Food Stamps

Chicken parmesan is a favorite for many families. The problem is, this meal can sometimes be very costly. If you are trying to make your SNAP benefits stretch, then this may not be a meal you think you can afford. However, there are certain cheaper ways to create the same great tasting meal for your family. The mock chicken parm dinner consists of everything you need to make the chicken parm, pasta side dish, vegetable, and light dessert while keeping your benefits costs down. Here’s what you’ll need.

• Country Fried Chicken Patties ($5 to $6 per bag of 6 or 8)
• Egg Noodles
• Pasta Sauce
• Parmesan cheese
• Vegetable of your choice
• Vanilla Ice Cream or Sherbert of your choice

Step One Put the country fried chicken patties on a foil lined baking sheet. Place them in the oven for the specified amount of time listed on the package.

Step Two Boil the water for your egg noodles. Remember to salt the water and wait for the water to reach a rolling boil. When the water reaches boiling point add the egg noodles. Boil for 8 minutes.

Step Three Cook your vegetable choice according to the directions for the vegetable.

Step Four Remove the chicken from the oven and place on the plates. Warm your pasta sauce in the microwave for about a minute. Place a spoonful amount on each patties and add some parmesan cheese to the top.

Step Five Drain the egg noodles and add a small amount of butter and parmesan. Depending on your vegetable choice you may add the vegetable to the pasta or serve on the side. Add both side dishes to the plate and serve.

Step Six When everyone is ready, serve the ice cream.

This meal costs less than $15 and will fill up your family. It is quick, easy, and best of all lets you take advantage of a lot of sales that most stores have on these items. You do have other options for this meal. You can use split chicken breasts, chicken cutlets, or boneless skinless chicken breasts in place of the fried chicken patties that are pre prepared. It all depends on what is on sale and what is best for you.

This meal can also be made without the breading if you do not want the fried taste or breaded option. If you are a vegan, this meal can be made with the use of tofu or soy based chicken product. The possibilities are endless with this recipe. You can also serve the chicken over the pasta, exclude the vegetable, add the vegetable to a homemade sauce, or serve a simple tomato sauce. Work with what you have and work within your family’s likes and dislikes.

Many of these items are available on BOGO sales, with coupons, and through in store promotions that make it even more affordable for your family.