Author: kimcrossin

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 

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 lemon, finished with golden zucchini, and comes together fast—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels a little elevated without the extra work.

Why You’ll Love This

  • Creamy without heavy cream
  • A great way to use up summer zucchini
  • Comes together in under 30 minutes
  • Balanced with lemon + fresh herbs
  • Family-friendly but still feels elevated

Ingredients you'll need

  • 10-11 oz pasta (bucatini, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced 
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 oz burrata (about 1 small ball)
  • 4 oz burrata for serving on top
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Reserved pasta water
  • Salt + pepper, to taste

For serving:

  • Extra Parmesan
  • Lemon zest
  • Fresh basil
  • Olive oil drizzle

How to make creamy zucchini burrata pasta

  • Cook the pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of pasta water before draining.
  • Sauté the zucchini + garlic
    In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
    Add zucchini and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook until soft and lightly browned—about 8–10 minutes.
  • Blend the sauce
    Transfer about ¾ of the cooked zucchini to a blender.
    Add the burrata and a splash of pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  • Finish browning the zucchini
    Let the remaining zucchini in the pan continue to cook until golden and slightly caramelized. Remove and set aside for topping.
  • Bring it all together
    Add the zucchini burrata sauce back to the pan.
    Stir in cooked pasta, Parmesan, lemon zest, and a splash of pasta water until glossy and well coated.
  • Serve
    Top with the reserved browned zucchini, more Parmesan, lemon zest, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Tips for Best Results

  • Let the zucchini actually brown—this builds flavor and keeps the sauce from tasting flat
  • Don’t skip the pasta water—it helps emulsify and loosen the sauce
  • Use less burrata if you want it lighter, more if you want it richer
  • Salt in layers (zucchini + pasta water + final dish)

Variations

  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein
  • Stir in spinach or peas for extra greens
  • Swap burrata for ricotta for a slightly lighter version
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?
Best fresh, but you can reheat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Can I use all the zucchini in the sauce?
You can, but keeping some for topping adds texture and makes the dish feel more complete.

What pasta shape works best?
Anything that holds sauce—rigatoni, shells, or long noodles like spaghetti or bucatini.

Recipe Notes

This is a great dinner when you need to clean out the fridge or use up all your summer zucchini. The burrata gives you that creamy payoff, while the zucchini keeps it light and balanced—a go to meal that will never fail. 

Creamy Zucchini Burrata Pasta

A light and creamy zucchini burrata pasta made with sautéed zucchini, garlic, and a silky burrata sauce, finished with lemon and parmesan.
Prep Time: 18 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Keyword: 30 minute dinner, burrata pasta, creamy pasta, easy weeknight dinner, summer pasta, zucchini pasta
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 10 oz pasta bucatini, rigatoni, or spaghetti
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 4 oz burrata about 1 small ball
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Reserved pasta water
  • Salt + pepper to taste

For serving:

  • 4 oz Burrata torn
  • Extra Parmesan
  • Lemon zest
  • Fresh basil
  • Olive oil drizzle

Instructions

Cook the pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the zucchini + garlic

  • In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
  • Add zucchini and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook until soft and lightly browned—about 8–10 minutes.

Blend the sauce

  • Transfer about ¾ of the cooked zucchini to a blender.
  • Add the burrata and a splash of pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Finish browning the zucchini

  • Let the remaining zucchini in the pan continue to cook until golden and slightly caramelized. Remove and set aside for topping.

Bring it all together

  • Add the zucchini burrata sauce back to the pan.
  • Stir in cooked pasta, Parmesan, lemon zest, and a splash of pasta water until glossy and well coated.

Serve

  • Top with the reserved browned zucchini, more Parmesan, lemon zest, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

  • Let the zucchini actually brown—this builds flavor and keeps the sauce from tasting flat
  • Don’t skip the pasta water—it helps emulsify and loosen the sauce
  • Use less burrata if you want it lighter, more if you want it richer
  • Salt in layers (zucchini + pasta water + final dish)
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
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 

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 life so much easier — especially on busy nights when you need something quick, reliable, and guaranteed to be eaten by everyone at the table.

You can prep a big batch ahead of time, freeze them, and then cook them straight from thawed in the air fryer, oven, or on the stovetop. They come out golden, and crispy – always satisfying. 

And the best part? You can turn these into so many different meals — chicken Caesar salads, sandwiches, wraps, pasta, or just serve them with a simple veggie and call it done.

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Cutlets

  • Freezer-friendly and meal prep approved
  • Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside
  • Kid-friendly and adult-approved
  • Works in the air fryer, oven, or pan
  • Perfect for quick, no-stress dinners

Different Ways to Bread Chicken Cutlets (Choose Your Style)

There’s no one “right” way to make chicken cutlets — it really depends on the texture you’re going for and how much time you have. Here are a few easy variations you can try:

Classic (Flour → Egg → Breadcrumbs)

This is the traditional method and gives you that balanced, even coating.

