you have fresh herbs such as basil or parsley, sprinkle them on just before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 273 | Carbohydrates: 33g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 22mg | Sodium: 444mg | Potassium: 240mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 116IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 128mg | Iron: 3mg
A serving of garlic tomato tortellini
A serving of tortellini pasta topped with a homemade garlic tomato sauce.
Top image - a serving of tomato tortellini. Bottom image - tortellini being stirred into the homemade tomato sauce.
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Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken (4 ingredients!)

This parmesan garlic chicken is perfectly baked tender and juicy chicken that is lightly seasoned with Italian seasoning and garlic powder and then sprinkled with parmesan.  All made in under 30 minutes!

I love everything about this meal. So easy to mix everything together and so delicious. We will be having this again and again! For more recipes like this one try this garlic parmesan chicken tenders recipe or this sheet pan crispy parmesan garlic chicken recipe.

 

Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken on a pan with lemon slices garnished around it.

Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken Breast Recipe

This my friends, was fantastic! The best part about it was that it was so easy and packed with flavor! Seriously. It is only four ingredients. I was able to throw this together in 5 minutes and serve it with a side of rice and veggies and my family thought they had a gourmet meal. I loved how the parmesan cheese gave it a delicious crust and the chicken was full of flavor and so tender. A great easy meal that everyone loved! This will definitely make it on your list of go-to meals when you are short on time but still want a nutritious dish! And on an even better note, it is kid- friendly as well. 

What is baked parmesan garlic chicken breast?

If not one of the greatest, easiest, and tastiest meals ever?! This dish is incredibly simple. Containing only 4 ingredients, it is exactly what it sounds like. Baked chicken breast with a parmesan and garlic rub to it. It is the perfect combination of savory garlic and parmesan paired with juicy chicken! 

It is definitely the meal that will have your house smelling amazing. 

What do you need to make baked parmesan garlic chicken breast?

This is one of those meals that is perfect for when you are in between grocery trips and may not have a lot of stuff to choose from. Because this literally calls for 4 things. You are able to make a gourmet dish with just 4 simple ingredients.

As always, remember the exact measurements for all the ingredients needed will be included in the recipe at the very bottom. 

  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Dry Italian dressing packet
  • Garlic powder
  • Parmesan cheese 

How do you make baked parmesan garlic chicken breast? 

Preparing dinner has never been so deliciously simple. This meal is by far one of the quickest ones I have ever prepared that is still very rewarding. By the looks and taste of it no one would even know that you whipped this up in just a matter of minutes! Here the 4 simple steps to follow to prepare a mouth watering meal.

  •  Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
  • Mix together the Italian Dressing Mix, Parmesan Cheese, and garlic powder.
  • Wash the chicken and while still damp, coat them with the cheese mixture.
  • Bake chicken breasts in a shallow dish for 20-25 minutes or until no longer pink.

The process of making Parmesan Garlic Chicken by adding the seasoning on the chicken then placing on sheet pan.

How much does this recipe yield?

So if you are following along with the 4 chicken breasts, this will provide 4 servings. However depending on the cuts of your chicken, you can always cut the breasts in half (making them thinner) if yours are really thick and would rather have smaller servings. 

What can you serve with baked chicken parmesan chicken breast?

This dish is very flavorful yet versatile enough to be served with a variety of things. Having chicken as the main dish opens up a lot of possibilities. There are of course many vegetables you can choose from, having them fresh or steaming them. You can always pair the chicken together with a salad that includes fresh vegetables. Potatoes are also a great side whether you chose to have them mashed, or baked. And for all my garlic lovers there is always the option of putting together some garlic bread or even just some sourdough bread or dinner rolls. 

Are there any variations to this recipe

Everyone has their own preferences and different tastes that they like. The nice thing about the recipe is that it is so simple you can afford to switch or add things that you like. You can choose to use bone in chicken breasts if that is what you already have or prefer that is not a problem! Also another common addition is using lemon juice to zest or varnish your chicken right before serving it. This adds to the flavor and is a quick adjustment to make. 

Baked Parmesan garlic chicken with asparagus on a plate garnished with a lemon and parsley.

