Add a little love to classic recipes from The Fountain Avenue Kitchen

A few simple cuts of the knife lovingly transform a boneless, skinless chicken breast into a festive meal. Fun for Valentine’s Day…or any time!

Sometimes, the sentiment that goes into preparing a meal is far more important than the actual food or where it is eaten.

Before having children, my husband and I usually went out for dinner on Valentine’s Day. Eventually, however, my husband’s job required him to travel most weeks. That, of course, meant lots of restaurant fare, and with two sons in the picture, we all looked forward to catching up over a family meal when he returned.

To add something special to a Valentine’s Day dinner (or just for fun on any random evening!), I started cutting a chicken breast into the shape of a heart. It’s surprisingly easy to do, and the chicken can then be cooked with a favorite marinade, rub, or sauce.

My sons are now in their 20s, and we still enjoy dinners around our kitchen table as much as we enjoy the many exceptional restaurants Lancaster has to offer. And though I created heart chicken for the kids when they were young, serving heart chicken to adults is every bit as fun!

Ingredients

The ingredient list is short and allows for endless customization:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Barbecue sauce, marinade, or spice rub of choice
• Olive oil or cooking spray for pan

From The Fountain Avenue Kitchen

If looking for specific recipe inspiration, Heart Chicken can be employed with any of the following:

• A Third–A Third–A Third Chicken
• Perfect Skillet Chicken
• Smoky Skillet Chicken
• Sazón Grilled Chicken
• Honey Lime Chicken 
• Chili Lime Chicken
• Salt-Free Smoked Paprika Chicken with Lime

And for even more last-minute Valentine’s Day ideas, explore Ann’s collection of Valentine’s Day recipes and DIY gifts that are sure to please.

Want to discover more local? Follow Fig on Facebook and Instagram for inspiration.