Chicken and Apple Puree
A Gentle Introduction to Proteins
This Chicken and Apple Puree combines the mild, nutritious protein of chicken with the sweet, familiar taste of apple, making it a perfect dish for babies beginning to explore meats. This puree is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals essential for your baby’s growth and development.
Age
6+ Months
Difficulty
Easy
This recipe requires minimal skills.
Total time
25 minutes
Servings
Makes approximately 2 cups
Dietary Needs
Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cooked, boneless chicken breast (about 100g)
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 150g)
- 1/2 cup water, breastmilk, or formula for blending (120ml)
Equipment
- Steamer or saucepan
- Blender or food processor
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: If not using leftover cooked chicken, steam or boil the chicken breast until thoroughly cooked, about 15 minutes. Ensure it’s tender and cooked through, with no pink in the middle.
- Prepare the Apple: While the chicken is cooking, peel, core, and chop the apple into small pieces.
- Cook the Apple: Steam the apple pieces until tender, about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can boil them in a small amount of water until soft.
- Blend: Place the cooked chicken and apple in a blender or food processor. Add 1/2 cup of water, breastmilk, or formula.
- Puree: Blend until smooth, adding more liquid as necessary to achieve the desired consistency. The puree should be smooth and easily spoonable, without any lumps, for younger babies.
- Cool: Ensure the puree is cooled to room temperature before serving to your baby.
Remember, when introducing new foods to your baby, it’s crucial to monitor for any signs of allergies or intolerances. Introducing one new food at a time can help identify any potential issues. If using formula or breastmilk, consider the added nutritional benefits and choose what aligns best with your feeding practices.
Feeding Tips
- Introduce chicken and apple separately before combining them to ensure there are no allergies.
- Start with a thin consistency, gradually making it thicker as your baby becomes accustomed to solids.
- Always supervise your baby during feeding.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftover puree in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze in ice cube trays or small containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.
Nutrition
Please note that the following is an estimate based on generic ingredients. Actual nutritional values may vary.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 20mg |
| Vitamin A | 1% DV |
| Vitamin C | 4% DV |
| Iron | 5% DV |
| Calcium | 2% DV |
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
- The addition of breastmilk or formula not only helps achieve the desired consistency but also adds familiar tastes for the baby, making the transition to solids easier.
Conclusion
Chicken and Apple Puree is a wonderfully balanced meal for babies, offering both the nutritional benefits of protein from the chicken and the natural sweetness of apples. It’s a simple, delicious way to introduce your baby to new textures and flavors while ensuring they receive essential nutrients for their development.
