Author: kimcrossin

Summer Sandwich Round-Up: 5 Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches

Summer Sandwich Round-Up: 5 Chicken Cutlet Sandwiches

Five seriously good summer sandwiches, plus one go-to crispy chicken cutlet recipe. Chicken Burrata Prosciutto Sandwich Chicken Caesar Ciabatta Sandwich Chili Crisp BLT Sandwich Summer Tomato BLT Sandwich Chicken Cutlet Grinder Sandwich Crispy Chicken Cutlets Ingredients Crispy Chicken Cutlets 4 thin-sliced chicken breast cutlets (about 

Blackened Shrimp Taco Salad Bowls

Blackened Shrimp Taco Salad Bowls

If you’ve ever had a meal on vacation that you just couldn’t stop thinking about, then you already know the inspiration behind these Blackened Shrimp Taco Salad Bowls. A few years ago while we were visiting Florida, I ordered what ended up being the best 

Crispy Air Fryer Gochujang Chicken Skewers with Bang Bang Sauce

Crispy Air Fryer Gochujang Chicken Skewers with Bang Bang Sauce

These Air Fryer Gochujang Chicken Skewers are sweet, savory, and slightly spicy with a crispy panko-coconut coating that delivers the perfect crunch while keeping the chicken incredibly juicy. Finished with a creamy bang bang sauce for drizzling or dipping, every bite is packed with bold flavor and irresistible texture.

 

Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a simple gochujang glaze made with maple syrup, garlic, and sesame oil before being coated in a crunchy panko-coconut breading and air fried until golden brown. Paired with a creamy bang bang dipping sauce, these skewers are packed with bold flavor while still being easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Serve them over steamed rice, tucked into lettuce wraps, or alongside a crisp cucumber salad for a meal that’s guaranteed to disappear fast.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy, crunchy chicken without deep frying.
  • Sweet, savory, spicy flavors in every bite.
  • The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully while balancing the heat from the gochujang.
  • Air fryer friendly for an easy weeknight dinner.
  • The creamy bang bang sauce takes these skewers to the next level.
  • Easy to prep ahead by marinating the chicken in advance.
  • Delicious served with rice, noodles, salads, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Chicken

  • Chicken tenderloins, chicken breasts, or boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • Gochujang paste
  • Pure maple syrup
  • Soy sauce
  • Toasted sesame oil
  • Rice vinegar or fresh lime juice
  • Garlic
  • Fresh ginger (optional, but recommended)

For the Crispy Coating

  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Unsweetened coconut flakes
  • Cornstarch

Bang Bang Sauce

  • Kewpie mayonnaise
  • Sweet chili sauce
  • Gochujang or sriracha
  • Fresh lime juice

How to Make Air Fryer Gochujang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the gochujang, maple syrup, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar (or lime juice), grated garlic, and fresh ginger until smooth.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and toss to coat evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 4–6 hours will give you the best flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Crispy Coating

Add the panko, coconut flakes and cornstarch to a shallow bowl with a good pinch of salt and stir to combine.

Step 4: Remove Excess Marinade

Using tongs, transfer the marinated chicken to a paper towel-lined plate. Gently blot the tops of the chicken pieces with another paper towel to remove any excess marinade. The chicken should still feel slightly tacky—this helps the coating stick—but it shouldn’t be dripping wet.

Step 5: Coat & Assemble the Skewers

Toss the chicken pieces in the panko-coconut mixture until evenly coated, then thread them onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece so they cook evenly.

Step 6: Air Fry the Skewers

Spray both sides of the skewers with avocado oil, then arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry at 400°F for 5 minutes. Flip the skewers, spray both sides again with avocado oil, and air fry for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Combine the marinade
Marinate the chicken
Blot chicken of excess marinade
Bread the chicken
Skewer
Spray both sides with avocado oil
Air fry at 400° for 5 minutes
Spray both sides again and flip skewers. Air fry for another 5 minutes

FAQs

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste with a rich umami flavor. It’s mildly spicy, slightly sweet, and adds incredible depth to marinades, sauces, and glazes.

Is this recipe very spicy?

