Foolproof Party Recipes on Today Show

When you make food for your family it’s easy, but then mix in more family and friends — with the same recipe — and it becomes daunting. Chef, author and nutritionist LaLa shares easy-to-make entertaining recipes that everyone will love: barbecue chicken and confetti rice.

Easy Make BBQ Chicken Recipe

This is a simple recipe that my family has served to the Kennedys, Anthony Quinn, past presidents and, of course, our family and friends. Everybody loves it! 

Ingredients

• 1 cup canned tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (Frank’s Red Hot, Tabasco, etc.)
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ cup orange juice
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 6 chicken drumsticks, skin and fat removed
• 6 chicken thighs, skin and fat removed

Preparation

1. In medium bowl combine all ingredients except for oil and chicken; mix well and set aside.
2. Heat large skillet and oil over medium-high heat; add chicken and brown both sides, about 3 minutes each side.
3. Remove from pan, and blot with paper towel to absorb excess oil. Discard oil from pan and return chicken to pan.
4. Pour BBQ sauce over chicken, cover pan and cook over low heat for 45 minutes.

Confetti Rice Recipe

Rice is the perfect entertaining side dish; it is quick, easy and inexpensive.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 ounces brown onion, small dice
• 1 ½ cups chicken stock or water
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 teaspoon salt

Preparation

1. Rinse and drain rice.
2. In a medium pan over low heat, melt butter and sauté onion until softened. Add rice to pan.
3. Cook until golden, stirring constantly. Be careful not to brown.
4. Add chicken stock. Cover and simmer 15-20 minutes until water is almost absorbed.
5. Add frozen vegetables.
6. Continue to cook until all liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes.

Serving Size

6-8 servings