The Perfect Spicy & Cheesy Side: Jalapeno Cornbread

Homemade jalapeno cornbread is moist, fluffy, and flavorful, made with buttermilk, cheddar cheese, and a kiss of spicy heat to go along with a bowl of chili.

Homemade jalapeno cornbread is moist, fluffy, and flavorful, made with buttermilk, cheddar cheese, and a kiss of spicy heat to go along with a bowl of chili.

Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas

Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor? Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas are a quick, easy vegetarian meal that the whole family will love! Tender sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, and some Mexican spices create the perfect recipe for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Why I Love This Recipe The Ingredients Substitutions…

The post Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas appeared first on Weelicious.

Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor? Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas are a quick, easy vegetarian meal that the whole family will love! Tender sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, and some Mexican spices create the perfect recipe for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Sweet potato black bean enchiladas in a baking dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

  • Packed with Flavor: The creamy sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with savory black beans and seasonings. Plus, they’re not too spicy (unless you use a spicy enchilada sauce), so they’re great for little ones to enjoy too!
  • Vegetarian and Hearty: Just like my Vegetarian Chimichangas, these enchiladas are a filling, protein-rich vegetarian meal that everyone can enjoy. I’m always looking to make Easy Vegetarian Entrees that can satisfy both the vegetarians and meat-eaters in my house!
  • Great for Leftovers: These enchiladas reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy them the next day or prep them in advance for an easy meal.

The Ingredients

Ingredients to make sweet potato black bean enchiladas.
  • Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and packed with vitamins, sweet potatoes add a rich, creamy texture to the filling.
  • Black Beans: Full of protein and fiber, black beans make these enchiladas super hearty and satisfying. Use canned black beans or make your own Pressure Cooker Black Beans!
  • Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin add depth and a touch of warmth.
  • Mexican Blend Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding that irresistible gooeyness to each bite.
  • Enchilada Sauce: Whether it’s store-bought or homemade favorite, enchilada sauce brings the flavors together.
  • Tortillas: Use flour or corn, depending on your preference and dietary needs.

Substitutions and Variations

  • Cheese: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
  • Beans: Swap out black beans for pinto or these Healthy “Refried” Beans if you prefer.
  • Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder if you want a smoky kick.
  • Tortillas: Flour tortillas make for soft, foldable enchiladas, while corn tortillas give a classic Mexican texture. Just warm the corn tortillas before rolling to prevent them from breaking.

How to Make Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas

Baked sweet potato sliced in half on a plate.

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Poke the sweet potatoes all over with a fork and bake for about 1 hour, until fork tender. Turn the oven down to 350°F.

Mashed sweet potato in a bowl.

Step 2: Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, then slice down the middle and scoop out all the pulp into a bowl.

Sweet potato black bean enchilada filling in a bowl.

Step 3: To the sweet potato pulp, add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black beans, and 1 cup of cheese. Stir to thoroughly combine.

Enchilada sauce in a baking dish.

Step 4: Pour half of the enchilada sauce into a 9×11 baking dish.

Tortilla with enchilada filling ready to be rolled up.

Step 5: Place about 1/2 cup mixture into the middle of each tortilla and roll up.

Enchiladas in baking dish topped with enchilada sauce.

Step 6: Place the enchiladas, seam side down, into the baking dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top.

Foil covered baking dish.

Step 7: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Sweet potato black bean enchiladas in baking dish.

Step 8: Remove foil, sprinkle with cheese and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and browned slightly

Tips and Tricks

  • Pre-bake the Sweet Potatoes: Bake the sweet potatoes in advance to save time when you’re ready to assemble the enchiladas. Scoop out the sweet potato flesh while it’s still slightly warm (this makes it much easier to separate from the skin), then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Warm the Tortillas: If using corn tortillas, warm them up to make them easier to roll without cracking.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Customize the spice level by using mild or spicy enchilada sauce or adding a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
  • Add Toppings: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, Guacamole or a drizzle of sour cream for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I make sweet potato black bean enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them up to a day ahead, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add about 5 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re heated through.

Are these vegetarian enchiladas freezer-friendly?

Definitely! Freeze unbaked enchiladas in an airtight container. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F, adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

Can I make this enchilada recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the cheese with a vegan cheese or omit it altogether for a fully plant-based dish.

Two enchiladas on a plate.

More Enchilada Recipes

These vegetarian Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas are cozy, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week! We make these so often, and the whole family can’t get enough. I’d love to know what you think — leave a comment and rating below!

