By now it might be obvious that I like using what's on hand and getting good deals on food items. Truly the secret to my budget meal planning involves the actual shopping trip. First of all I go to the store several times a week - while this initially served as a way for me to get out of the house during this time of "funemployment" I have found that by going several times a week I'm happening to find more sales and growing a food storage that is diverse and offering expanded opportunities. I’ve come across fabulous items on sale – butterfly pork chops (buy 1 get 1 deal), pre-made burger patties (2 for $2), over a pound of chicken for about $4, and various frozen veggies on the 10 for 10 sale or definitely reduced prices. I bought more than I needed at the time because the deals were so good and then stored them in my freezer.
Which brings me to another point – I am in love with my freezer.
Every time I open it these days I see possibilities for quick and easy meals and get a little self-esteem boost for having a little foresight. Usually when I get meat that’s packaged in bulk (like chicken) I break up the package and wrap each one individually – first in plastic wrap, then in foil (my kingdom for a FoodSaver sealer). Right now I’m not going hungry – in spite of my “funemployment” budget – especially as I find I’m getting several satisfying meals out of the leftovers.
This week I had a simple meal. Total cost less than $3, total meals 2½.
Chicken with Rice & Lentil Pilaf
1 box Near East® Rice Pilaf mix – Lentil variety
1 chicken breast
Prepare rice pilaf mix according to box directions – olive oil or butter will be needed.
Prepare chicken to your liking – I used a spice rub and tossed it on the GF grill - until no longer pink.
Allow chicken to rest for 10 minutes (giving time to finish the pilaf).
Slice chicken into strips and serve on top of pilaf.
Voila – a simple and true Out of the Can with Cate meal.
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