Healthy Appetizers : My Crazy Good Life https://mycrazygoodlife.com/category/recipes/appetizers/ Healthy Living Made Easy Wed, 28 Feb 2024 20:58:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://mycrazygoodlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/favicon.png Healthy Appetizers : My Crazy Good Life https://mycrazygoodlife.com/category/recipes/appetizers/ 32 32 Simple Guacamole Recipe https://mycrazygoodlife.com/easy-guacamole-recipe/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/easy-guacamole-recipe/#comments Thu, 16 Nov 2023 20:37:08 +0000 http://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=15561 My simple guacamole recipe is a healthy snack or appetizer that’s made with fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, onion, and tomato. I love making guacamole to go with tortilla chips or to use on top of tacos, enchiladas or burrito bowls. Guacamole is a good source of vitamins C, E, and K, as well as...

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My simple guacamole recipe is a healthy snack or appetizer that’s made with fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, onion, and tomato.

I love making guacamole to go with tortilla chips or to use on top of tacos, enchiladas or burrito bowls.

images and text of Easy Guacamole Recipe for pinterest

Guacamole is a good source of vitamins C, E, and K, as well as fiber and healthy fats. Homemade guacamole is a delicious recipe that’s gluten and dairy free.

My signature simple guacamole recipe is heavy on cilantro, and includes only 5 ingredients. It’s an easy recipe to customize to your taste preferences, and I know you will love all the flavors of this homemade guacamole recipe!

Where’s the recipe?

Here at My Crazy Good Life we have readers of all comfort levels in the kitchen. To better serve everyone who visits our site, we make our recipes simple and easy to follow.

If you would like to skip past the ingredient information, detailed instructions, recipe tips, and healthy eating plan calculations, you can scroll to the bottom of the page where you will find our printable recipe card for this Simple Guacamole Recipe.

Ingredients in Simple Guacamole Recipe

  • Avocados: Avocados are very nutritious. They’re great sources of folate, potassium, and healthy fats, as well as vitamins K, C, and E. They also contain small amounts of B vitamins and minerals, such as copper, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, iron, and zinc. You will want to be sure to use ripe avocados to make good guacamole. If the avocado yields to firm gentle pressure, you’ll know it’s ripe and ready to eat.
  • Cilantro: Fresh cilantro has a fragrant, refreshing and citrusy taste and aroma, though not everyone agrees. Some people may have a specific genetic trait where cilantro tastes like soap. I am not one of those people and I feel strongly that cilantro is essential in authentic guacamole recipes.
  • Onion: I use white diced onion when I make guacamole, but you can also use red onions or even onion powder if you’re in a pinch, though not suggested.
  • Tomato: I use roma tomatoes for this guacamole recipe. If you don’t like chopped tomato in your homemade guacamole, you can omit the roma tomato.
  • Salt: I use just a pinch of salt when I make guacamole. I know everyone’s tastes are different so I suggest adding a little salt, then tasting the guacamole until you get the perfect guacamole flavor.
  • Optional: Some other ideas to add to your homemade guacamole are fresh lime juice, jalapeno pepper or serrano pepper (if you like spicy guacamole), fresh garlic, or even grilled corn.
ingredients needed to make Easy Guacamole Recipe

How to Make the Best Guacamole Recipe

  1. Start by chopping the vegetables. Bigger is better in my opinion.
  2. Then, in a medium bowl, gently mash the avocado with a fork or potato masher, but don’t smash too much. The best guacamole is chunky guacamole!
  3. Mix the chopped onion, chopped cilantro, and chopped tomatoes together with the salt. This is called pico, and is an excellent topping for tacos, pulled pork, and enchiladas!
  4. Finally, mash the avocados together with the chopped vegetables. Taste test your guacamole and adjust seasonings as needed.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavor of this homemade guacamole recipe!
collage of images showing steps to make Easy Guacamole Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • Guacamole is really best when it’s served fresh. If you must store leftover guacamole, it might help to add lime juice or lemon juice to keep your guac from turning brown. Simply squeeze the extra lime juice or lemon juice on top of the guacamole, and then cover with plastic wrap (laying plastic wrap directly on top of the guac, and pressing out any air bubbles.) Store guacamole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one to three days.
  • This is a basic guacamole recipe that is so easy to adjust to your preferences. You can omit or add to this simple guacamole recipe and it will still be delicious!
Easy Guacamole Recipe with chips

Healthy Eating Plans

21 Day Fix Simple Guacamole Recipe

The entire guacamole recipe is 8 Blue Containers and 1 Green Container.

Per serving, this simple guacamole is 1.25 Blue Containers and less than 1/4 of a Green Container.

Weight Watchers Simple Guacamole Recipe

5 2023 Plan Points

image of Easy Guacamole Recipe from above

Looking for recipes to go with this simple guacamole recipe?

Easy Guacamole Recipe with chips
Print

Simple Guacamole Recipe

This easy guacamole recipe is so delicious and the perfect dip for tortilla chips!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword Easy Guacamole
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 211kcal

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Kitchen Knife
  • Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

  • 2-3 ripe avocados
  • 1 bunch cilantro
  • 1/2 onion
  • 1 tomato
  • pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Chop the veggies. Bigger is better in my opinion. 1 bunch cilantro 1/2 onion 1 tomato
  • Smash the avocado with a fork, but don't smash too much. The best guacamole is chunky guacamole! 2-3 ripe avocados
  • Mix your veggies together and add a pinch of salt. This is called pico, and is an excellent topping for tacos, pulled pork, and enchiladas! pinch of salt
  • Mix in your avocados, then dip and enjoy.

Notes

Healthy Eating Plans
21 Day Fix Easy Guacamole Recipe
The entire easy guacamole recipe is 8 Blue Containers and 1 Green Container.
Per serving, this easy guacamole recipe is 1.25 Blue Containers and less than 1/4 of a Green Container.
Weight Watchers Easy Guacamole Recipe
Per serving: 5 2023 Plan Points

Nutrition

Calories: 211kcal | Carbohydrates: 9.9g | Protein: 2.1g | Fat: 19.6g | Saturated Fat: 4.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 58mg | Potassium: 529mg | Fiber: 7.1g | Sugar: 1.2g | Calcium: 160mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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Buffalo Chicken Bites https://mycrazygoodlife.com/instant-pot-21-day-fix-buffalo-chicken-bites/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/instant-pot-21-day-fix-buffalo-chicken-bites/#comments Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:57:01 +0000 https://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=27661 These Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites are my favorite healthy way to satisfy cravings for Buffalo wings. Admittedly, I crave deep fried, butter drenched wings more than I should. Our Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites are the perfect dish to enjoy on game day, but also healthy enough to make anytime a craving hits. Our...

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These Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites are my favorite healthy way to satisfy cravings for Buffalo wings. Admittedly, I crave deep fried, butter drenched wings more than I should.

Our Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites are the perfect dish to enjoy on game day, but also healthy enough to make anytime a craving hits. Our buffalo chicken bites are made with simple ingredients, yet full of delicious buffalo sauce flavor that make this the perfect appetizer!  

images and text of Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites for pinterest

Classic buffalo wings are deep fried, tossed in butter, then tossed in buffalo sauce. Even Instant Pot buffalo chicken wings are typically not the best choice for your healthy eating plan.

Chicken wings are made up almost entirely of fat, and while butter is fine in moderation, the sheer amount used in most wing recipes is not. This healthy chicken recipe hits all your favorite buffalo sauce flavors, and is more filling because you’re getting the meat, not just skin.

While this recipe is written for the Instant Pot, you can cook it in any electric pressure cooker! It takes about 15 minutes. These spicy, buttery, Buffalo Chicken Boneless Wings are a healthy homemade version alternative to traditional buffalo wings. 

Boneless buffalo chicken bites go great with a side of celery sticks, carrot sticks, turnip fries, and homemade ranch dressing dipping sauce.

Our bite-sized pieces are the perfect protein to share with family and friends. It’s an easy appetizer, and I guarantee your friends will be asking for this recipe. 

Where’s the Recipe?

My readers come from all levels of experience in the kitchen and I receive a lot of questions about recipes. To better serve everyone, I’m committed to put a ton of helpful information in all of my posts.

If you’d like to skip over buffalo chicken ingredient information, the recipe tips, and healthy eating plan calculations, please simply scroll to the bottom of the page, where you will find the easy to print Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites recipe card!

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites being dipped into ranch dip

Ingredients in Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites

  • Chicken breast: Chicken breasts are a healthy low carb protein source. Boneless skinless chicken breasts work great for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs for this buffalo chicken recipe.
  • Cayenne pepper: Cayenne blends nicely with the hot sauce to create the perfect spicy flavor for your buffalo sauce. If you need to tame the spice level a bit, feel free to omit or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper. 
  • Butter: I use butter in this buffalo chicken recipe, because traditional fried chicken bites have that delicious buttery flavor. If you prefer, you can use another type of fat like avocado oil or olive oil to cook your chicken in.
  • Black pepper: Good seasoned chicken needs black pepper.
  • Franks Hot Sauce: There are a lot of different buffalo sauces available, but I prefer the original Frank’s red hot sauce. Traditional buffalo sauce has a ton of extra ingredients in it that make it less healthy. The Frank’s red hot sauce is just salt, peppers, and vinegar. This is all you need and you will still get all the buffalo flavor. You won’t miss the extra stuff, I promise!
  • (Optional) Ranch Seasoning: If you need to make some dip, our ranch seasoning is the best! Scroll down to find the recipe for our ranch dip in the recipe tips below.
ingredients needed to make Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites

How to Make Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites

Time needed: 16 minutes

  1. Slice & Sauté: First you will want to slice your chicken breasts into bite size pieces or strips, and then turn your pot to Sauté. Next melt your butter in the pot. Once the butter is melted, place the chicken, seasonings, and 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce (reserve an extra 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce to add at the end) into your pot with the melted butter. Finally, place chicken in a single layer. Make sure to avoid overlapping of the chicken pieces.  
  2. Pressure Cook: Close and lock the Instant Pot lid and set your pot to Pressure Cook on high pressure. Set the cooking time for 8 minutes.
  3. Quick Release: Once the cook time is complete, quick release the pressure and then remove the lid. The chicken is cooked when a meat thermometer reads the internal temperature of the buffalo bites to 165 degrees F. Using a slotted spoon, remove chicken and drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce on top and then eat now, or skip ahead to Step 4 for my preferred method.
  4. Optional Broil: Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and drizzle it with the remaining ¼ cup of buffalo sauce. Then broil for 2-3 minutes until the buffalo sauce is thickened and the chicken bites are golden brown. Let cool for about 5 minutes and then serve with carrots, celery, or your favorite sides like ranch or blue cheese dressing.
collage of images showing steps to make Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites

Recipe Tips

  • This recipe goes perfectly with our ranch dip. If you need to make some dip, this ranch seasoning is the best! Take a small container of plain Greek yogurt, and add 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp parsley, and 1/2 tsp dill. Stir to combine.
  • If you’re making this recipe with frozen chicken breasts, increase the cook time to 16 minutes and cut into bite-sized pieces after it’s cooked. 
  • If you’re short on time you can skip broiling and just toss the cooked chicken with the remaining buffalo sauce, but broiling is the best way to get that golden brown crispy exterior.
  • Our Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites are most delicious when they are fresh. However, you may save any remaining chicken leftovers for meal prep by storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat simply warm the buffalo chicken bites in an air fryer basket on low, or in the oven at a low temperature. 
plate with Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites, ranch dip, and asparagus

Healthy Eating Plans

Weight Watchers Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites

See this post for our WW Buffalo Chicken Bites.

