(Family Features) Putting dinner on the table quickly seems to be a goal more often than not, particularly in today’s sped-up world. However, spending less time cooking doesn’t have to mean sacrificing nutrition or taste.

To enjoy better-for-you meals in the blink of an eye, lean into versatile ingredients prepared without the hassle like Minute Brown Rice & Quinoa Cups. In just 1 minute, you can savor a blend of two 100% whole grains with the crunchiness of red quinoa and chewy texture of brown rice that total 55 grams of whole grains and provide a good source of fiber in each serving.

Packed in single-serve portions, you can eat right out of the BPA-free cup or serve the whole grains as the base of this speedy Sweet Chili Shrimp with Quinoa mixed with succulent shrimp, umami-like flavors from sweet chili sauce and the satisfying flavor and crunch of green onions and chopped peanuts. A delicious dish that’s filling without the fuss, this recipe is ready in less than 5 minutes to save time without relying on takeout.

Switch up your family’s stir-fry routine with this savory version of Whole Grain Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry made with rice, quinoa, vegetables, rotisserie chicken and a blend of soy sauce and sesame oil. This simple meal is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to save time without skimping on taste.

Ready to complement the succulent chicken and sesame-infused veggies, Minute Instant Rice & Quinoa offers a blend of four whole-grain ingredients: brown rice, red rice, wild rice and quinoa. Available in four convenient, pre-portioned, two-serving bags, it cooks in just 10 minutes for light, fluffy and delicious nutty flavor for recipe versatility from breakfast to dessert so you can rely on it as a family favorite for less time cooking and more time enjoying meals and moments together.

To find more quick, nutritious dinner solutions, visit MinuteRice.com.

Sweet Chili Shrimp with Quinoa

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 2 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 Minute Brown Rice & Quinoa Cup
• 4 ounces (1/2 cup) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup frozen Asian-style mixed vegetables, thawed
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
• 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts

1. Heat rice and quinoa cup according to package directions. In small, microwave-safe bowl, combine shrimp and vegetables. Microwave on high 30 seconds.
2. Stir in sweet chili sauce. Blend well.
3. Serve shrimp mixture over rice topped with green onions and peanuts.

Whole Grain Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry

Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Servings: 3-4

• 1 bag Minute Instant Rice & Quinoa
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil, divided
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups rotisserie cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups frozen, Asian-style mixed vegetables, thawed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

1. Prepare rice and quinoa according to package directions, substituting broth for water.
2. In medium wok or skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil. Add eggs and, using spatula, quickly soft scramble. Continue stirring eggs until light and fluffy. Remove from pan and reserve.
3. Add remaining sesame oil to wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry 2 minutes.
4. Add chicken and vegetables; stir-fry 2 minutes, or until heated through. Fold in rice and quinoa, eggs and soy sauce.

 Source: Minute Rice

(Family Features) If winter evenings have you stuck in a dinner rut, heat up the kitchen with family favorites everyone can look forward to. Shaking off the chill can start with a cozy blanket and comforting food that warms you from the inside out.

Soup is a wintertime staple thanks to its simplicity, and you can put a delicious spin on your next winter warmup with Mexican-inspired ingredients. Giving soup night a twist starts with Cacique Foods, one of the country’s top authentic Mexican food brands, that invites friends and family to share real moments while savoring authentic flavors.

This Smoky Chorizo and Chicken Pozole relies on the bold, hearty, spicy taste of Cacique’s Pork Chorizo combined with handcrafted Homestyle Salsa. Queso Fresco’s crumbly, creamy texture and milky, fresh flavor adds the perfect finishing touch, making this soup a perfect way to warm up weeknights with just the right amount of heat.

For a flavorful side that complements a variety of main courses while adding Mexican flair, consider Mexican Loaded Mashed Potatoes. This recipe is a familiar favorite with the unique twist of bacon and Pork Chorizo for a meat-infused recipe that will become a menu mainstay.

Plus, for an extra creamy texture, it calls for Cacique Crema Mexicana – an everyday table cream with a neutral, fresh-tasting flavor ideal for balancing out spice – and Oaxaca, a semisoft cheese with a mellow, buttery flavor.