You might also enjoy these chicken recipes:

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Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken

This parmesan garlic chicken is perfectly baked tender and juicy chicken that is lightly seasoned with Italian seasoning and garlic powder and then sprinkled with parmesan.  All made in under 30 minutes! 
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword baked parmesan garlic chicken, chicken recipes, parmesan garlic chicken
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 Chicken breasts
Calories 185kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 1 package Dry Italian Dressing Packet
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese You can also use fresh shredded which I used

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  • Mix together the Italian Dressing Mix, Parmesan Cheese, and garlic powder.
  • Wash chicken and while still damp, coat them with the cheese mixture.
  • Bake chicken breasts in shallow dish for 20-25 minutes or until no longer pink.

Notes

Updated on March 23, 2020
Originally Posted on April 11, 2013

Nutrition

Calories: 185kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 83mg | Sodium: 323mg | Potassium: 443mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 142IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 144mg | Iron: 1mg
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Homemade Bourbon Chicken {Better than the Food Court Version!}

Sticky Bourbon Chicken is so much better than take-out and easy to make at home! 

Tender chicken is coated with an unmistakably tangy and irresistibly sticky-sweet sauce, for a copycat recipe your family will rave about!

Bourbon Chicken on a plate with rice, garnished with green onion.

No Fail Recipe

This bourbon chicken recipe is a no-fail favorite and perfect when you’re craving takeout at home. The sauce is both simple and quick, great for busy weeknights!

So what is Bourbon Chicken? This dish is named after the famed Bourbon Street in Louisiana, where it’s said the dish was first created.

It’s an easy stir-fry recipe and one you have likely seen at your local food court in the mall, but truly, best bourbon chicken is made right at home!

Ingredients

BOURBON CHICKEN SAUCE The sauce is a bit sweet and has big flavor. Ingredients include soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a bit of bourbon whiskey! (All of the alcohol burns off in the cooking process but I have some substitution ideas below if you need).

CHICKEN This recipe uses chicken thighs to make it extra juicy and tender. You can use chicken breast if you prefer but I find the thighs to be juicier and have more flavor.

GARNISH We garnish with a bit of green onion and/or sesame seeds. Add your favorites including chilis, or cilantro!

How to Make Bourbon Chicken

This delicious chicken dish is one of those easy, no-fail favorites to pull out on a weeknight!

  1. Chop chicken and brown in a frying pan.
  2. Whisk marinade and add to chicken (per recipe below).
  3. Add cornstarch mixture and simmer until thickened.

Voila! So easy! Garnish with green onions and serve over rice. While this is a stove top recipe, you can also make slow cooker bourbon chicken!

What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?

It’s easy to purchase a very inexpensive miniature bottle of bourbon, or just keep a few on hand in the cupboard. You can substitute almost any whisky in this recipe. If you prefer to skip the bourbon, we’ve got you covered.

  • Use 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract diluted in 1/4 cup water
  • 1/8 cup apple cider vinegar mixed with 1/8 cup apple juice.

Any of these substitutions will change the flavor so it won’t exactly be like a classic Bourbon Chicken, but it’ll be delicious!

Close up of Bourbon Chicken in a pan, garnished with green onion.

 

Tips for Success

  • If time allows, freeze the chicken for 20 minutes before cutting.  This makes the task easier.
  • Prep all of the ingredients and mix the sauce ahead of time, this dish comes together quickly.
  • Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.
  • Add more chili flakes for more heat.
  • Rice Vinegar and Rice Wine Vinegar are the same and either works in this recipe. Do not use “seasoned” rice vinegar in this recipe.

Leftovers

Bourbon Chicken can easily be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to one month! Make sure to store in an airtight container or zippered bag with the date.

Take-Out at Home!

Did you love this easy bourbon chicken?  Be sure to leave a rating and a comment below!

