Just Bare Foods

Fire Up the Grill: Why Just Bare® ChickenBelongs at Your Summer BBQ

The sun is out, the days are long, and the smell of grilled food is officially in the air—it’s BBQ season! Time to grab your favorite apron, round up the family and friends, and fire up the grill for a meal that’s equal parts delicious and memorable.

At Just Bare, we know there’s nothing quite like the sound of sizzling chicken hitting a hot grill. Whether you’re serving up tender, juicy chicken thighs, perfectly grilled chicken breast fillets, or crowd-pleasing drumsticks and wings, our chicken was made for moments like these.

But here’s the best part: Just Bare isn’t just tasty—it’s a feel-good food choice, too. We are committed to our promise. Our chicken is always made with no artificial ingredients or preservatives*, no added hormones or steroids*, and no antibiotics ever*. That means you can feed your crew high-quality protein that checks all the boxes: wholesome, flavorful, and ready for the grill.

So… Why Is Grilled Chicken So Irresistible?

We’ve got two words for you: Maillard reaction. It’s the natural browning process that happens when the amino acids in the meat react with sugars under high heat. The result? That rich, golden-brown crust, the savory aroma, and the deep, crave-able flavor you can’t get enough of. That’s the magic of grilled chicken.

More Than a Meal—It’s a Summer Staple

Whether you’re tossing it on a salad, building the ultimate chicken sandwich, or serving it straight off the grill with a side of corn on the cob, Just Bare Chicken is a delicious foundation for any summer meal. And if you’re in need of some fresh ideas, we’ve got you covered—check out our collection of Summer BBQ Recipes for some ideas to wow your guests!

So go ahead—make this summer’s grill game your best yet. With Just Bare Chicken on the menu, it’s bound to be delicious.

Pro Tips for Grilling Your  Just Bare Chicken

Tip #1: Flatten the entire chicken to ½–¾ inch thick with meat mallet or rolling pin.
Why:Easier to cook chicken evenly.

Tip #2: Prep chicken in advance using ingredients like lemon or lime juice, oil, vinegar, seasoning, spices, honey, pepper, and salt to taste.
Why: Enhance the flavor and boost the moisture.

Tip #3: Use a digital thermometer.
Why: Ensures the thickest part of your meat reached 165°F (74°C) to avoid foodborne illness.

Tip #4: After grilling, cover chicken loosely with foil and rest for 5-10 minutes.
Why: Allows juices to redistribute and reabsorb into the meat for a juicier, more flavorful bite.

Get out there and start grilling! This summer just got a whole lot tastier!

Where to Buy – Just Bare Foods

No Antibiotics*. Ever.
No Added Hormones or Steroids†
No Artificial Ingredients, No Preservatives
Cage Free Chicken Raised on American Farms‡

* Chicken used is raised with no antibiotics ever.
† Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones or steroids in poultry.
‡ Chickens are free to roam in barns.

Perimeter Power

Read Time: 5 min

Shopping The Grocery Store Perimeter Aisles

Happier eating doesn’t require drastic changes! Sometimes, it’s as simple as changing how you shop at your local grocery store. One effective strategy is shopping the perimeter aisles of the store, where fresh produce, meats, dairy, and whole grains reside, steering clear of the processed foods in the inner aisles. This post will guide you through creating a nutritious grocery list and making the most of your perimeter shopping experience.