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Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas

Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas are a quick, easy vegetarian meal that the whole family will love!
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Mexican
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 569kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 large baked sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mexican blend cheese
  • 1 12-ounce can enchilada sauce
  • 6 large flour tortillas, or 12 corn tortillas

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F.
  • Poke the sweet potatoes all over with a fork and place on a foil lined baking sheet in the oven until fork tender, about 1 hour. Turn the oven down to 350°F.
  • Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, then slice down the middle and scoop out all the pulp into a bowl.
  • To the sweet potato pulp, add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black beans, and 1 cup of cheese. Stir to thoroughly combine.
  • Pour half of the enchilada sauce into a 9×11 baking dish.
  • Place about 1/2 cup mixture into the middle of each tortilla and roll up.
  • Place the enchiladas, seam side down, into the baking dish. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce on top.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
  • Remove foil and sprinkle with cheese and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and browned slightly

Notes

  • Meal Prep the Sweet Potatoes: The sweet potatoes can be baked up to 2 days ahead of time and the pulp removed and stored in the fridge.
  • Warm the Tortillas: If using corn tortillas, warm them up to make them easier to roll without cracking.
  • Add Toppings: Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, Guacamole or a drizzle of sour cream for extra flavor.
  • Adjust Spice Level: Customize the spice level by using mild or spicy enchilada sauce or adding a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

Nutrition

Calories: 569kcal | Carbohydrates: 83g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 2117mg | Potassium: 1006mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 24969IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 435mg | Iron: 6mg

The post Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas appeared first on Weelicious.

Black Bean Cakes

These easy-to-make Black Bean Cakes are a dream, kid-friendly vegetarian dish — packed with protein, super affordable and full of flavor! Why I Love This Recipe The Ingredients Variations and Substitutions How to Make Black Bean Cakes Step 1: Add the black beans, corn, cheese, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, breadcrumbs, and egg to a food processor. Pulse until…

The post Black Bean Cakes appeared first on Weelicious.

These easy-to-make Black Bean Cakes are a dream, kid-friendly vegetarian dish — packed with protein, super affordable and full of flavor!

Black bean cakes on plate served with quinoa salad.

Why I Love This Recipe

  • Kid-approved: These black bean cakes are always a hit with my kids, and I love getting extra protein and veggies into their meals. Plus, they can eat them with their hands, just like my Noodle Pancakes, which is always fun!
  • Easy to make: Using just a handful of pantry staples that you likely have on hand (like in my Brown Rice Cakes), this recipe comes together with a quick whirl in the food processor—so simple!
  • Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch, freeze some, and have a quick meal or snack ready anytime, (that’s how I prep my Easy Chicken Nuggets recipe too)
  • Versatile: Stack them with guacamole, kid-friendly salsa, or sour cream — or turn them into sliders for a fun twist!

The Ingredients

Black bean cakes ingredients.
  • Black beans: The base of these cakes, packed with plant-based protein and fiber. I love using black beans to boost the protein in recipes like S’mores Cakey Black Bean Brownies, Sweet Potato Black Bean Enchiladas and more!
  • Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture. Feel free to use fresh or defrosted frozen corn.
  • Cheddar cheese: Melts into the patties, adding a rich, savory flavor.
  • Cilantro: Fresh and herbaceous, it gives these cakes a bright pop of flavor. If cilantro isn’t for you, leave it out – no problem.
  • Garlic & Onion powder: Just enough seasoning to bring everything together without overpowering the taste.
  • Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the cakes and give them a little crunch.
  • Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together while they cook.
  • Oil: Used to sauté the cakes until crispy and golden brown.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Cheese: Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, Mozzarella or a even dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-freebread crumbs or ground oats as a binder instead if you need this recipe to be gluten-free!
  • Vegan option: Try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg for a plant-based twist.

How to Make Black Bean Cakes

Black bean cake ingredients combined in food processor.

Step 1: Add the black beans, corn, cheese, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, breadcrumbs, and egg to a food processor. Pulse until everything is combined into a chunky paste.

Oil heating in sauté pan.

Step 2:  Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Black bean cakes in sauté pan.

Step 3: Drop about 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture into the pan and spread it into a circle (like a pancake). Fry the cakes for 3 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden and cooked through. Add more oil as needed for each batch.

Black bean cakes served on a plate.

Step 4: Once crispy and done, transfer them to a plate to cool slightly before serving. They’re great on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips and Tricks

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the patties in batches to ensure they fry up crispy.
  • Keep an eye on the heat: If the cakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to avoid burning.
  • Freezing tip: These cakes freeze beautifully! Let them cool, freeze on a parchment lined sheet tray, then transfer to a ziplock bag and store for up to 4 months. Defrost and reheat in the oven or air fryer for a quick meal.
  • Perfect for meal prep: Make a double batch and save some for later!

