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Copyright © 2012 Linda. Visit the original article at http://leftoverlovers.com/2008/10/02/the-brown-bag-is-back-using-leftovers/.

A recent article explains that more and more individuals are trying to save money by bringing lunch to work with them- many using leftovers such as leftover chicken or beef from the night before. In the article it explains “While the days of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches may be a distant childhood memory, the “brown bag” lunch is once again becoming a popular fixture on the office desk. With recent economic factors influencing food purchases, America is looking to the brown bag to save a few bucks. According to a new study from the market research firm NPD Group, weekday packed lunches among adults reached a new high in 2007, and this trend is expected to continue.”

But “bagging it” doesn’t have to mean a boring turkey sandwich and apple five days a week. With several new, affordable and convenient products, not to mention tips and tricks to turn leftovers into luscious lunches, ordinary options won’t be missed. Revamping the traditional brown bag can help cut costs, as well as turn your mid-day meal into a healthier, more delicious selection you’ll actually look forward to eating.

Leftover Love

Prepare healthy, delicious meals that dish up plenty of leftovers. A few tweaks to yesterday’s dinner can provide delectable work week lunches. Transform chicken or beef leftovers into healthy pasta dishes or vegetable packed salads that can easily be toted to the office. Try adding spreads, such as hummus, to spice up traditional cold cut sandwiches. Hummus, left over from a weekend get-together, can be a healthy, delicious alternative to mayo on Monday’s turkey sandwich as it is packed with flavor and is a great source of protein.

When preparing weekend meals, search for recipes that involve pantry staples such as whole wheat pastas, brown rice, and vegetables. Look for recipes that utilize ingredients that can feed the entire family for $10 or less and whip up inexpensive meals that dish out several portions. With the average serving costing just a little more than $2, one portion is cheaper, and usually healthier than your typical slice of pizza.

To ensure you can always prepare healthy, delicious meals any time of the week, always keep your pantry stocked with a few staples, including canned fruits and vegetables, such as Del Monte corn and tomatoes, and lean proteins such as tuna. Remember to keep a full spice rack to add your own personal touch to traditional recipes.

Brown Bag Buddy

Bring the concept of morning carpooling to the office lunch room, and try partnering with a work friend to make eating in more diverse and exciting! Take turns bringing packed lunches for each other to keep brown bagging fun and surprising. If others in the office want to participate, start a weekly, healthy work potluck lunch.

By planning ahead and stocking up on a few healthy staples, you’ll be prepared for quick and healthy meal options even during the most hectic weeks. And you’ll save a few bucks, too.

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Copyright © 2012 admin. Visit the original article at http://leftoverlovers.com/2008/10/01/hints-and-how-tos-for-chicken-recipes/.

These Hints and How-To’s for Chicken Recipes are directly from the Lando’Lakes website. I thought it was interesting that you should only store uncooked chicken in the refrigerator for two days before cooking. Another good argument for cooking chicken right away and using the “leftover” cooked chicken for the recipes found at “LeftoverLovers.com”!

Storing Chicken

Proper storage of chicken is essential to maintain flavor and quality.

Chicken may be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking. It should be washed in cold water, patted dry, and wrapped in plastic food wrap or aluminum foil for refrigerator storage.

Chicken freezes well. Freeze chicken in original unopened store packaging. Or, you can wash chicken in cold water and pat dry. Then, wrap in freezer paper, aluminum foil, or resealable plastic freezer bags. When stored properly, chicken may be kept in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Freezer temperature should be 0° F. or less.

Thawing Chicken

The safest way to thaw chicken is in the refrigerator but you can also use a microwave. Approximate thawing times for each are:

Refrigerator:

Chicken Type/Cut Thawing Time
Whole chicken 12 to 16 hours
Cut-up chicken 4 to 9 hours

Microwave*:

Chicken Type/Cut Thawing Time
Boneless breasts 9 to 13 minutes per pound
Chicken pieces 4 to 8 minutes per pound
Chicken quarters and whole chickens 5 to 9 minutes per pound

*Use Defrost or Low (30%) power setting. Cook immediately after thawing in the microwave.