Chicken Carrot

Yield: Approximately 12-14 ounces (enough for 4-6 servings)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Intensity: Easy – Perfect for beginner cooks and busy parents.

Ingredients

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (approx. 6 oz or 170g)

• 3 medium carrots (approx. 1 cup, chopped)

• 1.5 to 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water

• Optional: A pinch of dried thyme or rosemary (introduces subtle herb flavors)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• Small saucepan with lid

• Steamer basket (optional but recommended)

• Sharp knife and cutting board

• Measuring cups

• Food processor or high-speed blender

• Airtight containers for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Thoroughly wash the carrots under cool running water.

• Peel the carrots and chop them into small, uniform chunks (about 1/2-inch pieces). This ensures they cook quickly and evenly.

• Trim any excess fat from the chicken breast and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Cutting the chicken before cooking helps it cook faster and ensures no pink remains in the center.

Time: 5 minutes

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Carrots

For the best flavor and texture, we will cook the chicken and carrots separately.

• To Cook the Carrots: Place the chopped carrots in a steamer basket over about an inch of boiling water. Cover and steam for 12-15 minutes, or until the carrots are very tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Steaming helps retain more nutrients than boiling. Alternatively, you can boil them in the saucepan until tender.

• To Cook the Chicken: While the carrots are steaming, place the cubed chicken in the small saucepan. Pour in 1.5 cups of low-sodium chicken broth or water, just enough to cover the chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and poach for 10-12 minutes. The chicken is done when it is no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Time: 15 minutes

Step 3: Reserve the Cooking Liquid

• Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the saucepan using a slotted spoon and transfer it to your food processor or blender.

• Do not discard the cooking liquid! This nutrient-rich broth is the key to achieving the perfect puree consistency. Set it aside and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Puree

• Add the steamed, softened carrots to the food processor or blender with the cooked chicken.

• Begin blending on a low speed, gradually increasing to high.

• While the motor is running, slowly add the reserved cooking liquid through the feed tube. Start with 1/2 cup and add more until you reach your desired consistency. For a first puree, you will likely need most or all of the liquid to make it very smooth and runny.

• Blend for a full 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides if necessary, until the mixture is completely uniform, velvety, and free of any shreds or lumps.

Time: 5 minutes

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Transfer the puree to a bowl and allow it to cool to a safe, lukewarm temperature before serving to your baby. Always test the temperature on the inside of your wrist.

• Serve a small portion (1-2 tablespoons) to your baby using a soft-tipped spoon.

Step 6: Store for Later

• This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. Pour the remaining puree into clean, airtight containers or ice cube trays.

• If using ice cube trays, freeze until solid, then pop out the cubes and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This “portion control” method allows you to thaw exactly how much you need for a single meal.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is essential for your baby’s safety.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Label the container with the name and date.

To Reheat: Thaw frozen puree overnight in the refrigerator or using your microwave’s defrost setting. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot throughout, then let it cool before serving. Always stir thoroughly to eliminate any hot spots.

Nutritional Information

(Please note: The following is an estimate based on the specific ingredients used. Values may vary.)

• Serving Size: 2 ounces (approx. 1/4 cup)

• Servings Per Recipe: 6

Why This Meal is a Nutritional Powerhouse for Baby:
This puree is a fantastic source of lean protein from the chicken, which is essential for growth and muscle development. The carrots provide a massive boost of Vitamin A, vital for healthy eyesight and a robust immune system. Using low-sodium broth keeps the salt content in check, which is important for developing kidneys. The smooth texture and balanced nutrients make this an ideal, wholesome meal to support your baby’s exciting journey with solid foods.

Enjoy this special feeding time with your little one