40+ Shameless (But Brilliant) "Lazy" Cooking Hacks That Save Time and Effort in the Kitchen

This article appeared in thefunews.com and has been published here with permission.

If you can relate, you probably dislike cooking but have a passion for good food. Sadly, to savor a tasty dish, you have to put in some effort in the kitchen. Fortunately, there are some clever cooking tips that can simplify meal preparation and speed up the process. Check out these over 40 clever hacks designed for the effortlessly lazy cook who still desires top-notch meals!

A Quick and Healthy Snack

There are times when preparing a substantial snack feels like too much effort. Perhaps you're in a hurry to get to the office and can't spare a moment for a wholesome breakfast. No matter the reason, this simple trick is here to help!

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For a swift and nutritious snack, take a handful of oats and mix them into the remnants of a peanut butter jar. This delightful treat is not only quick to prepare but also good for you, preventing waste of the remaining peanut butter. If you have a bit more time and want to elevate the flavor, consider tossing in some fruits or nuts for added texture and taste.

Have Garlic Ready to Go

Garlic is an essential ingredient in many delicious recipes, but peeling and chopping it can be quite a hassle. Plus, the lingering garlic scent on your hands can be bothersome throughout the day. By spending a little time preparing your garlic in advance, you can significantly reduce the effort needed for cooking later.

kathleenashmore

Prepare a generous amount of garlic by peeling and chopping it up, then place the pieces into an ice cube tray and freeze them. This way, whenever you require garlic, it will be conveniently ready for use!

Buy One Chicken for Everything

To ensure you have ample chicken for a variety of meals, just purchase a single large rotisserie chicken. You can easily slice it into portions and enjoy it over several days, or even an entire week! Craving a chicken salad? You're in luck — your chicken is already prepped and ready to use!

Shutterstock // Vova Shevchuk

Craving a warm bowl of chicken soup? There's no need to cook the chicken pieces separately; simply toss them into a pot with broth and your choice of vegetables! Instead of preparing different meals every day, why not invest in a single versatile chicken that can serve multiple purposes throughout the week?

Fake a BBQ With Smoked Paprika

For those who crave the taste of grilled dishes without the hassle of spending hours at the barbecue, there's an easy solution — smoked paprika. Incorporating this spice into your meals will impart a deep, robust flavor that evokes the essence of outdoor grilling.

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Is it truly identical to food cooked over an open flame? Regrettably, it isn't. However, for those who aren't fond of grilling or don't have the room for a large barbecue at home, it serves as a fantastic alternative!