Chicago deep dish pizza sauce isn’t your typical pizza sauce situation. If you’re picturing that smooth, herb-heavy sauce you’d find on a New York slice, think again. Chicago deep dish sauce is chunky, bright, and unapologetically bold. Today, I’m spilling all the secrets about what …
Alright pizza fans, gather ’round because today we’re diving deep (pun totally intended) into the real star of Chicago deep dish pizza – that incredible crust. Sure, everyone gets excited about the towers of cheese and chunky sauce, but let me tell you something: without …
The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Apple Cider in Your Ninja Foodi
This cozy pressure cooker apple cider brings the warmth of autumn right into your RV! Made with fresh apples, aromatic spices, and a hint of orange, this simple recipe creates a soul-warming drink that fills your home on wheels with the delightful aromas of Fall. Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s the perfect treat for chilly evenings at the campsite.
Make extra to store – if you can resist drinking it all at once!
Choosing Your Apples
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Sweet Honeycrisp apples will give you a dessert-like cider, while tart Granny Smiths create a more complex flavor. My secret? Mix and match! I love combining three varieties: sweet, tart, and aromatic.
Sweet apples like Golden Delicious or Honey Crisp for natural sweetness
Pink Lady for a balanced flavor
Granny Smith apples for tartness and depth
Visit local farms or your grocery store during apple season for the freshest picks. Each kind of apple brings its own character to your homemade cider recipe, creating a complexity you won’t find in store-bought varieties.
Let’s Gather Up the Ingredients
8 fresh apples (mixed varieties as suggested above)
5 whole cinnamon sticks
2 teaspoons whole cloves
1/4 – 1/2 cup brown sugar
8 cups of water
2 oranges
Equipment Needed:
Ninja Foodi pressure cooker– any pressure cooker will work, but this is the brand I use and I can’t recommend it enough.
Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
Potato masher– I love to use a silicone masher like this one so that I don’t scratch the non-stick liner of my pressure cooker.
Sealable glass jars for storage
Now Let’s Get Cooking
Wash your fresh apples thoroughly. If you’re lucky enough to source them from an apple orchard, even better!
Quarter the apples and oranges – no need to remove peels or cores as we will be discarding them later.
Place the fruit in your Ninja Foodi and add enough water just to cover the top. Be sure not to go past the fill line.
Add whole cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and brown sugar
Seal your Foodi and select:
– For quick results: HIGH pressure for 20 minutes
– For slow cooker apple cider: LOW for 6-8 hours
After cooking, use your potato masher to press the cooked apples to a pulp
Strain the mixture through your fine-mesh strainer
That’s all there is to it! You’ve just made your own homemade apple cider!
Serving Suggestions
Fresh apple cider can be enjoyed in multiple ways:
Serve hot for those cozy winter gatherings or over ice for warm autumn afternoons
Transform into hard cider with proper fermentation
Use in fall cocktails
Freeze for later use
Storage Tips
How long does apple cider last in the fridge:
Keep in an airtight container or sealable glass jars
Refrigerate leftover apple cider for up to 7 days
For hot cider, reheat only what you’ll consume
How to freeze apple cider:
Freeze in containers with headspace for expansion
Label with date and apple variety used
Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to use
Why Choose Homemade Over Store-Bought?
Making your own apple cider offers several advantages:
Control over sweetness (adjust brown sugar to taste)
Selection of apple juice base from specific varieties
Customizable warm spices blend
No preservatives or additives
Perfect way to use apple orchard hauls
Makes your whole RV/house smell amazing
Tips for Success
1. Mix at least three types of apples
2. Start with less brown sugar – you can always add more
3. Double-strain through your fine-mesh strainer
4. Make a large batch – this easy apple cider recipe freezes well
5. Consider visiting local farms for the freshest apples
Seasonal Considerations
Fall is apple season – making it the perfect time for cozy beverages like this delicious homemade apple cider. During chilly fall days, nothing beats the comfort of hot cider simmering in your Ninja Foodi. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or pressure cooking function, the result is the same – a house filled with the irresistible aromas of autumn.
Creative Uses
Your apple cider can become:
Cooking liquid for braising meat in the fall and winter months
Whether you’re parked beneath autumn leaves in Vermont or watching the desert sunset in Arizona, this pressure cooker apple cider recipe brings the comfort of home wherever your wheels take you.