Find more comforting recipes at caciquefoods.com.

Smoky Chorizo and Chicken Pozole

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large white or yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional, to taste (optional)
• 1 package (9 ounces) Cacique Pork Chorizo
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• 1 container (16 ounces) Cacique Medium Homestyle Salsa
• 1quart chicken stock
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, trimmed of excess fat and diced
• 1 can (25 ounces) white hominy, drained and rinsed
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 3/4 cup crumbled Cacique Ranchero Queso Fresco
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro

1. In large, heavy pot over medium heat, heat oil. Reserve 1/4 cup onion for garnish; add remaining onion to pot and season with salt. Saute until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Increase heat to medium-high; add pork chorizo and break it apart with spoon. Cook chorizo undisturbed until deeply browned and cooked through, 3-5 minutes. Add smoked paprika and oregano; cook 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in salsa and scrape up browned bits from bottom of pan. Bring to simmer 1-2 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly then add stock and bring to simmer.
4. Stir in diced chicken and hominy. Decrease heat to medium and cook 8-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through. Taste and season with more salt, if necessary. Remove from heat.
5. Serve bowls of pozole with reserved onion, lime wedges, crumbled queso fresco and chopped cilantro.

Mexican Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Prep time: 35 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Servings: 10

• 3 pounds russet potatoes (about 9 medium potatoes), peeled and cubed
• water
• 6 bacon strips, chopped
• 1 package Cacique Pork Chorizo
• 12 ounces Cacique Crema Mexicana
• 1/2 cup butter, cubed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup Cacique Oaxaca or Queso Quesadilla, shredded
• 1/2 cup Cacique Crema Mexicana Agria, for topping (optional)
• 3 green onions, chopped

1. In Dutch over, add potatoes and cover with water. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; cook, uncovered, 10-15 minutes, or until tender.
2. In skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels, chop into small pieces and set aside. Remove bacon grease from skillet and cook chorizo over medium-high heat, 6-8 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes; add to pan. Mash potatoes, gradually adding crema Mexicana, butter, onion powder, salt, garlic powder and pepper. Transfer to greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish; sprinkle with cheese, chorizo and bacon. Refrigerate, covered, up to 1 day.
4. Preheat oven to 350 F. Remove potatoes from refrigerator and let stand while oven heats. Bake, covered, about 30 minutes. Uncover; bake 10 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Drizzle with crema Mexicana agria and chopped green onions.

 Source: Cacique

(Family Features) When the winds howl and the chill of changing seasons brings a crispness to the air, one way to warm up from the inside out is with favorite foods. Filling up on comforting recipes like hearty soups and stews can be the solution you need to fight off cold temperatures.

Consider quick and easy ingredients that add a little warmth to your plate as the cravings for comfort kick in.

Cheese
A family favorite in recipes year-round, ooey-gooey cheese is a hallmark of cool-weather recipes. Consider creamy mac and cheese mixed with your preferred protein, homemade Mexican cuisine topped with melted chile con queso or an appetizer plate with options like brie, Manchego, aged cheddar, Parmesan and more.

Rice
If you’re craving a meal that’s big on flavor but short on prep time, it’s hard to top the classic comfort food combo of chicken and rice. This Parmesan Chicken and Rice with Spinach and Artichoke starts with the homestyle taste of fully cooked Minute Chicken & Herb Seasoned Rice Cups with carrots, onion and garlic. The BPA-free cups offer a quick and flavorful option for an on-the-go power-up loaded with chicken, vegetables and herbs paired with hearty rice. Ready in only 1 minute, you can enjoy the flavored rice right out of the cup or prepare it as part of this 5-minute recipe on a busy weeknight.

Pasta
Whether you prefer spaghetti or penne, bowtie or stuffed shells, pasta provides a simple base for delicious meals loaded with comforting ingredients. For an easy weeknight meal, just choose a type of pasta, sauce and protein to put dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less.

