Only One Recipe

Author: John Dough

  • Homemade Chicken Pesto Pizza

    Homemade Chicken Pesto Pizza

    There is nothing like a homemade pizza with the perfect combination of flavors to make a casual dinner feel like a gourmet experience. Our Chicken Pesto Pizza is just the right blend of herby, cheesy, and savory to satisfy all your taste buds. This step-by-step guide will show you how to prepare this delicious pizza from scratch in just a few easy steps.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
    • 1/2 cup pesto sauce, homemade or store-bought
    • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
    • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
    • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
    • 2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional)
    • Arugula or basil leaves for garnish
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now to heat up. If not, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
    2. On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness. Transfer the rolled out dough onto the prepared baking sheet or onto a paddle if you’re using a pizza stone.
    3. Spread the pesto sauce evenly over the surface of the pizza dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
    4. Top the pesto with shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to distribute it evenly.
    5. Add the cooked chicken pieces over the cheese. You can choose to shred or slice your chicken depending on your preference.
    6. Scatter the cherry tomato halves and pine nuts, if using, over the chicken.
    7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pizza, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
    8. Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
    9. Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh arugula or basil leaves for an additional pop of flavor and color.
    10. Slice the pizza and serve hot. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Pesto Pizza!

    Tips and Variations:

    If you want a crispier crust, try pre-baking your dough for 5-7 minutes before adding the toppings. Feel free to add extra toppings like olives, red onions, or bell peppers for more variety. If you’re a fan of spice, a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkling of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to your pizza.

  • Bún Chả: The Quintessential Vietnamese Grilled Pork Noodle

    Bún Chả: The Quintessential Vietnamese Grilled Pork Noodle

    Embark on a culinary journey to Hanoi with this traditional Bún Chả recipe. Every mouthful promises the perfect balance of smoky grilled pork, delicate rice noodles, crisp vegetables, and a flavorful dipping sauce. This dish encapsulates the essence of Vietnamese cuisine; fresh, vibrant, and tantalizingly complex.

    Ingredients:

    • 500g pork shoulder, thinly sliced
    • 200g ground pork
    • 4 tablespoons fish sauce
    • 3 tablespoons sugar
    • 2 tablespoons chopped shallots
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon pepper
    • 1 tablespoon caramel sauce or dark soy sauce
    • Rice vermicelli noodles (Bún), cooked according to package directions
    • 1/2 cup fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, Thai basil)
    • 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumber
    • 1/2 cup pickled carrots and daikon radish
    • 1/2 cup lettuce leaves
    • Lime wedges, for serving
    • Chopped peanuts, for garnish
    • For the dipping sauce (Nước chấm):
    • 1/2 cup warm water
    • 2 tablespoons sugar
    • 1/4 cup fish sauce
    • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or lime juice
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 1 chili, sliced
    • 1 tablespoon shredded carrot (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. In a bowl, combine the pork shoulder slices with 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of sugar, shallots, half of the minced garlic, pepper, and caramel sauce. In another bowl, mix the ground pork with the remaining fish sauce, sugar, and garlic. Let both marinate for at least 1 hour.
    2. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Grill the pork shoulder slices and skewers of ground pork until cooked through and nicely charred. Rest the meat briefly after grilling.
    3. While the pork is grilling, prepare the dipping sauce by stirring together water, sugar, fish sauce, vinegar, garlic, chili, and carrot in a bowl until the sugar is dissolved.
    4. Arrange cooked rice vermicelli noodles in bowls. Add fresh herbs, sliced cucumber, pickled vegetables, and lettuce.
    5. Place the grilled pork on top of the noodle bowls. Serve with dipping sauce, lime wedges, and a sprinkling of chopped peanuts.

    Pro Tip: For an authentic flavor, try grilling the pork over charcoal to impart a deep, smoky taste that defines classic Bún Chả.

    Serving Suggestions:

    Enjoy your Bún Chả with additional garnishes like sliced chili peppers, garlic, and more herbs to taste. Pair this delightful bowl with an iced Vietnamese coffee to complete your meal.

    Indulge in this classic Vietnamese street food right at home and let your taste buds celebrate the fresh, bold flavors of Bún Chả, a true delight for any lover of authentic Southeast Asian cuisine.