21 Day Fix Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites

For the entire recipe: 8 Red Containers, 6 Teaspoons. 

Per Serving: 1 Red Container, ¾ Teaspoon. 

2B Mindset Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites

Serve with 50% veggies and 25% FFC for a complete lunch. 75% veggies for a complete dinner. 

Trim Healthy Mama Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites

These buffalo chicken bites are a THM-S recipe with no changes.

Love all things buffalo chicken? Try these other healthy buffalo sauce recipes:

  • 21 Day Fix Buffalo Chicken Dip Shredded buffalo chicken dip is a classic appetizer that is always a hit at parties and gatherings. However, traditional buffalo chicken dip can be high in calories and fat. This healthy buffalo dip uses shredded chicken breasts, plus cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, instead of cream cheese, to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.
  • Frozen Cauliflower In Air Fryer I’m always looking for a good recipe using buffalo sauce. These Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are so easy to make and are the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish.
  • Buffalo Cauliflower Mac and Cheese Buffalo sauce recipes are usually a big hit in our house, so I was excited to try out this great recipe for my family. It’s a healthy buffalo cauliflower mac and cheese recipe with shredded chicken, and is a great way to get in some extra protein and veggies!
  • Healthy Buffalo Chicken Roll Ups These Buffalo Chicken Breasts Roll Ups are a delicious quick dinner recipe! Mixing cottage cheese with buffalo sauce and ranch spices gives these roll ups a spicy and creamy center that’s a satisfying main course cuisine.
  • Buffalo Pasta with Shredded Chicken This easy buffalo chicken pasta recipe is a family favorite in my house, and is a great addition to your weekly meal rotation. This pasta dish is made with shredded chicken breasts and is topped with a protein packed spicy buffalo sauce. It’s one of my favorite Instant Pot recipes.
  • Buffalo Cauliflower Dip I add chicken breasts to this shredded chicken buffalo cauliflower dip to really get in some extra protein. It’s a healthy, game day appetizer that you can cook in the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stove top.
plate with Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites, ranch dip, and asparagus
plate with Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Bites, ranch dip, and asparagus
Print

Buffalo Chicken Bites

These spicy, buttery, Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Boneless Wings are the perfect healthy recipe. They cook right in the Instant Pot, so they’re fast and cleanup is easy.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword Buffalo Chicken Bites
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 222kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot 6 qt
  • Kitchen Knife
  • Sealing Rings

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken breast defrosted, cut into strips (I’ve also used frozen chicken breasts, please see below)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Franks Red Hot Sauce not buffalo sauce
  • 1/4 cup Franks Red Hot Sauce save for after chicken has been cooked

Instructions

  • Slice your chicken into bite-size strips. 2 lbs chicken breast
  • Set your Instant Pot to sauté and melt your butter. Once melted, add your chicken and seasoning. Then, stir in ½ cup of Franks Hot Sauce and stir well. 2 tbsp butter, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp black pepper, 1/2 cup Franks Red Hot Sauce
  • Close and lock the lid and set your pot to Pressure Cook on high pressure. Set the cooking time for 8 minutes.
  • Remove the chicken from the pot. You can drizzle the remaining hot sauce on it and eat it now, or broil on a baking sheet. 1/4 cup Franks Red Hot Sauce
  • Optional: Using tongs, remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and place on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Brush the chicken with the additional 1/4 cup hot sauce. Brown the chicken and thicken the sauce by placing under the broiler for 3 minutes. Turn the chicken over and repeat on the other side. Let the chicken cool 5 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

Healthy Eating Plans:  
  • 21 Day Fix/Portion Fix: For the entire recipe: 8 Red Containers, 6 Teaspoons. Per Serving: 1 Red Container, ¾ Teaspoon. 
  • 2B Mindset: Serve with 50% veggies and 25% FFC for a complete lunch. 75% veggies for a complete dinner. 
  • Trim Healthy Mama: This is a THM-S recipe with no changes.
  • Weight Watchers: See this post for the WW version.

Nutrition

Calories: 222kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 762mg | Potassium: 255mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 287IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 1mg

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Recipe for Baked Carrot Fries https://mycrazygoodlife.com/baked-carrot-fries/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/baked-carrot-fries/#comments Fri, 30 Jun 2023 20:45:05 +0000 https://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=34921 We’re always looking for a healthier version of potato fries. These baked carrot fries are a delicious alternative to regular french fries. For a french fry lover like myself that’s a BIG statement.  Make our Baked Carrot Fries in your air fryer or oven, and lightly salt them to satisfy your french fry cravings! Our...

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We’re always looking for a healthier version of potato fries. These baked carrot fries are a delicious alternative to regular french fries. For a french fry lover like myself that’s a BIG statement. 

Make our Baked Carrot Fries in your air fryer or oven, and lightly salt them to satisfy your french fry cravings!

images and text of Baked Carrot Fries for pinterest

Our crispy baked carrot fries are a great way to get more healthy vegetables into your daily values. Our crispy carrot fries are made with only three simple ingredients, and make the perfect snack or side dish for your dinner.  

Regular potato fries are delicious, there is no denying that. Our carrot fries are just as delicious, and will help keep your craving for traditional fries at bay. 

The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs perfectly with the simple flavors of sea salt. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and healthy! Our carrot fries are like sweet potato fries and will earn a five star rating from everyone in your family. 

Where’s the Recipe?

Here at My Crazy Good Life we love it when our readers feel confident and empowered in the kitchen. We strive to provide detailed recipes that are helpful to all varying levels of cooking skills. 

In our recipes we include detailed instructions, nutritional information, healthy eating plan points, as well as other helpful tips and tricks to help you be more successful. If you are ready to start cooking, simply scroll down to the bottom of the page to find the easy to print recipe for Baked Carrot Fries

Ingredients in Baked Carrot Fries

bowl of raw carrots

Instructions for Baked Carrot Fries in Oven or Air Fryer

  1. If cooking these carrot fries in the oven, preheat oven to 350º.  
  2. Peel carrots with a vegetable peeler (be careful!), slice into fry-sized pieces that are also a fry shape. 
  3. Place carrots in a large mixing bowl and toss with olive oil and salt to taste.
  4. Spread carrot sticks in a single layer on a large baking sheet or sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Place baking sheet in hot oven. If cooking in the air fryer, try to place carrots as spread out, in an even layer, as much as possible. 
  5. If cooking in the air fryer, check every 2-3 minutes and remove when tips are brown.
  6. If in oven, bake for 12-25 minutes at 350 degrees until carrots are browned.
  7. Transfer to a large bowl and season with more salt if needed. 
collage of images showing steps to make Recipe for Baked Carrot Fries

Recipe Tips

  • Our oven-baked carrot fries are easily modified and can serve as a starting point if you’re feeling adventurous. Try sprinkling garlic powder, onion powder, or a light dusting of parmesan cheese the next time you make our carrot fries. If you do add additional toppings, please note that your healthy eating plan points would need to be recalculated. 
  • These carrot fries are best eaten fresh. You can store them in an airtight container and reheat later, however they aren’t quite as crunchy. 
  • Try to cut your fries all the same size and shape. If you have smaller pieces, you might end up with super-burnt crunchy pieces of carrots. 
  • This would be a great addition to many of your side dishes at the table for a special occasion. 
Recipe for Baked Carrot Fries in a dish

Healthy Eating Plans

Weight Watchers

2 Points on the 2023 Plan | 2 Blue, Green, and Purple Plan Points per serving 

21 Day Fix

This 21 Day Fix Recipe for Baked Carrot Fries is a delicious way to use up your green containers for the day. Just fill your green container with these oven baked carrot fries and count as 1 green container and 1 tsp. 

2B Mindset

These Baked Carrot Fries are a delicious addition to lunch or dinner on 2B Mindset.

More healthy but delicious veggie recipes

Recipe for Baked Carrot Fries in a dish
Print

Recipe for Baked Carrot Fries

These Baked Carrot Fries are the perfect answer to your salt craving! You can use an air fryer or your oven to get crispy vegetable fries that will satisfy your craving!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword Baked Carrot Fries
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 114kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 cups carrots peeled and sliced into fries
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp sea salt

Instructions

  • Peel carrots and slice to desired thickness. 2 cups carrots
  • Toss with olive oil and salt until evenly coated. 1 tbsp olive oil ½ tsp sea salt
  • If baking, pre heat oven to 350º. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly spread the carrots on top of the paper. Bake for 12-25 minutes until the carrots are browned and desired crispness.
  • If air frying, pre heat the air fryer to 350º. Add the carrots directly in the basket. Toss periodically (every 2-3 minutes) for even cooking. Remove when the tips begin to brown, or when desired crispness is reached.

Notes

21 Day Fix Container Counts: Fill your green container and count as 1 green container and 1 tsp. 
Weight Watchers Points: 2023 Plan: 2 Points | 2 Blue, Green, and Purple Plan Points per serving

Nutrition

Calories: 114kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 651mg | Potassium: 410mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 21384IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 1mg

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Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad https://mycrazygoodlife.com/healthy-dill-pickle-chicken-salad/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/healthy-dill-pickle-chicken-salad/#comments Fri, 16 Jun 2023 02:08:42 +0000 https://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=44868 Looking for a healthy and delicious chicken salad recipe? Look no further than this Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad! This recipe is made with low-fat ingredients like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, so you can enjoy all the flavor without the guilt. Plus, the dill pickle adds a refreshing twist that will keep you coming...

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Looking for a healthy and delicious chicken salad recipe? Look no further than this Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad! This recipe is made with low-fat ingredients like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, so you can enjoy all the flavor without the guilt. Plus, the dill pickle adds a refreshing twist that will keep you coming back for more.

This Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a delicious low carb chicken salad recipe and perfect for my dill pickle lovers. A similar and healthy Chick-Fil-A chicken salad alternative, you can enjoy the salty and creamy recipe as a dip, as a healthy chicken salad sandwich, or as a salad topping.

images and text of collage of images showing steps to make Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad for pinterest

Where’s the Recipe?

My readers come from all levels of experience in the kitchen, and I receive a ton of questions about my recipes from new cooks.

To better serve all of my readers, I add a lot of helpful information in all of my posts. This includes: recipe tips, detailed cooking instructions, and diet information. Some of these may be useful to you and others may be some that you already know. 

If you’d like to skip over all of the extra information, please scroll to the bottom of the page, where you will find the easy to print recipe for this dill pickle version of the classic chicken salad recipe.

Ingredients in this Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

  • Chicken breast: chicken breast is low in calories, high in protein, and is rich in an array of important nutrients. I typically make my chicken for this recipe in the Instant Pot, but you can also use leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken. You’ll want to read this post about homemade rotisserie chicken vs store bought, but using rotisserie chicken allows you to skip cooking the chicken and just make the sauce and chop the pickles.
  • Vinegar: white vinegar is what I use and adds a nice tart flavor to chicken salad recipes.
  • Chopped dill pickles: I like to use 1/2 pickles and 1/2 cucumbers to cut the sodium down. I mix them together and allow them to sit in the pickle jar for a bit while I make the rest of the recipe. The dill pickle juice makes the cucumbers taste more like pickles.
  • Plain Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is loaded with probiotics, and can promote gut health.  It is a wonderful replacement for mayonnaise or miracle whip in healthy recipes.
  • Cottage cheese: Blended cottage cheese is taking over the healthy eating world. It’s a great substitute to clean up recipes, and the best part is that cottage cheese is high in protein, packed with nutrients, and low in calories. My method of blending cottage cheese and greek yogurt together gives you a creamy base but makes it so you truly cannot tell that you are eating either ingredient. 
  • Parsley: using fresh parsley is a delicious way to brighten up this easy chicken salad recipe.
  • Dill: I love using fresh dill for this recipe. 
  • Chives: chives or green onions add tons of flavor to this recipe.
  • Garlic: I love to use fresh garlic cloves, but garlic powder will work too.
  • Black pepper
image of dill pickle chicken dip in a clear glass bowl with colorful dipping veggies

Instant Pot Directions

  1. Add the chicken and vinegar to the Instant Pot insert.
  2. Close the lid and turn the pressure valve to sealing. Cook the chicken on high pressure using the manual or pressure cook setting for 10-12 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
  3. In a food processor or blender, mix together the Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, garlic, and pepper until smooth. 
  4. Remove the lid from the food processor or blender then add the chicken to the food processor. You may need to break the chicken breasts in half so that they fit.
  5. Use the food processor or blender to shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce. It will only take about 5-15 seconds to shred the chicken.
  6. Take off the lid and remove the blade. Fold the chives, dill, parsley, and dill pickles (with cucumbers if you’ve chosen to use them) into the dip. Garnish and serve with sliced veggies to dip.
collage of images showing steps to make Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad
collage of images showing steps to make Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

How to make Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad on the Stove Top

  1. Add the chicken and vinegar to a sauce pan.
  2. Cover the sauce pan with a lid and cook the chicken on medium high heat for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
  3. In a food processor or blender, mix together the Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, garlic, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Remove the lid from the food processor or blender then add the chicken to the food processor. You may need to break the chicken breasts in half so that they fit.
  5. Use the food processor or blender to shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce. It will only take about 5-15 seconds to shred the chicken.
  6. Take off the lid and remove the blade. Fold the chives, dill, parsley, and dill pickles into the dip. Garnish and serve with sliced veggies to dip.

How to make Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad in the Crock Pot

  1. Add the chicken and vinegar to your slow cooker.
  2. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the chicken on high heat for 2-3 hour, low heat for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  3. In a food processor or blend mix together the Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, garlic, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Remove the lid from the food processor or blender then add the chicken to the food processor. You may need to break the chicken breasts in half so that they fit.
  5. Use the food processor or blender to shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce. It will only take about 5-15 seconds to shred the chicken.
  6. Take off the lid and remove the blade. Fold the chives, dill, parsley, and dill pickles into the dip. Garnish and serve with sliced veggies to dip.
close up of dill pickle chicken dip in a clear bowl

Recipe Tips

  • This very tasty pickle chicken salad recipe can be eaten in so many ways. It’s delicious as a dip, stuffed into mini bell peppers, topped on a salad, or made into lettuce wraps or sandwiches. 
  • If you have a small food processor or blender, don’t make yourself crazy by trying to fit the entire recipe in it. Mix it in small batches and transfer to a mixing bowl to get it all blended and chopped up.
  • If you don’t have a food processor or blender to cut this recipe up, no worries! You can shred the chicken and mix the sauce in. It’ll be longer strands of chicken, but absolutely edible in any form (as a dip, etc) and still delicious.
  • This is a great recipe for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-6 days.

Healthy Eating Plans

21 Day Fix

For the entire recipe: 6 red containers, 1 green container. Per serving: 1 red container, 1/6 green container.  

Pickle fans rejoice! Pickles were added to the Ultimate Portion Fix in 2019. I know a lot of you love pickles and were bummed that they weren’t on the approved food list before.

I do (personally) caution you against using your green container for pickles. There is a huge difference between fresh cucumbers and cucumbers that have been brined in salt and vinegar and often sugar. As pickles are considered a green container on the 21 Day Fix now, I will still not use them more than once every few weeks at the most. Not sure what the Beachbody team is thinking about adding pickles to the list as a green, but they must have a good reason.

For this recipe, I like to use half dill pickles and half cucumbers. They sit together in a bowl together while I’m preparing the rest of the recipe. The taste is not compromised at all this way. It cuts the sodium of the pickles in half, too!

Weight Watchers

One serving of this recipe (about 3/4 cup) is 0 2023 Points, 1 Blue Plan Point, 2 Green Plan Points, and 1 Purple Plan Point when you use fat free Greek yogurt and lowfat cottage cheese.

Pickles are very high in sodium and though they are 0 points on Weight Watchers, they can easily stall your weight loss or even cause weight gain while you’re trying to lose weight.

I calculated the points for this recipe online using the calculator provided on the Weight Watchers website.

Trim Healthy Mama

This is a THM-S recipe – if using full fat cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, dill pickles (not bread and butter type), and make sure that sugar hasn’t been added to the pickles. You’d be surprised where you find sugar!

close up of dip on a cucumber slice

More Healthy Dip Recipes

  • Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip I have to admit that this one is my favorite. I always have some made in the freezer, and I love having it for lunch and an easy snack.
  • Healthy Crack Chicken Recipe Again, a super versatile recipe that can be made multiple ways. It can also be cooked in the Instant Pot, on the stove, or in a Crock Pot.
  • Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip This dip (actually, all of the ones in this list) uses cottage cheese and Greek yogurt to get the creaminess without the calories. This is another favorite!
  • This easy and Healthy Elote Dip Recipe is a crowd pleasing side dish. If you love the flavors of Mexican Street Corn, you’ve got to give this Mexican Corn Dip recipe a try!
  • Spicy Mexican Corn Dip I’d say that this hot Corn Dip is good, or easy, or popular–but seriously, it’s amazing. And it’s gotten a healthy makeover!
image of dill pickle chicken dip in a clear glass bowl with colorful dipping veggies
Print

Healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad

This healthy Dill Pickle Chicken Salad is a delicious low carb chicken salad recipe. A similar and healthy Chick-Fil-A chicken salad alternative, you can enjoy the salty and creamy recipe as a dip, on a sandwich, or as a salad topping.
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword Dill pickle chicken salad, healthy snack
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 135kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot 6 qt
  • Kitchen Knife
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast about 2 breasts
  • 1/3 cup vinegar I use white
  • 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt I prefer 2%
  • 3/4 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh chives chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1/2 tbsp fresh dill chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 cup dill pickles chopped, please see note in post about using 1/2 pickles and 1/2 cucumbers

Instructions

Instant Pot Directions:

  • Add the chicken and vinegar to the Instant Pot insert. 1 pound chicken breast, 1/3 cup vinegar
  • Close the lid and turn the pressure valve to sealing. Cook the chicken on high pressure using the manual or pressure cook setting for 10-12 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
  • In a food processor or blender, mix together the Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, garlic, and pepper until smooth. 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 3/4 cup cottage cheese, 1 tsp garlic, 1 tsp black pepper
  • Remove the lid from the food processor or blender, then add the chicken to the food processor. You may need to break the chicken breasts in half so that they fit.
  • Use the food processor or blender to shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce. It will only take about 5-15 seconds to shred the chicken.
  • Take off the lid and remove the blade. Fold the chives, dill, parsley, and dill pickles into the dip. Garnish and serve with sliced veggies to dip. 1 tbsp fresh chives, 1/2 tbsp fresh dill, 1 tbsp fresh parsley, 1 cup dill pickles

Stove Top Directions:

  • Add the chicken and vinegar to a sauce pan. 1 pound chicken breast, 1/3 cup vinegar
  • Cover the sauce pan with a lid and cook the chicken on medium high temperature for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  • In a food processor or blender, mix together the Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, garlic, and pepper until smooth. 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 3/4 cup cottage cheese, 1 tsp garlic, 1 tsp black pepper
  • Remove the lid from the food processor or blender, then add the chicken to the food processor. You may need to break the chicken breasts in half so that they fit.
  • Use the food processor or blender to shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce. It will only take about 5-15 seconds to shred the chicken.
  • Take off the lid and remove the blade. Fold the chives, dill, parsley, and dill pickles into the dip. Garnish and serve with sliced veggies to dip. 1 tbsp fresh chives, 1/2 tbsp fresh dill, 1 tbsp fresh parsley, 1 cup dill pickles

Slow Cooker Directions:

  • Add the chicken and vinegar to your slow cooker. 1 pound chicken breast, 1/3 cup vinegar
  • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the chicken on high heat for 2-3 hour, low heat for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
  • In a food processor or blender, mix together the Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, garlic, and pepper until smooth. 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 3/4 cup cottage cheese, 1 tsp garlic, 1 tsp black pepper
  • Remove the lid from the food processor or blender then add the chicken to the food processor. You may need to break the chicken breasts in half so that they fit.
  • Use the food processor or blender to shred the chicken and mix it with the sauce. It will only take about 5-15 seconds to shred the chicken.
  • Take off the lid and remove the blade. Fold the chives, dill, parsley, and dill pickles into the dip. Garnish and serve with sliced veggies to dip. 1 tbsp fresh chives, 1/2 tbsp fresh dill, 1 tbsp fresh parsley, 1 cup dill pickles

Video

Notes

21 Day Fix container counts for the entire recipe: 6 red containers, 1 green container. Per serving: 1 red container, 1/6 green container.
Weight Watchers: One serving of this recipe (about 3/4 cup) is 0 2023 Points, 1 Blue Plan Point, 2 Green Plan Points, and 1 Purple Plan Point when you use fat free Greek yogurt and fat free cottage cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 135kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 51mg | Sodium: 423mg | Potassium: 326mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 169IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 64mg | Iron: 1mg

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Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese https://mycrazygoodlife.com/healthy-buffalo-chicken-dip/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/healthy-buffalo-chicken-dip/#comments Tue, 30 May 2023 22:47:19 +0000 https://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=34214 This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese is a high protein and low carb healthy appetizer!  Buffalo chicken dip is a classic appetizer that is always a hit at parties and gatherings. However, traditional buffalo chicken dip can be high in calories and fat. This healthy buffalo dip uses cottage cheese and Greek yogurt...

