As a busy parent, there is absolutely no question more dreadful than: “What’s for dinner?” Unless you have an unlimited take-out budget and an undying love for cold pizza, this age-old question is guaranteed to be repeated every day. As a private chef, I’ve learned a thing or two over the years to help make this process easier, less stressful and hopefully (dare I say…) even a little bit fun. My Instagram feed @TheBalaboostaChef is always posting stories with simple dinner ideas, tips and tricks. The next time your family asks you what’s for dinner just send them my way!
Always Juicy Chicken Breasts
If you’re sick of your boneless, skinless chicken breasts coming out of the oven dry and flavorless, have I got a hack for you. This recipe uses an oil-coated piece of parchment to mimic the effect of chicken skin, effectively keeping the breasts tender and juicy without the added fat.
I make my go-to, never-fail, Always-Juicy Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts every Monday to have in the fridge to top salads, reheat for dinner, or pack for school lunches. This is what I like to call Insurance Chicken. You might not need it, but it’s really good to have just in case.
Cast Iron Asian Flank Steak with Ginger Miso Sauce
Everyone needs a slam-dunk marinade in their repertoire. It’s hard to beat the combination of soy sauce, sweet chili and honey in this Asian-inspired sauce, perfect for coating your favorite cut of meat. I especially love it on flank steak, a leaner cut that absorbs marinades particularly well and are excellent canvases for flavor-packed rubs and sauces. This dish requires a little advance planning, so remember to marinate it in the morning (or even the night before) so the meat is fully seasoned by dinner. Pro tip: make the Ginger Miso Sauce in advance, bringing this meal from fridge to table in under 15 minutes.
Happiness Jones Cookies
I only allow myself to eat dessert on days that end in D-A-Y. Life is too short not to cap off each dinner with something sweet so I created my own line of cookies that we can enjoy guilt free. Whether you’re a health nut with a sweet tooth, or simply jonesing for a soft and chewy “cookie with benefits”, we should all be allowed to indulge in a satisfying, high quality treat that fits into our lifestyle. Happiness Jones is a decadent sweet treat that also happens to be gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, soy-free, vegan & has no refined sugar. But don’t be fooled by the clean ingredients, these cookies are lights-out delicious!
Order online for nationwide shipping or local Armonk delivery.