Not overly. The maple syrup balances the heat, making these flavorful with just a gentle kick. If you like things hotter, add extra gochujang or a drizzle of sriracha.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and are a great option for this recipe.

Can I make these in the oven?

Yes! Bake at 425°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Broil for the last minute or two for extra color.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes. Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. You can also mix the bang bang sauce several days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.


Tips & Notes

  • Cut the chicken into evenly sized 1-inch pieces so everything cooks at the same rate.
  • Marinating for 4–6 hours gives the chicken the best flavor, but even 30 minutes makes a difference.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed for the crispiest results.
  • Spray both sides generously with avocado oil before cooking and again after flipping to help the coating brown.
  • Use a meat thermometer and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • The bang bang sauce is also delicious drizzled over rice bowls, wraps, or roasted vegetables.
  • Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for the perfect finishing touch.

Air Fryer Gochujang Chicken Skewers

These Air Fryer Gochujang Chicken Skewers are sweet, savory, and slightly spicy with a crispy panko-coconut coating that gives the perfect crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Finished with a creamy bang bang sauce for dipping or drizzling, this is an easy weeknight dinner that feels bold, fun, and restaurant-worthy.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: air fryer, Asian Inspired, fusion, Korean-inspired
Keyword: air fryer chicken skewers, air fryer gochujang chicken skewers, bang bang sauce chicken, coconut panko chicken, crispy chicken skewers, easy air fryer dinner, gochujang chicken, Korean chicken skewers, sweet and spicy chicken, weeknight chicken recipe
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Chicken & Marinade

  • 1 tbsp gochujang
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic grated
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated (optional but recommended)
  • 1.5 –2 lbs chicken tenderloins breasts, or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

Crunchy Coating

  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

Bang Bang Sauce

  • 2 tbsp Kewpie mayo
  • 1 1/2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
  • 1/2 tsp gochujang or sriracha
  • 1/2 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar (or lime juice), garlic, and ginger.
  • Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 6 hours for best flavor).
  • Add panko and coconut flakes to a food processor and pulse until finely combined. Stir in cornstarch.
  • Remove chicken from marinade using tongs and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Gently blot excess marinade so chicken is just slightly tacky.
  • Toss chicken in the panko-coconut mixture until evenly coated.
  • Thread chicken onto skewers.
  • Lightly spray both sides with avocado oil.
  • Arrange skewers in air fryer in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 5 minutes.
  • Flip skewers, spray again with avocado oil, and air fry for another 5 minutes, or until chicken is golden and reaches 165°F internally.
  • Whisk together bang bang sauce ingredients until smooth. Serve with skewers for dipping or drizzling.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches for maximum crispiness.
  • Chicken should be lightly tacky (not wet) before coating so the breading sticks well.
  • Marinating longer = deeper flavor, but even 30 minutes works.
  • Serve with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps for a full meal.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Creamy Zucchini Burrata Pasta

Creamy Zucchini Burrata Pasta

If you’re looking for a pasta that feels creamy and comforting but still fresh and light, this zucchini burrata pasta is it. The zucchini cooks down until soft and slightly caramelized, then gets blended with burrata into the dreamiest, silky sauce. It’s brightened up with 

Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Truffle Burrata

Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Truffle Burrata

If you love deep, savory, umami-rich flavors… this creamy mushroom pasta is for you. It’s one of those meals that feels a little elevated but is actually incredibly simple to pull together — which is exactly what I need most nights. The real star here 

Creamy Green Goddess Burrata Pasta

Creamy Green Goddess Burrata Pasta

This Creamy Green Goddess Burrata Pasta is the kind of dinner that feels fresh, vibrant, and a little fancy — but comes together in under 30 minutes. The sliky sauce is packed with basil, parsley, chives, and spinach to make it beautifully verdant. It all gets blended with creamy burrata and tossed with warm pasta for the ultimate balance of light and indulgent. Finish it with extra burrata, Parmesan, and lemon zest, it’s bright, creamy, and completely crave-worthy.