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This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese is a high protein and low carb healthy appetizer! 

Buffalo chicken dip is a classic appetizer that is always a hit at parties and gatherings. However, traditional buffalo chicken dip can be high in calories and fat. This healthy buffalo dip uses cottage cheese and Greek yogurt to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.

Healthy buffalo chicken dip is a reader favorite and a great way to enjoy your favorite appetizer without all the guilt. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, game day, or even just a night in with friends. So next time you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying snack, give this easy buffalo chicken dip recipe a try!

two images and text for Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese

Where’s the Recipe?

My community has readers from all levels of experience in the kitchen, and I receive a lot of questions about recipes. To better serve all of my readers here at My Crazy Good Life, I am committed to giving you a ton of helpful information in all of my posts.

If you’d like to skip over the information about freezing, swapping ingredients, and healthy eating plans, please simply scroll to the bottom of the page where you will find this easy to print healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe.

Ingredients in Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese

  • Chicken: Chicken is a good source of protein. You can use breasts, thighs, or even rotisserie chicken in this recipe. If using rotisserie or leftover chicken, start at step three with making your sauce.  
  • Cottage Cheese: Look for 2% small curd cottage cheese. It saves you calories without being heavily processed. If you’re concerned about sodium, read here for how to lower the sodium in cottage cheese.
  • Greek Yogurt: Just like the cottage cheese you’ll want to look for the 2% variety of Greek yogurt. Make sure you get plain Greek yogurt–you don’t want any vanilla in your buffalo chicken.  
  • Hot Sauce: This is important, make sure and get Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, not Buffalo or Wing sauce. The buffalo sauce has a lot of extra ingredients that you just don’t need. 
  • Cheese: This is optional. If you want to add extra cheese you can use your favorite variety. Some good choices are cheddar, pepper jack, colby jack, or mozzarella cheese. 
  • Homemade Ranch Dressing: garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill weed, dried parsley, and black pepper– measurements for the ranch seasoning are in the printable recipe below.
ingredients to make weight watchers buffalo chicken dip

How to Make Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese in the Instant Pot

  1. Cook your chicken: First, place your chicken breasts into the bottom of your Instant Pot. To ensure they cook fully, be careful not to stack them. Cover with 1 cup of water.
  2. Pressure cook: Close and lock the lid of your Instant Pot and then turn the pressure valve to sealing. Select Pressure Cook (high) and set the cook time for 12 minutes.
  3. Prepare your sauce: While the chicken is cooking, blend together the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill weed, dried parsley, and pepper together until smooth and creamy.
  4. Natural release: When the cook time is complete, allow your Instant Pot to naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure and remove the lid. Drain the liquid from your pot and use two forks or a mixer to shred your chicken.
  5. Mix in your sauce: Turn your Instant Pot to Sauté, then add the yogurt and hot sauce mixture to your shredded chicken. Stir well and cook until the liquid begins to bubble. If you’re using any cheese, add it in now.
  6. Broil: This step is optional, but I love to slightly crisp the top of the creamy buffalo chicken dip. To do that, transfer your dip to an oven safe dish and broil for 4-6 minutes until lightly browned. Watch the oven carefully, the broiler can start to burn things very quickly.
  7. Optional Garnish: Add any additional garnishes at this point. These ingredients aren’t included in the nutrition or special diet info below. 
collage of images showing steps to make Weight Watchers Buffalo Chicken Dip

How to Make Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese in the Crock Pot

  1. Place chicken breasts in a Crockpot and cook on high heat for 4 hours. 
  2. Once your chicken is fully cooked shred it with two forks or a hand mixer.
  3. Blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Franks hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill weed, dried parsley, and pepper together until smooth and creamy. 
  4. Stir yogurt mixture, and cheese into your chicken, and cook on low heat for 1.5 hours.
  5. Optional: Place your slow cooker insert under your broiler for 4-6 minutes until lightly browned.

How to Make Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese on the Stove top

  1. Boil your chicken for 15-20 until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  2. Drain all liquid from your pan and shred your chicken using two forks or a hand or standing mixer. 
  3. Blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Franks hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill weed, dried parsley, and pepper together until smooth and creamy. 
  4. Mix blended sauce into your chicken, and add cheddar cheese. Stir well and transfer to an oven safe baking dish.
  5. Optional: Broil 4-6 minutes until lightly browned. Remove dip from the oven and let it rest for 10 or 15 minutes before serving.
buffalo chicken dip in a skillet surrounded by dipping vegetables and crackers

Recipe Tips

  • Frozen or thawed chicken in the Instant Pot cook for the same amount of time, the frozen chicken will just take longer to come to pressure.  
  • This is a great recipe for meal prep because it freezes and reheats well. This recipe keeps in the fridge for up to 6 days. Freeze in individual servings for quick, easy lunches or snacks on the go.
  • Like I mentioned, you can leave the cheddar cheese out of the recipe. Goat cheese, blue cheese crumbles or feta are other optional toppings.
  • Even if you hate cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, trust me–you cannot taste them individually and mixing the two gives a wonderful creamy texture to this cheesy dip. 
  • My favorite things to dip into this creamy dip are baby carrots, red bell peppers, pita chips, celery sticks and tortilla chips.
  • Using a hand mixer or stand mixer is the easiest way to shred chicken. Here are some tips so you get the best results:
    • Make sure all liquid is drained from your bowl.
    • Starting on low, turn on your mixer and apply slight pressure to chicken breasts.
    • Increase to medium speed and move in circular motion around your pot until all of your chicken is shredded. This only takes about 30 seconds.
Weight Watchers Buffalo Chicken Dip in a skillet surrounded by vegetables and crackers.

Healthy Eating Plans

21 Day Fix

21 Day Fix Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese 

Entire recipe: 10 Red Containers and 2 Blue Containers.

Per serving: Makes 8 – ½ cup servings, each is 1 ¼ Red Containers. If you add cheddar cheese, add ¼ Blue Containers.  

2B Mindset

This recipe counts as a protein. Fill 25% of your plate with an FFC, and 50% vegetables for a perfect lunch. Serve with 50% vegetables for dinner. 

Trim Healthy Mama

This recipe is an S with no substitutions required. 

Looking for More Delicious Recipes?

Weight Watchers Buffalo Chicken Dip in a skillet surrounded by vegetables and crackers.
Print

Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip with Cottage Cheese

This healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip is high protein and low carb! Directions for Instant Pot or Ninja Foodi, Slow Cooker, or stove top. You'll love this easy low carb meal prep recipe.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword 21 Day Fix, Buffalo Chicken Dip, healthy
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 200kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot 6 qt
  • Food processor
  • Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts frozen
  • 1 cup water
  • 3/4 cup cottage cheese 2%
  • 3/4 cup Greek yogurt plain, 2%
  • 3/4 cup Hot Sauce Frank’s Hot Sauce, NOT Buffalo sauce :)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried dill
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2/3 cup cheddar cheese shredded (optional)

Instructions

Instant Pot Instructions:

  • Place your frozen chicken breasts into your Instant Pot. Be careful not to stack them to ensure they cook fully and cover with 1 cup of water. 2 lbs chicken breasts, 1 cup water
  • Close and lock the lid and turn the pressure valve to sealing. Select Pressure Cook (high) and set cook time for 12 minutes.
  • Blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Franks hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill weed, dried parsley, and pepper together until smooth and creamy. 3/4 cup cottage cheese, 3/4 cup Greek yogurt, 3/4 cup Hot Sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried dill, 1/2 tsp dried parsley, 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • When the cook time is complete, allow your Instant Pot to naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure and remove the lid. Drain the liquid from your pot and use two forks or a hand mixer to shred your chicken.
  • Turn your Instant Pot to Sauté and stir in your yogurt and hot sauce mixture. Stir well and cook until the liquid begins to bubble. Then mix in your cheese (if using). 2/3 cup cheddar cheese
  • This step is optional, but I love to slightly crispen the top of the dip. Transfer your dip to an oven safe dish and broil for 4-6 minutes until lightly browned. Watch the oven carefully, the broiler can start to burn things very quickly. Remove dip from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Serve with carrots, celery, cucumbers, stuffed inside a jalapeño or bell pepper, eat on a tortilla or in a pita. The possibilities are endless.

Crock Pot Instructions:

  • Place chicken breasts in a Crockpot and cook on high heat for 4 hours.2 lbs chicken breasts
  • Once your chicken is fully cooked shred it with two forks or a hand mixer.
  • Next, blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Franks hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill weed, dried parsley, and pepper together until smooth and creamy. 3/4 cup cottage cheese, 3/4 cup Greek yogurt, 3/4 cup Hot Sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried dill, 1/2 tsp dried parsley, 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Stir yogurt mixture, and cheese into your chicken, and cook on low heat for 1.5 hours. 2/3 cup cheddar cheese
  • Optional: Place your Crockpot insert under your broiler for 4-6 minutes until lightly browned.

