Pampered Chef - Slice, Dice & Dish

Tuscan-Style Herb Chicken Rice Bowls (GF/DF)

I am happy to share a new recipe that will quickly become a weeknight favorite in my kitchen – Tuscan Herb Chicken Rice Bowls. As a passionate cook who values both flavor and convenience, this recipe checks all the right boxes. Join me as we dive into the world of pressure cooking, ingenious kitchen tools, and a secret sauce that elevates this dish to a whole new level.

Embracing the Pressure Cooker Magic

Life can get pretty hectic, and on those bustling nights, my Pampered Chef Deluxe Multi-Cooker pressure cooker becomes my culinary savior. This Tuscan Herb Chicken Rice Bowls recipe capitalizes on the brilliance of one-pot cooking, allowing you to prepare a hearty meal without juggling multiple pots and pans. One of the standout features of this recipe is its efficient use of the pressure cooker’s inner pot. By cooking the rice in a separate pan within the inner pot, you achieve a harmonious blend of flavors without compromising on texture. It’s a clever technique that ensures every element of the dish is cooked to perfection.

Personally, I’m a fan of cauliflower rice, and this recipe seamlessly accommodates that preference. Adapting the recipe for cauliflower rice is a breeze – simply follow the instructions for the chicken portion and omit the rice component. Then, with a quick microwave session, your cauliflower rice is ready to play its part in this delectable dish.

Pampered Chef’s Deluxe Multi Cooker: A Culinary Marvel

For this culinary adventure, I turned to Pampered Chef’s Deluxe Multi Cooker. If you’re new to the world of pressure cooking or considering exploring its possibilities, this appliance is a culinary companion that offers effortless meals with spectacular results.

The Deluxe Multi Cooker boasts an impressive 16 preprogrammed settings that cater to a variety of cooking needs. Whether it’s meat, rice, beans, or even desserts, this appliance takes the guesswork out of your kitchen endeavors. Notably, it features a progress indicator that keeps you informed about preheating, cooking, and warming stages. This intuitive addition is a testament to the appliance’s user-friendly design.

The standout feature of the Deluxe Multi Cooker is its sous vide setting, a tool that unlocks the secret to flawless restaurant-style dishes. With sous vide, precision is paramount – you have control over the cooking temperature, guaranteeing consistent doneness. Bid farewell to undercooked centers and overdone exteriors! What’s more, the sous vide function maintains your desired level of doneness for up to two hours, allowing you ample time for presentation.

Pampered Chef’s Deluxe Multi Cooker isn’t just limited to pressure cooking and sous vide. It caters to a range of culinary needs, including a no-fuss slow cooking feature and a yogurt function. The latter is a remarkable addition that enables you to craft homemade yogurt using just two ingredients and a mere five minutes of hands-on time. Furthermore, the appliance can sterilize bottles and utensils, all without the need to turn on your oven.

Nourishing Benefits of Chicken and Bell Peppers

Chicken, a weeknight staple for many, is not only a delicious protein source but also a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in vitamins and minerals essential for brain function, muscle development, heart health, and bone strength, chicken brings a range of health benefits to the table.

Enhancing the nutritional profile of this dish are bell peppers, which contribute more than just vibrant color. These peppers are known for promoting improved eye health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. With their sweet and tangy flavor, they complement the chicken beautifully, creating a symphony of tastes and nutrients.

The Culinary Enigma: Tuscan-Style Herb Chicken Mix

Ah, the secret sauce that sets this recipe apart – Pampered Chef’s Tuscan-Style Herb Chicken Mix. Enclosed in a convenient package of three, this mix adds a burst of Tuscan flavors to your dishes. And here’s the exciting part – this versatile mix isn’t limited to just this recipe. The packet includes other delightful recipes that can be transformed using this culinary gem.

This Tuscan Herb Chicken Rice Bowl recipe marries the convenience of pressure cooking with the culinary wonders of Pampered Chef’s Deluxe Multi Cooker. The result? A dish that’s not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare, even on your busiest days. Whether you’re a seasoned pressure cooker aficionado or a curious beginner, this recipe opens the door to a world of flavor and efficiency. Be sure to come back for more kitchen adventures, and remember, the joy of cooking lies in the journey and the delightful aromas that fill your home!

Enjoy!

