Happy New Year! Whether you’re looking to cut back on carbs (grilled chicken parm), eat more veggies (green bean and beef stir fry), or are embarking on a round of Whole 30 (chicken and sweet potato chili), I’ve got you covered with these easy and delicious recipes. They’re also great if you’ve made a resolution to cook more or (gasp) no resolutions at all. Enjoy!
Grilled Chicken Parmesan
This chicken parmesan recipe uses grilled chicken instead of breaded chicken resulting in a lightened up and easier version of the classic. If you’re trying to avoid carbs-or just want to eat some more veggies-try serving this over spinach instead of pasta. Brave the cold and use your grill *or* a grill pan works well too!
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half (so you have 4 thin pieces of chicken)
2 tsp. Olive oil Storebought Marinara or Tomato sauce
Salt
Pepper
Garlic Powder
Fresh Mozzarella (an 8 oz ball or pre-sliced log works well)
Parmesan and fresh basil to garnish (optional)
1. Preheat grill to 400 or a grill pan over medium high heat.
2. Brush each piece of chicken with olive oil (about .5 tsp each) and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Grill chicken until it is mostly done (about 3 to 4 minutes per side).
4. Top each piece of chicken with ~¼ marinara sauce and a slice of fresh mozzarella.
5. Close grill (or cover pan) and cook until cheese is melted (and chicken is cooked to 165 degrees).
6. Garnish with grated parmesan and basil if desired.
Chicken and Sweet Potato Chili
It’s the most wonderful time of the year for healthy, hearty, comfort food. And this dish fits the bill! It’s also #Whole30. You could make this on the stove top, but my directions here are going to be for the slow cooker…just throw all the ingredients in, and let it simmer. You’ll thank yourself (and me) later when you have a delicious dinner just waiting for you!
2 cups chopped boneless skinless chicken breast (about 2 breasts)
2 cups chicken bone broth
1 14.5 oz. can fire roasted tomatoes (Look for a can without yeast extract if you’re doing a Whole 30.)
3 small or 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1 tbsp. chili powder
1 small yellow onion, diced
Salt & pepper to taste (This varies a lot based on preference/the amount of salt in your bone broth. My bone broth was already seasoned so I didn’t need to add any.)
Sliced Avocado & Cilantro (optional for garnish)
1. Add all ingredients except for optional garnishes into crock pot.
2. Stir and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4.
3. Garnish with avocado and cilantro if desired.
4. Enjoy!
Beef and Green Bean Stir Fry
This simple stir fry is perfect for busy weeknights (and it’s Whole 30 if you’re into that kind of thing). Serve it up over your favorite rice, and enjoy!
2 tsp. avocado oil
1 tsp. minced garlic
1/2 tsp. ginger powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. sesame oil
2 tbsp. coconut aminos
1 pound ground beef
2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into ~1.5” pieces
Cilantro for garnish (optional)
1. Add avocado oil to large skillet.
2. Cook minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until soft and fragrant, stirring frequently.
3. Add ground beef, salt, and ginger powder to skillet, breaking up the meat as it browns.
4. Drain ground beef after it is browned and cooked through (~10 minutes on medium heat).
5. Add green beans to skillet.
6. Cook green beans for 1 to 2 minutes.
7. Add coconut aminos and sesame oil, and cook for 2 to 3 minutes longer, until green beans are just slightly tender.
8. Serve over cauliflower rice or rice, and enjoy!
Susan Bowser
Susan Bowser is a former NBC TODAY show producer. She is a freelance writer and food blogger at SusanBCooking.com. She’s passionate about making real food for real life, showing that healthy eating can be delicious, and sharing recipes that her whole family enjoys. Find more inspiration by following her on Instagram @SusanBCooking.
