In today's bustling world, finding time to prepare a wholesome, budget-friendly meal for the family can feel like a daunting task. However, with a little planning and creativity, you can create delicious dishes that won't break the bank. One such recipe is our Baked Chicken and Veggie Risotto, a hearty and flavourful meal that can be prepared for under $20. Packed with protein, vegetables, and whole grains, this meal is not only affordable but also nutritious and delicious.
Creating affordable family meals doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavour or nutrition. By using simple, inexpensive ingredients and clever cooking techniques, you can whip up meals that are both budget-friendly and satisfying. Planning ahead and making the most of what you have on hand are key strategies for keeping costs down while still providing your family with delicious and nutritious meals.
Serves: 6 | Prep: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 50g butter
- 500 g chicken breasts, diced ($8)
- 1 onion, finely diced ($0.75)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely diced ($0.50)
- 100 g (1 cup) green beans, washed and cut into 1 cm lengths ($2)
- 150 g (2 cups) broccoli, washed and cut into small florets ($2.50)
- 40 g (⅓ cup) frozen peas ($0.25)
- 300 g (1 ½ cups) Arborio rice ($2.50)
- 1L (4 cups) chicken stock
- 80 g (1 cup) Parmesan cheese ($3)
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Heat the remaining oil and add onion. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and remaining vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add rice and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
- Transfer to an ovenproof dish. Add browned chicken and stock, then cover and place in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in butter and ¾ of the Parmesan until melted and combined. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan over the top, then return to the oven to cook for a further 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Serve in your favourite We Might Be Tiny Picnies Plate.
Notes: This recipe is a great way to use up whatever vegetables you have in the fridge or freezer, making it both economical and environmentally friendly.
With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's the perfect dish for those busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the fuss. Give it a try and see how this flavourful dish can become a staple in your family's meal rotation.
Tips and tricks to help you create budget-friendly meals
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Plan Your Meals: Planning your meals in advance can help you make the most of your ingredients and avoid unnecessary purchases. Take inventory of what you already have in your pantry and fridge, and plan your meals around those items. This can help reduce food waste and save you money.
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Buy in Bulk: Buying staple ingredients like rice, beans, pasta, and spices in bulk can help you save money in the long run. These items have a long shelf life and can be used in a variety of dishes, making them great pantry staples for budget-friendly cooking.
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Use Seasonal Produce: Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often more affordable and flavorful than their out-of-season counterparts. Shop for produce that is in season and plan your meals around those ingredients to save money.
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Cook in Bulk and Freeze: Cooking in bulk and freezing leftovers can save you time and money. Prepare large batches of meals and freeze them in individual portions for quick and easy meals later on. This can also help you avoid the temptation of ordering takeout on busy nights.
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Get Creative with Leftovers: Don't let leftovers go to waste! Use leftover ingredients to create new meals. For example, leftover chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes, while leftover vegetables can be added to soups, stews, or stir-fries.
Note: Prices are indicative of current Australian supermarket prices as at May 2024.
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