Stove/Oven Instructions:

  • Boil your chicken for 15-20 until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Drain all liquid from your pan and shred your chicken using two forks or a hand mixer. 2 lbs chicken breasts
  • Blend cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Franks hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill weed, dried parsley, and pepper together until smooth and creamy. 3/4 cup cottage cheese, 3/4 cup Greek yogurt, 3/4 cup Hot Sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried dill, 1/2 tsp dried parsley, 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Mix blended sauce into your chicken, and add cheddar cheese. Stir well and transfer to an oven safe dish. 2/3 cup cheddar cheese
  • Optional: Broil 4-6 minutes until lightly browned. Remove dip from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

Healthy Eating Plans: 
  • For the Weight Watchers version, please see this post for the recipe and point information.
  • 21 Day Fix: For this entire 21 Day Fix Buffalo Chicken dip recipe: 10 Red Containers and 2 Blue Containers  
  • Per serving: Makes 8 – ½ cup servings. 1 ¼ Red Containers, and ¼ Blue Containers.  
  • 2B Mindset: This recipe counts as a protein. Fill 25% of your plate with an FFC, and 50% vegetables for a perfect lunch.  Serve with 50% vegetables for dinner. 
  • Trim Healthy Mama: This recipe is an S with no substitutions required. 
  • Keto: You’ll want to calculate the carbs in the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt and see if this is acceptable for your personal goals.
Recipe Tips 
  • Frozen and thawed chicken in the Instant Pot cook for the same amount of time, the frozen chicken will just take longer to come to pressure.  
  • This is a great recipe for meal prep because it freezes and reheats well. This recipe keeps in the fridge for up to 6 days. Freeze in individual servings for quick, easy lunches or snacks on the go.
  • Like I mentioned, you can leave the cheddar cheese out of the recipe. Goat cheese, blue cheese crumbles or feta are other optional toppings.
  • Even if you hate cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, trust me–you cannot taste them individually and mixing the two gives a wonderful creamy texture to this cheesy dip. 
  • My favorite things to dip into this creamy dip are baby carrots, red bell peppers, pita chips, celery sticks and tortilla chips.
  • Using a hand mixer or stand mixer is the easiest way to shred chicken. Here are some tips so you get the best results:
    • Make sure all liquid is drained from your bowl.
    • Starting on low, turn on your mixer and apply slight pressure to chicken breasts.
    • Increase to medium speed and move in circular motion around your pot until all of your chicken is shredded. This only takes about 30 seconds.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 210mg | Potassium: 447mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 149IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 111mg | Iron: 1mg

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Buffalo Cauliflower Dip with Chicken https://mycrazygoodlife.com/buffalo-cauliflower-dip/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/buffalo-cauliflower-dip/#comments Wed, 24 May 2023 16:48:54 +0000 https://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=66623 If you like chicken wings you are going to love this easy recipe for Buffalo Cauliflower Dip with Chicken! This is a protein-packed delicious dip that’s a healthier option than the classic buffalo chicken dip. This cauliflower buffalo dip can be served hot or at room temperature. When I make this creamy dip I like...

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If you like chicken wings you are going to love this easy recipe for Buffalo Cauliflower Dip with Chicken! This is a protein-packed delicious dip that’s a healthier option than the classic buffalo chicken dip.

This cauliflower buffalo dip can be served hot or at room temperature. When I make this creamy dip I like to lay out a lot of dipping options like carrot sticks, broccoli and cauliflower florets, or tortilla and pita chips.

image with two pictures of the dip

Where’s the recipe?

Here at My Crazy Good Life we make healthy recipes for everyone to enjoy. We want cooks of all experience levels to be able to recreate our recipes. To do that, we like to provide our readers with lots of information about the ingredients that are used, different cooking techniques, and little tricks and tips to be successful in the kitchen.

You’ll also find nutrition facts and healthy eating plan calculations. If you’d like to skip past all of that, you can scroll to the bottom of the page where you’ll find the full recipe card for this healthy buffalo cauliflower dip!

Ingredients in this Buffalo Cauliflower Dip with Chicken

  • Olive oil: you’ll just need a little bit of oil – 1 teaspoon, to be exact.
  • Chicken breast: you’ll want to cut this into bite sized pieces unless you’re cooking in the Crockpot.
  • Garlic powder: I like to use plain garlic powder and not garlic salt to keep sodium levels down.
  • Onion powder: onion powder is a simple ingredient that adds nice flavor.
  • Black pepper: to taste
  • Dill: I use dried dill for this recipe.
  • Parsley: dried parsley works well here.
  • Cauliflower: get a whole head of cauliflower and cut it into bite sized pieces.
  • Hot sauce: Frank’s ORIGINAL hot sauce, not the buffalo sauce. The buffalo sauce has more processed ingredients and oil added to it. Don’t worry, you can still get that classic buffalo wing flavor from the original Frank’s red hot sauce.
  • Cottage cheese: hold on, hear me out- when you blend cottage cheese and Greek yogurt you get a creamy, protein packed sauce that’s healthier than the heavy cream or cream cheese that you might typically find in a classic buffalo dip.
  • Greek yogurt: I usually use 2% plain Greek yogurt to combine with the cottage cheese.
  • Cheddar cheese: I like using shredded cheddar cheese, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese would also be great options.
  • Brown rice flour: this is used as a thickener, and can be substituted with other thickeners like whole wheat or all purpose flour, that you may have in your pantry.
ingredients for buffalo dip

Instant Pot Directions

  1. Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté. Add the oil and allow it to heat up. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and sauté until the chicken is browned.
  2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dill, and parsley to the pot. Mix up the chicken so that the seasoning is evenly distributed.
  3. Add the cauliflower to the Instant Pot and cover with the hot sauce. The hot sauce acts as your liquid for this recipe. Close the lid and turn the pressure valve to sealing.
  4. Cook the chicken and cauliflower on high pressure using the manual setting for 2 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 6-10 minutes before manually releasing it. This means that after the pot is done cooking, allow it to sit without touching it for 6-10 minutes. The contents will still be cooking. After that time, move the Sealing valve to the Vent position and allow the steam to come out. 
  5. In a high speed blender or food processor, mix together the contents of your pot, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt to create a creamy hot sauce base. 
  6. Blend the sauce until smooth- you don’t want any large chunks, then add the cheese and brown rice flour. Blend until mixed and all of the cheese is melted together, serve with raw veggies or pita chips.
collage showing cooking steps

Stovetop Directions

  1. Heat a large skillet on the stove over medium heat and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, sauté the chicken until it is browned.
  2. Add the seasonings, hot sauce, and cauliflower to the skillet. Mix it up so the cauliflower is covered in hot sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium low heat.
  3. Allow the cauliflower and chicken to cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cauliflower is fork tender.
  4. Blend together the contents of the pan, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt to make the sauce. 
  5. Add the cheddar cheese and brown rice flour into the blender until it all melts together. Serve with raw veggies or pita and tortilla chips. 

Slow Cooker Directions

  1. Add the whole chicken breast, cauliflower, seasoning, and hot sauce to the slower cooker.
  2. Cover and cook the entire thing for 2 1/2 to 4 hours on low heat or until the chicken is done and cauliflower is soft.
  3. Blend together the contents of the slow cooker, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt until smooth. Add the cheddar cheese and brown rice flour and blend until the cheese is melted. Serve with raw veggies or pita chips. 

Recipe Tips

  • This buffalo cauliflower dip recipe is perfect for happy hour or a Super Bowl party, and the best part is that you can make it ahead of time! Just place the dip in an airtight container, store in the fridge, then right before the big game is about to start, pop the leftover dip in the microwave until warm.
  • This recipe for buffalo cauliflower dip with chicken also freezes well. Just thaw in the fridge and heat in the microwave for an easy hot dip! Here’s a little trick: freeze the dip in a thin single layer for quicker thawing.
  • Some optional toppings that are not included in the nutrition calculations are blue cheese crumbles, green onions, breadcrumbs, or a drizzle of frank’s red hot to really take that classic buffalo flavor over the top.
  • If you do add breadcrumbs, I’d recommend adding the whole dip to an oven-safe baking dish and putting it under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp it all up.
image of dip from above

Healthy Eating Plans

21 Day Fix

Entire recipe: 6 Red Containers, 4 Green Containers, 1 teaspoon, 4 Blue Containers, 1/2 Yellow Container.

Per serving: 3/4 Red Container, 1/2 Green Container, 1/2 Blue Container, negligible teaspoons and yellow containers.

Weight Watchers

1 2023 Point using 1% cottage cheese, fat free yogurt, and fat free shredded cheddar cheese | 3 Blue Plan Points | 4 Green Plan Points | 3 Purple Plan Points

2B Mindset

This is a good option for the 2B Mindset nutrition plan because it’s got lean protein and veggies. If you’re eating this for lunch, pair it with an FFC.

Trim Healthy Mama

This is an S recipe when you use one of the following instead of the brown rice flour: Xanthum Gum, Glucomannan Powder, or oat fiber.

Looking for more healthy game day recipes?

image of dip surrounded by tortilla chips
Print

Buffalo Cauliflower Dip with Chicken

This Buffalo Cauliflower Dip with Chicken is perfect for game day with a side of tortilla chips or celery sticks!
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword buffalo cauliflower, buffalo chicken, party dip
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 8 people
Calories 290kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot 6 qt
  • Vitamix Blender
  • Kitchen Knife

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 lb chicken breast cut into bite sized pieces
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dill dried
  • 1/2 tsp parsley dried
  • 1 head cauliflower cut into small bite sized pieces
  • 3/4 cup Frank's Original Hot Sauce *not buffalo sauce
  • 3/4 cup cottage cheese
  • 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 2%
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 tbsp brown rice flour

Instructions

Instant Pot Directions

  • Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté. Add the oil and allow it to heat up. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and sauté until the chicken is browned. 1 tsp olive oil 1 lb chicken breast
  • Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dill, and parsley to the pot. Mix up the chicken so that the seasoning is evenly distributed. 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp dill 1/2 tsp parsley
  • Add the cauliflower to the Instant Pot and cover with the hot sauce. The hot sauce acts as your liquid for this recipe. Close the lid and turn the pressure valve to sealing. 1 head cauliflower 3/4 cup Frank's Original Hot Sauce
  • Cook the chicken and cauliflower on high pressure using the manual setting for 2 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 6-10 minutes before manually releasing it.
  • In a high speed blender, mix together the contents of your pot, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt to create a creamy sauce. 3/4 cup cottage cheese 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • Blend the sauce until smooth, then add the cheese and brown rice flour. Blend until all mixed together and the cheese has melted. Serve with raw veggies or pita chips. 1 cup cheddar cheese 2 tbsp brown rice flour

Stovetop Directions

  • Heat a large skillet on the stove and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot, sauté the chicken until it is browned.
  • Add the seasonings, hot sauce, and cauliflower to the skillet. Mix it up so the cauliflower is covered in hot sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium low heat.
  • Allow the cauliflower and chicken to cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cauliflower is very tender.
  • Blend together the contents of the pan, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt to make the sauce. 
  • Add the cheddar cheese and brown rice flour into the blender until it all melts together. Serve with raw veggies or pita chips. 