Curry Paste
Available in many varieties, curry paste is a common ingredient in South Asian dishes. It typically consists of ingredients like garlic, chiles or peppers, ginger and lemongrass. When you’d like to add some spice to your menu without bothering with takeout, this Thai Chicken and Rice Soup calls for green curry paste, which is generally spicier than red or yellow versions, but any can be substituted based on your heat tolerance. You can take the dish up a level with lightly seasoned Minute Cilantro & Lime Jasmine Rice for zesty flavor in a BPA-free, microwaveable cup for a simple solution when life gets hectic and preparing a time-consuming meal becomes challenging.

Cayenne
Serving up a touch of spice in a wide variety of favorite recipes can be as easy as adding ground cayenne. Made of dried cayenne peppers finely ground to a powder, it’s commonly used in dishes ranging from deviled eggs and pastas to shrimp and barbecue as an easy way to add a warming kick to cold-weather meals.

Find more comfort food recipes at MinuteRice.com.

Parmesan Chicken and Rice with Spinach and Artichoke

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 Minute Chicken & Herb Seasoned Rice Cup
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup spinach, stems removed
• 2 ounces chicken, cooked and shredded
• 1/4 cup canned artichokes, drained and quartered
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1. Heat rice according to package directions.
2. In medium saute pan over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add spinach and saute 1 minute.
3. Add chicken and artichokes; saute 2 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Add cheese and rice; stir to combine until heated through.

Thai Chicken and Rice Soup

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 Minute Ready to Serve Cilantro & Lime Jasmine Rice Cup
• 1/2 cup (3 ounces) cooked rotisserie chicken, chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon Thai green curry paste
• 3 small shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

1. Heat rice according to package directions.
2. In medium, microwave-safe bowl, combine chicken, broth, coconut milk, curry paste and mushrooms.
3. Microwave on high 3 minutes. Stir in rice and garnish with green onion.

Source: Minute Rice

(Family Features) Before the end zone dances and sideline celebrations, settling in for a winning game day experience starts with delicious foods. Whether your football parties take place at home, in the backyard or right outside the stadium, kicking it off with savory appetizers can get the crowd on its feet.

Keep your game plan simple this season and light up the scoreboard with fan favorites like dips and wings. These versions are both easy to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh or made in advance and kept warm or reheated to energize your fellow diehards.

Visit Culinary.net to find more touchdown-worthy tailgate recipes.

Add Savory Spice to Game Day Celebrations

Powering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat.

This Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip is a perfect solution for firing up your crowd as it requires little preparation so you save precious time before kickoff. Whether you bake shortly before the game begins or make it ahead of time for a parking lot party, simply keep it warm and serve with chips or veggie sticks for a quick, shareable appetizer.

Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip

Servings: 3-4

• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, plus additional for topping, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 heavy pinch dried dill
• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 2 green onions, chopped
• blue cheese crumbles
• chips
• vegetable sticks

1. Heat oven to 400 F.
2. In bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and dried dill until combined. Add hot sauce; mix until combined.
3. Transfer mixture from bowl to oven-safe dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, to taste.
4. Bake until cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes.
5. Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onion.
6. Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks.

Score a Touchdown with a Game Day Dip

One of the best ways to take tailgating to the next level this season is by making healthier versions of classic game day fare. For example, you can be the MVP of your game day gathering with a delicious, hall-of-fame-worthy appetizer. Call an audible by using fresh, easy and healthy ingredients to make it better for you and score extra points with family and friends.

This Game Day Taco Dip takes fan-favorite flavors – beef, refried beans, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes and black olives – and adds a twist with the Fresh Express Butter Supreme Salad kit. This tasty, colorful blend of green butter lettuce, red butter lettuce, radicchio and baby chard is available in the refrigerated produce department and is perfect for creating healthier versions of beloved tailgating dips, snacks, finger foods and more.

Visit FreshExpress.com to discover more winning game day recipe ideas and find a retailer near you.