Tuscan-Style Herb Chicken Rice Bowls

Course: Main Course

Servings: servings

Calories: 496kcal

Print Recipe

Equipment

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
½ small white onion
2 bell peppers, any color, seeded
4 cups spinach
1 pound chicken breasts
1 pkg Pampered Chef Tuscan-Style Herb Chicken Mix
¼ cup water
1½ cups long-grain white rice
1½ cups vegetable stock

Instructions

Chop the onion and slice the peppers into ¼-inch slices. Set the pressure cooker to SEAR and heat 1-3 minutes. When hot, add the oil, onions and peppers and sauté 3-4 minutes. Press CANCEL, add the spinach and stir to wilt.
Season the chicken on both sides with the Seasoning Mix and place in the pressure cooker inner bowl on top of the spinach. Sprinkle any remaining seasoning over the chicken and vegetables. Pour in the water.
Set the trivet over the chicken. In the ceramic bowl, place the rice and vegetable and stir to combine. Cover with the lid or foil and place in the cradle and lower onto the trivet.
Secure the lid and select POULTRY and adjust the time to 9 minutes. Press START.
When the timer is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then press the steam release button.
Carefully life the ceramic pot out of the pressure cooker and set aside. Remove the chicken to a cutting board and cover to keep warm.
Return the ceramic pot to the inner pot, secure the lid and select RICE. Press START. Meanwhile, slice the chicken, then cover again to keep warm.
When the timer is up, press the steam release button. Remove the ceramic pot and fluff the rice.
To serve, spoon the rice into bowls. Top with the vegetables and sauce and then top with the chicken.

Notes

SHOP THIS RECIPE BY CLICKING AN IMAGE BELOW:

SHOP THE REST OF MY KITCHEN!

If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you and always do my best to respond to
each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t
forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you
all have made absolutely makes my day!

FOLLOW ME HERE FOR MORE IDEAS:

Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. Colleen Finley is an independent advanced director for Pampered Chef. She earns a commission by linking to products she uses and trusts. If you purchase a product through her website link, your cost will be the same, and Colleen will automatically receive a small commission. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us enrich lives, one meal and one memory at a time!

Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

Nutrition

August 21, 2023August 23, 2023

slicedicedishLeave a comment

UNLEASHING FLAVOR WITH 3 EASY GARLIC PREPARATION TECHNIQUES

Garlic, the aromatic and flavorful superstar of the culinary world, has the power to transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary delights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice home cook, understanding how to leverage the magic of garlic can make a world of difference in your recipes. In this guide, we’ll delve into the three essential methods of incorporating garlic into your dishes, each offering distinct flavors and nuances. From the bold intensity of pressed garlic to the mellow elegance of sliced garlic and the delightful infusion of grated garlic, we’ve got you covered. But first, a word of caution: steer clear of the jarred impostor that is jarlic, for nothing can replace the unparalleled taste of fresh garlic.

Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: jarlic, or jarred garlic, is a culinary compromise you’ll want to avoid. While convenience might lure you in, the truth is that jarlic lacks the authentic flavor of its fresh counterpart. Pasteurization robs it of its true essence, leaving behind a mere shadow of what garlic should be. Worse yet, if the jarlic begins to oxidize, it can infuse an off-putting flavor into your dishes, disrupting the harmony you strive to achieve.Take a glance at the jarlic label, and you might find more than just garlic listed. Stabilizers and additives often make an appearance, raising eyebrows and concerns about what you’re truly consuming. But let’s not dwell on the negatives – instead, let’s focus on the positives of fresh garlic.

Beyond its culinary prowess, garlic boasts an impressive nutritional profile. Low in calories and high in vitamins C and B6, as well as manganese, garlic’s contributions to your well-being extend beyond flavor. This humble bulb even plays a role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes. By lowering high blood pressure and regulating cholesterol levels – including the notorious LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol – garlic demonstrates its multifaceted benefits.

Now that we’ve firmly established the supremacy of fresh garlic, let’s explore the three easy techniques that can elevate your dishes to new heights: pressing, slicing, and grating.

Picture this: you’re in the middle of preparing a recipe that calls for minced garlic. Your hands are clean, and your cutting board is ready. But wait – here’s where the magic of a Garlic Press comes into play. With a garlic press, you can enjoy the intense flavor of fresh garlic without the laborious process of mincing, and without your hands bearing the strong garlic scent for hours. The secret lies in the garlic press’s ability to extract not just the flesh but also the precious garlic juice, intensifying the flavor in your dish.

When you desire a more delicate and subtle garlic presence in your dishes, turn to the art of slicing garlic. A Garlic Slicer is your tool of choice here. Begin by peeling the garlic – a task made simpler with a Garlic Peeler – and then let the slicer work its magic. Sliced garlic is perfect for infusing soups and other dishes where a hint of garlic is all you need. For those feeling adventurous, consider the technique of slow-frying the garlic slices in oil. This process mellows out the flavor, giving your salads and other dishes an added layer of depth.