FAQs

Can I bake black bean cakes instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F, place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes on each side until golden and crisp.

How do I store leftover black bean cakes?

Store any leftover black bean cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

What can I serve with black bean cakes?

They pair perfectly with a side of Cucumber Avocado Salsa, a simple salad with Citrus Herb Vinaigrette, or even inside a tortilla with tons of toppings for taco night! You can also try them with guacamole or sour cream for dipping.

Black bean cakes on plate.

More Recipes Using Black Beans

These savory Black Bean Cakes are a super toddler friendly recipe, but also a hit with adults. They not only pack power punch of protein, but plenty of flavor and fun in every bite! I’d love to know what you think of this recipe — leave a comment and rating below!

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Black Bean Cakes

Black Bean Cakes are a vegetarian dream packed with protein, affordable and full of flavor!
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 50kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all the ingredients, except the oil, in a food processor and puree.
  • Heat a large saute pan over low to medium heat with 1-2 tbsp oil.
  • Place 2-3 tablespoons of the bean mixture in the pan. Using the back of a spoon, spread the mixture into an even circle (the size and shape of a small pancake).
  • Cook for 3 minutes.
  • Flip and cook on the other side for another 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
  • Cook remaining patties, adding about 1 tbsp oil for each batch, and move to a plate.
  • Cool and serve.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the patties in batches to ensure they fry up crispy.
  • Keep an eye on the heat: If the cakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to avoid burning.
  • Freezing tip: These cakes freeze beautifully! Let them cool, freeze on a parchment lined sheet tray, then transfer to a ziplock bag and store for up to 4 months. Reheat in the oven for 10 minutes at 300°F or pop them in the air fryer for about 5 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

Nutrition

Calories: 50kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 110mg | Fiber: 2g

Photos by Matt Armendariz

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Chicken Meatballs In Cream Sauce

These Chicken Meatballs made with a delicious cream sauce checks all the boxes. They’re tender, flavorful, easy to make and budget-friendly.

The post Chicken Meatballs In Cream Sauce appeared first on Budget Bytes.

If you’ve been around for a while then you probably know how much we love meatball recipes over here at Budget Bytes. And for good reason. They’re easy to make, extremely versatile, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. And with grocery prices still rising, I’ve been leaning even more towards cheaper ingredients that I can turn into a delicious meal. Which is why these chicken meatballs made with ground chicken and served in a delicious cream sauce were a huge hit! They’re tender, flavorful, and quick enough to make any day of the week.

Overhead view of Chicken meatballs in a large skillet with cream sauce.

Ingredients For Chicken Meatballs

These chicken meatballs are easy to make and are made similar to our turkey meatballs. However, I wanted a creamy sauce to go with them to add more moisture and flavor to the meatballs. So here’s all the ingredients that you’ll need:

  • Ground Chicken: I used 92% lean ground chicken, which keeps the flavor light but still has enough fat to keep the meatballs from drying out. I don’t suggest using 98% lean ground chicken breast – it is too lean and does not have enough fat to keep the meatballs tender and moist. So be careful when you’re buying your meat so you don’t accidentally pick up the wrong package.
  • Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs combine with the egg to help bind the ground chicken together to keep the meatballs from falling apart. They also hold moisture, which helps keep the meatballs tender.
  • Egg: The egg combines with the breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs together and prevent them from falling apart.
  • Seasoning: The meatballs are seasoned with a blend of Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder and onion powder.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan gives an extra boost of rich umami flavor to the meatballs, making them super delicious!
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Just a little bit of Worcestershire sauce adds even more umami flavor to these meatballs.
  • Cream Sauce: The creamy sauce starts with garlic sautéed in a little butter, then chicken broth, heavy cream and seasoning is added. A little bit of lemon juice adds a touch of bright, fresh flavor to the sauce. Everything simmers together with the meatballs until the sauce has reduced and thickened.

Can I Bake The Meatballs?

Yes, if you prefer to bake chicken meatballs in the oven instead of using a skillet, simply line a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake in a preheated 400ºF oven for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165ºF. Keep in mind that baked meatballs will not achieve the nice browning on the outside that you get with cooking in a skillet. The browned surface does provide additional flavor. I also chose to cook these meatballs in a skillet to keep everything in one pan since I was making a cream sauce to go with them.