Game Day Taco Dip

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 12

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 package (1 ounce) taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans, zesty salsa flavor
• 1 jar (16 ounces) thick and chunky salsa, medium or hot
• 2 cups guacamole
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3 packages (5 ounces each) Fresh Express Butter Supreme
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
• 1 can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained
• 1 package (14 ounces) tortilla chips

1. In skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef 5 minutes, or until no longer pink. Sprinkle with taco seasoning; mix well. Add water; cook 2 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Transfer to bowl; cool to room temperature. Add cilantro; mix well.
2. In 9-inch pie plate, evenly spread refried beans; top with seasoned ground beef and salsa. Add spoonfuls of guacamole across top of salsa then carefully spread to smooth.
3. Place sour cream in small resealable bag; cut off corner. Pipe sour cream to create football shape on guacamole.
4. Put pie plate in center of 15-by-18-inch tray. Arrange salad blend around pie plate. Top with cheddar cheese, tomatoes and olives. Serve with tortilla chips.

Just Wing It

Skip the silverware at your next homegate and dive right in with a fan favorite that requires just your hands and a heap of napkins: wings.

Whether you pick through your pieces or clean each wing to the bone, these Game Day Chicken Wings are perfect for eaters of all types. A simple flour-based coating keeps the recipe easy to make and baking in the oven means you can skip the messy fryer or firing up the grill.

Cook until crispy then corral your party’s favorite dipping sauces from ranch and blue cheese to barbecue and more. Once your spread is served, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the game.

Game Day Chicken Wings

Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1/2 cup butter, cubed
• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 10 chicken wingettes, thawed
• dipping sauces (optional)
• fresh parsley (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. Line baking sheet with foil. Arrange butter cubes on foil.
3. In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
4. Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture then evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet.
5. Bake wings 30 minutes.
6. Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked.
7. Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired.

Source: Fresh Express

(Family Features) For many looking to make healthy dietary changes, weight loss is a primary concern. Because the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend 45-65% of daily calories come from carbohydrates, an eating plan like the ketogenic diet (or keto, for short), which involves consuming a low amount of carbs and replacing them with healthy fats, can be a popular choice for achieving weight loss goals.

Replacing carb intake with fat can put your body in a metabolic state called ketosis, which makes you more efficient at burning fat for energy. The keto diet can also help reduce blood sugar and insulin levels and lower risk for certain diseases.

Those following the keto eating plan typically significantly reduce or avoid consuming bread, pasta, rice and baked goods, which are all traditionally high in carbohydrates. However, Toufayan Bakeries introduced a line of keto-friendly wraps, pitas and flatbreads that are high in fiber and protein while containing no sugar and being lower in carbs than traditional bread.

“We take great pride in baking our family’s favorite breads for families across the U.S.,” said Karen Toufayan, VP of marketing for Toufayan. “Across the country, people following the keto diet have been missing their favorite bread products. We are thrilled to introduce Toufayan’s first line of keto-friendly breads and hope they love them as much as we do.”

Try serving these satisfyingly light solutions as the base ingredients in these delicious recipes for a Keto Egg and Sausage Flatbread or Keto Enchilada Quesadilla from chef George Duran.

Find more recipes to support a ketogenic eating plan at Toufayan.com.

Keto Enchilada Quesadilla

Recipe courtesy of chef George Duran
Yield: 1 quesadilla

• Rotisserie chicken, pulled and chopped
• enchilada Sauce
• olive oil
• Toufayan Bakeries Keto Wraps
• Tex-Mex cheese, grated
• jarred or fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced
• cilantro, chopped
• salsa, for serving

1. In bowl, mix pulled chicken and enchilada sauce until fully covered. Set aside.
2. Spray or brush olive on both sides of keto wrap and place on nonstick pan or skillet over medium heat. Once wrap is heated on one side, flip and heavily top entire wrap with grated cheese. Allow cheese to melt then disperse chicken mixture, sliced jalapenos and chopped cilantro on half of wrap. Fold wrap over ingredients and cook until quesadilla is golden brown on both sides.
3. Cut into three triangles and serve with salsa.