Last but not least, enter the world of grated garlic, a technique that provides a burst of intense garlic flavor. A zester or microplane is your tool of choice for this method. Grated garlic is the go-to option when your recipe doesn’t involve cooking the garlic, such as in bruschetta or uncooked dips. By grating the garlic, you create a smooth paste that blends harmoniously with the other ingredients, almost melting into them. This technique is a surefire way to infuse your dishes with an elegant and nuanced garlic essence.

With these three easy techniques – pressing, slicing, and grating – at your disposal, you’re equipped to harness the full potential of garlic in your culinary creations. Say goodbye to jarlic and embrace the world of fresh garlic, where the possibilities are as endless as the flavors you can create. From robust intensity to subtle elegance, let garlic be your culinary ally, elevating your dishes to unparalleled heights. So go forth, experiment, and savor the aromatic wonders that garlic brings to your kitchen. Enjoy your garlic-filled journey!

Grab your garlic essentials HERE!

SHOP MY KITCHEN!

Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

June 19, 2023August 17, 2023

slicedicedishLeave a comment

Why You Need Cut & Store Containers

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding ways to simplify our daily routines without compromising on quality has become an important goal. When it comes to food prep and storage, convenience and versatility are key. Enter Pampered Chef’s ingenious creation: the Cut & Store Containers. These revolutionary 2-in-1 kitchen storage companions are not just any containers – they are the ultimate solution for busy individuals seeking to elevate their snacking game. Let’s dive deep into the world of Cut & Store containers, exploring their features, benefits, and the myriad of ways they can enhance your on-the-go experience.

Pampered Chef’s Cut & Store containers are a true necessity for anyone who’s constantly on the move and refuses to compromise on the quality of their snacks. These containers effortlessly combine the functions of a storage container and a cutting board, creating a seamless snacking experience like never before. Imagine having a convenient solution that lets you cut, store, and transport your favorite snacks without the hassle of juggling multiple tools and containers.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, cheering from the soccer field sidelines, or embarking on a road trip, Cut & Store Containers are your trusty companions that will always have your back. These versatile containers are designed to cater to your needs no matter where you are. Need a quick and healthy bite during a long drive? Create a mini charcuterie board right inside the container and enjoy a gourmet treat on the go. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination.

Features That Set Cut & Store Containers Apart

Cutting Board Lids: The standout feature of these containers is undoubtedly their lids that double as cutting boards. This innovative design eliminates the need for separate cutting boards, saving you time, space, and the hassle of cleaning multiple items. With the sturdy cutting board lids, you can easily chop up your fruits, vegetables, and other snack components directly into the container. No more worrying about balancing a cutting board on your lap while snacking at the park!
Durable Design: Built with durability in mind, these containers are made to withstand the demands of your active lifestyle. The sturdy materials ensure that your food remains fresh and intact even during bumpy rides or crowded picnics.
Space-Saving Stackability: Cluttered kitchen counters and fridge shelves are a thing of the past. The Cut & Store Containers are designed to stack neatly on top of each other, optimizing storage space in your kitchen. Say goodbye to the chaotic jumble of mismatched containers.
Generous Capacity: Each container boasts a generous 4-cup capacity, providing ample space. Whether you’re packing sliced fruit, crunchy veggies, or a medley of cheeses and crackers, you’ll have plenty of room to create delightful combinations.
Convenient Care: The Cut & Store Containers are designed to make your life easier, even when it comes to cleaning up. They are refrigerator, dishwasher, and freezer safe, allowing for quick and hassle-free maintenance.

To complete the set, consider adding a Kitchen Paring Knife to your order. This handy tool fits perfectly within the container, ensuring you have everything you need in one compact package. The paring knife is an essential companion for precise cutting and slicing.

In a world where convenience reigns supreme, Pampered Chef’s Cut & Store Containers emerge as a shining example of innovation that truly enhances our daily lives. These 2-in-1 containers effortlessly combine practicality, versatility, and durability, making them a must-have for anyone seeking to make their on-the-go lifestyle easier. From their cutting board lids to their space-saving design, every feature of these containers has been meticulously crafted to provide you with an unparalleled snacking experience. So, the next time you’re packing snacks for an adventure or a quick bite, reach for your trusty Cut & Store Containers – they’ll quickly become your go-to companions for all your snacking escapades.

Grab your Cut & Store Containers HERE!

SHOP THE REST OF MY KITCHEN!

Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

June 12, 2023August 17, 2023

slicedicedishLeave a comment

Why You Need a Veggie Spiralizer

I knew the moment Pampered Chef debuted their version of the Veggie Spiralizer I would be in love. I already had one that I owned for a few years but what drew me to Pampered Chef’s is the fact that it’s vertically loaded vs. horizontally loaded. The one I had previously would wobble due the the weight of the vegetables. With Pampered Chef’s, there is no wobble and it’s very easy to use (and clean!)