The Benefits of Shopping the Perimeter
When you shop the perimeter of the grocery store, you’re immersing yourself in the world of fresh and whole foods—essential components of a balanced diet. These sections of the store typically house fruits, vegetables, fresh meats, and dairy products, which are lower in artificial ingredients and higher in essential nutrients than their processed counterparts. Focusing on these areas can naturally shift your diet towards more wholesome food choices, improving overall nutritious. Foods located on the perimeter of the grocery store are abundant in protein, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Making this simple adjustment to your shopping habits can have a significant impact.
Seasonal Shopping Strategies
One of the joys of perimeter shopping is the access to seasonal produce, which is often fresher and more affordable. Seasonal fruits and vegetables not only taste better but they also offer higher nutritional content due to being harvested at peak ripeness. During the spring, pick fresh beets, lettuces, asparagus, and cucumbers. In the summer months, grab peaches, tomatoes, sweet corn, berries, and cabbage. In the fall, get your squash, sweet potatoes, turnips, pears, and cauliflower. In the winter months, aim to get leeks, grapefruit, walnuts, and winter squash. Familiarize yourself with the seasonal cycles in your area and plan your meals accordingly. This not only enhances your diet but also supports local agriculture.
Best Times to Shop for Freshness and Savings
To get the freshest produce and the best deals, timing is key. Grocery stores usually restock their perishable goods midweek, making this the perfect time to shop for freshness. Additionally, many stores mark down items close to their sell-by date during these times, so keep an eye out for discounts on high-quality items.
The Importance of Meal Planning
Creating a meal plan before you shop is crucial. It ensures that you buy only what you need, reducing both cost and waste. Start by planning your meals around when you’ll shop, incorporating lots of fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains. Make a list based on your meal plan, and stick to it, resisting the temptation of impulse buys that tend to be less nutritious. “Chicken is a versatile go-to option for you and the entire family. Whether it’s grilled, sautéed, braised, roasted, or heated up in an air fryer, Just Bare chicken is a perfect start to a nutritious and delicious meal.” Enhance your salad with our succulent Roasted Chicken Breast Bites or elevate your wholesome pasta dish with our flavorful Italian breast strips. Looking to have a BBQ with the family? Try our chicken breast fillets, tenderloins, and thighs for a delicious summer meal!
Inventory Your Pantry and Fridge First
Before heading out, take stock of what you already have. This can prevent overbuying and helps reduce food waste. Keep a running list of pantry staples on hand, and update it regularly as you use items, ensuring you always have the basics for nutritious meals.
Organize Your Grocery List
Organizing your grocery list to mimic the layout of your favorite store can streamline your shopping trip and help keep you focused. Group items into categories like produce, dairy, meats, and grains. This approach not only saves time but also reduces the chances of wandering into the tempting inner aisles.

Conclusion

Remember to focus on shopping around the perimeter of the store. This can help you develop better eating habits in a natural way. Embracing this approach will likely lead to an improvement in how you feel and may even lower your grocery bills. You can start implementing some of these strategies today.

Try these strategies during your next grocery trip and share your experiences! Have you discovered new favorite foods or recipes? Check out our Where To Buy page to start planning your next shopping trip! For more recipes, tips, and ideas, click here.

Summer Salads with Just Bare®

Read Time: 3.5 min

Make It a Chicken Salad Summer

There’s something about this season that makes every meal feel like a celebration, and these fresh, flavorful salads are ready to rise to any summer occasion. Each one stars delicious Just Bare Chicken and brings together vibrant produce, bold dressings, and satisfying textures that capture the spirit of the season perfectly. Whether you’re planning a backyard dinner, packing a picnic, or just trying to beat the heat with minimal kitchen time, these four salads are your go-to warm weather winners.

Summer Berry Crispy Chicken Salad

Sweet. Savory. Satisfying. This salad brings the best of summer into one vibrant bowl. Juicy strawberries and blueberries team up with crispy Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Bites, tangy goat cheese, and candied pecans – all layered over mixed greens. A homemade strawberry vinaigrette ties it all together with a fresh, fruity finish.

It’s the perfect mix of flavors and textures: crunchy, creamy, bright, and bold. The kind of salad that makes you forget you’re eating a salad.

See Recipe

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Summer Tomato Salad

Channel coastal vibes with this Mediterranean-inspired dish that puts grilled Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets at the center of the plate. Paired with a tomato salad bursting with juicy heirlooms, briny olives, and fresh herbs, it’s equal parts rustic and refined.

Finished with a drizzle of lemony dressing and a sprinkle of feta, it’s the kind of meal that transports you straight to a seaside café – no passport required.

See Recipe

Farmers Market Chicken Salad

Overflowing with seasonal color and crunch, this salad is a love to letter to summer’s best produce. Featuring juicy grilled Just Bare Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, grilled corn, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and tender greens, it’s the kind of dish you construct after a Saturday morning trip to the local market.

The creamy herbed vinaigrette pulls it all together, balancing freshness with richness for a salad that feels rich in flavor without ever feeling heavy.

See Recipe

Crispy Chicken Nicoise Salad

A French classic gets a modern (and crispy) twist. Instead of tuna, this Nicoise features golden Just Bare Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets for added crunch and flavor. It’s layered with all the traditional fixings: tender green beans, soft-boiled eggs, baby potatoes, and grape tomatoes – finished with a zippy Dijon vinaigrette.

Crispy, colorful, and full of character – this is how you reinvent a classic.

See Recipe

Wrap Up Your Summer Right

When the heat’s on, cool things down with these refreshing, flavor-packed meals. These chicken salads are more than just recipes – they’re invitations to slow down, savor the season, and keep your summer meals as fresh and effortless as the days are long. So grab a fork and soak up the sunshine – Just Bare is here to bring fresh flavors to your summer table.