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Bourbon Chicken

This homemade recipe is a family favorite! Juicy chicken drenched in a Bourbon sauce, served over rice!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Asian
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450
Author Holly Nilsson

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken thighs boneless skinless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup bourbon
  • 1/4 cup apple juice
  • 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh garlic grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon cold water
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced, green tops only

Instructions

  • Trim off any extra fat on the chicken thighs and cut into 1-inch chunks.
  • In a large high sided 12-inch skillet add olive oil and set over medium-high heat.
  • Add chicken in small batches and cook for about 10 minutes or until the chicken starts to brown and is almost fully cooked.
  • In a medium-sized mixing bowl whisk together soy sauce, bourbon, apple juice, dark brown sugar, grated garlic, grated ginger, rice wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, and water.
  • Pour the mixture into the skillet with the chicken and simmer for 15 minutes. This will help cook off the alcohol in the bourbon and fully cook the chicken throughout.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the cornstarch and the cold water. Add to mixture and cook until the sauce has thickened and coats the chicken fully.
  • Stir in green onion tops and serve over rice.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 450 | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 45g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 215mg | Sodium: 745mg | Potassium: 635mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 188IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 2mg
A serving of bourbon chicken on rice topped with green onions.
Close up of bourbon chicken served on rice topped with green onions.
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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

This chicken is slow cooked in a honey garlic sauce that is infused with soy and hoisin sauce with fresh garlic and ginger covering the boneless chicken thighs for one amazing family dinner. Throw it all together and let the slow cooker do all the work!

Since honey garlic chicken is a fan favorite try this Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry, Foil Pack Honey Garlic Chicken or Glazed Lemon Honey Garlic Chicken.

Slow cooker honey garlic chicken in a slow cooker with a wooden spoon stirring it up.

Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

This has to be up there with my most favorite slow cooker recipes! The flavor of this sauce is amazing. And the smell of it cooking in my house all day is the best! It is so easy to throw together. The whole family loves this recipe, even the picky eater.  Honey garlic chicken is the perfect dump and go dinner. It all starts in the morning and becomes 

Honey Garlic Chicken Ingredients:

  • Boneless Chicken Thighs: I prefer chicken thighs over breasts but chicken breasts can be used in this recipe. Chicken thighs are a soft and tender meat with a little more fat on them making them juicy too.
  • Honey: Choose the honey that you prefer but this will help sweeten chicken while it is slow cooking.
  • Soy Sauce: Light soy sauce is just what you need to make this slow cooker chicken infused with.
  • Hoisin Sauce: Thick and strong flavoring, this hoisin sauce will be the perfect amount of sauce to cover the chicken and marinate while it is slowly being cooked.
  • Garlic: Crushed the best that you can or purchase the garlic crushed in a bag.
  • Ginger Root: Fresh is best with the ginger.
  • Sesame Oil: This has a nutty oil that adds just the right touch to combined the flavorings together.
  • Cornstarch: Make a roux or thick sauce with the cornstarch and water mixture.
  • Water: Luke warm water is perfect for creating a roux and adding it back into the sauce to cover the chicken at the end.

How to make Honey Garlic Chicken in the Slow Cooker:

  1. Prepare the slow cooker: In a 5 quart slow cooker add the chicken thighs.  In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.  Cook on low for 4-6 hours and high for 3-4 hours.  
  2. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred. 
  3. Make a thick sauce like a roux: Whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl.  Whisk it into the sauce in the slow cooker.  Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker and let cook for another 15 minutes to let the sauce thicken.  Serve over rice and enjoy! 

The Recipe Critic Pro Tip:

Boneless skinless chicken thighs work best in a slow cooker since dark meat can be more forgiving when cooking for a long period of time. Thighs also don’t dry out as easily. If you prefer chicken breasts make sure to check it towards the end to make sure it is not overcooked and dried out. 

Honey garlic chicken in a slow cooker with a wooden spoon stirring it up.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Make this honey garlic chicken a complete meal by adding in side dishes that work perfectly for this dinner. Your family will be craving it and loving all the variations that can accommodate this slow cooker chicken.

Honey garlic chicken in a bowl with rice and garnished with scallions.

More Recipes to Enjoy your Slow Cooker with:

Honey garlic chicken in a bowl with rice underneath and chopsticks picking up the chicken.

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Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

This chicken is slow cooked in a honey garlic sauce that is infused with soy and hoisin sauce with fresh garlic and ginger covering the boneless chicken thighs for one amazing family dinner. Throw it all together and let the slow cooker do all the work!
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian American
Keyword honey garlic chicken, slow cooker honey garlic chicken
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 445kcal
Author Alyssa Rivers

Ingredients

  • 6-7 Boneless Chicken Thighs
  • 3/4 cup Honey
  • 3/4 cup  soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp hoisen sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed I used 1 1/2 T minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger root I used 1 T dry ginger
  • 1 tsp seseame oil
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water

Instructions

  • In a 5 quart slow cooker add the chicken thighs. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, hoisen sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Cook on low for 4-6 hours and high for 3-4 hours.
  • Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred. Whisk togther the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Whisk it into the sauce in the slow cooker. Return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker and let cook for another 15 minutes to let the sauce thicken. Serve over rice ane enjoy!