Ingredients you'll Need

  • 10 oz pasta (rigatoni, bucatini, or shells work great)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups spinach, packed
  • 1 cup fresh basil, packed
  • ½ cup fresh parsley, packed
  • 3 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 (4 oz) ball burrata
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Reserved pasta water
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt + pepper, to taste

For serving (optional but recommended):

  • Extra burrata
  • More Parmesan
  • Drizzle of olive oil

How to make Creamy Green Goddess Burrata Pasta

  • Cook the pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1–1½ cups of pasta water before draining.
  • Sauté the garlic + spinach
    In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes.
    Add the spinach and cook until just wilted.
  • Blend the sauce
    Transfer the spinach and garlic mixture to a blender. Add basil, parsley, chives, the burrata, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Bring it together
    Return the sauce to the skillet over low heat. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water, tossing until glossy and evenly coated.
  • Finish
    Stir in Parmesan cheese and adjust consistency with more pasta water if needed.
  • Serve
    Plate the pasta and finish with lemon zest, extra Parmesan, and torn burrata on top. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.

Notes + Tips

  • Herb-forward is key to make it Green Goddess: The basil, parsley, and chives should shine — the spinach is just there for color and body.
  • Don’t skip the pasta water: It helps thicken the sauce and gives it that silky finish.
  • Adjust consistency: Add more pasta water for a lighter sauce, or let it sit for a thicker, creamier texture.
  • Lemon zest at the end = everything: It brightens the richness from the burrata and butter.

Optional Add-Ins

  • Grilled chicken or shrimp would be great proteins to add
  • Lemon zucchini or asparagus would be nice for a heartier vegetarian dish. 
  • Crispy prosciutto on top would be sublime. 

Storage

Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce..

Creamy Green Goddess Burrata Pasta

A creamy, herb-packed pasta made with basil, parsley, chives, and burrata for a fresh yet indulgent 30-minute dinner.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Keyword: 30 minute dinner, burrata pasta, creamy herb pasta, easy weeknight pasta, fresh herb sauce pasta, green goddess pasta
Servings: 5

Ingredients

  • 10 oz pasta rigatoni, bucatini, or shells
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 2 cups spinach packed
  • 1 cup fresh basil packed
  • ½ cup fresh parsley packed
  • 3 tbsp fresh chives chopped
  • 1 4 oz ball burrata
  • cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 –1½ cups reserved pasta water
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For serving (optional):

  • Extra burrata
  • Additional Parmesan
  • Drizzle of olive oil

Instructions

Cook the pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions to al dente. Reserve 1–1½ cups of pasta water before draining.

Sauté garlic and spinach

  • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1–2 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted.

Blend the sauce

  • Transfer the spinach and garlic mixture to a blender. Add basil, parsley, chives, burrata, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine

  • Return the sauce to the skillet over low heat. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of pasta water. Toss until the pasta is well coated and glossy.

Finish

  • Stir in Parmesan cheese. Adjust consistency with more pasta water as needed.

Serve

  • Top with lemon zest, extra Parmesan, and torn burrata. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Keep the sauce herb-forward — the spinach is just for color and body.
  • Pasta water helps create a silky, emulsified sauce — don’t skip it.
  • Add more pasta water for a lighter sauce or let it thicken slightly for a creamier finish.
  • Lemon zest at the end brightens the richness from the burrata and butter.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Crispy Chicken Cutlets (Freezer-Friendly, Air Fryer + Oven + Pan Options)Crispy Chicken Cutlets

Crispy Chicken Cutlets (Freezer-Friendly, Air Fryer + Oven + Pan Options)Crispy Chicken Cutlets

If there’s one thing I’ll never get sick of it’s a crispy chicken cutlet and they also happen to be very freezer friendly. I love having some stocked in my freezer to make dinner time a breeze.  They’re one of those back-pocket dinners that make 

Creamy Burrata Tomato Pasta (Blended Sauce)

Creamy Burrata Tomato Pasta (Blended Sauce)

This is one of those dinners that feels a little fancy but couldn’t be easier to make. The sauce comes together by blending jammy burst cherry tomatoes with creamy burrata for the silkiest, most flavorful pasta—no heavy cream required. It’s rich, cozy, and comes together 

Miso Butter Chicken with Braised Cabbage

Miso Butter Chicken with Braised Cabbage

If you’re in a season where dinner just needs to work—this is one of those recipes that delivers every single time. It’s cozy, deeply savory, and made in one pan with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. One of the reasons why my husband and I have been terming it, “poor man’s dinner,” referred to in the most endearing way, because we absolutely love this one. It is secretly so addicting. 

