Life Without Alu?: Spice Up Your Weeknight with Red Hot Baked Chicken

Serve with Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes and Air Fried Carrots and Broccoli

Continuing my tradition of Easy Weeknight Dinners, this Red Hot Baked Chicken has become a beloved staple in our household. The chicken, with its juicy tenderness and explosive flavor, is a delight for cayenne pepper enthusiasts. The secret lies in the seasoning, which infuses the meat with a spicy kick that is sure to awaken your taste buds.

I love involving my daughter, Prisha, who is 3 years old, in the kitchen. She gets super excited to be a part of our daily meal prep, and I feel happier that instead of spending her time re-watching a program, she gets to do something else. Cooking has always been my favorite way to pass the time. Trying new recipes, new ingredients just makes me all the more interested to work in the kitchen.
Since Prisha is just 3 years old, I don't expect her to do a lot. However, it all starts with something basic. She happily brings her stepping stool and then puts on the apron. Then depending on the menu, I give her something to do. Yesterday she made the pancake batter, she cracked the eggs and then whisked the batter. The day before that she made cocoa. She is getting pretty good at whisking; her motor skills are definitely improving along with her attention.
Today there wasn't anything really that she could do. I didn't want her to touch the red hot seasoning, and she is too young to peel or cut the veggies. I thought for a long time and finally decided that she could prepare the dip. She was very careful with the dip and enjoyed making it very much. However, on one taste, she decided that it was too hot and refused to eat the dinner. Luckily, I had some leftover aromatic jasmine rice in the fridge which I warmed up with a dollop of butter and some salt, and she enjoyed that with some lamb and beef gyros and vegetable-fruit purees.
This family bonding time in the kitchen has become a cherished part of our routine, creating lasting memories and helping Prisha develop new skills. Plus, it's a joy to see her excitement and pride in contributing to our meals.
While Prisha started working on her dinner, I began the final cooking part of our meal. I decided to bake the chicken and air fry the carrots and broccoli. I also like pressure cooking the potatoes because that just saves a lot of time!
One of the key advantages of baking the chicken instead of deep frying is the health factor. Baking requires little to no added oil, making it a lighter and healthier alternative to deep frying. Additionally, baking allows the chicken to cook evenly, ensuring that it remains juicy and tender without the need for excess oil.
Pairing the chicken with the carrots/ broccoli (with fry seasoning) has transformed these veggies to a whole new level of deliciousness. The air frying technique preserves their natural sweetness while adding a crispy texture that perfectly complements the tender chicken. To add a sweet and creamy contrast, we whipped up a sour cream dip with honey, elevating the flavors of both the chicken and the vegetables.
However, the true star of this dish is the Garlic Herb Butter Mashed Potatoes. These creamy potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, with the garlic infusing them with a savory aroma that fills the kitchen. The addition of herbs brings a fresh, aromatic note that perfectly complements the creamy texture. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, making these mashed potatoes a standout side dish that perfectly complements the bold flavors of the Red Hot Baked Chicken and the zesty Air Fried Carrots/ Broccoli.
Together, these dishes create a well-rounded meal that is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this Red Hot Baked Chicken with Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes and Air Fried Veggies is sure to be a hit!

Here are some health advantages of adding more vegetables to meals:

Rich in Nutrients: Vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are vital for overall health. They are particularly rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, potassium, and fiber.
Weight Management: Vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for weight management. They help you feel full, reducing the urge to overeat.
Digestive Health: The fiber content in vegetables supports healthy digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Fiber also helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Heart Health: Many vegetables, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and bell peppers, are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that support heart health. They can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
Blood Sugar Control: Vegetables have a low glycemic index, meaning they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. Including vegetables in meals can help stabilize blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing it.
Cancer Prevention: Some vegetables, particularly cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, contain compounds that have been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer.
Skin Health: The vitamins and antioxidants in vegetables can help promote healthy skin by protecting against damage from free radicals and supporting collagen production.
Eye Health: Vegetables such as carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A and lutein, which are important for maintaining good vision and eye health.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Many vegetables have anti-inflammatory properties due to their high antioxidant content. This can help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation.
Improved Immunity: The vitamins and minerals in vegetables play a crucial role in supporting a healthy immune system, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses.

Including a variety of colorful vegetables in your meals can provide a wide range of health benefits, contributing to overall well-being and vitality.