Notes

Updated on March 4, 2020
Original Post on August 7, 2012

Nutrition

Calories: 445kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 51g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 1985mg | Potassium: 945mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 37g | Vitamin A: 106IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 2mg
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Try this traditional Shepherd’s Pie!

Shepherd’s Pie is a traditional Irish dish made with a saucy ground lamb (or beef) base, peas, and carrots and topped with a mashed potato crust. Easy and tasty, all year round!

Shepherd's Pie served on white plates and topped with cheese

What is Shepherd’s Pie?

Shepherd’s Pie is a delicious combo of ground lamb (although many people use beef) that has been cooked with carrots, sweet green peas and corn in a gravy or sauce. The lamb mixture is then topped with a crust of creamy mashed potatoes.

This casserole traditionally made with ground lamb.  Many people make this recipe with ground beef however, if you use ground beef it’s actually called Cottage Pie! (You can also replace the meat for a vegetarian lentil version).Either way, this crustless meat pie is topped creamy mashed potatoes and baked until bubbly.

Do you put cheese on top of Shepherd’s Pie? Traditionally, a Shepherd’s Pie is not topped with cheese, but as you all know, cheese is my love language. You can add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes or just brush them with a little bit of butter before baking.

Ingredients for shepherds pie like mashed potatoes, meat sauce, and veggies.

Ingredients

Shepherd’s Pie can be prepared fresh but it’s also a great way to use up any leftover meat, veggies, gravy or mashed potatoes.

    • MEAT Lamb is traditional but you can use any ground meat in this recipe (I most often use ground beef). Leftover roast works too!
    • VEGGIES Frozen mixed vegetables make prep quick and easy but leftover roasted veggies work perfectly too. If using fresh, steam them until tender before adding.
    • SAUCE Shepherd’s Pie is so versatile, I’ve given a couple of shortcut sauces in the recipe below but you can use leftover gravy (or gravy mix), tomato sauce… the sky is the limit here.
    • POTATOES Traditional mashed are what I most often use but garlic mashed potatoes add great flavor to this dish! If you are in a hurry, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes

A pot of meat sauce with veggies next to mashed potatoes and cheese.

Prep Ahead and Tips for Shepherd’s Pie

You will love how easy and convenient this dish is.  It can be made a day in advance, which makes dinner prep easier.

  • Layering After prepping the meat mixture, let it cool and then chill it in the fridge for 20 minutes.  This will help keep the mashed potato layer separated.
  • Prep Ahead Prep and assemble up to one day in advance and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature 30 minutes before baking it.
  • Quick Clean Up If your baking dish is very full, place it on a parchment lined baking sheet to avoid any juices spilling in your oven.
  • To Freeze Before Baking
    • Cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze.
    • Thaw overnight in the fridge. Bake for 45 minutes covered and 15 minutes uncovered

Shepherd's Pie topped with cheese in a casserole dish served with parsley

 

Serve this With…

And finish the meal with a belly warming Irish Coffee!

A serving of shepherd's pie on a plate topped with cheese

More St. Patrick’s Day Favorites

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Easy Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie is a traditional Irish dish made with ground lamb cooked with peas and carrots and topped with a mashed potato crust.
Course Dinner
Cuisine Irish
Keyword Shepherd's Pie
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 648
Author Holly Nilsson

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground lamb or beef
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups mixed vegetables defrosted
  • 10 oz can tomato soup or mushroom soup
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon basil
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F.
  • Cook lamb or beef, onion and garlic over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain any fat.
  • Stir in soup, mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, salt, basil and pepper. Spread into the bottom of a 2 qt casserole dish.
  • Spoon mashed potatoes overtop and top with cheese.
  • Baked 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.

Video

Notes

Note:  This recipe has been updated 10/8/2018.  Original recipe inspiration from Alton Brown, Food Network.