It’s become our favorite way to welcome new camping neighbors and create memories with fellow travelers. There’s something special about sharing a warm mug of homemade cider around the campfire, swapping stories of the road, and embracing the simple joys of RV living.
So fire up that pressure cooker, fill your RV with the sweet aroma of apples and spices, and prepare to make some camping memories that’ll last long after the cider’s gone.
Homemade Apple Cider Made in the Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker
This cozy pressure cooker apple cider brings the warmth of autumn right into your RV! Made with fresh apples, aromatic spices, and a hint of orange, this simple recipe creates a soul-warming drink that fills your home-on-wheels with delightful aromas. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect treat for chilly evenings at the campsite. Make extra to store – if you can resist drinking it all at once!
Looking for a creamy, comforting dinner that rivals Stouffer’s chicken lasagna? This white chicken lasagna recipe takes the classic Stouffer’s version and elevates it with homemade cheese sauce and fresh ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked …
Fall is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with homemade apple cider donuts? Today, I’m sharing my recipe for the best apple cider donuts you’ll ever taste – and the best part? They’re baked, not fried! These easy, baked …
As chili season approaches, it’s time to warm up with a bowl of The Ultimate Easy Creamy White Chicken Chili. With tender chicken, creamy broth, and a perfect blend of spices, this dish will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
White Bean Chicken Chili
White chicken chili is a lighter twist on the classic red chili. It’s lighter in color but not in flavor. The creamy base, combined with great northern beans and shredded chicken, creates a hearty meal perfect for cooler days or any time you need a comforting dish.
I always give instructions with step-by-step photos in my posts just in case some readers have questions. But if you are just here for the recipe, click the JUMP TO RECIPE tab under the title and it will take you straight there. You can also print the recipe card with full instructions or you can click one of the SHARE BUTTONS and save it for later!
Let’s Gather Up the Ingredients
Organizing all of your ingredients ahead of time not only streamlines the cooking process but also ensures you have everything required to complete the dish successfully.You can find the exact amounts in the recipe card below.
To create the best white chicken chili, you’ll need:
Great northern beans– 2 15.5-ounce cans or if you prefer to make beans from scratch, approximately 3 cups of homemade beans.
Fresh cilantro
Onions
Jalapeno peppers
Poblano peppers
Corn– Fresh, canned, or frozen
Fresh Garlic
Kosher salt
Cumin
Corriander
Ancho Chili powder
Black pepper
Lime juice
Heavy cream
Tips for Success: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. For best results, shred the chicken as soon as you get home from the grocery store; it’s easier to do while the chicken is still warm, eliminates a step at dinnertime, and also takes up less room in our sometimes tiny RV fridge.
Now Let’s Get Cooking
In a food processor, blend half of the beans with 1 cup of the chicken broth.
Add 2 tablespoons of oil to a large pot or Dutch oven and heat it over medium-high heat. Add 1 large yellow onion (diced), 1 jalapeño pepper (seeded and minced), and 2 medium poblano peppers (seeded and diced). Cook, stirring frequently, until soft, 4 to 5 minutes.
Add 4 cloves of garlic (minced) and cook for one minute more. Next, add 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander, and 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for one minute more to toast the spices. Add 3 the remaining 3 cups of chicken broth, puréed beans, and ½ teaspoon of salt; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes.
Stir in the shredded chicken, reserved whole beans, corn, and lime juice; bring back to a simmer and cook until everything is heated through (about 5 minutes).
Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and lime juice, if necessary. Stir in the cilantro. (The chili will be more soupy than traditional chili. If you want it a little thicker, let it simmer longer or make a cornstarch slurry. The longer it sits, the thicker it will get).
Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with sour cream, shredded chees, and lime wedges or whatever toppings your family enjoys!.
Tips for success: If you like your chicken chili on the mild side, remove the seeds from the peppers as directed. If you’d like to spice it up, leave them in.
The Creamy Base: The Secret to This White Chili
What sets this white chicken chili apart is its creamy base. The addition of heavy cream creates a rich, velvety texture that coats every spoonful. This creamy broth not only adds depth to the flavor but also gives the chili its distinctive white color.
Customizing Your Chili
One of the best things about this easy white chicken chili recipe is how customizable it is. Like it spicier? Add more jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer a thicker chili? Let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this recipe truly your own.
