Let’s face it, times are tough and unfortunately, the prices of ingredients just keep going up. So the best thing we can do it look for ways each ingredient can be used to their maximum ability.
In this article, we’re talking about chicken. A staple ingredient in our community that’s not only delicious and versatile but also filled with tons of protein.
Whole Chicken
Perfect for a Sunday roast. The whole chicken is usually roasted and served with a side of mashed potatoes and greens. Some have even fry a whole chicken which results in a very tender meat.
Shredded Chicken
Usually taken from the aftermath of a roast or boiling a whole chicken for a stock. What you’ll need to do is just carefully extract the little pieces of meat. These pieces of meat can be used on dishes like pic, soup or even homemade chicken pizza. If you’d like to keep the shredded chicken for longer, pop them in the freezer.
Chicken Thigh
One of the most versatile parts of a chicken (although some to avoid cooking it due to fear of doing it wrong), the chicken thigh can be divided into two pieces. The drumstick and the actual thigh.
You can cook chicken thighs in any way you please. Fry it, grill it or roast it. Chicken thighs are incredibly juicy as it is dark meat; which is why it’s usually the piece everyone is eyeing.
Chicken Breast
Similar to the chicken thigh, the chicken breast can be cooked in multiple ways. An easier, foolproof piece of chicken. It’s usually the pick of those who are eating clean because of its low fat, high protein content and fills you up very quickly.
Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are often served as party food, it’s cheap and easy to handle.
Here’s a recipe that’s perfect for your next barbecue.
The Organs
Chicken gizzards, heart and liver. It’s a local delicacy, you either love it or hate it. If you fancy these insides, it can be cooked into different types of stir fry.
Chicken Feet
Another local delicacy, chicken feet can be cooked in so many ways. However, the most common way it is served is as a stir fry. Some even put chicken feet in soup.
Here’s an interesting recipe to try.
And every other part
The bones, skin, neck and every other part! You can make chicken stock with it. All you have to do is put all of those pieces in a pot with cold water, add a dash of salt and pepper and onions. Then turn on the heat and let it boil. Once it’s boiling, turn down the heat and let it simmer for a minimum of 4 hours.
This stock can be used as the base of any dish. From soups to stir fry, having chicken stock at hand can be quite the lifesaver.
Why not give this chicken stew recipe a go!
Making full use of a chicken will not only give you a variety of dishes, but it’ll also help you save some pennies along the way.