Chicken, it’s inexpensive, filling, and is an easily manipulated item in the kitchen.

One of the things I looked forward to in culinary school was learning how to butcher my own food.  I didn’t go out and kill the chicken myself but I do know how to break it down so I can save myself some money and use every part of the chicken order to eliminate waste.

I cut up this chicken into 5 pieces so I can have a 2 breasts, a leg and thigh connected, and finally the carcass with remaining meat for a flavorful stock.  Instead of buying smaller pieces of chicken like I did last year I can now control what I want to eat and how I want to eat it while saving the maximum amount of money.  There are more ways to break down a chicken but I felt for two adults this way will allow us to eat a few substantial meals while on a slim budget for the week.

There will be lots more coming up on this blog throughout the week for Hunger Action Week so stay tuned. If you like what’s going on here or even if you don’t and you hate me then just forget about that and donate to the United Way of King County.  My words, pictures, and recipes don’t matter. Making sure someone has something to eat for their next meal is important, you can help.

United Way of King County (click here)

Here is a little more information about how hunger from the United Way of King County:

Hunger is on an alarming rise in our state. The number of households that are financially stretched to the point where they can’t be certain that everyone will have enough to eat has increased by 13% In Washington state, 112,000 households now meet the definition for hunger—”very low food security”? and rates of hunger are higher in households with children. Read the new report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and join us as we take action against hunger. How you can help: Advocate. Let your voice be heard! Participate in Hunger Action Day in Olympia on January 29 or contact your legislators by phone or e-mail. Check out United Way’s hunger fact sheet. Knowledge drives action to end hunger. Taking the Hunger Challenge? Check out the recipes and stories from Hunger Challenge participants and share your own. Give money to our Response for Basic Needs.

Did you know? Chronic hunger in adults weakens bones and muscles, increases the risk of illness, worsens existing health problems, and contributes to depression and lack of energy.