It's been a busy couple of weeks. I managed to turn 25 in the middle of them and fit in quite a bit of crockpot cooking. It is wonderful sitting in traffic on your way home from work knowing that dinner is making itself. Then, walking into your house, smelling the lovely dinner you didn't slave over all afternoon. All it takes is a bit of prep over the weekend or the night before you are ready to enjoy your crockpot delight. And you don't need a fancy crockpot to make this happen -- a $20 model from Target will do all the tricks.
Last month's Everyday with Rachael Ray magazine featured some base crockpot recipes that could be incorporated in many different meals. We tried the Slow and Low Chipotle Maple Beef recipe in Sesame Noodle Bowls and froze the leftover beef to be used in tacos in an upcoming week.
Last month's Everyday with Rachael Ray magazine featured some base crockpot recipes that could be incorporated in many different meals. We tried the Slow and Low Chipotle Maple Beef recipe in Sesame Noodle Bowls and froze the leftover beef to be used in tacos in an upcoming week.
Afterward, we enjoyed her recipe for Sweet Chili Hot Wings. Ours were a bit overcooked because they were cooking throughout my whole workday, but the sauce was a great balance of sweet and spicy. On the side there is chopped tomato and cucumber tossed with feta cheese and oil and vinegar. Simple, fresh sides to balance the ease of your crockpot chicken.
If you are looking for some time savers to help you keep up with a weekly menu -- like we are this year -- consider some our recent chili posts, available in the recipe index. Keep in mind that you can freeze portions for quick dinners or easy to pack lunches.