Toppings: The Finishing Touch
No bowl of chili is complete without toppings. Some favorite toppings for this white bean chicken chili include:
A dollop of sour cream
Fresh cilantro
Sliced green onions
Crispy tortilla strips
Lime wedges for an extra zesty squeeze
These toppings not only add flavor but also provide a delightful contrast in textures, making each bite an experience.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This easy chicken chili recipe is perfect for meal prep. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to develop further. Store your leftover chicken chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water to thin it out, because chili tends to thicken when cooled.
The Versatility of White Chicken Chili
While this chili is delicious on its own, it’s also incredibly versatile. Use it as a topping for baked potatoes, serve it over rice, or use it as a dip for tortilla chips. You can even use leftover chicken to make this chili, which is a great way to repurpose yesterday’s roast chicken.
Health Benefits
Not only is this white chicken chili delicious but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides lean protein, while the beans offer fiber and additional protein. Fresh corn adds a touch of sweetness and some valuable vitamins. By using olive oil and opting for low-fat dairy, you can make this chili a part of a balanced diet.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This easy white chicken chili recipe is perfect for various occasions. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining. Make a large pot for game day gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. It’s also a great option for potlucks because it can be easily transported and reheated.
FAQ
How long does chicken chili last in the fridge?
Chicken chili typically lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. Here are some key points about storing chicken chili:
Cool quickly: Let the chili cool to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking before refrigerating.
Use airtight containers: Store the chili in airtight containers to prevent contamination and maintain freshness.
Refrigerate promptly: Place the cooled chili in the refrigerator as soon as possible.
Temperature: Ensure your refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or below.
Reheating: When reheating, make sure the chili reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria.
Appearance and smell: Before consuming, check for any signs of spoilage like an off odor, mold, or unusual appearance.
Can you freeze white chicken chili?
For longer storage, you can freeze chicken chili for 4-6 months. When frozen properly in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, it maintains its best quality during this time.
What to eat with white chicken chili?
White chicken chili pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some great options to serve with your white chicken chili:
Toppings (can be served on the side for people to add as they like):
– Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack)
– Sour cream
– Sliced jalapeños
– Diced avocado or guacamole
– Chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges
– Sliced green onions
– Tortilla chips or strips
Drinks:
– Mexican beer
– Margaritas
– Iced tea
– Lemonade
Desserts:
– Churros
– Sopapillas
– Flan
– Key lime pie
Your New Go-To Chili Recipe
This easy white chicken chili recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that’s sure to become a staple in your RV cooking repertoire. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and perfect blend of spices, it’s the ultimate comfort food for chili season. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd at the campgrounds, this white bean chicken chili is sure to impress.
More Recipes for You to Try
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DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
I’d love to know how it turned out! Please let me know by leaving a review below. Or snap a picture and tag me on Facebook.
Every time you share one of my posts, it helps me grow the blog. I truly appreciate your support.
As always, I will be back next week with more delicious recipes from my RV kitchen to yours!
White Chicken Chili
This Easy White Chicken Chili is a creamy, comforting delight that's perfect for chilly evenings. Tender chicken, hearty white beans, and a blend of spices come together in a velvety broth. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it's topped with sour cream, shredded cheese, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish. A crowd-pleasing meal that's sure to become a family favorite!
2medium poblano peppersseeded and diced (see note)
4garlic clovesminced
1tablespoonground cumin
1½teaspoonsground coriander
1teaspoonancho chile powder
1teaspoonsalt
4cupsRoasted chickenskin removed and shredded
¾cupcorn freshfrozen or canned
1tablespoonfresh lime juicefrom one lime, plus more to taste
½cupheavy cream
¼cupfresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
In a food processor, blend half of the beans with 1 cup of the chicken broth.
Add 2 tablespoons of oil to a large pot or Dutch oven and heat it over medium-high heat. Add 1 large yellow onion (diced), 1 jalapeño pepper (seeded and minced), and 2 medium poblano peppers (seeded and diced). Cook, stirring frequently, until soft, 4 to 5 minutes. Add 4 cloves of garlic (minced) and cook for one minute more. Add 1 tablespoon ground cumin, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander, and 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for one minute more to toast the spices. Add 3 the remaining 3 cups of chicken broth, puréed beans, and ½ teaspoon of salt; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes.
Stir in the shredded chicken, reserved whole beans, corn, and lime juice; bring back to a simmer and cook until everything is heated through (about 5 minutes). Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and lime juice, if necessary. Stir in the cilantro. (The chili will be more soupy than traditional chili. If you want it a little thicker, let it simmer longer or make a cornstarch slurry. The longer it sits, the thicker it will get). Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, and lime wedges.
Notes
Calorie Disclaimer:The nutritional information provided is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the actual nutritional content of recipes may vary depending on various factors, including the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods.Note: Nutrition info does not include optional toppings.
There’s something magical about biting into a fresh, warm bagel with a perfectly chewy texture and a slightly crispy crust. While New York City is famous for its bagels, you don’t have to book a flight to the Big Apple to enjoy this iconic breakfast …
New York’s Iconic Eats As one of the world’s greatest food cities and a historic melting pot of cultures, New York has cemented an iconic culinary legacy spanning decades of innovation and adherence to cherished traditions. From Manhattan’s buzzworthy restaurants constantly reinventing global cuisines to …
When it comes to iconic brunch dishes, few things capture the essence of New York like a classic bagel with lox. This open-faced sandwich, combining fresh bagels and luxurious cured salmon, is a staple in every New Yorkers brunch repertoire. It has become one of my all-time brunch favorites, but it can be enjoyed any time of day.
Take your fancy brunch or Mother’s Day celebration to the next level or just enjoy this lox bagel recipe as a special treat any day of the week.
This is part of my new series Taste the Nation where week by week, I’ll explore the foods and flavors of America and recreate the most popular recipes from all 50 states.
So what makes this dish so special, and why does it hold such a revered spot in the world of brunch favorites?
I always give instructions with step-by-step photos in my posts, just in case some readers have questions. But if you are just here for the recipe, click the JUMP TO RECIPE tab under the title and it will take you directly there. You can also print the recipe card with full instructions, or you can click one of the SHARE BUTTONS and save it for later!
The New York Bagel Phenomenon
New York’s reputation for bagels and lox stems from its rich history of immigration and cultural blending. In the early 20th century, eastern European Jewish immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the city, including the preparation of bagels and lox.
New York’s bagel-making process, which involves boiling the dough before baking, creates a unique texture that’s become a standard for high-quality bagels.
The lox, or brined salmon, was influenced by the smoking practices of regions like Nova Scotia.
The combination of chewy bagels with briny lox and creamy cheese quickly became a local favorite. This dish, popularized by Jewish delis and bagel shops in neighborhoods like the Lower East Side, has evolved into a New York brunch staple, symbolizing the city’s vibrant and diverse food culture. This commitment to quality is part of what makes New York-style bagels stand out.
So where do you go to get the best Bagels with Lox in New York City? There is much debate, but my choice is Russ & Daughters.
Russ & Daughters, founded in 1914, is famous for its high-quality smoked fish, bagels, and other traditional Jewish delicacies. It has a long history in New York City and is considered an institution in the Lower East Side. Many people consider it one of the top places for bagels and lox in the city. (Including me!)
Lox, or cold-smoked salmon, is the star of the show when it comes to this dish. The lox (the thinly sliced belly of the salmon), is cured to perfection, offering a rich, briny flavor that complements the bagel and cream cheese beautifully.
Lox vs Smoked Salmon
Most grocery stores sell presliced smoked salmon and/or lox, but what is the difference?
Traditional lox refers to salmon that has been cured in a brine solution (salt and sometimes sugar) but not smoked. The term “lox” comes from the Yiddish word “laks,” meaning salmon. In the traditional preparation, the salmon is salted for several days, resulting in a very salty and flavorful fish.
Smoked salmon is prepared by curing the fish in a salt or brine solution and then smoking it with either low or high heat.
Cold-Smoked Salmon vs. Hot-Smoked Salmon
Cold-smoked salmon is cured and then smoked at a low temperature, which gives it a silky texture and a delicate flavor. It’s the type typically used for bagels with lox.
Hot-smoked salmon, on the other hand, is smoked at a higher temperature, resulting in a flaky texture similar to cooked salmon. Each type has its unique flavor profile and texture, but cold-smoked is the classic choice for bagel topping.
Let’s Gather Up the Ingredients
Organizing all of your ingredients ahead of time not only streamlines the cooking process but also ensures you have everything required to complete the dish successfully.You can find the exact amounts in the recipe card below.
Fresh bagels– get fresh bagels from your favorite bagel shop or if you are feeling really adventurous, make your own bagels at home.
