I love being able to pop something into my toaster oven for a quick snack. It may be something prepackaged from the freezer section, or something of my own creation. But the speed and convenience is wonderful for a woman or man on the go.
Toaster ovens are not only great for a quick hot snack, but are capable of cooking main dishes, such as roasts, casseroles, and almost any dessert.
The toaster oven will not only save you time, the energy saving is also great. Because the oven is compact, it takes less time to heat than the full oven does, making it a very economical appliance to own.
The toaster oven is a very versatile appliance. You have many models to choose from. They may include an option to use as a convection oven, which includes a small fan that circulates the heat around the food for even cooking. Some ovens may include the rotisserie attachment for roasting meat, or making kabobs right on your countertop. You will want to try this recipe for chicken kabobs.
Chicken Kabobs
These easy chicken kabobs can be broiled in your toaster oven if you keep them small. They are not only delicious but they are very colorful and attractive on the plate. Allow at least two kabobs per person–three for the big eaters. You will need some small wooden skewers. Often you can make two 6-inch skewers from one 12-inch, by breaking them in half and sharpening the opposite end. Soak wooden skewers in water for a couple of hours before spearing your chicken and vegetables.
• about 2 pounds of boneless raw chicken cut into thumb-sized pieces
• 2-3 small zucchini (make stripes on zucchini with a potato peeler)
• purple onion
• small fresh mushrooms
• sweet red bell pepper
• any other raw vegetable that you like
Marinade
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 2 Tbsps Worcestershire sauce
• 2 Tbsps olive oil
• 2 Tbsps brown sugar
• 2 Tbsps honey
• 2 tsps dry mustard
Whisk together ingredients for the marinade until well blended, reserving about 1/3 cup for basting later. Add raw chicken to remaining marinade and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
Meanwhile, cut zucchini into “coins” and cut other vegetables into similar small, stamp-size pieces. When you are ready to make the kabobs, line your toaster oven pan with aluminum foil. Keep your kabobs small and short so they will better fit into your toaster oven. Also, they will cook faster. Of course, you may broil them in a standard oven.
Make kabobs by threading chicken and vegetables onto skewers in the usual alternating pattern. Brush kabobs with remaining marinade. Turn them at least once as they broil and brush again. My toaster oven will cook them in about 20-25 minutes but your times may vary depending on your oven. Serve with rice or a rice pilaf.
Thank you for visiting us. We have a large selection of toaster ovens for all your cooking needs. If you have any questions or suggestions for toaster oven recipes, let us know.