Garden-Fresh Grilling: A Fresh Take On Outdoor Cooking

Read Time: 2.5 min

Spring is in full swing, and for many of us, that means it’s time to dust off the gardening gloves and fire up the grill. Whether you have acres of backyard space or a cozy apartment balcony, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of growing your own fresh produce and then combining it with chicken to grill up delicious meals.

Read on to learn how you can marry the joys of spring gardening with the art of grilling to create mouthwatering dishes that celebrate spring.

From The Garden To The Grill

Looking to enhance your grilled chicken dishes with garden-fresh produce? Look no further! There are plenty of vegetables that not only pair perfectly with chicken on the grill but are also easy to grow.

Consider adding tomatoes to your garden; these juicy gems complement the many chicken dishes and burst with flavor on the grill. Imagine the deliciousness of a garlic tomato basil chicken, with just a handful of ingredients straight from your garden.

Zucchini is another excellent option for your garden, and it’s a top pick for grilling due to its simplicity. Create delightful kabobs with grilled zucchini and chicken for a tasty meal.

Peppers are another must-have for your garden; they thrive in sunny, well-drained conditions and add a pop of flavor and color to grilled chicken. Check out this list of garden-friendly vegetables and herbs perfect for pairing with grilled chicken:

Tomatoes
Zucchini
Peppers
Basil
Garlic
Thyme
Oregano
Cilantro

Incorporating these fresh ingredients into your garden and grilling routine will elevate your dishes to new heights of flavor and freshness. And best of all, you can grow them all from pots or planter boxes.

Garden and Grilling Possibilities

Explore the endless possibilities for your summer grilling menu with your freshly harvested produce. Consider tossing freshly harvested tomatoes, cucumbers, and basil together for a refreshing summer salad topped with chicken, or grilling up some vibrant bell peppers and zucchini and chicken for flavorful kabobs. You can even incorporate garden-fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme into marinades or rubs to elevate the flavor of your grilled dishes.

Grilling and gardening season is almost here! Embrace the joy of cultivation and savor the fruits of your labor as you gather around the grill with friends and family to celebrate the abundance of spring.

Just Bare Celebrates National Nutrition Month!

Read Time: 3 min

In honor of National Nutrition Month, we’re focusing on a nutriousous dietary lifestyle and making nutritious food choices. National Nutrition Month celebrates the importance of eating nutritious foods as well as highlighting the power of protein and its nutritional benefits.

Protein is important to include in every meal and March is a great month to start.

Harvard T.H. Chan – School of Public Health’s The Nutrition Source states that

“Protein is a key part of any diet. The average person needs about 7 grams of protein every day for every 20 pounds of body weight.”

Protein also provides building blocks for enzymes, hormones, and vitamins. Incorporating protein in daily meals not only benefits your physical health, but also your overall wellbeing.

Just Bare provides many easy and delicious, high-protein meals that can contribute to a protein-rich diet to help families stay nutritious and happy through the month of March and the 2024 year. Just Bare offers many different chicken products including fresh and frozen options. In addition to the many fine products, we also have a cache of amazing recipes to help you find flavors that match your family’s palate, including the Indian Inspired Dry Rubbed Kabobs. This recipe includes the key nutrients for a nutritious and delicious meal. The Indian Inspired Dry Rubbed Kabobs include chicken from Just Bare^® Chicken Thighs with vegetables prepared on wood or metal skewers, with a side of rice and beans. A great meal option to make for National Nutrition Month.

For more nutritious meal options that feature protein, check out Just Bare ‘s recipes for any meal of the day. We hope that you will choose nutritious options – like protein and fresh veggies in your meal plans for National Nutrition Month and beyond!

Reduce Food Waste

Read Time: 2 min

In the culinary world, there’s a term that professionals use – dovetailing. It means making the most of every ingredient, eliminating food waste, and creating multiple meals from one product source. We’re here to introduce you to this ingenious concept with a delicious twist – Roast Chicken Dinner that becomes your new favorite Roast Chicken Noodle Soup!

It all begins with a whole chicken. Imagine a romantic date night with a beautifully roasted chicken as the centerpiece. After indulging in a fantastic meal, there’s often some chicken left, ready for a second act. But instead of merely reheating, we’re taking it up a notch.

The remaining chicken, gently pulled from the bones, becomes the star ingredient for a rich and flavorful chicken soup made from bone stock. This is where the magic happens. Those chicken bones that might have ended up in the trash are now transformed into liquid gold that can be used in countless recipes – soups, risottos, or sauces.

