There’s nothing a new mom needs more than food. (And sleep. But that’s a different topic altogether.)
Healthy, easy to access FOOD. Especially if she’s nursing. AND/OR has other kids.
I have a go-to “new mom” meal that I just made two days ago (for about the 40th time) and I want to share it with you!
It’s easy, full of protein, leftovers are better the second day, which is a huge plus, kids (usually) eat it up and it’s so delicious your new mom friend will ask for the recipe for future non-hectic meals.
Here it be. (And I wish I could remember where I got it so I could give credit where credit is due, but it’s been way too long.)
Chicken Bean Bake
6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (adjust quantity as needed)
3 cans Cannellini beans
1 pint grape tomatoes
A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, and remember new moms are usually more sensitive to spice.)
garlic – 2 cloves
Fresh Thyme
Fresh Oregano
Olive Oil – about 2 tablespoons
First, choose a pan you don’t mind never seeing again. Because a new mom’s favorite words are “Don’t worry about returning it.” Otherwise she’ll have stacks and stacks of tupperware to return to various people. NO THANKS.
Next, open the beans and rinse and drain.
Pour into the casserole dish. I double this recipe whenever I make it, and presto! Dinner is ready for us too!
Wash the tomatoes
Add the herb springs (about 10 of each) and the olive oil, garlic, and pepper flakes if you are using them.
Now stir it all together.
Next place the chicken on top of the bean and tomato mixture.
Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper.
Done!
I usually leave the baking part to the recipient because then it comes out of HER oven right when she needs it, hot and fresh.
So I just cover the pan with aluminum foil and place a note on the top that says “Uncover and bake in 400 degree oven for 1 hour.”
And when it comes out it’s crispy and crunchy and the beans have soaked up all the chicken juice and taste divine and the tomatoes are roasted and sweet and pop in your mouth. Its just an all-around wholesome healthy happy meal.
Of course no meal to a “new mom” is complete without something fresh and green and something CHOCOLATE.
XOXO
** If after an hour the chicken isn’t crispy/done just pop it back in for another 10 minutes.