Slow Cooker Directions

  • Add the whole chicken breast, cauliflower, seasoning, and hot sauce to the slower cooker.
  • Cover and let cook for 2 1/2 to 4 hours on low heat or until the chicken is done and cauliflower is soft.
  • Blend together the contents of the slow cooker, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt until smooth. Add the cheddar cheese and brown rice flour and blend until the cheese is melted. Serve with raw veggies or pita chips. 

Notes

Recipe Tips:
  • This buffalo cauliflower dip recipe is perfect for happy hour or a Super Bowl party, and the best part is that you can make it ahead of time! Just place the dip in an airtight container, store in the fridge, then right before the big game is about to start, pop the leftover dip in the microwave until warm.
  • This recipe for buffalo cauliflower dip with chicken also freezes well. Just thaw in the fridge and heat in the microwave for an easy hot dip! Here’s a little trick: freeze the dip in a thin single layer for quicker thawing.
  • Some optional toppings that are not included in the nutrition calculations are blue cheese crumbles, green onions, breadcrumbs, or a drizzle of frank’s red hot to really take that classic buffalo flavor over the top.
  • If you do add breadcrumbs, I’d recommend adding the whole dip to an oven-safe baking dish and putting it under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp it all up.
 
Healthy Eating Plans
21 Day Fix
Entire recipe: 6 Red Containers, 4 Green Containers, 1 teaspoon, 4 Blue Containers, 1/2 Yellow Container.
Per serving: 3/4 Red Container, 1/2 Green Container, 1/2 Blue Container, negligible teaspoons and yellow containers.
Weight Watchers
1 2023 Point using 1% cottage cheese, fat free yogurt, and fat free shredded cheddar cheese | 3 Blue Plan Points | 4 Green Plan Points | 3 Purple Plan Points
2B Mindset
This is a good option for the 2B Mindset nutrition plan because it’s got lean protein and veggies. If you’re eating this for lunch, pair it with an FFC.
Trim Healthy Mama
This is an S recipe when you use one of the following instead of the brown rice flour: Xanthum Gum, Glucomannan Powder, or oat fiber.

Nutrition

Calories: 290kcal | Carbohydrates: 11.7g | Protein: 36.6g | Fat: 9.9g | Saturated Fat: 4.8g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 1098mg | Potassium: 507mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6.3g | Calcium: 316mg | Iron: 1mg

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2B Mindset Snack Recipes https://mycrazygoodlife.com/2b-mindset-appetizer-recipes/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/2b-mindset-appetizer-recipes/#respond Thu, 04 May 2023 22:48:19 +0000 https://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=38668 These 2B Mindset Snack Recipes allow you to continue your #veggiesmost mindset! Finding 2 B Mindset recipes for snack time is easy with this list of healthy foods that your whole family will enjoy. The 2 B Mindset diet focuses on plate proportions for your food groups. For example, 25% protein, 50% vegetables, 25% fiber-filled...

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These 2B Mindset Snack Recipes allow you to continue your #veggiesmost mindset! Finding 2 B Mindset recipes for snack time is easy with this list of healthy foods that your whole family will enjoy.

The 2 B Mindset diet focuses on plate proportions for your food groups. For example, 25% protein, 50% vegetables, 25% fiber-filled carbohydrates. This method makes it easy to fill your plate with more healthy and nutritious foods at the right times throughout the day.

The 2 B Mindset program is designed to help teach portion control and intuitive eating habits with simple principles. It’s a great way to improve your overall health and create a healthy habit.

collage of food images with text 2B Mindset Snack Recipes for pinterest

If you haven’t fully committed to the 2 B Mindset plan, but are interested in learning more, you might want to check out this review of the 2 b mindset nutrition program that I did that will hopefully answer any questions you might have about this healthy eating plan.

2B Mindset Snack Recipes

Having a list of 2 B Mindset recipes for nutritious snack options helps me from mindless snacking that can sometimes happen in the afternoon. This diet plan isn’t so much a diet, but a way of life.

Our list of 2B Mindset Snack Recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory snack, we have some good choices below. 

Wonder Whip

Wonder Whips are a delicious dessert or snack that was invented by dietitian Ilana Muhlstein, the creator of 2B Mindset. It’s essentially a protein packed, whipped yogurt snack that you serve chilled. They are excellent year round and can be eaten like a cup of yogurt, a dip, or even a delicious pie filling that will satisfy your sweet tooth. There are even savory whips but one of my personal favorites is this chocolate peanut butter wonder whip.

four bowls of wonder whips on a white counter

Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Turkey Lettuce Wraps make a great snack recipe for 2B Mindset because it’s packed with veggies and protein. At lunch you can serve this with the fiber filled carb of your choice and at dinner you should be right on target with these rations of veggies to protein.

plate of lettuce with ground turkey filling and a bowl of dipping sauce

Cauliflower Salad

Instant Pot Cauliflower Potato Salad is an easy summer picnic recipe! Use cauliflower in place of potatoes in this low carb side dish.

bowl of instant pot cauliflower potato salad on a blue flowered napkin

Low Carb Shepherd’s Pie Bites

Shepherd’s Pie Bites in keto cheese cups are a family friendly recipe that you can make on the stove or in your Instant Pot. The cheddar cheese cups are low carb and easy to make. 

Shepherd’s Pie Bites

Summer Confetti Salad with Papaya

This Summer Confetti Salad is an easy appetizer or side dish for BBQs and pool parties! This delicious vegan recipe is packed full of veggies and slow burning carbs! It also makes a great lunch for 2B Mindset when served with 25% protein.

two small mason jars full of summer confetti salad with fresh food in the background

Healthy Buffalo Chicken Dip

This healthy buffalo chicken dip recipe counts as a protein. It’s one of my favorite 2 B Mindset snack recipes. Fill 25% of your plate with an FFC, and 50% vegetables for a perfect lunch. Serve with 50% vegetables for dinner. 

buffalo chicken dip in skillet surrounded by crackers and veggies

Baked Turnip Fries

Turnip Fries are an excellent vegetable option. Pair it with your choice of protein for lunch and dinner. They make a great side dish for all of your summer grilling recipes as well!

These crispy baked turnip fries have been trending because of 2B Mindset! Veggie fries are popular right now, and these healthy fries are a family favorite! #veggiesmost #2bmindset #21dayfix #turnipfries

Healthy Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Full of veggies and protein from greek yogurt, this Healthy Spinach and Artichoke Dip is one of our favorite happy hour snacks.

close up of spinach artichoke dip

Low Carb Cloud Bread

This Low Carb Cloud Bread is perfect for 2B Mindset breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Make sure it fits onto your Plate It portions.

stack of cloud bread on white towel

Buffalo Chicken Bites

Serve these Buffalo Chicken Bites with 50% veggies and 25% FFC for a complete lunch. 75% veggies for a complete dinner.

close up of boneless wings

Restaurant Style Salsa in the Blender

This fresh and easy Restaurant Style Salsa recipe is made with simple ingredients and is one of our favorite snacks.

tortilla chips on left, fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the right with white bowl of salsa in the middle

Healthy Sweet Potato Crab Cakes

This Healthy Sweet Potato Crab Cake recipe is perfect for lunch–just add some protein and veggies!

six crab cakes on a white platter

Lasagna Stacks

This Lasagna Stacks recipe can be eaten for lunch alongside an FFC or it’s a complete dinner recipe!

Can these 2B Mindset snack recipes work for other healthy eating plans?

You’ll want to check ingredients in these healthy snacks to be sure that they fit into other plans. Not all the Beachbody programs or other healthy lifestyle plans have the same guidelines for food choices and options. 

When it comes to tracking programs like Weight Watchers and 21 Day Fix, you’ll want to calculate the recipes and be sure that they fit into your exact program. Some of these recipes might include the information for other healthy lifestyle programs in which case you might already have a head start on those calculations.

Looking for 2B Mindset Meal Ideas?

Do you want more thank just healthy 2B Mindset snacks? These healthy 2B Mindset lunches and dinners are easy to make, and will help you follow the 2 B Mindset guidelines to reach your goals!

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

This recipe for Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers is one of my favorite vegetarian recipes that even the biggest meat lovers rave about! It’s definitely a veggies-most recipe, and an easy way to get all of your vegetables in. While this is a pretty balanced meal it might need a bit of protein added to make this a complete 2B Mindset lunch. I’d add in some cooked tofu for protein. One half cup of tofu adds about 10 grams of protein to your plate.

picture of peppers from above

Greek Kebabs

I love making these Greek Kebabs in the summer time! For lunch, add an FCC like sweet potatoes or a side of quinoa, and for dinner, grill some extra skewers with just veggies or serve with a salad!

These greek kebabs are delicious, healthy, and family approved. We love this healthy beef kebab recipe year round. They're 21 Day Fix & 2B Mindset friendly! Greek Kebabs | Healthy Beef Kebab Recipe | Beef Kebab Grill Recipe | Grilled Kebabs #21DayFix #beachbody #2BMindset #healthyrecipes #21dfx #veggiesmost #beachbodyrecipes #healthydinners #recipes

Chicken Salad

This Chicken Salad recipe is a great lunch paired with veggies to fill your plate. You could also add veggies instead of the fruit or in place of some of the fruit in the recipe. Good veggies for this recipe would be celery, cucumbers, or thinly sliced carrots or jicama.

close up of chicken salad on a bed of lettuce

Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

This recipe for Crockpot Chicken Fajitas makes a great 2B Mindset lunch or dinner option. Make sure you add veggies for dinner, since this is pretty evenly split between protein and vegetables.

Crockpot Chicken Fajitas

Lentil Tacos

These Instant Pot Lentil Tacos are a healthy dinner option. They’re a great vegetarian taco recipe that is filling, fresh, and flavorful.

prepared lentil tacos on a white plate

2B Mindset recipe ideas

These recipe roundups will be your go-to guide for healthy meals. They include everything from 2 B Mindset breakfast recipes to 2 B Mindset meals in Instant Pot!

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Restaurant Style Salsa in the Blender https://mycrazygoodlife.com/easy-homemade-salsa-recipe/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/easy-homemade-salsa-recipe/#respond Sun, 26 Feb 2023 08:15:00 +0000 http://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=26967 I’m excited to share my Restaurant Style Salsa recipe using simple ingredients. I usually add the ingredients to the blender or food processor, but if you prefer chunky salsa you can skip that step and chop your ingredients instead. This easy salsa recipe is perfect for happy hour tortilla chips and salsa or as a...

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I’m excited to share my Restaurant Style Salsa recipe using simple ingredients. I usually add the ingredients to the blender or food processor, but if you prefer chunky salsa you can skip that step and chop your ingredients instead.

