This Chicken Caprese Ravioli recipe combines tender homemade pasta, a flavorful rotisserie chicken filling, and a fresh basil-lemon sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or when you want to impress guests with an Italian-inspired meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Fresh & Flavorful: The combination of ricotta, chicken, basil, and lemon zest creates a light yet satisfying dish.

• Homemade Ravioli: Simple steps to make fresh pasta dough from scratch with minimal ingredients.

• Impressive Yet Simple: While ravioli looks fancy, this step-by-step guide ensures it’s easy and fun to make.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

• 1 cup very hot water

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cup whole milk ricotta

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup finely shredded store-bought rotisserie chicken

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil leaves

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves

• 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine the flour and very hot water.

• Using a wooden spoon, mix until it forms a large ball.

• Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 10 minutes.

  • Shortcut Tip: Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier mixing. Gradually add water to the flour until a dough ball forms.

2. Prepare the Filling

• In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, egg, shredded chicken, parmesan, chopped basil, salt, and black pepper.

• Stir to combine thoroughly.

  • Pro Tip: Use a food processor to shred the chicken and mix the filling for a smoother texture.

3. Roll Out the Dough

• Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.

• Lightly dust the work surface and rolling pin with flour.

• Roll out one piece of dough into a 4x19-inch rectangle.

  • If the dough is sticky, add small amounts of flour as needed.

4. Fill & Seal the Ravioli

• Place 9 rounded teaspoons of filling down the center of the dough, spacing each about 1 inch apart.

• Fold the dough over the filling, covering it completely.

• Press down around the edges of each ravioli with your fingertips to seal.

• Use a knife or ravioli cutter to cut the dough into squares.

• Press down around the edges again to ensure each ravioli is sealed.

• Place the finished ravioli on a lightly floured baking tray and repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling.

5. Cook the Ravioli

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add half the ravioli and cook until they float to the surface (about 3-4 minutes), stirring occasionally.

• Drain and transfer to a large bowl. Repeat with the remaining ravioli.

6. Prepare the Sauce & Serve

• Drizzle the olive oil over the cooked ravioli.

• Add the fresh basil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

• Gently toss the ravioli to coat in the sauce.

• Serve immediately while warm.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this fresh Chicken Caprese Ravioli with a light arugula salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette.

• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

• A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh basil and lemon perfectly.

Pro Tips

• Work in Batches: Keep the dough you’re not using covered to prevent it from drying out.

• Ravioli Molds: For consistent results, use a ravioli mold for shaping and sealing the pasta.

• Freeze for Later: You can freeze uncooked ravioli on a tray, then store in an airtight container. Boil directly from frozen when ready.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Chicken Caprese Ravioli combines rustic Italian flavors with fresh ingredients for a dish that feels gourmet yet simple. The basil-lemon sauce is a perfect finishing touch, making every bite light, fragrant, and satisfying.

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe combines tender chicken thighs, earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and juicy grape tomatoes in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a comforting, restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce!

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken

For the Dish

• 1/2 (142 g) package baby spinach

• 0.45 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 0.23 kg cremini mushrooms, sliced

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1/2 small package grape tomatoes

• 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced

For the Sauce

• 118 ml heavy whipping cream

• 28 g Parmesan cheese, finely grated

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Wash and dry the produce: cremini mushrooms, grape tomatoes, and spinach.

• Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms. Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

• Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add butter and swirl to coat the bottom. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring regularly, until the onion begins to soften.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

• Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Note: The chicken will not be fully cooked at this stage.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

• Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Add the spinach in batches, stirring until it wilts slightly before adding more. Add grape tomatoes, crushed red pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and cook for 2–3 minutes, until the veggies begin to soften.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

• Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. Return the chicken (and any juices from the plate) to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan

• Add grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Divide the chicken and vegetables between plates, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Pair with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: Creamy mashed potatoes, buttered pasta, or fluffy white rice.

• Optional Add-ins: Crumbled bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped fresh basil for added depth of flavor.

• Make it Keto: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and serve over zoodles or cauliflower rice.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Tuscan Chicken

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Boneless thighs are forgiving, but ensure they stay juicy by simmering just until cooked through.

2. Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin it out.

3. Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan may not melt as smoothly, so opt for freshly grated for a creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe weeknight-friendly.

• Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, it’s the ultimate cozy dish.

• Customizable: Easily tweak with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a versatile, one-pan recipe that’s sure to impress your family or dinner guests. Its combination of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich cream sauce makes it a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

Sweet potato pie has become a cherished addition to Thanksgiving celebrations in Canada, thanks to a special tradition introduced by Marnie’s mum, Peggy. After spending time "snowbirding" in Florida, Peggy and her family met a Pastor and his family, who shared their Thanksgiving tradition of sweet potato pie. It quickly became a favorite in their own home, and now, it's a beloved recipe that you can enjoy with your family too. With its creamy texture and blend of warm spices, this pie is the perfect addition to your holiday menu.