  • Light, crisp exterior
  • Helps the breading stick really well
  • Great for pan-frying or baking

Skip the Flour (Egg → Breadcrumbs Only)

If you want to simplify things, you can skip the flour entirely.

  • Slightly lighter coating
  • A little less structured but still delicious
  • Perfect for air fryer or quick weeknight prep

👉 Tip: Press the breadcrumbs on firmly so they stick without the flour layer.


Extra Crispy (Double Dip Method)

This is my go-to when I want that really crunchy, almost restaurant-style coating.

  • Dip in egg → breadcrumbs → back into egg → back into breadcrumbs
  • Creates a thicker, crunchier crust
  • Especially good for sandwiches or when pan-frying

Panko-Heavy Crunch

For maximum texture, lean more into panko than traditional breadcrumbs.

  • Use mostly panko with a little breadcrumb mixed in
  • Gives a lighter, crispier bite
  • Great for air fryer or oven

Parmesan Crusted

Lean into the Parmesan for extra flavor.

  • Increase the Parmesan slightly in the breadcrumb mix
  • Creates a more savory, golden crust
  • Amazing for serving over salads or with lemon

Quick Tip

No matter which method you choose, the key is:

  • Season every layer
  • Press the coating on well
  • Don’t be shy with a little oil before cooking (that’s what gives you that golden finish)

Ingredients you'll need

  • 4 thinly sliced chicken breasts, pounded to ¼-inch thick
  • ½ cup flour
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup panko
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper

How to Bread Chicken Cutlets

Set up a simple breading station with three shallow dishes (or bowls):

  1. Flour: Add flour to the first dish and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Egg: Whisk eggs in the second dish with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Breadcrumb Mixture: In the third dish, combine breadcrumbs, panko, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Now bread each cutlet:

  • Dip the chicken into the flour, shaking off excess
  • Coat in the egg mixture, letting excess drip off
  • Press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated

👉 Tip: Use one hand for dry ingredients and one for wet to avoid a messy situation.

How to Freeze Chicken Cutlets

This is where the magic happens for busy weeks.

  • Wrap each breaded cutlet tightly in plastic wrap
  • Place in a gallon-sized freezer bag
  • Remove as much air as possible
  • Freeze for up to 3 months

How to Thaw

  • Transfer cutlets to the refrigerator the night before cooking
  • Avoid thawing at room temperature for food safety

How to Cook Chicken Cutlets

You’ve got options depending on your mood and time:


Air Fryer (Quick & Crispy)

  • Preheat to 400°F for 5 minutes
  • Spray both sides of the cutlet with avocado or olive oil
  • Air fry at 400°F for 8–9 minutes, flipping halfway

✔️ Crispy edges, minimal oil, fastest option


Oven (Hands-Off)

  • Preheat to 425°F
  • Spray both sides with oil
  • Place on a rack over a baking sheet
  • Bake for 15–18 minutes, until cooked through

✔️ Great for cooking multiple at once


Pan-Fried (Classic + Extra Golden)

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat
  • Add enough oil to coat the bottom
  • Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown

✔️ Best flavor and texture payoff


How to Know When They’re Done

Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the outside is golden and crisp.

Ways to Serve Chicken Cutlets

Tips for the Best Chicken Cutlets

  • Pound evenly so they cook at the same rate
  • Don’t skip seasoning every layer — it matters
  • Press the breadcrumbs firmly so they stick
  • Use a rack when baking to keep them crispy
  • Spray generously with oil for that golden finish

FAQ

Can I cook these straight from frozen?
You can, but for best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge first.

Can I use just breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a lighter, crispier texture. I recommend the mix.

What’s the best oil to use?
Olive oil or avocado oil both work great.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Why are my cutlets soggy?
They may need more oil or better airflow (use a rack in the oven or avoid overcrowding).

Freezer Meal Notes

These are perfect for stocking your freezer before a busy week, postpartum season, or just to make dinner easier.

Once frozen, you can:

  • Cook as needed without extra prep
  • Build multiple meals from one batch
  • Always have a protein ready to go

Crispy Chicken Cutlets (Freezer-Friendly)

These crispy chicken cutlets are freezer-friendly and perfect for quick, easy dinners. Bread them ahead of time and cook in the air fryer, oven, or pan for a golden, family-friendly meal.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Dinner, lunch
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Keyword: Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets, Breaded Chicken Cutlets, Crispy Chicken Cutlets, Easy Chicken Dinner, Freezer-Friendly Chicken
Servings: 4

Equipment

  • 3 Shallow bowls or dishes
  • Baking sheet
  • Baking Rack
  • Air Fryer or Skillet

Ingredients

  • 4 thinly sliced chicken breasts pounded to ¼-inch thick
  • ½ cup flour
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup panko
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil or avocado oil

Instructions

Bread the Chicken

  • Set up three shallow dishes:
    Dish 1: Flour (season with salt and pepper)
    Dish 2: Whisked eggs (season lightly)
    Dish 3: Breadcrumbs, panko, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper
  • Dip each chicken cutlet into the flour, shaking off excess.
  • Coat in the egg, letting excess drip off.
  • Press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.