Serving Suggestions

What I love about meatballs is that they’re so versatile! I served these tasty chicken meatballs with the cream sauce over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. But you can also switch out the sauce and serve them with a homemade marinara sauce over a bed of pasta or make meatballs subs with some hoagie rolls. They would also be great in a pot of soup like Minestrone or served with some veggie noodles. The options really are endless!

Side view of chicken meatballs in a large skillet with cream sauce.
Overhead view of Chicken meatballs in a large skillet with a lemon cream sauce.
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Chicken Meatballs in Cream Sauce

These Chicken Meatballs made with a delicious cream sauce checks all the boxes. They’re tender, flavorful, easy to make and budget-friendly!
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American
Total Cost $7.94 recipe / $1.58 serving
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 37 minutes
Servings 5 (4-5 meatballs each)
Calories 370kcal

Ingredients

Cream Sauce

  • 1 Tbsp butter $0.13
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced $0.08
  • 1.5 cups chicken broth $0.25
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream $0.74
  • 1/4 tsp oregano $0.02
  • 1/4 tsp salt $0.02
  • 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
  • 2 Tbsp grated parmesan $0.22
  • 1/2 lemon* (optional) $0.79

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the ground chicken to a separate large bowl along with the egg, Worcestershire sauce, and breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to mix everything together until evenly combined. Try not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
  • Divide and shape the meat mixture into 24 meatballs, about two tablespoons each.
  • In a large skillet add the cooking oil and heat over medium. Once hot add the meatballs and cook in 2 batches (about 12 meatballs at a time). Cook the meatballs in the hot skillet until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 2 minutes each side). Add a little more cooking oil for the 2nd batch of meatballs if needed. Remove the cooked meatballs to a clean plate and set aside.
  • Now make the cream sauce. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Turn the heat down to medium-low and sauté the garlic for one minute until fragrant.
  • Next add the chicken broth, heavy cream, oregano, salt, pepper, grated parmesan and 2 Tbsp of lemon juice. Stir to combine.
  • Bring the sauce to a simmer. Add all of the meatballs back to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Continue to simmer for 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
  • Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top (optional). Enjoy with pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*A little bit of lemon juice adds a touch of bright, fresh flavor to the sauce, but if you don’t have a lemon on hand, the sauce will still be delicious!

Nutrition

Serving: 5meatballs | Calories: 370kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 27g | Sodium: 995mg | Fiber: 1g

How to Make Creamy Chicken Meatballs – Step by Step Photos

Breadcrumb mixture for chicken meatballs

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.

ground chicken added to breadcrumb mixture.

Add 1 lb. ground chicken to a separate large bowl along with 1 large egg, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands to mix everything together until evenly combined. Try not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.

chicken meatballs on a cutting board.

Divide and shape the meat mixture into 24 meatballs, about two tablespoons each.

chicken meatballs cooking in a large skillet

In a large skillet add 2 Tbsp cooking oil and heat over medium. Once hot add the meatballs and cook in 2 batches (about 12 meatballs at a time). Cook the meatballs in the hot skillet until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 2 minutes each side). Add a little more cooking oil for the 2nd batch of meatballs if needed.

cooked chicken meatballs on a plate.

Remove the cooked meatballs to a clean plate and set aside.

garlic and butter in a large skillet.

Now make the cream sauce. In the same skillet, add 1 Tbsp butter and 1 minced garlic clove. Turn the heat down to medium-low and sauté the garlic for one minute until fragrant.

chicken broth, heavy cream, and spices being added to large skillet.

Next add 1 1/2 cups chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 2 Tbsp grated parmesan and 2 Tbsp of lemon juice (about half a lemon). Stir to combine.

chicken meatballs added back to skillet in cream sauce.

Bring the sauce to a simmer. Add all of the meatballs back to the skillet and toss in the sauce. Continue to simmer for 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.

Finished chicken meatballs with cream sauce in large skillet

Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top (optional). Enjoy with pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side.

Overhead view of chicken meatballs with a cream sauce served over a plate of mashed potatoes and a fork cutting a meatball in half.

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Easy Chicken Nuggets

These Easy Chicken Nuggets not only deliver on the easy part of their name, but they’re insanely delicious too! They taste just as good (if not better) than fast food or store bought frozen nuggets and are made with simple ingredients. Kid’s go crazy for these! Why I Love This Recipe Homemade chicken nuggets are one…

The post Easy Chicken Nuggets appeared first on Weelicious.

These Easy Chicken Nuggets not only deliver on the easy part of their name, but they’re insanely delicious too! They taste just as good (if not better) than fast food or store bought frozen nuggets and are made with simple ingredients. Kid’s go crazy for these!