Nutrition

Calories: 648 | Carbohydrates: 85g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 74mg | Sodium: 730mg | Potassium: 916mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 47g | Vitamin A: 2775IU | Vitamin C: 37mg | Calcium: 180mg | Iron: 2.5mg

Shepherd's Pie with peas, carrots, mashed potatoes and cheese on a wood ladle

Why is it called Shepherd’s Pie?

Originally a meat pie made with minced (or ground) meat and mashed potatoes was known as a Cottage Pie (and it was even sometimes made with pastry many years ago). It is very popular in Ireland, Scotland and England as well!   In the late 1800’s the pie was named Shepherd’s Pie if made with lamb (since the shepherd looked after the sheep) and if  made with beef it was called Cottage Pie.

Regardless of the name, this recipe is a classic Shepherd’s Pie recipe loaded with flavor and the perfect make ahead meal to serve all year long!

A serving of shepherd's pie on a plate topped with cheese.
Shepherd's Pie topped with cheese in a casserole dish served with parsley.
Top photo - A serving of shepherd's pie on a plate topped with cheese. Bottom photo - Ingredients assembled to make Shepherd's Pie.
A serving of shepherd's pie on a plate topped with cheese.
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Pasta Fagioli Soup

This Pasta Fagioli recipe is a hearty classic Italian soup that’s comforting, and takes less than an hour! It’s filled with veggies and spicy sausage meat cooked in a hearty and rich tomato broth.

There is nothing more comforting and soul-warming than Pasta e Fagioli!

A bowl of pasta fagioli soup next to the pot and a spoon.

In this easy homemade soup recipe, two types of beans have been added for extra protein and creaminess. Lots of dried herbs make the broth for this easy Pasta Fagioli recipe irresistibly flavorful.

What is Pasta Fagioli?

Pasta e Fagioli means “pasta and beans.” A traditional Italian pasta fagioli recipe is a classic dish, made with easy to find, affordable ingredients.

Minestrone Soup vs. Pasta e Fagioli Soup

The main difference between minestrone and pasta e fagioli is the varation of vegetables in minestrone. Fagioli is mainly pasta and beans in a broth (I add a few veggies like celery & onion for extra flavor).

Ingredients like beans and carrots being added to fagioli soup.

How To Make Pasta Fagioli

I make a lot of amazing soup recipes and this flavorful one, tops our list! it’s easy, delicious and hearty (and we think it’s even better than the Olive Garden Fagioli recipe)!

  1. Brown sausage and onions.
  2. Add in Remaining ingredients except pasta and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. While the soup simmers, cook pasta until al dente.
  4. Stir pasta into the soup, and serve with your favorite toppings.

Serve pasta fagioli soup next to some warm garlic bread and a caesar salad for the perfect meal!

CrockPot Conversion

This recipe converts to slow cooker super easily! Just follow these steps:

  1. Brown sausage and add to a slow cooker along with the rest of the ingredients, except for the pasta.
  2. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  3. 20 minutes before the time is up, stir in cooked pasta.

Pasta being stirred into fagioli soup with a ladle.

You can make a vegetarian Pasta Fagioli soup recipe by skipping the sausage, and you can also use whole wheat pasta for an extra nutritious kick!

Can You Freeze Pasta Fagioli Soup?

If you intend to freeze this soup, make sure the veggies are still crunchy, otherwise, they will retain their crunchiness after defrosting/reheating the soup.

  • Cool soup completely before packaging it for freezing.
  • Add soup to a gallon or quart-size zip-top plastic freezer bags.
  • Lay bags flat in a single layer in the freezer, when frozen, stack bags to save space.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.

A pot full of pasta fagioli soup ready to be served.

More Satisfying Soups

Pasta Fagioli Soup

Pasta Fagioli Soup, also known as Pasta e Fagioli Soup, recipe is a classic Italian soup. Hearty, comforting and delicious, ready in less than one hour.

  • 1 cup ditalini pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound ground spicy Italian sausage
  • 1 small yellow onion (diced)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
  • 3 carrots (peeled and diced)
  • 1 stalk celery (diced)
  • 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 15 ounce can tomato sauce (no salt added)
  • 8 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 15 ounce can red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 15 ounce can Great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Garnish:

  • Chopped fresh parsley

  1. Place a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add ground Italian sausage and cook without moving for about one minute. Crumble it using a wooden spoon and continue cooking until browned about 3-5 minutes. If needed, drain excess fat.