This easy salsa recipe is perfect for happy hour tortilla chips and salsa or as a topping for fajitas, tacos, or taco salad. Fresh homemade salsa makes a great addition to almost any menu or meal plan because it packs a lot of flavor without adding a lot of unnecessary calories or fat.

collage with image of finished salsa as well as salsa ingredients in blender, with text

Ingredients Needed for this Restaurant-Style Salsa:

  • Diced Tomatoes I buy the no sugar added canned tomatoes. You’ll still notice a measurement for sugar in the nutritional information, but that is because tomatoes have some natural sugar in them. You’ll just want to verify that the ingredients do not contain sugar.
  • Fresh garlic
  • Fresh limes You’ll be squeezing them to get lime juice
  • Onion I prefer red onions for the color and anti-inflammatory properties. Yellow or white onion is good to use, as well!
  • Fresh cilantro I’d definitely skip the dried cilantro here. Fresh cilantro will add to the fresh flavors you’re looking for.
  • Jalapeño pepper or serrano peppers This will give you a fairly spicy salsa. If you’d rather a mild salsa, skip the peppers.
  • Salt
ingredients for homemade salsa on white counter with striped towel

Directions for Making this Restaurant-Style Blender Salsa:

Follow these simple steps to make this flavorful salsa. It should take about 15 minutes of your time.

  1. Wash your ingredients.
  2. Cut the onion into smaller pieces and add all of the ingredients to your blender or food processor.
  3. Blend until smooth (or whatever your desired consistency is) and store in the fridge in an airtight container until serving. I love storing this salsa recipe in mason jars.
collage showing the steps for how to make this restaurant style salsa recipe

Recipe Tips:

  • I love making a big batch of this salsa and freeze them in quart sized zipper bags. This salsa is best thawed on the counter or in the fridge–not in the microwave. 
  • You can use fresh tomatoes in this recipe, but I’d recommend removing the seeds and liquid to avoid watery salsa.
  • Using fire-roasted tomatoes or tomatoes with green chiles (a can of Rotel) is a fun way to make this recipe.
  • Love onion? Add an additional one. Love cilantro? Add an extra bunch of cilantro to this recipe–it’s very easy to adapt and will be delicious even with extra ingredients. SO much better than store-bought salsa.

Healthy Eating Plans:

21 Day Fix/Portion Fix:

1 cup salsa = 1 green container

Trim Healthy Mama

This is a FP recipe on THM and you don’t have to make any substitutions. 

Weight Watchers:

This recipe is 0 points on the myWW plans and on the 2023 Plan.

Looking for more easy recipes?

tortilla chips on left, fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the right with white bowl of salsa in the middle
Print

Restaurant Style Salsa in the Blender

This fresh and easy Restaurant Style Salsa recipe is our favorite, and one you've probably enjoyed if you've spent any amount of time in my kitchen. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword Easy Salsa
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 38kcal

Equipment

  • Kitchen Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Vitamix Blender

Ingredients

  • 16 oz diced tomatoes can, no sugar added
  • 2-3 cloves fresh garlic
  • 2 limes juiced
  • 1/2 onion chopped
  • 1/4 bunch of cilantro chopped
  • 1/2 jalapeno more to taste if you’d like
  • 1/2 tsp salt optional

Instructions

  • Wash your ingredients.
  • Cut the onion into smaller pieces and add all of the ingredients to your blender or food processor. 1/2 onion, 16 oz diced tomatoes, 2-3 cloves fresh garlic, 2 limes, 1/4 bunch of cilantro, 1/2 jalapeno, 1/2 tsp salt
  • Blend until smooth (or whatever your desired consistency is) and store in the fridge in an airtight container until serving. I love storing this salsa recipe in mason jars.

Notes

Recipe Tips:
  • I love making a big batch of this salsa and freeze them in quart sized zipper bags. This salsa is best thawed on the counter or in the fridge–not in the microwave. 
  • You can use fresh tomatoes in this recipe, but I’d recommend removing the seeds and liquid to avoid watery salsa.
  • Using fire-roasted tomatoes or tomatoes with green chiles (a can of Rotel) is a fun way to make this recipe.
  • Love onion? Add an additional one. Love cilantro? Add an extra bunch of cilantro to this recipe–it’s very easy to adapt and will be delicious even with extra ingredients. SO much better than store-bought salsa.
Healthy Eating Plans:
21 Day Fix/Portion Fix:
1 cup salsa = 1 green container
Trim Healthy Mama
This is a FP recipe on THM and you don’t have to make any substitutions. 
Weight Watchers:
This recipe is 0 points on the myWW plans and on the 2023 Plan.

Nutrition

Calories: 38kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.04g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Sodium: 304mg | Potassium: 278mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 177IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 1mg

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Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks https://mycrazygoodlife.com/instant-pot-cilantro-lime-chicken-drumsticks-instant-pot-drumsticks/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/instant-pot-cilantro-lime-chicken-drumsticks-instant-pot-drumsticks/#comments Tue, 21 Feb 2023 18:34:00 +0000 https://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=31286 These Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Cilantro Lime Seasoning are sooooo delicious–and the marinade can be used with any type of chicken you have in your fridge or freezer! This easy dinner is one that you can make for dinner or meal prep for the week. It uses simple ingredients that are most likely in...

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These Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Cilantro Lime Seasoning are sooooo delicious–and the marinade can be used with any type of chicken you have in your fridge or freezer!

This easy dinner is one that you can make for dinner or meal prep for the week. It uses simple ingredients that are most likely in your pantry already, except for the cilantro. You’ll probably have to run to the store for that.

close up of cooked cilantro lime chicken drumsticks with text for pinterest

Where’s the recipe?

Here at My Crazy Good Life, we are creating and writing recipes that anyone can make. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or have been cooking for years, you’re going to be successful when making this chicken.

If you’re looking for detailed instructions with cooking tips and healthy eating plan information, read the post below before starting to cook.

If you are familiar with cooking and really just need the ingredient amounts and quick instructions scroll right down to the easy to print easy recipe for these Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Cilantro Lime Seasoning.

cooked chicken drumsticks on a white rectangular plate

Ingredients in Cilantro Lime Drumsticks

  • olive oil
  • drumsticks
  • fresh garlic (minced)
  • crushed red peppers
  • cayenne pepper (or chili powder if that’s what you have)
  • lime
  • chopped cilantro
  • chicken broth

How to make Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Drumsticks

  1. Add the olive oil to the Instant Pot and press the Saute button. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken drumsticks. Sprinkle the minced garlic, crushed red peppers, and cayenne pepper seasoning over the drumsticks. Use tongs to move the drumsticks around so they don’t stick to the pot, and brown for 2 minutes on each side.
  2. Add the lime juice, cilantro, and chicken stock to the Instant Pot. Lock the lid into place and turn the pressure valve to Sealing.
  3. Cook on high pressure for 9 minutes.
  4. When the cook time is finished, let release the pressure naturally. This is called NPR, natural release, or natural pressure release, which just means that you’re not going to touch the Sealing/Venting Valve when the cook time is done. After about 10 minutes if your valve hasn’t dropped, go ahead and move the valve to Venting because you can consider the pressure released at that time.
  5. Transfer the drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil until golden brown (about 3-5 minutes). Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve while warm.
collage showing the steps for how to make instant pot chicken drumsticks

How to make these in the oven

If making these chicken drumsticks in the oven, go ahead and skip the chicken broth. That is used to make the Instant Pot come to pressure and isn’t needed for this cooking method.

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place chicken in a zipper bag with garlic, crushed red peppers, cayenne pepper, lime juice, and cilantro. You might need to split the recipe between two bags.
  2. Shake the bags to allow the Cilantro Lime marinade to coat all of the drumsticks.
  3. Lightly oil a 9×13 pan. Place drumsticks in a single layer on your pan and add any extra seasonings that are left in the bag to the top of the chicken. You might need a larger pan, depending on how many drumsticks you’re cooking.
  4. Bake for 30 minutes, then turn drumsticks carefully with tongs. Bake for 30 minutes more until internal temperature is 165 when read with a meat thermometer.

Recipe Tips

  1. If you don’t love spice, go ahead and leave out the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes.
  2. This easy chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! I feel like the flavors are even better the 2nd day.
  3. I love adding fresh lime zest with the cilantro after these come out of the oven.
  4. You can use different chicken for this recipe. We have been loving boneless skinless chicken thighs (honestly, even the bone-in thighs are delicious!), boneless skinless chicken breasts, or even chicken wings.
  5. Tp prep this recipe ahead of time, put the garlic, crushed red peppers, cayenne peppers, lime juice, and cilantro with the drumsticks in a zip-top bag and store in the fridge until needed.
  6. When cooking chicken, you should always take the temperature before removing from the heat source. Cooked chicken should be 165º.

Serve this great recipe with black beans, brown rice or white rice, or raw snacking vegetables.

cooked chicken drumsticks on a white rectangular plate

Healthy Eating Plans

21 Day Fix / Ultimate Portion Fix

Each serving of 2 drumsticks counts as 1 red container and 1 teaspoon.

Trim Healthy Mama

Use MCT oil or Coconut Oil in place of the olive oil in this recipe, and you could use a drop of Lime Essential Oil in place of the lime juice. After making those changes, these cilantro lime drumsticks would be an S recipe.

Weight Watchers

Two drumsticks is 7 Points on the 2023 Plan| 6 Blue Points | 6 Green Points | 6 Purple Points.

These points were calculated using the WW website using exact ingredients, not nutritional information. Weight Watchers has said that this is the most accurate way to calculate points for their diet.

More Instant Pot Chicken Recipes

cooked chicken drumsticks on a white rectangular plate
Print

Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks

These Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Chicken Drumsticks are the perfect Instant Pot Dinner recipe!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Drumsticks
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 3
Calories 300kcal

Equipment

  • Instant Pot 6 qt
  • Olive Oil Spray
  • Sealing Rings

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 drumsticks
  • 4 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tsp crushed red peppers
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • juice from 1 lime
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth Low Sodium

Instructions

Instant Pot Instructions

  • Add the olive oil to the Instant Pot and press Saute. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken drumsticks. Sprinkle the minced garlic, crushed red peppers, and cayenne pepper seasoning over the drumsticks. Brown for 2 minutes on each side. 1 tbsp olive oil, 6 drumsticks, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp crushed red peppers, 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Add the lime juice, cilantro, and chicken stock to the Instant Pot. Lock the lid into place and turn the pressure valve to Sealing. juice from 1 lime, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Cook on high pressure for 9 minutes.
  • When the cook time is finished, let release the pressure naturally.
  • Transfer the drumsticks to a baking sheet and broil until golden brown (about 3-5 minutes). Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve while warm.