  • Teriyaki Beef Zoodle Bowl

    Teriyaki Beef Zoodle Bowl

    Prep time: 15 minutes
    Cook time: 10 minutes
    Total time: 25 minutes
    Servings: 2

    Ingredients:

    • 1/2 pound flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized (about 4 cups of zoodles)
    • 1 large carrot, spiralized or julienned
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
    • Green onions, sliced for garnish

    Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (optional):

    • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    • 1/4 cup water
    • 2 tablespoons sweet rice wine (mirin)
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
    • 1 garlic clove, minced
    • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water

    Instructions:

    1. Start by preparing the teriyaki sauce if making from scratch: in a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, mirin, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Whisk in the cornstarch and water mixture and continue to simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
    2. In a bowl, season the thinly sliced steak with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the steak and set it aside.
    3. In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the zoodles and carrot. Cook, tossing frequently, for about 2 minutes or until just tender.
    4. Add the cooked steak back to the skillet with the zoodles and carrot. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the top and toss everything together to coat evenly and heat through.
    5. Serve the Teriyaki Beef Zoodle Bowl hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

    Tips:

    • For a lower sodium option, choose low sodium soy sauce for your teriyaki sauce.
    • Add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
    • If avoiding soy, consider using coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for your teriyaki mixture.

    Nutritional Information (approximate):

    Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 920mg | Potassium: 1012mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 5155IU | Vitamin C: 35.9mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 3.3mg

  • Caramelized Onion Tart – A Sweet and Savory Delight

    Ingredients

    • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 3 large onions, thinly sliced
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
    • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
    • 1 egg, beaten for egg wash

    Instructions

    1. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Place the pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

    2. Sauté the Onions: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Sprinkle with sugar and balsamic vinegar, and continue cooking for about 15 minutes or until the onions are deeply caramelized. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

    3. Assemble the Tart: Sprinkle half of the grated Gruyere cheese onto the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Spread the caramelized onions over the cheese thyme leaves and top with the remaining cheese. Fold over the edges of the pastry to create a border.

    4. Bake the Tart: Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

    5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Cut into squares or slices and serve warm.

    Tips

    • For an extra-flaky crust, keep the puff pastry cold until you’re ready to use it.
    • To avoid a soggy tart, make sure to caramelize the onions thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
    • Experiment with different types of cheese, like blue cheese or aged cheddar, for a new flavor twist.
    • Add a sprinkle of nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.

    Nutrition Information

    • Calories: 320
    • Total Fat: 20g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Cholesterol: 35mg
    • Sodium: 220mg
    • Total Carbohydrates: 26g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 5g
    • Protein: 9g

  • Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

    Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad

    Prep time: 15 minutes
    Cook time: 10 minutes
    Total time: 25 minutes
    Servings: 4

    Whether you’re looking for a light summer meal that’s packed with flavor or a satisfying side that’s sure to impress at your next picnic, this Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. Made with tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a homemade pesto that brings fresh basil and garlic flavors to the forefront, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
    • 3 cups cooked rotini pasta
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
    • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
    • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup pine nuts
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions:

    1. Begin by preparing your homemade pesto. In a food processor, blend the fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. Gradually pour in the olive oil until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, cooked rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and red onion.
    3. Pour the freshly made pesto over the chicken and pasta mixture. Toss everything together until well coated.
    4. Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
    5. Before serving, check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. You can also garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor.

    This Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also customizable. Feel free to add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers, or swap the chicken for grilled shrimp for a pescatarian option. Enjoy this versatile dish as a standalone entree or paired with a crisp white wine for the ultimate summer dining experience.

    Nutritional Information:

    Calories: 550
    Protein: 25g
    Carbohydrates: 38g
    Fat: 32g
    Cholesterol: 65mg
    Sodium: 450mg

  • Mediterranean Delight: Savory Chicken Pita Wrap

    Mediterranean Delight: Savory Chicken Pita Wrap

    Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option or a simple dinner solution, this Chicken Pita Wrap recipe will leave your taste buds dancing with Mediterranean flavors. It’s healthy, delicious, and can be made in a matter of minutes! Let’s get started.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 4 pita bread rounds
    • 1 cup Greek yogurt
    • 1 cucumber, diced
    • 1 tomato, diced
    • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
    • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
    • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

    Instructions:

    1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the spices.
    2. In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and cook the seasoned chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove from heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes before slicing into strips.
    3. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the cucumber and tomato, slice the red onion, and set them aside.
    4. Warm the pita bread in the oven or on a separate skillet to make them more pliable.
    5. Spread a generous amount of Greek yogurt on each pita, add the sliced chicken, and top with cucumber, tomato, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
    6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. If desired, you can add a squeeze of lemon for an added zest.
    7. Roll up the pita wraps and serve immediately. Enjoy your freshly made Chicken Pita Wrap!

    These Chicken Pita Wraps are not only filled with protein but also have the refreshing crunch and flavors of the Mediterranean. It’s a wholesome meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger and your nutritional needs. Customize with your favorite veggies or condiments, and enjoy the simplicity and taste of this delightful dish!

  • Classic Homemade Tomato Soup

    Ingredients:

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 medium onion, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 carrot, peeled and diced
    • 1 celery stalk, diced
    • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
    • 1 can (28 ounces) of whole tomatoes with juice
    • 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
    2. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, until the paste starts to darken.
    3. Add the whole tomatoes with their juice, breaking up the tomatoes with a spoon. Stir in the vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
    4. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are very tender.
    5. Puree the soup with an immersion blender until smooth. If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
    6. If you’re using cream or milk, stir it into the soup and heat through. Adjust the seasoning, if necessary.
    7. Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top, if desired.

