What a wonderful time we had this year for Thanksgiving. Lots of family from up North, my parents, Ervin’s parents, Ervin’s brother and wife, good friends and plenty of hospitality. Due to some dental problems the week prior to the holiday I felt like I was running behind. But I learned to go with the flow and we all experienced a wonderful holiday. Now the ticket is to continue in this mode of thinking and cruise through the entire holiday season. By golly, I think it can be done.
I cannot remember the last time I ran Chicken Spectacular in my column. I chose the recipe, in the event a few packages of turkey are lying in wait, inside your deep freeze! It happens to be one of my husband, Ervin’s, favorite chicken casseroles. I positively promise you will not be disappointed with the recipe.
If you are using leftover turkey like myself, I would estimate that you will need about 4-5 cups of turkey pieces.
The recipe was given to me by Linda Strickland, a long time Platte City, Missouri citizen. I would probably accompany this delicious casserole with a salad and fresh bread. For an opener this time of year, consider a soup. Dessert is just wide open. The casserole isn’t particularly ‘heavy’ so lots of desserts would be a good pairing.
The winter cold has certainly made its arrival rather boldly. I’ve always been a fan of winter, but when the winds kicked into a full gale this past week it was cold with a capitol ‘C’. Definitely time to throw on an additional quilt.
Though I should be tired from all the action around my house this past week I am not. In fact if you were seated next to me you would see I’m smiling from ear to ear. I enjoy every minute of entertaining in our home. To extend ourselves in hospitality is one of our greatest pleasures. My mom, Betty, gives me a hard time about doing too much, which is partly true. However I enjoy every moment of meal preparations and entertaining, it’s how we show our love.
This week I’m into a couple of new recipes for the holidays. I’ll keep you posted on how that develops. Watch a Hallmark movie, drink hot cocoa and enjoy this beautiful season. Simply yours, The Covered Dish. www.thecovereddish.com
Chicken Spectacular
4 boneless, cooked chicken breasts, chopped OR
4-5 cups turkey pieces
1 box Uncle Ben’s Original Wild Rice, (cook as directed)
1 (11.5 oz.) can cream of celery soup
1 (6 oz.) can drained sliced water chestnuts
1 small jar chopped pimentos or red peppers (1/4-1/2 cup)
Chopped onion to taste, finely chopped
1 can drained French style green beans
1 cup mayonnaise
1 can (15.5 oz.) chicken broth
Blend all ingredients together and pour into a sprayed 9 x 13 baking pan. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 30 minutes; then add 1 ½ cups crushed potato chips to the top and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Serves 8-10 persons.