For a meal like Red Hot Baked Chicken, you'll want drinks that complement the flavors and provide a refreshing balance. Here are some options:
Iced Tea: A classic choice, especially if you have a sweet tea or a flavored iced tea that can contrast the spiciness of the chicken.
Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemonade can provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.
White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can pair nicely with the chicken and potatoes.
Beer: A light, refreshing beer like a lager or a pale ale can complement the flavors of the dish without overpowering them.
Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime can be a refreshing accompaniment.
Cocktail: Consider a cocktail that complements the flavors of the meal, such as a spicy margarita or a vodka soda with a twist of lime.
Mocktail: For a non-alcoholic option with a bit of flair, try a mocktail like a virgin mojito or a sparkling mocktail made with fruit juices and soda water.
These drinks can enhance the dining experience, offering a variety of options to suit different preferences.
For a dessert that complements the bold flavors of Red Hot Baked Chicken, you might consider the following options:
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can provide a sweet ending to the meal. Consider using a variety of fruits, such as berries, melon, and citrus fruits, to add color and flavor.
Lemon Sorbet: A tangy lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
Apple Crisp: An apple crisp made with cinnamon and oats can provide a warm and comforting dessert that pairs well with the savory flavors of the main course.
Peach Cobbler: A peach cobbler with a buttery biscuit topping can be a deliciously sweet treat that compliments the meal.
Chocolate Tart: For chocolate lovers, a rich chocolate tart can provide a decadent and satisfying end to the meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A simple scoop of vanilla ice cream can be a versatile dessert that pairs well with many flavors. Consider serving it with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for added indulgence.
These dessert options can provide a sweet and satisfying end to your meal, complementing the flavors of the main course while offering a variety of textures and flavors.

Here are some Storage and Reheating Instructions for this dish:

Storage Instructions:

Allow any leftover components of the meal to cool to room temperature.
Store the chicken, mashed potatoes, veggies, and the sauce in separate airtight containers.
Refrigerate the containers promptly.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating Instructions:

Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Mashed Potatoes: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Carrots/ Broccoli: Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Sour Cream Dip: Serve cold, or bring to room temperature before serving.

Note: When reheating, ensure the food reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.

These instructions should help you store and reheat your meal components effectively, maintaining their flavor and texture.

Try this recipe and see for yourself!

Ingredients (For making Red Hot Baked Chicken, Serves 2):

Frank’s Seasoning Blend - ½ tablespoon
Chicken Cutlets - 10 oz
Scallions - 2, trimmed and thinly sliced, separating whites from greens
Panko Breadcrumbs - ¼ cup
Sour Cream - 1 ½ tablespoons
Monterey Jack Cheese - ¼ cup
Honey - 2 teaspoons
Salt - to taste
Black Pepper - to taste
Butter - unsalted, 1 tablespoon
Canola Oil - 1 tablespoon

Tip: The Scallion Whites will be used in Mashed Potatoes below.

Directions:

Adjust rack to top position and preheat oven to 425 degrees.
In a small bowl, add the Honey then microwave for 10-20 seconds (this will make it easier to mix in).
Now combine the Sour Cream, ½ teaspoon Frank’s Seasoning Blend in it with a pinch of Salt.
Stir in water 1 teaspoon at a time until mixture reaches a drizzling consistency.
Your creamy Buffalo sauce is ready! Keep it aside until ready to serve.
Place the butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl; microwave until melted, 30-45 seconds.
Stir in Panko, Monterey Jack, remaining Frank’s Seasoning Blend and a big pinch of salt and Pepper.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Mound tops of chicken with panko mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
Carefully place chicken on the baking sheet, coated sides up.
Roast chicken on top rack until chicken is golden brown and cooked through about 15-18 minutes.

Air Fried Carrots and Broccoli

Ingredients:

Carrots - 8 oz, trimmed, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces, washed
Canola / Grapeseed Oil - 1-2 tablespoons
Fry Seasoning - 1 tablespoon
Black Pepper - freshly grounded, to taste
Broccoli - 8 oz, cut into bite-size pieces, washed

Directions:

Toss carrots and broccoli with 1-2 tablespoons of Oil, season with Fry Seasoning and Black Pepper.
Air fry at 350 F until tender, 15-20 minutes. (check broccoli after 8-10 minutes, remove when they are slightly fried).

Garlic Herb Butter Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

Idaho Potatoes - 4-6, peeled, cut into 1⁄2-inch pieces
Garlic Herb Seasoning - 1.5 - 2 tablespoons (contains salt)
Black Pepper - freshly grounded, to taste
Butter - unsalted, 1-2 tablespoons

Tip: Use the Scallion whites mentioned above to make this.

Directions:

Pressure cook potatoes for 2 whistles (cover them with water and a big pinch of salt). Alternatively, you can also place them in a large pot with salted water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, 15-20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes. If they are in the cooker, let the steam drop completely before opening the lid.
Once the potatoes are drained, mash them with the Butter until smooth and creamy.
Heat a drizzle of oil and add the Scallion whites in an empty pan over low heat.
Cook until softened, 1 minute.
Add in the mashed potatoes with the Garlic Herb Seasoning and adjust the salt and pepper.

To serve: