Instant Pot Peanut Butter Chicken and Noodles

 

Craving Creamy, Crunchy, Quick? Instant Pot Peanut Butter Chicken & Noodles to the Rescue!

Hey there, peanut butter and noodle lovers! Do you dream of that irresistible combo of sweet, salty, and nutty bliss on your plate, but lack the time (or patience) for lengthy kitchen stints? Introducing your new best friend: Instant Pot Peanut Butter Chicken & Noodles! ⚡️

This one-pot wonder delivers all the mouthwatering flavors you crave in under 30 minutes, without sacrificing an ounce of taste. We're talking tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich, creamy peanut sauce that clings to every perfectly cooked noodle. And the crunch of chopped peanuts on top? Chef's kiss!

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Fast & Furious Flavor: Forget slaving over the stove! This recipe puts dinner on the table in lightning speed, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.
• Flavor Explosion: Creamy peanut butter marries with savory soy sauce, tangy lime, and warm ginger to create a sauce that's irresistibly addictive.
• Customizable Cravings: Feel free to adjust the spice level with sriracha or chili flakes, or add veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for an extra boost of nutrition. ️
• Clean Up Breeze: One pot means minimal mess! Dinnertime just got a whole lot easier.

Ready to whip up this peanut butter paradise? Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients:

1 ½ pound of chicken breast tenders

1 tablespoon of butter

1 ½ c of chicken broth

1 teaspoon of minced garlic flakes

1 teaspoon of onion powder

1 teaspoon of sesame oil

2 teaspoons of soy sauce

1 cup of frozen mixed veggies

½ c of crunchy peanut butter

½ c of crunchy peanut butter

8 ozs of spaghetti noodles

Directions:

Turn the instant pot to saute function.

When it is hot, add butter and chicken breast tenders. 

Saute for 3 minutes on each side, or until the tenders start to brown.

Turn off the instant pot.

Add chicken broth and stir to deglaze.

Add sesame oil and soy sauce.

Add minced garlic and onion powder. 

Add peanut butter and stir.

Break spaghetti noodles in half, or thirds if desired and add them to the instant pot.

Use a spoon to push the noodles down, but don’t stir. You want the noodle submerged in the broth.

Add the mixed frozen veggies.

Place the lid on the instant pot and seal.

Use the manual setting and cook for 5 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure.

When the timer dings, use the quick release valve to release pressure.

Remove the lid and give everything a good stir.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge after they have cooled.

Pro Tip: This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Play with different types of noodles, add a dollop of coconut milk for richness, or swap protein with tofu for a vegan twist. The possibilities are endless!

So, ditch the takeout menus and get ready to impress your taste buds (and maybe even your date!) with this quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious Instant Pot Peanut Butter Chicken & Noodles. Trust me, this recipe is a keeper!

Happy Instant Potting!

P.S. Feeling inspired? Leave a comment below with your favorite Instant Pot hacks or peanut butter recipe variations!

P.P.S. Be sure to follow me for more quick and easy Instant Pot recipes that will rock your world!

Find more instant pot recipes here:

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Shrimp Pasta

Banana Rice Pudding

Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Donuts

Do you love the taste of peanut butter and chocolate? If so, you're going to love these baked peanut butter chocolate donuts! They're soft, fluffy, and full of flavor. Plus, they're baked, so they're a healthier option than fried donuts.

 

You might not know this about me, but one of my dreams is to own a bakery. I love making yummy treats to share with my family. My neighbors and friends often benefit from my time in the kitchen too. While I might not  have a professional space but I make the best of my creative mind. I came up with this 4 ingredient donut recipe, only using what I had on hand. These are really good too!

Check out my instant pot banana rice pudding recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease and flour a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, peanut butter, olive oil, and egg. Mix until well combined.
   
3. Pour the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Enjoy!

Here are some tips for making these donuts:

• Use a good quality chocolate cake mix. This will make a big difference in the flavor of your donuts.
• Don't overmix the batter. Overmixing will make your donuts tough.
• Don't overbake the donuts. They should be cooked through, but still slightly moist.
• Let the donuts cool completely before frosting them. This will help the frosting to stick.
• Get creative with your frosting. There are endless possibilities!

Find more great recipes here:

Chocolate Cherry Floats

15 Comforting Chowder Recipes to Warm You Up on a Cold Day

Chowder is a delicious and hearty soup that is perfect for a cold day. It is made with a variety of ingredients, including seafood, vegetables, and broth. There are many different types of chowder, but some of the most popular include clam chowder, lobster chowder, and corn chowder.

Chowder is a great way to use up leftover seafood or vegetables. It is also a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables. Chowder is a filling and satisfying soup that is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

Here are 15 comforting chowder recipes that you are sure to love:

 

Smoked Haddock Chowder by Christina’s Cucina

Vegan Corn Chowder by Home Cooked Roots

Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder by Eat Love Eats

Sweet Corn and Turkey Chowder by Greedy Girl Gourmet

Portuguese Red Clam Chowder by Fearless Eating

Cheesy Tuna Chowder by Two Lucky Spoons

Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder by Kelly Neil

Dairy Free Ham and Potato Chowder by I Heart Umami

Creamy Clam Chowder with Chorizo  by A Tasty Kitchen

Smoked Salmon Chowder by The Good Hearted Woman

Ham and Corn Chowder by Dinner at the Zoo

Creamy Mexican Corn Chowder by Seasoned Greeting

Bacon Potato Corn Chowder by Cooking For My Soul

Easy Roasted Corn Chowder by White Kitchen Red Wine

Kraft Dinner Cheese Chowder by Sweet Recipes

Tips

Here are a few tips for making chowder:

• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
• Don't overcook the seafood.
• Add the cream, milk, or half-and-half at the end of cooking so that it doesn't curdle.
• Season the chowder to taste.
• Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls.

Enjoy!

Find more favorite recipes here:

Lo Mein Recipes

Fool Proof 3 Ingredient Biscuits

Homemade Soda Recipes

The Importance of Home Insulation in Ohio

 Are you tired of feeling the chill of winter seeping into your home? Or perhaps struggling to keep cool in the scorching summer heat? As residents know all too well, Ohio weather can be unpredictable and extreme. And with climate change on the rise, ensuring that your home is properly insulated has become more important than ever.

Today, we will explore the various benefits of insulating your home in Ohio, from cost savings to environmental impact. Sit back as we dive into why proper insulation is essential for every homeowner in The Buckeye State.

Why Insulate Your Ohio Home?

One of the primary reasons to consider insulating your home in Ohio is comfort. But comfort is not the only advantage; there are several other compelling reasons that make insulation a wise investment. Let's delve into these reasons.

Energy Efficiency

Insulation helps in maintaining a consistent temperature within your home, reducing the need for heating in winter and cooling in summer. This leads to less energy consumption, making your home more energy efficient.

Cost Saving

With less energy being used, your utility bills are likely to decrease significantly, resulting in substantial cost savings over time. The initial investment in insulation can pay for itself through these savings.

Environmental Impact

Reducing energy consumption also directly translates into minimizing your carbon footprint. By lowering the amount of energy needed to heat or cool your home, you are effectively contributing to the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Enhanced Home Value

A well-insulated home is not only more comfortable and cost-effective, but it can also add to the value of your property. Potential buyers often look for homes with energy-efficient features, making insulation an attractive selling point.

Health Benefits

Insulation can also contribute to the overall health of your household. It provides a barrier against external pollutants, allergens, and moisture, thereby reducing the risk of respiratory issues and mold growth. Improved indoor air quality leads to a healthier living environment.

Noise Reduction

Insulation isn't just about temperature control — it's also an effective soundproofing tool. By absorbing sound vibrations, insulation can reduce noise levels between rooms and from outside, contributing to a peaceful and quiet indoor environment.

Longevity of HVAC Systems

With proper insulation, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems won't have to work as hard to maintain your desired indoor temperature. This reduces wear and tear on these systems, extending their lifespan and saving you money on potential repairs or replacements.

Types of Insulation

There are various types of insulation available, each with its own set of benefits and suitable for different areas of your home. Here are the most common types used in Ohio:

Fiberglass

Made from tiny glass fibers, fiberglass insulation is one of the most popular choices due to its affordability and versatility. It comes in rolls or batts and can be used in various areas, such as walls, floors, and attics.

Cellulose

This type of insulation is made from recycled newsprint or other paper-based materials. It's considered to be more eco-friendly than fiberglass and has excellent thermal and soundproofing properties.

Spray Foam

Spray foam insulation is a liquid that expands into a solid foam when applied. It's a great option for hard-to-reach areas and can provide an airtight seal, making it highly energy efficient.

Reflective Insulation

This type of insulation uses reflective materials, such as foil or plastic sheets, to reflect heat away from your home. It's commonly used in attics but can also be beneficial in other areas that receive a lot of direct sunlight.

Rigid Foam Insulation

Rigid foam insulation, also known as foam board, offers high insulation value with less thickness compared to other types. It's often used in exterior applications due to its resistance to moisture and excellent thermal performance.

Mineral Wool

Mineral wool insulation is made from inorganic materials that are heated and spun into a fibrous material. It's a popular choice for soundproofing due to its dense composition and is also fire-resistant, making it a safe option for homes.

Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso)

Polyisocyanurate, often referred to as polyiso, is a type of rigid foam insulation that offers one of the highest R-values per inch of thickness. It's typically used in roofing applications but can also be used in walls and floors.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)

Expanded Polystyrene, or EPS, is a type of foam insulation that is lightweight and easy to work with. It's often used in wall insulation, floor insulation, and even as insulation for crafting and packaging.

Phenolic Foam

Phenolic foam offers excellent thermal performance and is fire-resistant. It also has good sound absorption properties, making it a good choice for noise reduction. It's often used in flat roofs and walls.

Final Thoughts

Proper home insulation is crucial in Ohio, where extreme weather conditions can take a toll on both your comfort and wallet. By investing in high-quality insulation, you can enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient home while also contributing to a greener environment. Consider consulting with an insulation company to determine the best type of insulation for your home and start reaping its benefits today. Remember, a well-insulated home is a happy and healthy home!

Stylish Outdoor Lights to Illuminate Your Ohio Home

 Outdoor lighting is not only a functional necessity to safely navigate your exterior spaces after dark; it's also a fantastic opportunity to enhance the aesthetics of your Ohio home. Stylish outdoor lights can transform your home’s facade, garden, or patio into a visually appealing, inviting space. 

Proper lighting can accentuate architectural features, highlight landscaping elements, and create an enchanting atmosphere once the sun sets. 

This guide will explore a range of stylish outdoor lights suitable for any Ohio home, helping you find the perfect fixtures to illuminate your outdoor environment. 

Types of Stylish Outdoor Lights

Many stylish outdoor lights are available, each with a unique design and purpose. Some popular options include:

• Path Lights: Path lights illuminate walkways, driveways, and garden paths. They are typically placed low to the ground and emit a soft light to guide your way safely. Beyond the practicality, path lights can be a stylish addition to your landscape, enhancing the visual appeal with various traditional and contemporary designs.

• Wall Lights: Wall lights are mounted directly onto the exterior walls of your home. They provide a focused light to illuminate areas like entrances, patios, or decks. Wall lights come in many styles, including lantern-style, modern geometric designs, or classic sconces, allowing you to choose a design that complements your home's aesthetic.

• Post Lights: Post lights, also known as lamp posts or bollard lights, are freestanding fixtures that offer a mix of function and style. They illuminate open areas like large patios, driveways, or lawns. With their elegant and imposing presence, post lights can serve as a statement piece in your outdoor decor.

• Spotlights: Spotlights are powerful lighting fixtures designed to highlight a specific feature in your landscape - a beautiful tree, a water feature, or an architectural element. They create dramatic shadows and highlights, adding depth and interest to your outdoor area. Spotlights can be adjusted to focus the light precisely where you want, allowing for creative lighting design.

• String Lights: String lights, often called fairy lights, are popular for adding a magical ambiance to your outdoor space. They are versatile and can be strung around trees, along fences, or over patios to create a warm, inviting glow. String lights are available in various styles, colors, and shapes, enhancing the festive atmosphere of any gathering or event. 

Choosing the Right Outdoor Lights for Your Ohio Home

When selecting outdoor lights for your Ohio home, there are a few factors to consider:

• Style and Design: As with any home decor, it's essential to choose outdoor lights that complement the overall style of your home. Consider the architecture and color scheme when selecting the design, whether you want a sleek, modern look or a traditional, rustic feel.

• Functionality: Think about the purpose of each lighting fixture and where it will be placed. Path lights should provide enough illumination to guide your way but not be too bright to risk glare. Wall lights should have a downward-facing light to avoid disturbing neighbors, while spotlights may require more power for a stronger beam.

• Energy Efficiency: LED lights are a popular choice for outdoor lighting due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan. They may cost more initially, but they can save you money on your energy bills in the long run.

• Durability: Ohio's weather can be unpredictable, so choosing outdoor lights built to withstand harsh conditions is crucial. Look for fixtures made with durable materials like aluminum, stainless steel, or weather-resistant plastic.

Benefits of Properly Installed Outdoor Lights

Properly installed outdoor lights bring several significant benefits to your Ohio home:

• Security: Well-lit homes are less likely to be targeted by burglars. Outdoor lights can illuminate dark corners, deter potential intruders, and increase the visibility of your property. Motion sensor lights can be particularly effective as they switch on when they detect movement, startling unwanted visitors.

• Safety: Outdoor lights can prevent accidents by lighting up walkways, stairs, and other hazards in your yard. By providing clear visibility, outdoor lights can help ensure you, your family, and your guests can move around safely after dark.

• Enhanced Curb Appeal: Stylish outdoor lighting can dramatically enhance the look of your home. It can emphasize architectural features, create inviting entranceways, and highlight beautiful landscaping. A well-lit home is also more appealing to potential buyers, should you ever decide to sell.

• Increased Use of Outdoor Spaces: Outdoor lighting can extend the usability of your outdoor spaces into the evening. Whether hosting a late-night barbecue, enjoying a family dinner on the patio, or relaxing in your outdoor living area, adequate lighting can make the experience much more enjoyable.

• Boost in Property Value: A professionally designed and installed outdoor lighting system can significantly increase your property's value. It's an investment that adds immediate beauty, functionality, and long-term financial value, so work with experienced lighting experts.

Conclusion

Stylish outdoor lights are essential to any Ohio home, providing practicality and aesthetics. From path lights to spotlights, wall lights to string lights, there are endless options to suit your style and illuminate your outdoor environment. 

With proper installation and careful consideration of design, functionality, energy efficiency, and durability, outdoor lighting can bring numerous benefits to your home, including security, safety, enhanced curb appeal, increased use of outdoor spaces, and increased property value.