Crispy Parmesan Chicken

So those that know me know I love to cook.  Not a surprise either.  Big or small, I love to cook meals for family, friends - even the odd stranger (although that doesn't happen much at all).

And, I love to watch cooking shows.  Of all sorts.  Hey, I work in cable.  The TV is always on in my office and since I HATE soap opera-ish shows....I might as well learn something from the Food Network.

And I have learned.  And been inspired to try new things.  And one of my favorite people to watch is Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa.  She's so easy to watch.  Her foods are simple enough that you don't feel like you need a degree in culinary arts AND they look great!

Chicken is a versatile dish in our house, and her recipe for Parmesan Chicken was certainly one I was temped to try.  I've tweaked it a bit, but it's still her inspiration that led me to make this dish that Mr. Hungry LOVES and I do too!

Crisy Corn Bread

Well, it's still pretty cold out these days and nothing tastes better on a cold night than a steaming hot bowl of chili.  Or beer.  Or both.  But what can get ANY better than some really great corn bread to round out the mix??

I found this recipe at All Recipes and if you're really looking for a good recipe for ANYTHING, this is a great site!!  Anything you dream can be found here, with photos of the final produce (love that) and each recipe is rated by the users, so you always know what's good!  Check it out!

So, here's a fool proof corn bread recipe that I tried once, and have never looked back with.  It's perfectly sweet, crunchy and heck - a big old blob of butter on it really is like the icing on the cake!!

Prime Rib Dinner - Yorkshire Pudding

I struggled for quite a while many years ago when I lived with my Aunt and Uncle and we all took turns making dinner and I wanted Yorkshire Pudding.  My Grandmother used to make them and they were so wonderful covered in rich gravy.  That crispy outside and soft inside, hot and steamy.  Amazing!!

So, after many trials and experiments, I finally found what worked for me to produce a well puffed and beautifully crispy Yorkshire Pudding.  Here's what I do, and hopefully it will help someone who's scared to try, be able to share what I think are the BEST Yorkshire Puddings ever!  And you're not going to believe just how easy they are to make!