Lightened-Up Chicken and Waffles

Most people are familiar with chicken and waffles, or at least heard of it.  I love chicken and waffles but I don’t really make it because it’s really not great for you...until now.  I was so happy with the way my OMG Oven Fried Chicken came out that I decided to give it a healthy re-vamp!  If you have never tried it you must give it a shot…if you have had it before you NEED to have this version.  It hits all the same sweet and savory spots but is much healthier.  Typically you would have this with maple syrup (the fake kind) but I prefer it with either 100% pure maple syrup or honey.  

• 1 Recipe of OMG Oven Fried Chicken (or your favorite fried chicken)
• ½ Cup 100% Pure Maple Syrup or Honey (I really love honey with this one!)

Cornbread Waffles:

• ¾ Cup Cornmeal
• ¾ Cup Flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons Baking Powder
• ½ teaspoon Baking Soda
• ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 ½ Cups Buttermilk

First: prepare the chicken and make the waffles while that is cooking.

Second: whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, eggs, and buttermilk until just combined.

Third:  cook the waffles according to your waffle iron instructions

Finally: serve it up how you like, I am good with one waffle and one piece of chicken cut in half and stacked…drizzle with syrup or honey and EAT!

I like the OMG Oven Fried Chicken with breadcrumbs for this one.  I mentioned before that I make my own bread crumbs and this is one PERFECT use for them!  Just save your money and throw some aging bread in your food processor and pulse until you have crumbs! Works great and I prefer them over the stale crap in the store.  Anyway, try this recipe…it is so good!  That classic savory/sweet combination is the highlight and the texture of the crispy, juicy chicken and savory cornbread waffles…YUM!

Blackberry Smoothie

Everyone likes a smoothie, at least from time to time.  I love smoothies almost as a complete meal replacement or just as part of a meal.  The great thing about smoothies is they are so versatile and so easy to make.  If you want to make a full meal out of it you will just need some protein and fiber.  Add protein powder, tofu, or yogurt for protein.  For fiber the, PERFECT addition would be psyllium powder (husks).  I do like to supplement with smoothies because of the fact that I love to eat.  It keeps me feeling less guilty, less bloated, and more healthful! (Note: this recipe is for one pretty good sized smoothie…feel free to double it if you are sharing!)

• 1 Large Banana (for sweetness and thickness)
• 1 Cup Frozen Blackberries
• 1 Cup Milk (I use soy, coconut, etc…whatever I have on hand)
• ½ teaspoon Cinnamon

First: add all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth and thick. 

Finally: drink up!  It’s that easy…the hardest part of this is cleaning your blender.

How simple is that?!  I know it is not much, but that’s the point!  I think it is important to think about health and what we are eating.  If you like to indulge from time to time as I do then you will benefit greatly from incorporating smoothies into your life OFTEN.  I try to have at least one smoothie a day.  I prefer tofu or yogurt for protein if I am going that route rather than protein powder…I feel it is more natural and less processed so easier for your body to utilize it. 

If you are having a smoothie for breakfast and do not want to add the extras then you should get your protein and fiber another way.  An excellent way is to have a slice of whole grain toast with a tablespoon of natural peanut butter…a low-carb way to complete a meal is to just get your protein – have a stick of string cheese or a hard-boiled egg!  Use your imagination and stay healthy!

Peanut Butter and Banana Waffles

Peanut Butter and Bananas is a combination that many people love.  I thought about this and had to give it a try in a waffle.  It is actually more decadent and rich than your average waffle.  To keep it from weighing a ton I add chopped banana instead of making it part of the batter.  I have included my peanut butter syrup recipe if you want to try it or you could use your favorite syrup. 

• 2 Cups Whole Wheat Flour
• 1 Tablespoon Baking Powder
• 1 ¾ Cup Almond Milk (or whatever milk you want to use)
• 1/3 Cup Peanut Butter
• 2 Eggs
• 3 Tablespoons Sugar
• 2 Bananas, chopped

Peanut Butter Syrup

• ¼ Cup Brown Sugar
• ¼ Cup Tablespoons 100% Pure Maple Syrup (NOT the fake syrup!)
• ¼ Cup Peanut Butter (I used chunky style)

First, put flour, baking powder, milk, peanut butter, eggs, and sugar in a bowl and mix to combine.  Fold in the chopped banana.

Second, cook the waffles according to your waffle iron instruction.  I just cook it until the light turns on…done!

Third, to make the syrup bring all of the ingredients to a bubble in a small saucepan or skillet, whisk together, cook until sugar is dissolved (about 1 or 2 minutes).  The syrup will thicken as it cools down.  Note: add a little water or milk to thin it out if the consistency is too thick for your liking. 

Finally, serve one or two waffles on a plat topped with slices of banana and some warm peanut butter syrup, and enjoy!

