Balsamic Chicken

Balsamic Chicken
1 T balsamic vinegar
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 c fresh basil
2 T olive oil, separated
1/4 c water
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 red onion, sliced
1 pkg cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 c sliced mushrooms (opt)

1. Place vinegar, garlic, basil, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and water in a blender and blend well. Set aside. (You can do this up to several hours early and let it meld.)
2. Preheat oven to 375*. Score the chicken breasts deeply a few times on one side.
3. Sear chicken in remaining tablespoon of oil, over medium-high heat, until light brown (the middle will still be pink), about 3-5 minutes each side.
4. Place chicken in a 9x9 pan, cut sides up, and cover with vinegar mixture, making sure to get it deep in the slits; sprinkle onions, tomatoes, and mushrooms on top.
5. Bake, uncovered, for about 40 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.

Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
12 oz almond bark
2 T shortening
pretzels (I used rods, but you can use any shape/size)
toppings like sprinkles or nuts (opt)

1. Line a baking sheet (or two or three, depending on how many pretzels you're making) with parchment paper.
2. Place almond bark and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring every 30 seconds, until melted and smooth.
3. Dip pretzels in melted chocolate, making sure to coat evenly, and lay on baking sheet(s). If using sprinkles, do so immediately.
4. Allow to cool completely before transferring.

Easy Picadillo

Easy Picadillo
1 lb ground beef
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1- 14.5 oz can salsa-style chunky tomatoes
1 c canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 c golden raisins

1. In a medium pan, cook beef and pepper over medium heat until beef is browned, about 8-10 minutes; drain.
2. Stir in remaining ingredients and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Mug Brownie

Mug Brownie
1/4 c flour
1/4 c sugar
2 T cocoa powder
pinch of salt
2 T vegetable oil
2 T water

1. In a mug, stir together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir in oil and water.
2. Microwave until desired consistency (about one minute or so).