  2. Push cooked sausage to one side of the pot, so it covers only half of the bottom of the pot or Dutch oven. Add onion and garlic to the other half and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is tender.
  3. Stir to combine the browned sausage with the onion and garlic.
  4. Add chopped carrots, celery, diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir and cook until tender, for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. Add dried basil, dried Italian seasoning, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir to combine.

  6. Add tomato sauce, chicken broth and drained and rinsed beans. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

  7. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer, covered for about 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender. If needed, add more water, one cup at a time.

  8. In the meantime, add water a large pot over medium-high heat, season with salt. Bring to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain well, toss with a bit of olive oil and set aside.

  9. Once vegetables are tender, stir in pasta until heated through.

  10. Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

More Cozy Soups

Close up of a serving of Pasta Fagioli soup.
Top image - Pasta Fagioli ingredients in a pot. Bottom image - close up of pasta fagioli soup.
A serving of pasta fagioli soup in a bowl.
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Garlic Butter Baked Salmon {Easy}

Delicious Baked Salmon in foil is one of the best entrees for healthy, quick and tasty home cooking. In this delightful recipe, the whole salmon fillet is seasoned with fresh lemon slices, dill, and luscious garlic butter. The foil keeps it extra moist and flavorful!

Baked Salmon on foil with lemon slices and dill.

Salmon for this Recipe

This recipe uses a whole salmon fillet as it’s easy to make for a crowd and required little prep. It works well with any kind of salmon from wild to farmed or chinook to steelhead.

As with most salmon recipes, it can easily be adapted to individual filets too (and cooked all in one foil pack or in individual packets). I cook salmon foil packs for about 15-20 minutes at 400°F.

Garlicky Butter Topping

Everything tastes better with butter, especially oven-baked salmon. Even better when the butter is garlic butter! Garlic butter has endless uses, from sauces to garlic bread or for dressing up steamed or roasted vegetables. It’s one of those kitchen workhorses that are always good to have on hand.

  1. Over low heat, melt butter, being careful not to brown it.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook gently for a minute.

Salmon fillet being topped with garlic butter.

How to Bake Salmon

From prep to cooking to clean up, baked salmon is just about the easiest entrée anyone could hope for.

  1. On a large piece of foil, layer lemon slices and fresh dill with the whole salmon fillet.
  2. Drizzle with garlic butter. Fold and seal foil into a tented pouch and bake.
  3. When done, open foil and place under broiler to brown the top.

Salmon fillet is best when baked with the skin on for optimal flavor and to help it retain moisture. It also ensures the entire fillet holds together when baking and plating up. The flesh easily flakes away from the skin with a fork.

Raw Salmon fillet topped with garlic butter, lemon slices, and dill.

How Long to Bake Salmon

Like any fish, salmon cooks quickly in a preheated oven. In general, most ovens take about 15 minutes to preheat to 350°F, or 20 minutes to reach 400°F.

To cook a 3-pound salmon fillet in foil:

  • 350°F:  20-25 minutes.
  • 400°F: 15-20 minutes
  • 450°F: 12- 15 minutes

The time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillet. Be sure to check it so it cooks without overcooking, it should flake with a fork easily.

Served with fondant potatoes, roasted asparagus or glazed carrots, a baked salmon dinner makes an impressive, yet simple presentation for guests or special dinners with the family.

Leftovers

This recipe is so delicious I doubt there will be leftovers! They can be gently reheated but are also great in salmon pasta or salmon patties!

  • For Reheating: Store leftover oven-baked salmon in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in a foil-covered pan in the oven.
  • To Freeze: wrap individual slices in parchment paper and stack in freezer bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. Salmon will keep this way for up to six months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating – or make a delicious cold salmon salad!

Salmon Recipes

Garlic Butter Baked Salmon

In this delightful recipe, the whole salmon fillet is seasoned with fresh lemon slices, dill, and luscious garlic butter.

