Chicken

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(Tangy Soy Chicken)

There's something for everyone in this traditional specialty. Don't forget to soak the bamboo skewers before using them.

Cunetto House of Pasta in St. Louis has an excellent grilled skewered chicken entrée. Sometimes I even make a special trip just to have it. Could you request the recipe? Georgeann King Memphis, Tennessee

Chicken Tetrazzini was named after the Italian opera singer Luisa Tetrazzini, who was popular in the United States in the early 1900s. No one is sure when and where the dish was created, but it remains a favorite, especially during the holiday season, when leftover turkey is often substituted for chicken.

A marinade of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, herbs and spices perks up the grilled chicken and vegetables in this dish. It's all served with wild rice.

At Brigtsen's in New Orleans, chef Frank Brigtsen makes a version of this dish with duck, accompanied by corn bread and pickled onions. Offer those sides as well as some green beans, then finish with pecan pie. This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

You won't want to miss a bit of the wonderfully aromatic sauce, so serve either the Smashed Yukon Gold Potatoes or plenty of French bread to catch every drop. Round out the menu with buttered carrots, a spinach and toasted walnut salad with walnut oil vinaigrette, and mocha layer cake for dessert.

Offer white rice alongside this simple, reduced-fat version of one of Rupa's childhood favorites.