If you wanted to go all out you could give it a little drizzle of chocolate syrup!  This is one of those waffles that can be dessert if you like.  I love these waffles and was really pleased at how they turned out.  This is just another use (or excuse to use) your waffle iron!  

Decadent Rice and Eggs

I love rice with and egg as a go to meal because it is quick and is an amazing combination.  I’ve had this many different ways and at many different times of day/night.  This one is just something I threw together to use some leftover items in my fridge.  I always have some rice in the fridge as well as eggs, of course.  It is kind of a two-for-one recipe too as I include my recipe for a quick guacamole! Try this for breakfast, brunch, dinner…whenever you want it’s a perfect quick meal!

• 2 Cups Cooked Rice (any kind you want)
• 4 Large Eggs, poached or fried to your liking
• 2 Slices of Provolone Cheese
• ¼ Cup Salsa (use whatever you like, but I prefer chipotle salsa here)

Quick Guacamole:

• 2 Large Avocados
• 1 Lime
• 1 Jalapeño, chopped
• 1 Medium Tomato, seeded and diced
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt

First, to make the guacamole, scoop out from skin and mash it in a bowl.  Add the juice of ½ to 1 lime (to your liking), jalapeno, tomato, and salt…that’s it!  I usually leave the tomatoes out of my guacamole but I like them in this dish

Second, cook the eggs however you like.  Top each egg with a ½ slice of provolone just before it is finished cooking.  I cook mine in a little olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat for about 2 minutes and then flip it for just a minute.  

Finally, serve rice on a plate, top with a quarter of the guacamole, add the egg, and spoon a little salsa over the top.  I like to mold my rice in a small ramekin because I like how it looks! 

Many people haven’t thought about having an egg on some rice before but trust me it is great!  Once I was introduced to it I was hooked.  I tried it with many different types of rice and it has been just great every time!  

Pineapple Upside-Down Waffles

Waffles are super easy and this one is one of my absolute favorites.  As a bonus I have included my Pineapple Syrup recipe.  I am always inspired by a memory or what I see on television or from whatever.  I thought how much I love pineapple upside-down cake and why not do it in a waffle so I can have the same flavors and get it much faster!  I have been obsessed with my waffle iron so here is the offspring of my latest inspiration!

• 2 Cups Whole Wheat Flour
• 1 Tablespoon Baking Powder
• 1 Cup Milk or Water (Coconut Milk works great here!)
• ¾ Cup Pineapple Juice
• 1/3 Cup Oil (I used Coconut Oil but you can use whatever you like)
• 2 Eggs
• 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 8 Pineapple Rings (I just get the canned in juice so I can use the juice!)
• 8 Maraschino Cherries (my favorite part)

Easy Pineapple Syrup

• ½ Cup Brown Sugar
• 3 Tablespoons 100% Pure Maple Syrup (NOT the fake syrup!)
• ½ Cup Pineapple Juice

First, put flour, baking powder, milk, juice, oil, eggs, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a large bowl and whisk until JUST combined…do not over-mix. NOTE: if you prefer to use your favorite waffle recipe feel free…just replace some of the liquid with pineapple juice and add some cinnamon.

Second, place a pineapple ring in the center of each square and then a cherry in the hole of the pineapple.  Spoon the batter over and spread over the iron to cover.  Cook until golden brown and cooked through.    I just cook it until the light turns on…done!

Third, make the syrup while the waffles are cooking by bringing all ingredients to a bubble in a small saucepan or skillet, whisk together, cook until sugar is dissolved (about 1 or 2 minutes).  The syrup will thicken as it cools down. 

Finally, serve one or two waffles on a plate, top with some warm pineapple syrup, and enjoy!

I love this for breakfast or dessert!  You could even top it with some whipped cream or ice cream if you like for a little more indulgence.  It’s very reminiscent of a pineapple upside-down cake but it is MUCH quicker.  Give them a shot and you will be hooked too!      

Baked Banana Oatmeal

Oatmeal can be really easy but very boring.  Try mixing it up a little.  I do this when I have a little time and get into my baking mode.  I feel like I should do more than just one thing if I am going to turn my oven on so what the heck right?!  This oatmeal is really good for you and can be made and eaten right away or ahead of time for a quick breakfast.  I usually have one right away and save the rest for later. 

• 4 Bananas
• 2 eggs
• 1 ½ Cups Vanilla Soy Milk
• ½ Cup Honey or 100% PURE Maple Syrup
• 1 ½ Cups Old Fashioned Oats
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• ¼ - ½ teaspoon of Nutmeg (I freshly grate mine)
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder

Toppings (as shown):

1 large or 2 medium apples, diced

2 Tablespoons unsweetened Coconut

¼ - ½ Cup Natural Almonds

Honey or Maple Syrup for drizzling

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

First, mash the bananas and mix in eggs, soy milk, and honey until blended. 

