i might even be a rockstar

IMG_7437, originally uploaded by pirateygoodness.

One of my secret food weaknesses is chicken in any sort of vaguely-spicy batter. Chicken wings, chicken burgers, fried chicken tenders on a stick – you name it, I am so there. Unfortunately, deep-fried chicken is also almost comically unhealthy, which is why I’ve been working out a way to make something with chicken that has a coating, tastes delicious, but isn’t fried. I think, in these, I’ve done it.

(Also, these set off my ever-fussy smoke alarm at least six times, which is a sure sign that something’s going to turn out really well.)

ZOMG NOM: Not-That-Unhealthy Chicken Tenders
Serves 2 hungry people, 4 not-that-hungry people

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup flour
1/2 tsp* chili powder
1/2 tsp* paprika
1/2 tsp* smoked paprika
1/2 tsp* salt
2 tsp olive oil

2 egg whites
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, each cut into three strips

*Confession: I did not actually measure these amounts, because my measuring spoons were drying. I just poured a bit into my palm until it looked like a reasonable amount, and tried to keep all the spices approximately equal.

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees farenheit.

Combine breadcrumbs, flour, and spices (including salt) in a medium sized bowl – ideally one that’s not too deep, and has a flattish bottom. Add olive oil, and mix with your (clean) hands until everything is evenly combined.

Set aside egg whites in a separate bowl. If your breadcrumb mixture is in a very deep bowl, you may want to transfer it to a plate to make your life easier.

Dip the chicken pieces first into the egg whites, then into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides. Place the coated chicken strips onto a cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees F for 20 minutes, turning after 10 minutes.

Devour smugly and happily with your favourite dip. I recommend Thai sweet chili sauce. Maybe throw in some vegetables on the side if you’re feeling crazy.

Song of the Entry: Miley Cyrus – Rockstar

she said, 'it's good to have you home.'

2008/10/17, originally uploaded by pirateygoodness.

My second attempt at Martha’s recipes, which did not go as well as the first. Not that it was a bad recipe, per se, I was just. . .expecting more out of it, I guess. This is Chicken with Tomatoes and Mushrooms, which is a good basic chicken-and-sauce recipe, but nothing epic to write home about. It does, however, get points for standing on its own with just bread, and not needing pasta to fill it out.

And for being full of mushrooms, which are totally still my favourite vegetable, despite the fact that they aren’t actually vegetables.

Song of the Entry: The Starting Line – Make Yourself At Home