Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels

Both adults and children rave about these homemade soft pretzels, especially when eaten fresh and hot out of the oven. These soft, chewy, golden pretzels are perfect with cheese dip or mustard sauce.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, salt, and sugar. Add yeast and let rest for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour and 2 tbsp oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Remove dough and grease the bowl with remaining 1 tbsp oil. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope and shape into classic pretzels.
6. Bring a large pot of water and baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds per side.
7. Transfer to a baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
8. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Let cool slightly and serve warm. Enjoy!

Nutrition (Per Pretzel)

Creamy Lemon Chicken Breast

Whip up this zesty Creamy Lemon Chicken for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor! With tender chicken, a velvety sauce, and a hint of citrus, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Ingredients (4 servings)

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken breasts in half widthwise. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Coat each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add butter and olive oil.
4. Cook chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.
5. Pour ¼ cup chicken stock into the skillet and scrape up browned bits.
6. Add remaining stock, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Stir well.
7. Simmer sauce for 5 minutes, then return chicken to the pan. Top with lemon slices.
8. Spoon sauce over chicken. Remove from heat. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
9. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg

Cooking Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Pair with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a complete meal.

Original Orange Chicken by Panda Express

Why order takeout when you can make your own orange chicken at home? This recipe features crispy chicken coated in a zesty orange sauce, and it’s easy to make in your own kitchen!

Ingredients Explained

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cut chicken into 1×1-inch cubes and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix salt, white pepper, cornstarch, and flour.
3. Add egg, water, and 2 tbsp oil to make pancake batter consistency.
4. Coat chicken in batter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Heat 6 cups oil in a deep pan to 350°F (180°C).
6. Fry chicken for 5–6 minutes until golden and crisp. Set aside.
7. In another pan, heat 1 tbsp oil and sauté chili flakes, garlic, and ginger for 30 seconds.
8. Add sugars and orange juice; stir to dissolve.
9. Add vinegar and soy sauce. Mix well.
10. Mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water. Add to pan to thicken sauce.
11. Stir in fried chicken until well coated with sauce.
12. Top with sesame oil and serve hot.

Nutrition Data (Per Serving)

Cooking Tips

• Use fresh orange juice for a more vibrant flavor.
• Chill the battered chicken before frying for a crispier texture.
• You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs stay juicier.
• For spicier orange chicken, increase red chili flakes or add sriracha to the sauce.