So, you get a memorable date night and a bonus – a homemade, golden-hued chicken stock, all while being a savvy chef who reduces food waste. It’s a win-win for your family’s taste buds and the environment.

Click below for the double-duty recipe that will guide you through this dovetailing process and make your date night truly special. Let’s savor every moment, and every delicious drop.

Roast Spatchcocked Chicken with Herb Spice Rub

Homemade Chicken Soup from Roasted Chicken

Try New Flavors!

Read Time: 2 min

A brand-new year calls for exciting adventures in your kitchen, and we’re here to challenge you with our resolution – “Try New Flavors.” Are you ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey with chicken as your trusty sidekick?

We invite you to step out of your culinary comfort zone and experiment with captivating flavor profiles. Don’t worry; you don’t have to start from scratch. Our recipe archives are brimming with ideas to inspire your taste buds. Try different chicken marinades and seasonings that will redefine your cooking experience.

Turmeric Curry Chicken: A rich and aromatic dish that will transport your taste buds to the heart of India.

Chicken Pomegranate Tagine: An exotic blend of sweet and savory that’s a delightful twist on traditional chicken dishes.

Tunisian Chicken Couscous with Green Harissa: Experience the fiery flavors of North Africa with this zesty dish.

So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and let’s get creative! Share your flavor discoveries with us, and together, we’ll spice up your cooking routine in the most delicious way.

Stay tuned for more recipes and tips to make your flavor experiments a success. Bon appétit!

Cook More at Home

Read Time: 2 min

The New Year has arrived, and it’s the perfect time to embrace fresh beginnings. Let’s kick off 2023 with resolutions that we can all stick to – starting with a commitment to “Cook More at Home.” And guess what? It’s not just for the grown-ups! Moms and dads shouldn’t be the only ones responsible for preparing family meals. Let’s get the whole household involved in the kitchen!

We understand that cooking may seem a bit intimidating, especially if you’re new to it. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. To get things rolling, we’re here to share three fantastic recipes from our archives that are perfect for budding teen chefs or anyone looking to cook more at home. These recipes are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. They are your secret weapons to transforming your teens into confident young cooks.

Barbecue Chicken Wraps: A flavorful twist on classic chicken wraps that your teens will love to assemble.

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Dijon Cream Sauce: An elegant dish that’s simpler to make than it looks, perfect for your aspiring chefs.

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Breasts with Rosemary Potato Chips: A crispy, savory delight that’s sure to be a family favorite.

So, let’s make a pact this New Year – encourage our “roommates” to help us get dinner on the table. Stay tuned for more resolutions and delightful recipes to come!

Embrace Autumn Flavors: 5 Tips and Tricks for Seasonal Cooking with Just Bare® Chicken

Read Time: 3.5 min

Crisp autumn air, vibrant foliage, and an abundance of bountiful produce signal the arrival of everyone’s favorite time of year for flavor pairings and culinary experimentation. Fall is the perfect season to explore the rich and comforting flavors that elevate our favorite dishes. In this article, we will dive into the world of autumn cooking and provide you with tips and tricks to make the most of this delightful time of year. And what better way to celebrate the flavors of fall than by featuring Just Bare Chicken, a versatile and high-quality protein source that can be the star of any autumn-inspired recipe? Let’s get started!

1. Embrace Seasonal Produce:

Autumn brings a cornucopia of fresh produce that can enhance the flavors of your dishes. Consider incorporating farmer’s market finds like butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and apples into your recipes. These ingredients not only add a delightful sweetness but also pair perfectly with Just Bare Chicken. Roast them alongside chicken thighs or toss them in a hearty salad with grilled chicken breasts for a wholesome autumn meal.

2. Warm and Hearty Soups:

As the weather cools down, nothing beats a comforting bowl of soup. Try Just Bare Chicken Drumsticks to create nourishing broths and stews. Simmer chicken drumsticks with aromatic herbs and spices and add seasonal vegetables for a soul-soothing soup that will warm you from the inside out. Whether it’s a classic chicken noodle soup or a hearty chicken and vegetable chowder, the options are endless.

3. Cozy Roasts:

Autumn cooking calls for cozy and aromatic roasts that fill your home with inviting scents. Just Bare Young Whole Chickens are perfect for creating a centerpiece dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Rub the chicken with a blend of seasonal herbs and spices then roast it to perfection. The result is a succulent and tender main course that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a side of creamy mashed potatoes.