  • 1 side of salmon fillet (3 pound)
  • 6 sprigs fresh dill
  • 2 lemon (thinly sliced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • kosher salt (to taste)
  • black pepper (to taste)

  1. Remove the salmon from the fridge and let rest at room temperature while preparing the foil and the garlic butter.

  2. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with a large piece of foil. Spray with non-stick cooking spray.

  3. In the middle of the foil lay 3 sprigs of dill and 1 lemon thinly sliced.

  4. Lay the salmon, skin side down, on top of the dill and lemons. Roll up the sides of the foil so the salmon is in a pouch.

  5. In a small saucepan melt butter and garlic over low heat and pour over the salmon. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.

  6. Add remaining dill and lemon slices over the top of the salmon.

  7. Gently tent the salmon with foil and bake for about 15 minutes or until almost fully cooked.

  8. Remove from oven and remove the top piece of foil.

  9. Place the baking rack about 6 inches from the top. Add the salmon back to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes or just until the top is lightly browned.

Salmon on a baking tray with slices of lemon and fresh dill.
Salmon prepared on a baking tray with lemon slices and fresh dill.
Top image - Salmon baked on a foil lined baking tray topped with lemon slice sand dill. Bottom image - garlic butter marinade being spooned over a salmon fillet.
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15 minute Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is one of the easiest meals that is packed with so many delicious veggies and shrimp.  Glazed in the most amazing garlic sauce, this will become an instant favorite! 

Shrimp stir fry in a large wok with lime slices and a wooden spoon.

Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

Phew!  It has been a busy last couple of weeks and it feels so good to be back to blogging.  I took a week off to go on a trip with the hubby just the two of us to the Eastern Carribean and it was AWESOME!  It is amazing what a week off of sun and relaxation can do for one’s soul.  Highlights of the trip included bobsledding in the Jamaican jungle, swimming with the stingrays, and taking a lot of naps on the beach.  It was such a great time.

It is always busy catching up from missing a week and coming back from a trip makes you want to get back on the healthy eating bandwagon.  Sometimes I feel like we get in a rut of chicken and veggies so it so nice to have a delicious and healthy meal that has such amazing flavor like this one.

This was easily one of the best healthy meals that I have had.  You guys will LOVE the garlic sauce on top of the veggies and shrimp.  This was so flavorful and so good for you!  I know that this is one that you will make again and again for your family!

Shrimp stir fry with large shrimp, broccoli, sugar snap peas and shredded carrots.

Shrimp Stir Fry Ingredients:

  • Soy Sauce: Brings in an a sweet and tasty asian flavor.
  • Garlic Cloves: Garlic just goes with everything!
  • Sesame Oil: One of my favorite touches for
  • Brown Sugar: Add sweetness to your sauce with this brown sugar.
  • Shrimp: Large, peeled and deveined is best.
  • Red Bell Pepper:  Chop into squares or slices depending on your preference.
  • Carrots: Shredded
  • Cornstarch: Coats and thickens the sauce.
  • Broccoli Florets: Fresh is better than frozen if possible. They will cook up nicely and have a crisp texture.
  • Sugar Snap Peas: These are so good to add in and I love the flavor and texture with the vegetables all combined.
  • Green Onions: For garnish when ready to serve.

How do you make Shrimp Stir Fry?

This meal is so easy to make and is ready in under 30 minutes.  You start by mixing the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and garlic.  Add the shrimp and peppers to a wok or medium sized skillet and pour the sauce on top.  Cook for 1-2 minutes and then add the broccoli and sugar snap peas with the chicken broth-cornstarch mixture.  Cover and let cook and thicken 2-3 minutes or until the veggies are tender.

  • Whisk sauce together: In a small bowl whisk together the soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
  • Mix together: In a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat add the shrimp, peppers, and carrots and pour the sauce on top.
  • Cook shrimp: Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until shrimp is pink.
  • Whisk together: Whisk the chicken broth and cornstarch in a small bowl and add it to the skillet with the broccoli and sugar snap peas.
  • Stir and cook: Stir until incorporated and then cover and cook 3-5 minutes or until broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  • Serve: with chopped green onions and serve over rice if desired.

Shrimp stir fry in a wok with a wooden spoon stirring it together.

Do I need to leave the tails on the shrimp?

Nope!  Some actually prefer to eat the tails, but you can cook the shrimp to your families preference with or without the tails.

