Ep 1. Why Did The Chicken Cross the Road?

Valerie's Home Cooking is a cooking show that focuses on easy and flavorful recipes that can be whipped up in a home kitchen. Season 7 kicks off with episode 1 titled "Why Did The Chicken Cross The Road?" In this episode, the host Valerie Bertinelli shares some of her favorite chicken recipes and cooking techniques.

Valerie begins the episode by acknowledging that chicken is a staple protein in many households, but it can be easy to fall into a rut and always prepare it the same way. She promises to shake things up with some new and exciting recipes.

First up is Valerie's spicy and tangy chicken fajitas. She starts by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and garlic. After grilling the chicken and sautéing some peppers and onions, Valerie shows viewers how to assemble the fajitas with tortillas, guacamole, and sour cream. The end result is a colorful and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weekend dinner or entertaining guests.

Next, Valerie demonstrates how to make a classic chicken pot pie with a twist. Instead of a traditional crust, she tops her pot pie with phyllo dough which adds a satisfying crunch. Valerie also emphasizes the importance of using homemade chicken stock for the filling, which elevates the flavor of the dish. The end result is a comforting and hearty meal that is sure to please the whole family.

For her third recipe, Valerie takes inspiration from a popular Korean dish and prepares a spicy gochujang glazed chicken. Gochujang is a fermented chili paste that adds heat and depth of flavor to the chicken. Valerie also shows viewers how to whip up a quick cucumber salad to serve alongside the chicken. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors makes for a vibrant and satisfying dish.

Finally, Valerie rounds out the episode with a lighter option - her grilled chicken and kale salad. She starts by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest before grilling them to juicy perfection. Valerie also shows viewers how to massage kale to make it more tender and less bitter. With the addition of dried cherries, pecans, and a zippy vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect healthy choice for summer.

Throughout the episode, Valerie offers tips and tricks for cooking chicken perfectly every time. She emphasizes the importance of properly seasoning chicken and checking for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure that it is safe to eat. Valerie's enthusiasm for cooking and her warm personality make for an engaging and informative episode.

In conclusion, "Why Did The Chicken Cross The Road?" is a fantastic premiere for season 7 of Valerie's Home Cooking. Viewers will be inspired to try new chicken recipes and techniques after watching Valerie's easy-to-follow demonstrations.