Second, add oats, cinnamon, and baking powder to wet mixture and combine thoroughly.  Divide among 4 small oven-proof bowls.  I used my small cereal bowls. 

Finally, bake for about 30 – 40 minutes until just set…center will be softer and kind of creamy in consistency!  Delicious!

This is super easy, versatile, and inexpensive to make.  You can make smaller portions if you like…just cook it a little less.  I like to change up the toppings and making it a little different every time.  Use your imagination and you can’t go wrong.  If you make it ahead for breakfast throughout the week just make a double batch and throw some plastic wrap over the bowl once it is cooled and keep it in the fridge.  Just heat it up for 1 ½ - 2 minutes in the microwave and there you have it!  I like to put my toppings on before I reheat it so everything is nice and warm.  Enjoy!

Mexican-Style Open-Faced Breakfast Sandwich

The flavors of Latin American cooking are well pronounced in this dish. The spices, heat, textures…all make many Latin American dishes among my favorites.  This dish is in homage to Latin American Cuisine and particularly some of the tasty Mexican flavors I love.  This is a 3-in-one recipe that I know you will LOVE!

“Un-fried” Beans (think refried beans without the fat)

• 1 can (15 ounces) Black Beans, drained
• ¼ - ½ Cup Chicken Broth
• ½ teaspoon Cumin
• Salt, to taste

 Easy Avocado Salsa (think guacamole chunky with tomatoes)

• 2 Large Avocados, diced
• 1 Small Plum Tomato, seeded and diced
• 1 Jalapeño Pepper, minced
• Juice from ½ lime
• 1 Scallion, sliced

For the sandwich:

• 2 Flatbread Sandwich Thins (4 halves) or 4 slices of bread
• 4 eggs
• Favorite hot sauce

First, in a small saucepan or skillet, heat the ingredients and smash with a fork or potato masher until desired consistency is achieved.  (I like them a little chunky and not too thick)

Second, combine ingredients of avocado salsa in a small bowl to combine. 

Third, toast the bread and cook the eggs as desired.  I like them fried, but poached and scrambled work amazingly as well.

Finally, assemble by laying slices of toasted bread down, smear a quarter of the beans on each slice, spoon a quarter of the avocado salsa over that, top with egg of choice, and finish it off with your favorite hot sauce.

It amazes me how satisfying smaller portions can be.  Having something like beans included in your meal help bulk it up and make it more substantial so you don’t feel deprived.  Flavorful food such as with spices and chilies also help to scratch that itch we all feel when we just want to eat!  I hope you try this recipe…it is truly delicious!  

Strawberry Oatmeal with Granola

What to do with strawberries on the verge of being unusable?  I needed to use up some strawberries and had only a cup of oats left in the pantry so there you go…breakfast!  I usually do oatmeal kind of plain or with dried fruit…the usual suspects.  I figured why not?  This is sort of a take on strawberries and cream oatmeal without any of the guilt!

• 2 Cups Water
• 1 Cup Quick Oats
• ½ Cup Granola of choice
• 2 Tablespoons of Honey
• ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
• 10 Strawberries, sliced (or however many you like)
• ¼ Cup Milk (I used soy)

First, bring the water to a boil and add the oats.  Once it begins to thicken (about a minute or so) squeeze in a couple of tablespoons of honey (or to taste), all but a tablespoon of granola, the cinnamon, and all but two strawberries.  Cook for about a minute or two more.

Finally, remove from heat and finish it off with the milk, stir to combine. 

Spoon the oatmeal into two bowls, top with remaining strawberries and granola and drizzle with a bit of honey (if desired).  Enjoy!

I looooooooove this oatmeal!  It has just enough sweetness and it is hearty enough to get you through the morning (with a cup of coffee of course)…give it try!

Breakfast Parfait

I love to eat and indulge just as anyone does.  I do like to feel good about what I eat most of the time.  These parfaits are very simple but incredibly delicious!  I prefer Greek yogurt because it is thick and creamy without any of the guilt! The parfaits are good and satisfying on their own as a complete, balanced breakfast.  I like mine with a cup of coffee, of course!

• 2 Cups plain Greek Yogurt
• 1 teaspoon Orange Zest
• ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1 – 2 Tablespoons pure Honey
• 1 Pint Strawberries, quartered
• 1 Cup homemade or store bought plain Granola
• ½ Cup dried cranberries

First, put the Greek yogurt in a bowl, add orange zest, cinnamon, and honey to taste.  Whisk together until combined, set aside.

Second, mix the granola (I like to make my own) with dried cranberries.

Finally, use four small drinking glasses to layer ingredients.  Layer yogurt, then the granola mixture, then strawberries in the glasses; alternate until glasses are full.  Enjoy!

This is so good, I can’t even tell you!  This makes me feel like I’m eating dessert for breakfast but is surprisingly satisfying.