More stir-fry recipes that you are going to love:

Shrimp stir fry served in a bowl.

Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry

This Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry is one of the easiest meals that is packed with so many delicious veggies and shrimp. Glazed in the most amazing garlic sauce, this will become an instant favorite!

  • ¼ cup Soy Sauce
  • 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 3 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
  • 1 pound Large Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper (sliced)
  • 1/2 cup Carrots (shredded)
  • ¾ cup Chicken Broth
  • 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets (Fresh)
  • 1 cup Sugar Snap Peas
  • Slice Green Onion (for garnish)
  1. In a small bowl whisk together the soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil. In a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat add the shrimp, peppers, and carrots and pour the sauce on top. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until shrimp is pink.
  2. Whisk the chicken broth and cornstarch in a small bowl and add it to the skillet with the broccoli and sugar snap peas. Stir until incorporated and then cover and cook 3-5 minutes or until broccoli is tender and the sauce has thickened. Serve with chopped green onions and serve over rice if desired.

Updated on February 6, 2020

Original Post: February 18, 2018

 

 

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Fast & Easy Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken Souvlaki is fast to prep, super easy and oh so delicious! Marinated chicken breasts and onions are threaded onto skewers and grilled until juicy and tender. 

Serve souvlaki over rice or wrap it in a pita with lettuce and tomatoes for a perfect meal!

Close up of a chicken souvlaki on a serving platter with slices of lemon.

What is Souvlaki?

Souvlaki is meat that has been skewered and grilled, it can be chicken (as in this recipe) or made with beef, lamb or pork to name a few.

Gyro vs Souvlaki: Souvlaki has chunks of meat where a gyro generally has meat that has been thinly sliced/shaved. Shawarma is similar to gyro but has a different preparation and seasonings.

Left image - all ingredients in a glass bowl. Right image - Marinated chicken and onions threaded onto a skewer before grilling.

How to Make Chicken Souvlaki

This Souvlaki recipe is as easy as 1, 2, 3! Just marinate, thread, and grill!

  1. Marinate: Combine all the ingredients and chill for at least four hours while soaking the skewers.
  2. Skewer: Thread chicken and onions onto the soaked skewers
  3. Grill: Cook on an oiled grate grill, turning the skewers frequently to ensure the chicken in cooked through and through.

Serve it hot right off the skewer with a side of tzatziki for dipping.

While I love to grill this (I use my grill pan indoors in the colder months), you can make chicken souvlaki in the oven!

To Make Chicken Souvlaki in the oven, prepare skewers as directed. Place skewers on a foil lined pan and turn the broiler on to high. Broil 4-5″ from the heat for 5-6 minutes per side or until chicken reaches 165°F.

Chicken Souvlaki on a grill plate with half a lemon.

Soaking wood skewers in water keeps them from burning when they’re on the grill or stove. Remember this technique anytime you’re using skewers, for grilled vegetables or meats.

How Long to Marinate Chicken Souvlaki

The longer the luscious herbs, spices, and garlic are allowed to infuse into the chicken, the more tender and succulent it will be! That’s what makes chicken souvlaki such an easy recipe, the make-ahead-magic!

Perfect for planning ahead since chicken souvlaki can be made and held in the fridge up to 24 hours ahead!

Chicken Souvlaki on a serving platter with lemon slices.

What to Serve with Souvlaki

Since souvlaki is a grab-and-go kind of snack, simple sides are the best.

Chicken Souvlaki

Marinated chicken, onions, and veggies are threaded onto a skewed and grilled until juicy and tender. 

  • 1 lemon (juiced)
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3 cloves garlic (crushed)
  • 4 chicken breasts (cubed into bite sized pieces)
  • 1 onion (cut into bite sized pieces)
  1. Combine all ingredients in large bowl and mix well. Refrigerate at least 4 hours. Soak wooden skewers in water (at least 1 hour).
  2. Thread chicken and onions onto skewers.

  3. Cook on an oiled grate or grill pan turning skewers frequently for 10 to 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F.

To Cook in the Oven:

Place skewers on a foil lined pan and turn the broiler on to high. Broil 4-5″ from the heat for 5-6 minutes per side or until chicken reaches 165°F.

Delicious Recipes on Skewers