The chicken gets browned until golden, then simmers in a rich miso butter broth with caramelized cabbage, onions, and garlic. The cabbage cooks down into something silky and flavorful, soaking up all that umami goodness. It’s the kind of dinner that feels a little elevated—but comes together with minimal effort.

Why you'll love this recipe

  • One pan, minimal cleanup
  • Big flavor from simple ingredients
  • Cozy and nourishing but still light
  • Comes together in about 30–40 minutes
  • Perfect for busy weeknights

Ingredients you'll need

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup white miso paste
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For serving:

  • Sliced scallions
  • Sesame seeds

How to make miso butter chicken with braised cabbage

 

  1. Brown the chicken
    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil if needed, then add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on the outside (about 5–6 minutes). The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
  2. Build the base
    Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter, sliced cabbage, onion, grated carrot, and garlic directly to the pan.
  3. Cook down the vegetables
    Stir everything together and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has softened, released its moisture, and reduced in volume.
  4. Add broth + miso
    In a small bowl, whisk the miso paste with a bit of the chicken broth until smooth. Pour it into the pan along with the remaining broth.
  5. Simmer
    Let everything simmer for another 8–10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the broth slightly reduces into a silky, flavorful sauce.
  6. Finish and serve
    Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Top with sliced scallions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes & Tips

  • Don’t rush the cabbage: Letting it cook down properly is key to building flavor. It should get soft, slightly jammy, and lightly caramelized.
  • Miso tip: Whisking the miso with broth first helps it incorporate smoothly into the sauce.
  • Chicken swap: You can use ground chicken or turkey if that’s what you have.
  • Make it a bowl: Serve over rice, rice noodles or egg noodles to stretch the meal even further.

FAQS

What type of miso should I use?
White miso works best here—it’s mild, slightly sweet, and blends beautifully with the butter and broth.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it great for leftovers.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely—spinach, mushrooms, or even snap peas would work well here.

Miso Butter Chicken with Braised Cabbage

A quick, one-pan miso butter chicken with braised cabbage that’s rich, savory, and packed with umami flavor. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a silky miso butter broth with caramelized cabbage, onions, and garlic—an easy weeknight dinner that feels cozy and elevated.
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian Inspired
Keyword: easy chicken thigh dinner, healthy-ish chicken dinner, Miso butter chicken, miso butter chicken with cabbage, miso chicken thighs, one pan chicken dinner
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 head green cabbage thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 1 large carrot grated
  • 2 –3 garlic cloves chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup white miso paste
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

  • Sliced scallions
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

Brown the chicken

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil if needed, then add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on the outside (about 5–6 minutes). The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage.

Build the base

  • Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter, sliced cabbage, onion, grated carrot, and garlic directly to the pan.

Cook down the vegetables

  • Stir everything together and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has softened, released its moisture, and reduced in volume.

Add broth + miso

  • In a small bowl, whisk the miso paste with a bit of the chicken broth until smooth. Pour it into the pan along with the remaining broth.

Simmer

  • Let everything simmer for another 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the broth reduces into a silky, flavorful sauce.

Finish and serve

  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Top with sliced scallions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t rush the cabbage: Letting it cook down properly is key to building flavor. It should get soft, slightly jammy, and lightly caramelized.
  • Miso tip: Whisking the miso with broth first helps it incorporate smoothly into the sauce.
  • Chicken swap: You can use ground chicken or turkey if that’s what you have.
  • Make it a bowl: Serve over rice or quinoa to stretch the meal further.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Easy One-Pan Taco Skillet (Dump-and-Go Dinner)

Easy One-Pan Taco Skillet (Dump-and-Go Dinner)

When dinner feels like a scramble but you still want something good—this taco skillet is it. It’s one of those throw-it-all-in, dump-and-go dinners that tastes like pure nostalgia. Everything cooks in one pan, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, and you probably already have everything