Lately, I’ve had so many requests for an easy, healthy fall weeknight dinner recipe that kids will love too. This recipe for Lightened Up Chicken Tetrazzini is one that really sticks out in my mind. I purchase a rotisserie chicken for the chopped, cooked chicken which makes my life easier. I also used light cream cheese, low sodium chicken broth and whole wheat noodles to make this dish healthier. The panko breadcrumb topping is probably my favorite part, giving it a toasty crunch and pretty golden color. This is a great make-ahead recipe or wonderful to take to someone who is ill or just had a baby. Feel free to make this recipe ahead of time and freeze. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight and let stand at room temperature 30 minutes before baking as directed.

As I mentioned last week, football is just kind of big around here during football season. Each week, we rotate going to friends’ houses to watch the game or head to the games (if we are lucky enough). I have such a great time coming up with creative ways to make tailgating (and game watching) a little healthier, so everyone  doesn’t feel so stuffed (and guilty) when the games are over. These Panko Roasted Drumsticks are definitely one of my new popular crowd pleasers. They appeal to adults as well as kids, and they are so simple to make. Your guests won’t believe that this recipe is a “lightened up” version of one of their favorite party foods.

Passover, one of the most widely celebrated Jewish holidays, is only a few weeks away, beginning on April 18th. I have had so many email and tweets for recipe ideas, so I thought I would share this Mediterranean Chicken recipe which is a family favorite. This recipe and a Passover menu will be featured in the spring issue of “Yum Food” Magazine. This chicken is simple, yet elegant, and it’s perfect for Easter as well as all holidays.

1. Lightened Up Spiced and Sugary Pecans

2. Watermelon and Goat Cheese Arugula Salad

3. Pecan Pie Bars

4. Warm Lentil Soup

5. Apple Muffins

6. Radicchio Winter Salad

7. Flaxseed Crusted Salmon

8. Greek Yogurt Banana Bread

9. Chunky Nut and Dried Fruit Granola

10. Easy Beef-Vegetable Kabobs

One to Grown On:  Chocolate Chip Cookie Bark

I made this Lemon Chicken over Pasta for a healthy project I’ve been working on. My assistant, Alatia, loved it. She said the most difficult part of this simple recipe was squeezing the lemons. I love to use chicken cutlets, which are thinner than boneless chicken breasts, because they take less time to cook (which is great for anyone with limited time). The chicken turns out so flavorful. Be sure to use the extra marinade to pour over the noodles. This is a great weeknight recipe idea that even younger kids will love.