Easy Chicken Nuggets on serving platter.

Why I Love This Recipe

Homemade chicken nuggets are one of the most requested recipes I’ve received since I started creating family-friendly meals for Weelicious. While I’ve made Baked Chicken Nuggets before, I wanted to create a version that closely resembles the fast food nuggets everyone loves. And so, this recipe was born! Chicken nuggets and french fries are convenient and undeniably loved by kids, so naturally have I several recipes for each.

This homemade chicken nugget recipe is incredibly easy to make and offers the same crispy, delicious taste as fast food—but with healthier ingredients! It comes together in under 30 minutes using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, you can make a large batch and freeze them for later, making these nuggets not only a budget-friendly recipe but also a huge time-saver when you need a quick meal.

The Ingredients

Easy chicken nuggets ingredients.
  • Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! We use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, a great protein source!
  • Old Fashioned Oats: Also known as rolled oats, this ingredient helps bind the chicken nuggets together. Plus, oats are high in fiber which adds some extra nutritional benefits.
  • Panko breadcrumbs: Panko is what gives these nuggets that irresistible crispy, crunchy exterior!
  • Grated parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds flavor to the nuggets, but if you need these to be dairy free you can omit it.
  • Seasonings: Dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt add tons of flavor to this recipe!

Variations and Substitutions

  • Ground Chicken: If you don’t have a food processor, you can use ground chicken in this recipe. To do so, you’ll need to blend the oats into a finer consistency and then combine them with the ground chicken and remaining ingredients as instructed.
  • Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste preferences!
  • Gluten Free: Use certified gluten free oats and gluten free panko to make this recipe suitable for people with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Easy Chicken Nuggets

Easy chicken nuggets mixture in bowl.

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the chicken chunks, oats and seasonings in a food processor until chicken is finely chopped and ingredients are combined.

Breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese combined in shallow bowl.

Step 2: Place the bread crumbs and parmesan cheese in a shallow bowl or on a plate and stir to combine.

Chicken nuggets on parchment paper.

Step 3: With moistened hands, roll about 1 tablespoon of chicken mixture between your palms and flatten it into a nugget shape.

Breaded chicken nuggets on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Gently press nuggets into bread crumbs to evenly coat them. Place nuggets on a parchment lined baking sheet. Lightly spray nuggets with cooking spray. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden.

Recipe Tip

If you want your nuggets to be even more golden brown, place under the broiler for 2 minutes after cooking.

How to Air Fry Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Making these homemade chicken nuggets in the air fryer is super easy! Simply form the nuggets as directed, spray each one with cooking spray, and place them in your air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Since every air fryer can vary, keep an eye on your nuggets while they cook to ensure perfect results!

Chicken nuggets in air fryer basket.
Cooked chicken nuggets in air fryer basket.

How to Freeze Homemade Chicken Nuggets

Many parents keep frozen chicken nuggets on hand as a quick meal solution, but have you ever looked closely at the ingredients in your favorite brand? Are they pronounceable? Are they things you want your kids eating? I was shocked when I first checked the labels, which is why I now make extra homemade chicken nuggets to freeze. This way, I always have a batch ready for when the craving hits, and I feel good knowing exactly what’s in them!

  1. Before cooking, place the coated, raw nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze them for an hour.
  2. Put frozen nuggets in labeled zip-top bags and freeze for up to 4 months.
  3. When ready to eat, cook as directed, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use Wet Hands for Shaping: Keep your hands slightly damp while shaping the nuggets to prevent the chicken mixture from sticking to your fingers.
  • Chill the Mixture: If the chicken mixture feels too soft to handle, place it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up. This makes shaping the nuggets easier and helps them hold their form while cooking.
  • Coat Nuggets Evenly: To get an even coating, press the nuggets gently into the breadcrumb mixture, turning them a few times. This ensures a crispy coating all over.
Easy Chicken Nuggets served with BBQ sauce and ketchup for dipping.

More Kid-Approved Chicken Recipes

Crispy on the outside, tender inside, freshly made easy chicken nuggets your kids will beg for everyday. What could be more simple, economical, nutritious and yummy than that?