4. Flavorful Marinades:

Marinating chicken is a fantastic way to infuse it with bold flavors. Use Just Bare Chicken Thighs or Whole Wings and experiment with autumn-inspired marinades. Consider combinations like maple syrup and Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar and rosemary. Let the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together, and then grill or bake it for a deliciously caramelized exterior and juicy interior.

5. Savory One-Pot Meals:

Autumn is a busy season, and one-pot meals are a lifesaver when it comes to convenience and cleanup. Utilize Just Bare Chicken Drumsticks or Tenders in dishes like chicken and rice casseroles, creamy chicken pasta, or hearty chicken chili. These comforting meals allow you to incorporate seasonal ingredients while minimizing prep and cooking time- when your schedule is at its busiest.

As autumn brings a symphony of flavors and colors, it’s the perfect time to experiment with new recipes and celebrate the fun of seasonal cooking. With Just Bare Chicken as the star ingredient, you can create a myriad of dishes that embrace the essence of fall. From roasted chicken to cozy soups and flavorful marinades, there are endless possibilities to explore. So, head to your kitchen, embrace the crisp autumn air, and let Just Bare Chicken take your autumn cooking to new heights of flavor and satisfaction.

The Spice Trade

Read Time: 4.5 min

Today, we are fortunate to have these spices readily available, allowing us to embark on our own culinary adventures in the comfort of our homes. So, fire up the grill, embrace the flavors, and let the spice trade transport you to distant lands with each tantalizing bite. Spices have a remarkable ability to transport us to different corners of the world with just one bite. They’ve shaped cultures, influenced cuisines, and ignited a global desire for exotic flavors. Join us on a flavorful journey as we explore three tantalizing recipes, each showcasing the vibrant spices and culinary traditions of their respective regions.

These recipes not only showcase the tantalizing flavors of their respective regions but also offer a glimpse into the rich history of the spice trade. Centuries ago, traders embarked on perilous journeys to bring these precious spices from distant lands to our tables. They traveled across treacherous seas, traversed unforgiving deserts, and navigated mountainous terrains, all in pursuit of these prized ingredients. Spices like Chinese five spice powder, tandoori masala, and the spices of Morocco were once rare and valuable commodities, sought after by empires and coveted by cooks.

First stop, China! Char Siu Grilled Chicken Thighs will satisfy your cravings for Chinese barbecue. Succulent Just Bare Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs are marinated in a tantalizing blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, and aromatic spices. The star of the show is the Chinese five spice powder, a fragrant combination of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds. This spice blend is the embodiment of balance, with its warm, sweet, and slightly numbing flavors. As the chicken thighs grill to perfection, they take on a tantalizing char and caramelized exterior, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that will transport you to the bustling streets of Beijing.

Next, we venture to India, where tandoori chicken reigns supreme. Grilled Tandoori Chicken with Fragrant Turmeric Rice and Creamy Raita is a feast for the senses. The Just Bare Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts are bathed in a vibrant marinade of yogurt, tandoori masala spice blend, lemon juice, and a medley of spices. Cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric bring depth and complexity to the dish. Turmeric rice, with its sunny yellow hue and earthy flavor, provides the perfect canvas for the aromatic tandoori chicken. And let’s not forget the cooling raita, a creamy concoction of yogurt, grated cucumber, fresh cilantro, mint, and cumin powder. Its refreshing qualities balance the bold flavors of the chicken, creating a harmonious symphony of tastes that will transport you to the bustling streets of Mumbai.

Our final destination takes us to the vibrant markets of Morocco. Grilled Moroccan Chicken Skewers with Turmeric Rice and Tzatziki will transport you to the bustling souks and enchanting riads. These Just Bare Boneless, Skinless Chicken Tenders skewers are marinated in a tantalizing blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric. The spices of Morocco, with their warm and aromatic profiles, create a mesmerizing flavor profile that will leave you longing for more. Turmeric rice, with its golden hue and gentle earthy notes, perfectly complements the bold flavors of the chicken. And to bring a touch of Mediterranean influence, a dollop of tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, mint, and dill, provides a refreshing and cooling element to the dish.

So… Why Is Grilled Chicken So Irresistible?

More Than a Meal—It’s a Summer Staple

Pro Tips for Grilling Your Just Bare Chicken

Get out there and start grilling! This summer just got a whole lot tastier!

Shopping The Grocery Store Perimeter Aisles

Conclusion

Make It a Chicken Salad Summer

Summer Berry Crispy Chicken Salad

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Summer Tomato Salad

Farmers Market Chicken Salad

Crispy Chicken Nicoise Salad

Wrap Up Your Summer Right

Pro Tips for Grilling Your  Just Bare Chicken