OK, I readily admit it. I chose this cookbook because
- I am not the greatest cook; and
- the featured recipes use rotisserie (prepared) chicken, an easily adaptable ingredient.
I have high hopes: Anderson is a recent winner of the 47th Annual National Chicken Cooking Contest and has also appeared on The Food Network.
That resume puts my kitchen chops to shame. Armed with my cooked rotisserie chicken, I am ready to tackle any number of Anderson’s easy to follow recipes offered in the usual groupings: appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and wraps, entrees, casseroles and breakfasts and brunches. In a friendly introduction (“One of my most treasured toys was my Easy-Bake Oven”), I am assured that faithfully following these simple recipes will be a pleasant experience.
This looks pretty risk-free, even if I feel a little foolish as Anderson breaks down the preparation of the chicken for me to fit independent recipes (let the chicken cool before separating from bone; use a small boning knife; the occasional need to chill the chicken before prep). The author even informs me how to prepare my own homemade broth. For added inspiration, I can refer to the full color examples at the front of the cookbook, inspired by “Crustless Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Quiche.”
This looks pretty risk-free, even if I feel a little foolish as Anderson breaks down the preparation of the chicken for me to fit independent recipes (let the chicken cool before separating from bone; use a small boning knife; the occasional need to chill the chicken before prep). The author even informs me how to prepare my own homemade broth. For added inspiration, I can refer to the full color examples at the front of the cookbook, inspired by “Crustless Chicken Broccoli Cheddar Quiche.”
With nearly 200 recipes, there is a great selection for the busy person who loves convenience but not fast food, healthy, tasteful meals that do not require a lot of time but are quick and delicious. Among the many choices:
- Sweet Pepper Relleno Poppers
- Monte Cristo Minis
- Chicken Tostada Compuesta
- Grapefruit Chicken Salad
- Chicken and Escarole Soup
- Hot and Sour Chicken Soup
- Moroccan Chicken
- Parmesan Chicken and Eggplant Bake
- Chicken and Fig Casserole
- Chicken and Asparagus Crepes
- Chicken Artichoke Frittata
Low-fat, high-protein chicken is the foundation of these recipes, but the combinations are creative and appetizing, directions broken into easy-to-follow steps. The only missing element I see is a calorie count for each dish - so I may be indulging in yet another purchase, the most current successful diet.