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Easy Chicken Nuggets

There's no recipe more kid friendly than easy chicken nuggets. These nuggets are just as good (if not better) than fast food or store bought frozen nuggets and made with ingredients you can pronounce!
Course Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 199kcal

Equipment

  • Food Processor

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F.
  • Place the first 6 ingredients in a food processor until chicken is finely chopped and ingredients are combined.
  • Place the bread crumbs and parmesan cheese in a shallow bowl or on a plate and stir to combine.
  • With moistened hands, roll 1 tablespoon of chicken mixture between your palms and flatten it into a “nugget” shape.
  • Gently press nuggets into bread crumbs to evenly coat them.
  • Place nuggets on parchment lined baking sheet and lightly spray nuggets with cooking spray.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden and serve. If you want your nuggets to be more golden brown, place under the broiler for 2 minutes after cooking. Air frying instructions are in the notes below!

Video

Notes

To Freeze: Before cooking, place the coated, raw nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze them for an hour, then put them in labeled zip-top bags and freeze for up to 4 months. When ready to eat, cook as directed, adding 2 minutes to the cooking time.
To Air Fry: Form the nuggets as instructed and spritz each one will cooking spray. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Since every air fryer can vary, keep an eye on your nuggets while they cook to ensure perfect results!
If you don’t have a food processor, you can use ground chicken in this recipe. To do so, you’ll need to blend the oats into a finer consistency and then combine them with the ground chicken and remaining ingredients as instructed.

Nutrition

Calories: 199kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 74mg | Sodium: 527mg | Potassium: 468mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 45IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Easy Chicken Nuggets appeared first on Weelicious.

Easy Ramen Noodle Soup

Who doesn’t love a quick and comforting bowl of ramen? This Easy Ramen Noodle Soup recipe is a healthier version of the classic packaged ramen, and it’s just as convenient! This homemade version is loaded with umami flavor, and best of all, you can customize it with your favorite veggies, protein, or seaweed for a heartier meal.…

The post Easy Ramen Noodle Soup appeared first on Weelicious.

Who doesn’t love a quick and comforting bowl of ramen? This Easy Ramen Noodle Soup recipe is a healthier version of the classic packaged ramen, and it’s just as convenient! This homemade version is loaded with umami flavor, and best of all, you can customize it with your favorite veggies, protein, or seaweed for a heartier meal.

Person's hand using chopsticks to grab ramen noodles from bowl of ramen noodle soup.

Why I Love This Recipe

From kids to college students to adults, I don’t know many people who don’t love a good ramen noodle soup. It’s quick, easy and not to mention super affordable! This version takes it to the next level and boosts the nutritional value a bit! Here’s why I love it:

  • Healthier than store-bought ramen. By skipping the seasoning packet, you avoid excess sodium and artificial additives. Instead, miso, soy sauce, and spices bring a deep, savory flavor to your bowl.
  • Quick and Easy: Just like my Ramen Noodle Stir Fry and Dumpling Soup, this recipe is super easy to make. Ready in less than 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Customizable: Use cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu and throw in some fresh veggies like spinach or seaweed to make this dish your own. I usually lay out a bunch of options, let everyone tell me which ones they want and personalize each person’s bowl!

The Ingredients

Easy Ramen Noodle Soup ingredients.
  • Chicken Stock or Vegetable stockMake your own chicken stock or use your favorite store-bought stock as the base for a flavorful soup.
  • Yellow or white miso – Adds richness and umami flavor to the soup.
  • Packaged ramen noodles – Seasoning packet discarded for a healthier option. You could also use soba noodles, rice noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti if you wanted!
  • Shiitake mushrooms, sliced thin – For that earthy flavor and extra nutrition! Feel free to substitute other vegetables you have on hand if your crew doesn’t like mushrooms.
  • Soy sauce – Adds depth and saltiness. Opt for low sodium if you’re looking to have less salt content.
  • Mirin – A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. If you’re having trouble finding mirin, try your local Asian grocery store!
  • Garlic powder & Onion powder – For that classic savory seasoning.
  • Scallions – Adds freshness and crunch at the end.
  • Optional Add-ins: Fresh spinach, nori, wakame, hijiki, arame, chicken, shrimp, or cubed tofu – the perfect way to customize your ramen.

*For a full list of ingredients and measurements, see the recipe card below.*

How to Make Healthier Ramen Noodle Soup

Ramen noodle soup broth in sauce pan.

Step 1: In a large saucepan, add the chicken or vegetable stock, water, and miso. Bring everything to a boil.

Ramen noodle soup with shiitake mushrooms in large sauce pan.

Step 2: Add the ramen noodles, mushrooms, and any optional ingredients like cooked chicken, tofu, or additional veggies. Cook for 3 minutes, until the noodles are soft and everything is heated through.

Ramen noodle soup with shiitake mushroom and scallions in large sauce pan.