Keto Egg and Sausage Flatbread

Yield: 1 flatbread

• 1 Toufayan Keto Flatbread
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cooked sausage links (approximately 2 ounces each), cut into pieces
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

1. Preheat oven to broil.
2. On foil-lined baking sheet, place flatbread and top with mozzarella cheese; add sausage pieces and bell pepper.
3. Crack egg in center of flatbread and broil 5-8 minutes, or until egg is cooked to desired firmness.
4. Remove from oven and top with chives.
5. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve.

Nutritional information per serving (1 flatbread): 435 calories; 29.1 g protein; 25.6 g fat; 8.6 net carbs.

Source: Toufayan

(Family Features) As you plan your summer fun, think also about adopting healthy habits that can help keep your blood pressure under control. When your blood pressure is consistently high – a condition called hypertension – blood flows through arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. This can cause serious health problems not just for your heart, but also for your blood vessels, kidneys, eyes and brain.

Hypertension affects women and men of all ages but making small lifestyle changes can go a long way toward prevention. Start with updating your summer menu with delicious, heart-healthy recipes, like Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.  

Following a heart-healthy eating plan, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), which emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, low-fat dairy and healthy oils, can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range. Developed through research by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), DASH focuses on reducing sodium and limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, including fatty meats, full-fat dairy and tropical oils.

Along with adding healthy recipes to your summer menu, NHLBI’s The Heart Truth program encourages these healthy habits that can help you control blood pressure:

Move more: Aim for at least 150 minutes (2 1/2 hours) of physical activity each week. Try keeping yourself on pace each week by shooting for 30 daily minutes of activity over five days.

Aim for a healthy weight: Research shows adults with overweight and obesity can lower their blood pressure by losing just 3-5% of their weight. Ask a friend or family member to join a weight loss program with you; social support can help you both stay motivated.

Manage stress: Reduce stress – which can increase blood pressure – with meditation, relaxing activities or support from a counselor or online group.

Quit smoking: Smoking damages your heart and blood vessels. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or find other resources available online.

Get your summer off to a heart-healthy start by talking to your health care provider about your blood pressure numbers and what they mean. To learn more about heart health and blood pressure, visit hearttruth.gov and find DASH-friendly recipes at healthyeating.nhlbi.nih.gov.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken

Recipe courtesy of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Sauce:

• 2          tablespoons ketchup
• 2          tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2          tablespoons honey
• 2          teaspoons orange juice
• 1          teaspoon garlic (about 1 clove), minced
• 1          teaspoon ginger, minced

• 12        ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 large breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 24 cubes)
• 1          cup fresh pineapple, diced (about 24 pieces)
• 8          wooden skewers (6 inches each), soaked in water

1. To make sauce: Combine ketchup, soy sauce, honey, orange juice, garlic and ginger; mix well. Separate into two bowls and set aside.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Preheat oven to 350 F.
3. Alternately thread three chicken cubes and three pineapple chunks on each skewer.
4. Grill skewers 3-5 minutes on each side. Brush or spoon sauce from one bowl onto chicken and pineapple every other minute. Discard remaining sauce from first bowl.
5. To prevent chicken from drying out, finish cooking to minimum internal temperature of 165 F in oven. Using clean brush or spoon, coat with sauce from remaining bowl before serving.

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

(Family Features) Many families crave those memorable moments together at the dinner table, and in spite of frenetic schedules and seemingly never-ending to-do lists, there are easy ways to make those meals a reality. Take the challenge out of bringing everyone together with a simple yet special recipe made for sharing.

This flavorful French Onion Baked Chicken can become a family favorite and weekly menu staple, and with 6-8 servings, it’s perfect for seconds or saving to reheat for weekday lunches. Sweet, jammy, caramelized onions are placed atop juicy chicken breasts and baked to tender deliciousness for an aroma that brings loved ones running to grab a plate.

Starring TX1015 Sweet Onions, this tasty meal relies on their mild sweetness, appetizing caramelization and versatility without the bite compared to other onion varieties. Available from early-spring through mid-summer, the varying climates of Texas allow for a range of growing seasons: March-June in deep south areas and May-July in the south-central region.