The Veggie Spiralizer quickly makes fun, flavorful veggie and fruit “noodles” you can turn into healthy, satisfying meals. The handle makes it easier to spiralize food, a chute that keeps “noodles” from breaking, and the comb handle makes it easy to change blades. Make cucumber ribbons for a salad, sweet potato spaghetti, butternut squash fettuccine… there are endless options!

Plus, there are a bunch of recipes ready to go with your new kitchen toy! You can check out the ebook HERE.

When I began making the switch to spiralized vegetables, I didn’t go 100% vegetable all at once because I thought that would be too much of an immediate transition. So what I did was use equal parts yellow squash and pasta, usually spaghetti or thin spaghetti. That way the meals would have the same texture as pasta but add the boost of more vegetables.

Also, when I use zucchini or yellow squash, I don’t cook them very long. If the sauce I am using is hot, I will let the sauce do the work of cooking the vegetable noodles. If the sauce is cold, I will sauté the vegetable noodles for just about 2 minutes so they don’t get too soft. All other veggie will I cook according to the recipe directions.

Some of my favorite recipe resources for spiralized vegetables, in addition to my recipes of course, are Pampered Chef and Inspiralized.

If you’re ready to add the Veggie Spiralizer to your kitchen, you can grab it HERE!

SHOP THE REST OF MY KITCHEN!

If you make this recipe, please be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made absolutely makes my day!

Everything on this site, recipes and photos belong to the author and any reprints are only by permission of the author.

June 5, 2023May 30, 2023

slicedicedishLeave a comment

Vintage Boston Chocolate Fudge Cake (GF)

I’ve recently become OBSESSED with a vintage cookbook! About 25 years ago, I found the Modern Guide to Better Meals by Jessie Marie DeBoth at an antique store near where my aunt lived in Skaneateles, NY. Over the years I’ve looked through but last week, I picked it up and have been reading it page-by-page and I’m fascinated!

I’m completely intrigued by the simplicity (or so I thought), the lack of seasoning (most recipes only use salt, pepper and on occasion, mace) and the reality that shortening was a major pantry staple. Also, breadcrumbs are not what we think of breadcrumbs in 2023.

This cookbook in particular is two FULL YEARS of daily menus. The forward says in part:

This Calendar of dinners has been prepared as a quick, handy, and accurate reference work for hostesses, home-makers and cook alike; a compendium of what to serve and how to prepare it on special occasions and on any day of the year.

I’m happy to read that these are “special occasion” menus because each is a FULL menu! Salad, protein, vegetable (at least one) and dessert. Cooking one of these full menus would take all day, even with modern conveniences. I couldn’t imagine any individual being able to make these meals day after day and surviving! Many recipe are soufflés (reminder that I need to order a soufflé dish) and ring molds (reminder that I need to order a ring mold too) and appear to take hours.

After getting deeper and deeper into the book, I went online to see what other books Jessie Marie had written. She has many available on Etsy and eBay. Then I found this article with information on Ms DeBoth’s life. I’m mesmerized! And then to read that she was a celebrity chef back when celebrity chef’s weren’t even a thing. Wow! What an inspiration!

I shared with my friends some of the recipes I was found most interesting, including Ginger Ale Salad, Hog Jowls with Poached Eggs, Baked Stuffed Heart, and Broken Stuffing Ring. One of my friends challenged me to make some of the recipes. I shared that with Bill and he agreed that we need to try some… but within reason!

Deciding to start with a dessert, mainly because I had all of the ingredients on hand short of shortening (pun intended), I got out the ingredients and went to work. Remember when you hear over and over to read ALL instructions before beginning to cook or bake? That definitely rings true with this cookbook!

Today’s cookbooks have exact measurements, and clear and linear instructions. That’s not the case with this book, although I’m sure it all made sense “back in the day.”

For example, here are the instructions for this cake recipe:

Blend shortening, salt, soda and vanilla; add sugar and cream thoroughly. Add yolks. Stir in sifted dry ingredients alternately with cream and water. Fold in stiff whites. Bake in greased 10-inch square pan in moderate oven, 350˚F, about 50 minutes. Frost as desired.

Realizing I needed to separate the eggs (not listed as separated in the ingredients list) and needing to beat them to stiff peaks, I opted to do that step first with my electric mixer. Another note: an egg beater is often referenced. I used one once and it was exhausting!

All in all, it took me about an hour to prep the cake batter. Since the instructions were not crystal clear, I found I had to think through the steps a little more than usual. In the end, though, I created a delicious, moist cake that we will definitely make again! Here is the recipe with updated instructions and the ingredients I ended up using.

I did make my own gluten-free cake flour by sifting 14 tablespoons all-purpose gluten free flour (1:1) with 2 tablespoon cornstarch per 1 cup of flour required.

Enjoy!