Step 3: Add the scallions and serve.

Tips for Customizing Your Ramen

  • For a protein boost: Add some cooked chicken or shrimp, or keep it vegetarian with cubed tofu.
  • Boost the greens: Fresh spinach, nori, or even a sprinkle of wakame will add some nutrition and texture to your bowl.
  • Spice it up: Drizzle a bit of sriracha or top with chili flakes for a kick.
Bowl of ramen noodle soup with spoon.

More Easy Soup Recipes

This Easy Ramen Noodle Soup lets you enjoy all the comforting flavors of ramen but with a healthier, more wholesome twist. It’s so simple, you’ll forget about those salty seasoning packets forever! Whether you need a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner everyone will love, this recipe will hit the spot.

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Person's hand using chopsticks to grab ramen noodles from bowl of ramen noodle soup.
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Easy Ramen Noodle Soup

This Easy Ramen Noodle Soup lets you enjoy all the comforting flavors of ramen but with a healthier, more wholesome twist. It's so simple, you'll forget about those salty seasoning packets forever!
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Asian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 310kcal

Ingredients

  • 32 ounces chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons yellow or white miso
  • 2 3-ounce packages ramen noodles
  • 4 shiitake mushrooms, sliced thin
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium if you prefer)
  • 2 tablespoons mirin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 cup scallions, green and white, sliced

Optional Additional Ingredients:

  • fresh spinach, nori, wakame, hijiki, arame, chicken, shrimp, cubed tofu

Instructions

  • In a large saucepan, add the chicken or vegetable stock, water, and miso. Bring everything to a boil.
  • Add the ramen noodles, mushrooms, and any optional ingredients like cooked chicken, tofu, or additional veggies. Cook for 3 minutes, until the noodles are soft and everything is heated through.
  • Add the scallions and serve.

Video

Notes

  • For a protein boost: Add some cooked chicken or shrimp, or keep it vegetarian with cubed tofu.
  • Boost the greens: Fresh spinach, nori, or even a sprinkle of wakame will add some nutrition and texture to your bowl.
  • Spice it up: Drizzle a bit of sriracha or top with chili flakes for a kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 1960mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g

The post Easy Ramen Noodle Soup appeared first on Weelicious.

Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo

This Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo brings together tender chicken, rich cream cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in a slow-cooked meal your whole family will love.

This Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo brings together tender chicken, rich cream cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in a slow-cooked meal your whole family will love.

Creamy Dijon Chicken

Take dinner to the next level with this Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe! Made with an insanely delicious sauce and simple ingredients!

The post Creamy Dijon Chicken appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Get ready friends, because Dijon is having a moment! This Creamy Dijon Chicken starts with quick pan-seared chicken breasts that get covered with a creamy, luscious, Dijon mustard sauce. It’s one of those recipes that feels luxurious and expensive, but is really made with simple inexpensive ingredients. And my secret ingredient to making it extra special…just a hint of Worcestershire sauce. This Dijon chicken recipe is so delicious and guaranteed to be one the whole family enjoys!

Overhead view of creamy dijon chicken in a skillet.

Ingredients For Creamy Dijon Chicken

This recipe uses one of my favorite ingredient combinations: Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. And when they’re combined with a little bit of heavy cream and parmesan cheese, it creates the most delicious sauce! So here’s everything that you’ll need:

  • Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are my usual go-to for recipes like these, but you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead.
  • Garlic: Just a couple of garlic cloves infuses the sauce with lots of flavor. 
  • Olive Oil and Butter: Olive oil is used to cook the chicken breasts and a little butter is used to sauté the garlic.
  • Dijon Mustard and Worcestershire: Dijon mustard is of course the star of the show. Both Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce give the sauce the bulk of its flavor. The tanginess from the Dijon mixed with the savory umami flavor of the Worcestershire is a match made in heaven!
  • Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is used to help deglaze the pan, scrape up all of those flavorful brown bits, and is the base for the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream and Parmesan Cheese: Just a little bit of heavy cream and parmesan cheese thickens the sauce and adds a luscious, creamy, rich flavor.
  • Spinach: I added some spinach for extra greens and a little bit of color.
  • Seasoning: The chicken breasts are seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder. This way every component of this dish is packed with flavor!

Can I Substitute Yellow Mustard For Dijon Mustard?

I don’t recommend substituting Dijon mustard with yellow mustard. Dijon mustard has a more intense, sharp flavor that goes well with sauces compared to yellow mustard that has a milder, less complex flavor.

Not A Mustard Fan?