    Cooking Notes:

    For a vegan version of this tomato soup, omit the cream and use vegetable broth. You can also add a dash of coconut milk for a hint of creaminess without the dairy.

    Estimated Prep & Cooking Time:

    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cooking Time: 35 minutes
    Total Time: 45 minutes

    Nutrition Information:

    Calories: 150 kcal per serving (without cream)
    Total Fat: 8g (with olive oil only)
    Sodium: 450mg
    Carbohydrates: 18g
    Fiber: 4g
    Sugar: 10g
    Protein: 3g

  • Angolan Muamba de Galinha (Chicken Stew)

    Introduction to Angolan Muamba de Galinha

    Muamba de Galinha, also known as Chicken Stew, is a classic Angolan dish that is beloved for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This recipe features chicken, palm oil, okra, and a unique blend of spices that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Angola.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
    • Salt and black pepper to taste
    • 4 tablespoons of palm oil (dendê oil)
    • 2 onions, finely chopped
    • 4 garlic cloves, minced
    • 2 tomatoes, peeled and chopped
    • 1 hot chili pepper, finely chopped (optional)
    • 6 okras, sliced
    • 1 small butternut squash, cubed (can substitute with pumpkin)
    • 2 bay leaves
    • 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
    • 1 teaspoon of paprika
    • 4 cups of chicken broth or water
    • Fresh cilantro (coriander) to garnish

    Instructions:

    1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
    2. In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
    3. In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.
    4. Add the tomatoes, hot chili pepper (if using), bay leaves, ginger, and paprika. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes begin to break down.
    5. Return the chicken to the pot and add the chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
    6. Add the butternut squash and okra to the pot. Continue to simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 20 more minutes.
    7. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
    8. Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving.

    Serve your Muamba de Galinha with traditional sides like funge (a cassava flour porridge) or rice to enjoy a complete Angolan meal experience. This warm and comforting stew is perfect for sharing with family and friends, immersing you in the rich culinary traditions of Angola.

  • Classic Chicken Fried Rice: A Quick & Flavorful Delight

    If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both comforting and easy to make, then Chicken Fried Rice is the answer. Not only does it pack a punch of flavor, but it also makes the perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family. In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create your own Chicken Fried Rice that’s sure to be a hit at any table.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
    • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
    • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
    • 4 cups cooked white rice, cooled
    • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 2 green onions, sliced

    Instructions:

    1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Once done, remove the eggs and set them aside.
    2. Season the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside with the eggs.
    3. In the same pan, add the onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Then, add the thawed peas and carrots, and stir-fry until heated through.
    4. Increase the heat to high and add the cooked white rice to the pan. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Allow the rice to fry for a couple of minutes, then stir to rotate and fry again, so that the rice has a chance to crisp up a bit.
    5. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice, and add back the cooked eggs and chicken. Mix everything together thoroughly, breaking up any clumps of rice so that the sauce coats every grain.
    6. Serve the Chicken Fried Rice hot, garnished with sliced green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor.

    With these easy steps, your Chicken Fried Rice will be bursting with the savory flavors of soy sauce, the sesame oil’s nuttiness, and the fresh taste of green onions. It’s a complete meal in a dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Fried Rice!

  • Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Casserole

    Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Casserole

    Ready to indulge in an Italian classic with a healthy twist? Our Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Casserole is just the ticket for a comforting meal that satisfies your cravings without compromising your health goals. Made with zucchini noodles, a lean chicken breast, and a rich tomato sauce topped with melty cheese, this dish offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both nutritious and delicious!

    Ingredients:

    • 2 large zucchini, turned into zoodles
    • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • 2 cups marinara sauce
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • Olive oil

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
    2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
    3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
    4. In the same skillet, add the zoodles and sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until just tender. Be careful not to overcook, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Spread the zoodles over the chicken in the baking dish.
    5. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the zoodles and chicken. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
    6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
    7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

    Tips and Tricks:

    • To prevent the casserole from being watery, after creating zoodles, place them on paper towels to remove excess moisture before sautéing.
    • For a crispier top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after it’s done baking.
    • Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix.
    • This casserole can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it a great meal prep option.

    Nutritional Information:

    Per Serving: Calories: 320; Total Fat: 14g; Saturated Fat: 6g; Cholesterol: 80mg; Sodium: 710mg; Total Carbohydrates: 14g; Dietary Fiber: 3g; Sugars: 8g; Protein: 35g.

    There you have it—a delectable Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Casserole that will entice your taste buds and keep you feeling great. Enjoy this guilt-free version of the classic Chicken Parmesan with all the flavor and none of the regrets. Buon appetito!