Take advantage of your opportunity to add sweet flavor to family meals this year by finding more recipe ideas at tx1015.com.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

French Onion Baked Chicken

Recipe courtesy of South Texas Onions
Servings: 6-8

• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 4          boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Caramelized Onions:

• 2          tablespoons butter
• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 3          medium sweet onions, sliced
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 2          sprigs fresh thyme
• 3          garlic cloves, minced
• 1          tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1          tablespoon Worcestershire
• 2/3       cup beef broth
• 2          teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1          cup shredded mozzarella, gruyere or fontina cheese

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. In large pan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Sear chicken breasts 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove from pan.
2. To make caramelized onions: In separate pan over medium-high heat, heat butter and olive oil. Once butter is melted and bubbling, add onions. Let sit 5 minutes.
3. Turn heat to low and cover onions. Cook 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Stir in salt, fresh thyme and garlic; cover onions. Cook 10 minutes.
5. Stir in balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire, beef broth and Dijon mustard. Cover and cook 10-15 minutes, or until onions are brown and jammy. Stir onions every 10 minutes.
6. Place chicken breasts in greased baking dish. Top with onions then cheese. Place any additional onions in bottom of dish.
7. Bake 30-35 minutes, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165 F.

Source: South Texas Onions

(Family Features) Cool, crisp days call for comfort foods, like the classic flavors of traditional Italian cooking. Whether you’re Italian by heritage or simply by heart, learning the art of Italian cuisine may be easier than you may think.

Perfect your pasta game. Limp, mushy, overcooked pasta can ruin an otherwise delicious Italian dish. Aim for al dente pasta, which is soft but still firm. It’s important to note variables like the type of pasta, size of your pot and amount of water can all affect cooking time. Treat the package instructions as a guide and start taste testing 1-2 minutes before you expect it to be done.

Be choosy about your ingredients. Many of the best Italian dishes are incredibly simple, so it’s important to select quality ingredients that allow the flavors to really stand out. Made in Italy, Bertolli d’Italia sauces are available in premium red and white varieties to elevate the at-home culinary experience and bring the authentic and delicious flavors of Italy to your table. Every jar reflects more than 150 years of authentic Italian culinary tradition using high-quality ingredients like tomatoes vine-ripened under the Italian sun, finely aged Italian cheeses, fresh cream and Mediterranean olive oil.

Give seasonings time to simmer. Great things come to those who wait. That’s why the best Italian chefs sample their sauces along the way, adding and adjusting until the taste is just right. Then, they allow the ingredients to simmer together to create a perfectly balanced harmony of flavors.

Experiment with proteins and veggies. For many Italian recipes, you can create an entirely new dish by adding or swapping the protein and adding fresh produce. Try introducing juicy strips of grilled chicken and fresh, steamed broccoli to an alfredo pasta like this Cavatelli with Cacio e Pepe Sauce. Or, if you’re a seafood lover, reimagine this Fresh Tomato Bruschetta Chicken by swapping in a mild white fish like halibut, cod or snapper.

Get cozy in your kitchen this fall with more comforting recipes at Bertolli.com.

Cavatelli with Cacio e Pepe Sauce

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

• Salt, to taste
• 1          box dry Cavatelli pasta
• 1          jar (16.9 ounces) Bertolli d’Italia Cacio e Pepe Sauce
• 1          cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, or to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1. Bring large pot of cold water to boil. Salt water heavily.
2. Cook dry pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Strain pasta, reserving pasta water.
3. In large saucepan over low heat, warm pasta sauce 3-5 minutes. Add 1-2 tablespoons pasta water.
4. Transfer cooked pasta to saucepan.
5. Stir and toss pasta approximately 30 seconds over medium heat to integrate it with sauce. Add pasta water as needed for creamier texture.
6. Plate pasta and top with finely grated Pecorino Romano and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

Fresh Tomato Bruschetta Chicken

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 28 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1/3       cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 3          tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil, plus additional, for garnish
• 3          cloves garlic, minced
• 2          teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2       teaspoon dried oregano
• 6          thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets (about 1 1/2 pounds)
• 1          large onion, thinly sliced
• 1          jar (24.7 ounces) Bertolli d’Italia Marinara Sauce
• 2          cups multi-colored grape tomatoes, halved
• 2          stems cherry tomatoes on the vine
• 1/2       cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2          tablespoons balsamic glaze