I get it. But trust me this recipe is not super mustard-y and the flavors are balanced nicely. I tested this recipe a few times with different amounts of Dijon mustard. And I ended up with what I feel is the perfect combination. It’s just enough to taste the tangy, warm flavors of the Dijon, but not too much to where it overpowers the dish. You can always taste the sauce and add a little more mustard if you want a stronger Dijon taste.

Serving Suggestions

We served this creamy dijon chicken over some fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up all of that delicious sauce. But you can also serve it with some buttered noodles, pasta, or over rice. A simple side salad or Caesar salad would also taste great. And you can never go wrong with a side of quick sautéed vegetables like this easy sautéed asparagus recipe.

Side close up view of creamy dijon chicken in a skillet.
Overhead close up view of creamy dijon chicken in a skillet.
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Creamy Dijon Chicken

Take dinner to the next level with this Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe! Made with an insanely delicious sauce and simple ingredients!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Total Cost $9.35 recipe / $2.33 serving
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 271kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning $0.10
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder $0.05
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder $0.05
  • 1/2 tsp salt $0.02
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.02
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 1.3 lb.) $6.49
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil $0.32
  • 2 Tbsp butter $0.27
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced $0.16
  • 1 cup chicken broth $0.17
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard $0.04
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce $0.05
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream $0.65
  • 2 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese $0.20
  • 2 cups spinach $0.76

Instructions

  • In a small bowl mix together the seasoning for the chicken: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets. Season each breast with the seasoning mix on both sides.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook on each side until golden brown and cooked through (about 4 minutes per side). Remove the cooked chicken to a clean plate and cover to keep warm.
  • To the same skillet add the butter and minced garlic cloves. Turn the heat down to medium-low and sauté the garlic for one minute until fragrant.
  • Next pour the chicken broth into the skillet and add the Dijon mustard and worcestershire sauce. Stir together and scrape up any brown bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan.
  • Now add in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese and stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer in the skillet for 5 minutes. Taste the sauce at this point and add salt and pepper if desired.
  • Add in the fresh spinach and stir it into the sauce allowing the heat to wilt the spinach.
  • Finally, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the Dijon sauce over top. Allow the chicken to heat through. Serve hot with your favorite side and enjoy!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 271kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 22g | Sodium: 742mg | Fiber: 1g
Creamy dijon chicken on a plate with mashed potatoes.

How to Make Creamy Dijon Chicken – Step by Step Photos

Seasoning mix in a bowl.

In a small bowl mix together 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper.

Seasoned chicken breasts on a cutting board.

Using a sharp knife, carefully fillet each chicken breast into two thinner cutlets. Season each breast with the seasoning mix on both sides.

Cooked chicken breasts in a large skillet.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 Tbsp olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook on each side until golden brown and cooked through (about 4 minutes per side). Remove the cooked chicken to a clean plate and cover to keep warm.

Butter and garlic added to large skillet.

To the same skillet add 2 Tbsp butter and 2 minced garlic cloves. Turn the heat down to medium-low and sauté the garlic for one minute until fragrant.

Chicken broth, dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce added to skillet.

Next pour 1 cup chicken broth into the skillet and add 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard and 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce. Stir together and scrape up any brown bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan.

Cream and parmesan cheese added to skillet.

Now add in 1/3 cup heavy cream and 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese and stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer in the skillet for 5 minutes. Taste the sauce at this point and add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.

Spinach added to skillet.

Add in 2 cups of fresh spinach and stir it into the sauce allowing the heat to wilt the spinach.

Finished creamy dijon chicken in skillet.

Finally, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the Dijon sauce over top. Allow the chicken to heat through.

Creamy dijon chicken on a plate with mashed potatoes and a fork lifting some chicken off the plate.

Now all that’s left to do is serve this delicious Dijon chicken with some creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or your favorite side. And don’t forget to spoon some of that yummy sauce over the top! ;)

The post Creamy Dijon Chicken appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Homemade Shake and Bake Chicken

Enjoy the best crunchy chicken with savory homemade shake and bake. This easy breading mix has all the seasonings needed to make juicy, flavorful chicken, pork chops, or fish in the oven or air fryer.

Enjoy the best crunchy chicken with savory homemade shake and bake. This easy breading mix has all the seasonings needed to make juicy, flavorful chicken, pork chops, or fish in the oven or air fryer.

Chopped Steak with Poblano Cream Sauce

Flavorful beef smothered in a creamy poblano sauce.

Chopped Steak with poblano cream sauceFlavorful beef smothered in a creamy poblano sauce.