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3 quick holiday hacks for the most wonderful time of the year

Whether you’re hosting a party or just whipping up a quick family meal during the busy holiday season, these chicken meatball hacks are perfect for any festive occasion.

Chicken and waffles with white gravy

Let’s put a playful twist on this classic holiday brunch favourite! To start, prepare Compliments Chicken Meatballs according to package directions. Meanwhile, make the gravy by crumbling 6 sausages in an oiled pan, breaking them up with a wooden spoon until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. Next, melt 3 tbsp Compliments Unsalted Butter in a saucepan, sprinkle in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and whisk until mixture is smooth and bubbling, about 1 minute. Gradually add in 2 cups whole milk, constantly whisking until combined. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook gravy, whisking until smooth and thick, for 6 to 8 minutes. Add reserved sausage and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle in 2 tbsp chopped parsley and stir in dashes of Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce, if using. Prepare Compliments Belgian Waffles according to package directions and cut into quarters to arrange on a platter. Top with some gravy and meatballs, and brunch is served!

Chicken meatballs with chimichurri on mini pita

These bite-sized appetizers are a surefire hit with any crowd, whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a cozy movie night or a casual family get-together. To make, prepare the Chicken Meatballs according to package directions, then set aside. Halve mini pitas, brush with olive oil and bake until toasted, flipping halfway, about 8 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine a finely chopped shallot, ¼ tsp salt and ¼ cup Compliments Red Wine Vinegar to slightly pickle. In a food processor, combine ½ cup cilantro leaves, ½ cup parsley leaves, 2 chopped garlic cloves, ½ tsp dried oregano and pulse until finely chopped. Combine with shallots and stir in ½ tsp salt, olive oil and ¼ tsp Crushed Red Pepper. Stir 1 cup 0% Greek Yogurt with 1 tbsp chimichurri sauce. To serve, arrange the pitas cut side up, spoon in some of the yogurt mixture, chimichurri, meatball and top with more chimichurri. Insert a toothpick for easy pick-up and enjoy!

Cranberry-Glazed Chicken Meatballs

Sweet, tangy and full of holiday spirit, this chicken meatball hack will have your guests lining up for seconds. To start, whisk together 1 can Compliments Cranberry Sauce, ½ cup red pepper jelly and ¼ cup water in a large pot over medium heat until blended. Add 1 pkg frozen Compliments Chicken Meatballs and stir to cook over medium heat until the meatballs are thawed, and the sauce begins to bubble, about 5 minutes. Uncover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring until the sauce is thickened and the meatballs are glazed. Serve with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and you have the perfect festive addition to any holiday dinner table.

Tip: This is an easy make-ahead recipe! Simply rewarm over low heat until hot and serve.