Cornmeal baked chicken
This recipe provides a great mix of crispy and tender textures, as well as being a safe and tasty option for cats. This variation of Southern-style cornmeal-crusted chicken omits traditional seasonings like salt and pepper in favor of a nutritious meal rich in protein and fiber. This recipe is simple to make and packed with healthy ingredients, whether you're seeking a fast family meal or a special delight to share with your feline friend.
Ingredients
- 2 (340g) – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup(60g) – Cornmeal
- 1 tbsp(15ml) – Olive oil or coconut oil
- 1/4 tsp (1.25g) – Turmeric powder
- 1/4 cup (60ml) – Water or low-sodium chicken broth (pet-safe, no onion or garlic)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional, for humans)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive or coconut oil.
- In a shallow dish, mix the cornmeal and turmeric.
- Lightly coat each chicken breast with olive or melted coconut oil, then dredge each one in the cornmeal mixture until fully covered.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cornmeal crust is golden brown.
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before serving it to your cat. You can cut it into small, bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
Key Benefits: High in lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a nutritious and easily digestible meal for both humans and cats.
For an extra crispy crust, lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil before baking.
Cooking tips for pets and humans:
Avoid harmful ingredients: Avoid avocado and anything containing caffeine or alcohol as these can be harmful to your cats. Onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes and raisins as well as certain nuts can be deadly.
Seasoning: Keep dishes bland for pets. Cats can be very sensitive to salt and spices, which can cause gastrointestinal upset. It’s best to remove a portion for your dog before adding any seasonings for your own servings.
Consult your vet: New foods should always be checked with a veterinary doctor before being fed to cats. This is important because it ensures safety and proper measurements, especially considering that different animals have varying nutritional needs based on health condition, age and size.
Frequently asked questions:
Is cornmeal safe for cats? Yes, cornmeal is safe for cats in moderation. It provides some fiber and texture but should be part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein.
Is turmeric safe for cats? Yes, turmeric is generally safe for cats when used in small amounts. It has anti-inflammatory properties that may support joint health and digestion.
Can I add other seasonings? For the human portion, feel free to add seasonings like pepper or herbs after baking. Just keep the cat’s portion free from seasonings like onion, garlic or too much salt.
Recipets
With Recipets, you can enjoy the same meal with your pets! They won't feel left out every again.