Oven Instructions

  • If making these chicken drumsticks in the oven, skip the chicken broth.
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place chicken in a zipper bag with garlic, crushed red peppers, cayenne pepper, lime juice, and cilantro. You might need to split the recipe between two bags. 6 drumsticks, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp crushed red peppers, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tbsp olive oil, juice from 1 lime, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • Shake the bags to allow the Cilantro Lime marinade to coat all of the drumsticks.
  • Lightly oil a 9×13 pan. Place drumsticks in a single layer on your pan and add any extra seasonings that are left in the bag to the top of the chicken. You might need a larger pan, depending on how many drumsticks you're cooking.
  • Bake for 30 minutes, then turn drumsticks carefully with tongs. Bake for 30 minutes more until internal temperature is 165 when read with a meat thermometer.

Video

Notes

Healthy Eating Plans
21 Day Fix/Ultimate Portion Fix
Each serving of 2 drumsticks counts as 1 red container and 1 teaspoon.
Trim Healthy Mama
Use MCT oil or Coconut Oil in place of the olive oil in this recipe, and you could use a drop of Lime Essential Oil in place of the lime juice. After making those changes, these cilantro lime drumsticks would be an S recipe.
Weight Watchers
Two drumsticks is 7 Points on the 2023 Plan| 6 Blue Points | 6 Green Points | 6 Purple Points.
These points were calculated using the WW website using exact ingredients, not nutritional information. Weight Watchers has said that this is the most accurate way to calculate points for their diet.

Nutrition

Serving: 2drumsticks | Calories: 300kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 139mg | Sodium: 167mg | Potassium: 469mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1418IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 29mg | Iron: 1mg

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Low Carb Cloud Bread with Greek Yogurt https://mycrazygoodlife.com/low-carb-cloud-bread-recipe/ https://mycrazygoodlife.com/low-carb-cloud-bread-recipe/#comments Thu, 19 Jan 2023 23:32:00 +0000 http://mycrazygoodlife.com/?p=22291 This Low Carb Cloud Bread with Greek Yogurt is made with simple ingredients and is a slightly healthier version of the traditional cloud bread recipe. Cloud bread is a staple around my house. It makes great sandwich bread and is also just delicious to snack on. Whether you’re on a low carb diet, or maybe...

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This Low Carb Cloud Bread with Greek Yogurt is made with simple ingredients and is a slightly healthier version of the traditional cloud bread recipe.

Cloud bread is a staple around my house. It makes great sandwich bread and is also just delicious to snack on. Whether you’re on a low carb diet, or maybe the 21 Day Fix, this bread is a life saver. It’s soft and fluffy, tastes delicious with a pinch of salt on it, and I could literally eat an entire batch in one day.

pin with two images of cloud bread and text saying low carb cloud bread

I’m going to be honest and tell you that Cloud Bread isn’t an easy recipe to make. The first time I made this, it was a fail. After some trial and error I can confidently say that this is a great recipe!

I’ve given you a ton of tips below to help you get the best results from this low-carb bread recipe. It might take a few times to get it right, but trust me–it’s delicious when you do!

Where’s the Recipe?

I have readers from all levels of comfort and experience in the kitchen on my site, and I receive a lot of questions about recipes. To better serve all of my readers here at My Crazy Good Life, I’ve made a commitment to put a ton of helpful information in all of my posts, especially ones that are a bit difficult to make.

If you’d like to skip over the information about freezing, swapping ingredients for this recipe, and cooking tips, please simply scroll to the bottom of the page, where you will find the easy printable Low Carb Cloud Bread recipe card!

Ingredients in Low Carb Cloud Bread

  • Plain Greek yogurt: If I’m trying to keep this recipe low fat, I’ll get 2% Greek yogurt.
  • Baking Powder: This gives the bread its fluffy, cloud-like texture.
  • Eggs: Separated gently!

Tools Needed

ingredients to make Low Carb Cloud Bread with Greek Yogurt

How to Make Low Carb Cloud Bread with Greek Yogurt

Before you begin, preheat your oven to 300 degrees F. You can line your cookie sheets with parchment paper under the cloud bread, but I prefer a silpat mat on top of my cooking sheet to avoid sticking. Cloud bread will stick if you let it!

  1. Separate the eggs: First, separate egg yolks from the egg whites. I like to put my egg whites into a larger bowl than the egg yolks.
  2. Mix it up: Using an electric hand mixer, mix together egg yolks (yolks only) and greek yogurt until blended smooth. I’d almost say over blend these, and try to get rid of as many lumps and air bubbles as you can. After that, set the egg yolk mixture aside.
  3. Beat the eggs: Next, beat the egg whites and baking powder (some have used cream of tartar instead) until fluffy. Again, whipping the egg whites a little longer than necessary won’t hurt. You’ll know it’s done when stiff peaks form.
  4. Fold it in: In a large bowl, gently fold the whipped egg whites mixture into the yolk and Greek yogurt mixture. Be careful not to overmix, but know that these need to be fully incorporated for your cloud bread to come out fluffy and beautiful. I recommend using a large whisk of some kind to do this.
  5. Scoop them out: Then, using a cookie scooper, take a scoopful of batter out of the bowl. Drop the batter on your silpat baking mat or parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving a little room in between.
  6. Note: Towards the bottom of the batter bowl, you might see some separation, where there is yellow yolk batter separating from the white. That’s normal–usually, the last couple pieces are a little runny and don’t cook as pretty as the first few with all the egg whites. When baking, this bottom mixture will brown a little more than the other cloud bread. This is normal, I promise.
  7. Bake: Bake for 25 – 30 minutes in a 300 degree F oven, or until golden brown. Sprinkle sea salt or other toppings on the cloud bread as soon as they come out of the oven, then move the cloud bread to a cooling rack.
collage of images showing steps to make cloud bread

Recipe Tips

  • There are different versions of cloud bread. Some contain cream cheese, others have ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, or sour cream. I’ve found that this recipe works best for my healthy lifestyle and I love that it only requires three ingredients!
  • This isn’t a recipe to experiment with–swapping main ingredients isn’t recommended, but you can easily add your favorite spices to the top as soon as they come out of the oven.
  • If your cloud bread comes out runny or flat, it’s because either the egg whites weren’t stiff enough or you mixed too long and flattened the egg whites. The fluffy texture is all because of the egg whites.
  • The most common issue people run into making cloud bread with Greek yogurt is that they’re flat. Like I mentioned above, it’s all about how stiff your egg whites are and how much you mix your batter.
  • Sprinkle anything you want on cloud bread when it comes out of the oven. Some of my favorites are bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic powder, or just a simple sprinkle of sea salt.
  • It is important that the eggs are room temperature–not warmed in a bowl of warm water or the microwave, but true room temperature. I leave mine out for at least 3 hours on the counter. I think this helps the cloud bread batter turn out fluffy and not runny. I also pull out my Greek yogurt before, but not necessarily 3 hours before. 
  • Freezing: I have never had a batch of cloud bread last long enough to freeze–we always eat it that day. Since cloud bread is so fragile, I’d be nervous about it becoming soggy after you freeze it. I have had readers say they have frozen it with good results.
  • How to eat it:

Healthy Eating Plans

You can find full nutrition facts for this low-carb cloud bread recipe in the printable recipe below.

This is a gluten free recipe.

21 Day Fix

For the entire batch of this cloud bread, your counts are 1 3/4 red containers.

WW: You’ll find the WW Cloud Bread here with the ingredients for the lowest amount of points.

Trim Healthy Mama

This is a THM-FP recipe.

2B Mindset

This recipe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Make sure it fits onto your Plate It portions. You can learn more about 2B Mindset by signing up for my Quick Start series here!

stack of cloud bread on white towel

Looking for more healthy low carb recipes?

Print

Low Carb Cloud Bread with Greek Yogurt

Cloud bread is a tasty low carb bread substitute for those following a low-carb diet or any other healthy eating plan. It's a healthier option than regular bread and made with just three ingredients.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword 21 Day Fix, Cloud Bread, low carb, Snack
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 1
Calories 224kcal

Ingredients

  • 3 eggs separated (room temperature)
  • 3 tablespoons Greek Yogurt plain
  • ¼ teaspoons baking powder

Instructions

  • Before you begin, preheat your oven to 300 degrees. I use a silpat baking mat on top of my cookie sheet, but parchment paper works too.
  • First, separate egg yolks from the egg whites. I like to put my egg whites into a larger bowl than the egg yolks. 3 eggs
  • Using an electric hand mixer, mix together egg yolks (yolks only) and Greek yogurt until blended smooth. I'd almost say over blend these, try to get rid of as many lumps as you can. 3 tablespoons Greek Yogurt
  • Beat egg whites and ¼ teaspoon baking powder (some have used cream of tartar instead) until fluffy. Again, I'd over blend these and make sure to get the same consistency from top to bottom of your bowl. ¼ teaspoons baking powder
  • Fold the egg white mixture into the yolk and Greek yogurt mixture carefully. Be careful not to overmix, but know that these need to be fully mixed for your cloud bread to come out fluffy and beautiful. I recommend using a large whisk of some kind to do this.
  • Using a cookie scooper, take a scoopful of batter out of the bowl and tap it a few times lightly on the counter to let the big air bubbles out before baking. Drop the batter on your silpat baking mat, leaving a little room in between.
  • Bake for 25 minutes at 300 degrees, or until golden brown. Sprinkle sea salt on the cloud bread as soon as they come out of the oven, then move to a cooling rack.

Video

Notes

  • If your cloud bread comes out runny or flat, it’s because either the egg whites weren’t stiff enough or you mixed too long and flattened the egg whites. The puffy texture is all because of the egg whites.
  • The most common issue people run into making cloud bread with Greek yogurt is that they’re flat. Like I mentioned above, it’s all about how stiff your egg whites are and how much you mix your batter.
  • Sprinkle anything you want on cloud bread when it comes out of the oven–Italian spices, salt, garlic powder, etc.
  • This is not the recipe to swap ingredients in–each of the three ingredients has a place in the recipe and should not be swapped for other foods.
  • It is important that the eggs are room temperature–not warmed in a bowl of warm water or the microwave, but true room temperature. I leave mine out for at least 3 hours on the counter. I think this helps the cloud bread batter turn out fluffy and not runny. I also pull out my Greek yogurt before, but not necessarily 3 hours before. 

Nutrition

Calories: 224kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 494mg | Sodium: 207mg | Potassium: 283mg | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 713IU | Calcium: 170mg | Iron: 2mg

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