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Pie

To make this delightful pie, you’ll need:

• 2 single Graham or regular pie crusts

• 4 cups cooked and peeled sweet potatoes

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter

• 2/3 cup pure fine granulated sugar

• 2/3 cup (packed) light brown sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup whole milk (or skim milk)

• 1 cup plain yogurt (or buttermilk)

• 1/2 tsp baking soda (added to yogurt or buttermilk)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon (or more, to taste)

Step-by-Step Directions to Make Sweet Potato Pie

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
   Start by boiling the sweet potatoes with the skin on until they are soft and a fork or butter knife can easily break them apart. Once done, let them cool slightly. Run cold water over the potatoes in a colander to help remove the skins, as the yams will still be quite hot.

2. Mash and Mix
   Peel the sweet potatoes and mash them using a mixer on medium speed. You may need to stop frequently to remove any strings from the beaters.

3. Add the Butter
   While the sweet potatoes are still hot, add the butter and mix it in until fully melted and incorporated.

4. Beat the Eggs and Sugar
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugars together until light and fluffy. Gradually fold this mixture into the mashed sweet potatoes.

5. Incorporate the Milk and Yogurt
   Add the milk and yogurt (mixed with the baking soda) to the sweet potato mixture. Stir to combine.

6. Season the Pie
   Add salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the mixture, adjusting the spices to your taste. Stir until well combined.

7. Prepare the Pie Crust
   Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared pie crusts. If you prefer, you can bake the mixture as a pudding instead, skipping the crust entirely.

8. Bake to Perfection
   Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for about 70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

Serving and Storing

This sweet potato pie is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to a month—just let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and pop it in the freezer for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Sweet potato pie is the epitome of comfort food, blending the smooth, naturally sweet flavor of sweet potatoes with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s a wonderful addition to any holiday table or as a special treat to enjoy with family and friends. This recipe, handed down from Peggy’s Thanksgiving tradition, is a reminder of the joy of sharing delicious food and creating memories that last a lifetime. Enjoy a slice of this rich, flavorful pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

These Colourful Peppermint Meringues are the perfect festive treat! Light, airy, and full of peppermint flavor, these meringues are a fun and easy way to brighten up any occasion. With a delightful red swirl from the food coloring, they’re as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds. Whether for holiday celebrations, gifting, or just as a light dessert, these meringues will surely impress.

Ingredients for Colourful Peppermint Meringues

• 3 egg whites

• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp pure peppermint extract

• 3/4 cup sugar

• Red food coloring (paste or gel)

Directions for Colourful Peppermint Meringues

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Set aside for later use.

2. Whip the Egg Whites

In a large bowl, combine egg whites, cream of tartar, salt, and peppermint extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks begin to form.

3. Add Sugar

Slowly add sugar—about 1 tablespoon at a time—while continuing to beat on high. Keep mixing until the meringue forms stiff peaks and is glossy.

4. Prepare the Piping Bag

Fit a large piping bag with a large star tip. Using a small, clean paintbrush, gently paint stripes of red food coloring on the inside of the piping bag from the tip upwards. This will create the beautiful red swirls when you pipe the meringues.

5. Pipe the Meringues

Carefully spoon the meringue mixture into the piping bag and pipe 2-inch stars onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

6. Bake

Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 90 minutes, or until they feel dry and firm to the touch. You don’t want them to brown, just dry out completely.

7. Cool and Store

Once baked, slide the parchment paper off the cookie sheet and onto a wire rack to cool. Let them cool completely before removing from the parchment. Store the meringues in layers separated by waxed paper in an airtight container. These meringues can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love These Colourful Peppermint Meringues

These Colourful Peppermint Meringues are a delightful combination of light, airy texture and refreshing peppermint flavor. The gentle sweetness pairs perfectly with the crisp, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the meringue. The red stripes give these meringues a festive touch, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, parties, or simply enjoying a delicious, guilt-free treat.

Tips for Perfect Meringues

• Stiff Peaks: Make sure to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks—this helps give the meringues their signature light and airy texture.

• Food Coloring: Use gel or paste food coloring to avoid adding too much liquid to the meringue, which could affect the texture.

• Oven Temperature: Don’t rush the baking process. Bake at a low temperature to ensure the meringues dry out properly without browning.

• Storage: These meringues can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months and even frozen, making them a great make-ahead treat.

Final Thoughts on Colourful Peppermint Meringues

These Colourful Peppermint Meringues are a simple yet stunning treat that adds a splash of color and flavor to any occasion. Perfect for those who love light, airy desserts, these meringues combine the festive flavors of peppermint with a fun, swirled appearance. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday celebration or just want a sweet snack, these meringues will be a hit!