This is a mid-week can't miss meal features a Valerie fave ingredient, chicken thighs, and transforms them into the most delectable Chicken Parm you'll ever eat.

Blanched broccoli and carrots tossed with toasted walnuts in a whisked honey-Dijon vinaigrette for a simple, crunchy side. A reliable, no-fuss salad so easy you could practically make it blindfolded.

Green and red leaf lettuce, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion are tossed in a bright Champagne vinegar-Dijon vinaigrette. This crisp, refreshing salad provides a light counterpoint to heavier game-day fare.

Spiralized zucchini noodles are briefly sauteed in garlic oil and tossed with dried ciabatta cubes, salted ripe tomatoes, shallot, fresh basil, and a balsamic vinaigrette. This lighter spin on the Tuscan bread salad swaps out heavy pasta for fresh zoodles while keeping all the classic panzanella charm.

Steeped hibiscus-lavender tea is mixed with vodka, honey simple syrup, and lemon, then topped with prosecco and served over ice cubes frozen with sprigs of fresh lavender. This gorgeous, ruby-hued punch is as visually stunning as it is refreshing, making it an unforgettable signature drink for a summer patio party.

Lemon vodka, limoncello, and orange liqueur shaken with fresh citrus juices and served in a glass rimmed with citrus-zest sugar. A bright, triple-citrus cocktail that brings a burst of sunshine and laughter to any happy hour.

A whole chicken is brined in buttermilk and hot sauce, coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, and oven-baked at 425 degrees on a wire rack until golden and shatteringly crisp without any frying. This clever technique delivers all the crunch and juiciness of classic fried chicken with far less mess and a fraction of the oil.

A fennel-spiced free-form tart crust filled with ricotta-almond frangipane and topped with red and green grapes, drizzled with a luscious red wine syrup. A rustic, stunning dessert that reimagines the classic fruit galette with unexpected sophistication.

Buttery shortbread infused with rosemary and lemon zest pulsed into sugar, pressed into a pan, baked, and drizzled with lemon icing. A fragrant, sophisticated cookie perfect for sharing during the quiet, contemplative evenings of early winter.

Baby arugula, boiled corn, bell pepper, and grape tomatoes are tossed in a creamy cilantro-lime dressing made with grapeseed oil and sour cream. This bright, summery salad adds a cool, fresh contrast to a spread of ribs and hearty indoor-campfire fare.