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. In small bowl, whisk olive oil, basil, garlic, salt, pepper and oregano until combined. Combine 2 tablespoons oil mixture and chicken in resealable plastic bag. Let stand 5-10 minutes at room temperature to marinate.
3. In medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil mixture over medium heat. Add onions; cook 3-4 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Stir in marinara sauce. Pour mixture into lightly greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Arrange chicken breasts in dish, overlapping if necessary. Top with grape tomatoes and cherry tomato stems. Spoon remaining oil mixture over tomatoes.
4. Bake, covered, 25 minutes, or until chicken is done (165 F) and tomatoes start to burst. Sprinkle with Parmesan, drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

(Family Features) Sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal with loved ones is something to look forward to and preparing such a meal can be easier than you think. Simple touches that add some flair make all the difference. For example, adding grapes as a signature ingredient adds a unique color and flavor accent that turns everyday meals into something special.

As a highly versatile addition to appetizers, snacks, main courses, sides and desserts, Grapes from California are an essential ingredient to keep on hand. In this Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with Grapes, Carrots and Parsnips, the grapes – thanks to their delicate sweetness and juicy texture – enhance the savory chicken and earthy vegetables and bring all the flavors together for a delicious meal.

Visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com to find more sweet recipes fit for family gatherings.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner with Grapes, Carrots and Parsnips

Servings: 4

•             Nonstick cooking spray (optional)
• 2          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 1/2    teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 1/4    teaspoons turmeric
• 1/2       teaspoon sea salt
• 2          large garlic cloves, minced
• 4          bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed and visible fat trimmed
• 2          medium onions, sliced 1/3-inch thick
• 3          carrots, peeled and cut in 2-by-1/2-inch sticks
• 2          medium parsnips, peeled and cut in 2-by-1/2-inch sticks
• freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 1/4    cups red Grapes from California

1. Heat oven to 400 F with rack in center. Line shallow baking sheet (10-by-15 inches or 11-by-17 inches) with parchment paper or foil. If using foil, spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In large bowl, stir oil, cumin, turmeric, salt and garlic. Add chicken, turning to coat, then transfer smooth side up to baking sheet. Add onions, carrots and parsnips to bowl and toss in remaining spiced oil then distribute around chicken on baking sheet. Season with freshly ground pepper, to taste.
3. Roast chicken and vegetables 25 minutes. Sprinkle grapes over vegetables and roast about 5 minutes until juices run clear when chicken is pierced with tip of small, sharp knife.
4. Note: For softer roasted grapes, add to pan earlier.
5. Nutritional information per serving: 410 calories; 31 g protein; 34 g carbohydrates; 17 g fat (37% calories from fat); 3.5 g saturated fat (8% calories from saturated fat); 155 mg cholesterol; 470 mg sodium; 6 g fiber.

Source: California Table Grape Commission

(Culinary.net) Powering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat.

This Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip is a perfect solution for firing up your crowd as it requires little preparation so you save precious time before kickoff. Whether you bake shortly before the game begins or make it ahead of time for a parking lot party, simply keep it warm and serve with chips or veggie sticks for a quick, shareable appetizer.

Find more ways to turn up the heat on game day at Culinary.net.

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Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip
Servings: 3-4

• 2          cups shredded chicken
• 8          ounces cream cheese
• 1/2       cup sour cream
• 1 1/2    cups sharp cheddar cheese, plus additional for topping, divided
• 1/2       teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1          heavy pinch dried dill
• 1/2       cup hot sauce
• 2          green onions, chopped
• blue cheese crumbles
• chips
• vegetable sticks

1. Heat oven to 400 F.
2. In bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and dried dill until combined. Add hot sauce; mix until combined.
3. Transfer mixture from bowl to oven-safe dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, to taste.
4. Bake until cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes.
5. Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onion.
6. Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks.

Source: Culinary.net