Save Time, Save Money

I knew Tyson was on to something when they introduced cooked, ready-to-eat sliced chicken. After all, it's perfect for salads, pastas and other quick dishes. While these and other brands are fine to use once in a while, they are not really cost effective. Especially if you are cooking for more than 1 or 2 people. And in my humble opinion, have a unnatural texture and processed taste. Instead, try this: buy family packs of skinless, boneless chicken breasts on sale (I just bought several packages for $1.29/lb) and prepare them for future dishes to be used in the coming week. For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken 1-2 hours before grilling (or searing in a pan on the stove top). After grilling, wait 10 minutes and then slice or use kitchen shears to cut into slices. Store in a resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Remember, when poultry is not combined with other foods, it keeps longer in the refrigerator. I use this ready-to-go chicken on almost everything. A little time spent at the beginning of the week will really pay off. You'll have better taste, convenience and save money.