Softened cream cheese– I prefer plain cream cheese, but you could jazz it up with fresh herbs or use a flavored cream cheese such as garlic herb.
Capers– briny capers add a touch of sharpness and complexity.
Lox or cold smoked salmon– Some popular varieties are Nova Lox, gravlax, or lox.
Thinly sliced red onion
Freshly cracked black pepper
Fresh dill
Lemon wedges
Other add-ons can include thinly sliced fresh cucumber, tomato, avocado, sour cream, or even a poached egg. This is your bagel. Dress it as you see fit!
Now let’s get cooking (or I guess in this case, assembling)
Prepare the Bagels:
Slice your bagels in half horizontally.
Toast the bagel halves if you prefer a bit of crunch. Toasting enhances the texture and adds a nice contrast to the creamy toppings. If you like a softer bagel, you can skip the toasting step.
Spread the Cream Cheese:
Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on each toasted bagel half. Use a butter knife or a spatula to evenly distribute it from edge to edge. The cream cheese acts as a base and adds a creamy texture that complements the lox.
Add the Lox:
Gently drape slices of lox over the cream cheese-covered bagel. Arrange the lox in a neat, overlapping pattern to ensure each bite has a good amount of the salmon.
Layer Additional Toppings:
Place thin slices of red onions over the lox. The red onions add a zesty crunch that contrasts well with the smooth lox and cream cheese.
Sprinkle briny capers on top. Capers are a great addition. They add a burst of salty, tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the bagel.
Garnish:
Garnish with fresh dill. Dill is a classic herb that pairs beautifully with salmon and adds a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor.
If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the top. This is the perfect way to add brightness and a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and lox.
Serve:
Arrange the assembled bagels on a plate or large platter. For a more elegant presentation, you can cut each bagel half into quarters.
Serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Assembly:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bagels, high quality lox, and crisp vegetables will make a noticeable difference in taste.
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the amount of cream cheese, lox, and toppings based on your taste preferences. Ensure that no single ingredient overwhelms the others.
Consider Presentation: Consider adding a side of capers, additional fresh dill, and lemon wedges for guests to customize their bagels.
Pair your lox cream cheese bagels with bloody marys for a quintessential New York brunch experience that is perfect for special occasions or just a leisurely morning at home.
FAQs About Smoked Salmon
How Long Does Smoked Salmon Last in the Fridge?
Smoked salmon can last for about 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator if it’s kept in its original packaging or tightly wrapped. It’s essential to check for any off smells or changes in texture, as these can indicate spoilage.
How to Freeze Smoked Salmon
To freeze smoked salmon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight freezer bag or container. It’s best to use it within 3 months for optimal freshness. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using it.
How to Store Smoked Salmon
Smoked salmon should be stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). Keep it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container to maintain its quality and prevent it from drying out.
New York-style bagels with lox are a true testament to the art of brunch. The combination of fresh bagels, high-quality lox, and complementary toppings creates a dish that’s both simple and extraordinary. Whether you’re a New Yorker or just someone who appreciates great food, this classic bagel with lox is a delicious brunch staple that continues to impress.
If you are enjoying my Taste the Nation series, explore more of the iconic recipes I have recreated from around the United States.
New MexicoConnecticutArizona
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
I’d love to know how it turned out! Please let me know by leaving a review below. Or snap a picture and tag me on Facebook.
Every time you share one of my posts, it helps me grow the blog. I truly appreciate your support.
As always, I will be back next week with more delicious recipes from my RV kitchen to yours!
New York’s Iconic Bagels with Lox (or Smoked Salmon)
Chewy bagels topped with silky cream cheese, thinly sliced smoky lox, and traditional garnishes. This authentic recipe brings the flavors of a Lower East Side deli to your kitchen.
Spread the toasted bagel halves with softened cream cheese.
Sprinkle half of the capers over the cream cheese.
Top with the slices of smoked salmon.
Top with the remaining capers, sliced onion, and freshly cracked black pepper.
Garnish with fresh lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Calorie Disclaimer:The nutritional information provided is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the actual nutritional content of recipes may vary depending on various factors, including the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and cooking methods.
When you’re short on time but craving a satisfying and healthy seafood dinner, this pan-seared tilapia with bacon and spinach is the perfect solution. In just 20 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table that is healthy and bursting with flavor. The …