Cook (Choose One Method)

    Air Fryer:

    • Preheat to 400°F for 5 minutes.
    • Spray both sides of the cutlets with oil.
    • Air fry for 8–9 minutes, flipping halfway through.

    Oven:

    • Preheat oven to 425°F.
    • Spray both sides with oil and place on a rack over a baking sheet.
    • Bake for 15–18 minutes, until cooked through.

    Pan-Fry:

    • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom.
    • Cook cutlets for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

    Notes

    • Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F
    • Cooking time will vary depending on thickness
    • Use a rack when baking to keep cutlets crispy
    Breading Variations:
    • Skip the flour for a lighter coating
    • Double dip (egg → breadcrumbs → egg → breadcrumbs) for extra crunch
    • Use more panko for a crispier texture
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
    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 

    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 you need. Bonus: everyone can customize their own bowl. 

    If this is your kind of dinner, you’d love my enchilada casserole too. Same cozy, nostalgic vibes—just layered with tortillas, sauce, and lots of melty cheese. It’s one of those recipes I make on repeat when I want something comforting but still super easy.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    • One pan = minimal cleanup
    • Ready in about 30 minutes
    • Pantry + freezer friendly
    • Super customizable for picky eaters
    • Tastes like classic taco night (but easier)

    Ingredients You'll Need

    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 1 packet taco seasoning
    • 1/4 cup water
    • 1 (16 oz) jar salsa
    • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
    • 1 cup frozen corn
    • 1/2 tsp cumin (optional, but recommended)

    For serving:

    • Shredded lettuce
    • Avocado, sliced or diced
    • Shredded Mexican cheese blend
    • Tortilla chips
    • Fresh cilantro (optional)

    How to make this Easy One-Pan Taco Skillet

    • Brown the beef:
      In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until almost fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
    • Season:
      Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add 1/4 cup water. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes.
    • Add the rest:
      Stir in the salsa, black beans, corn, and cumin. Mix well.
    • Simmer:
      Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, until heated through and slightly thickened.
    • Top & serve:
      Sprinkle cheese over the top and let it melt slightly. Finish with shredded lettuce, avocado, cilantro, and a handful of crushed tortilla chips.

    Notes & Tips

    • If your salsa is thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
    • Want it spicier? Use hot salsa or add a pinch of chili flakes.
    • Feeding kids? Keep toppings separate and let them build their own bowls.
    • This is very forgiving—adjust amounts based on what you have.

    How to Serve

    • As a skillet with chips (best way, honestly)
    • Over rice or quinoa
    • In tortillas for quick tacos
    • Over greens for a taco salad moment

    Storage

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

    FREEZER Tips

    Freeze the meat mixture (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

    FAQs

    Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
    Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works great—just add a little extra seasoning for flavor.

    Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, the flavors get even better as it sits. Just reheat and add fresh toppings.

    Is this spicy?
    It depends on your salsa and seasoning. Use mild if cooking for kids.

    If you make this, don’t forget to leave a review and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your versions 🤍

    Easy One-Pan Taco Skillet

    A quick and easy one-pan taco skillet made with ground beef, beans, corn, and salsa. This dump-and-go dinner is family-friendly, customizable, and ready in under 30 minutes.
    Prep Time: 5 minutes
    Cook Time: 20 minutes
    Total Time: 25 minutes
    Course: Dinner
    Cuisine: Mexican Inspired
    Keyword: 30 Minute Meals, One Pan Dinner, Tacos
    Servings: 4

    Ingredients

    Taco Mixture

    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 1 packet taco seasoning
    • 1/4 cup water1 16 oz jar salsa
    • 1 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
    • 1 cup frozen corn
    • 1/2 tsp cumin optional

    Toppings:

    • Shredded lettuceAvocado sliced or diced
    • Shredded Mexican cheese blend
    • Tortilla chips
    • Fresh cilantro optional

    Instructions

    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until almost fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
    • Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in 1/4 cup water. Stir to combine and let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
    • Add the salsa, black beans, corn, and cumin. Stir well to combine.
    • Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, until heated through and slightly thickened.
    • Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt.
    • Remove from heat and top with shredded lettuce, avocado, cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips. Serve immediately.

    Notes

    • If your salsa is thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the mixture.
    • Use mild or hot salsa depending on your spice preference.
    • Great for meal prep—store toppings separately and assemble when serving.
    • Try it over rice, quinoa, or in tortillas for a different spin.
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
    Maple Miso Salmon with Roasted Asparagus (Easy Sheet Pan Dinner)

    Maple Miso Salmon with Roasted Asparagus (Easy Sheet Pan Dinner)

    When dinner feels like one more thing on an already full day, this maple miso salmon with roasted asparagus is exactly what you need. It’s quick, low-effort, and all made on one pan—but still feels like something a little special. The salmon gets brushed with