Back-to-school solutions that save time in the kitchen



Quick and easy meals your family will love

Quick and easy school night meals


When the back-to-school season brings jam-packed schedules full of learning and homework, every minute counts for the parents who make those school days possible. Create some extra time for special moments with the special people in your life by prioritizing easy yet delicious dinners that can help refuel parents and students.

In just five minutes, you can prepare a spicy take on chicken and rice with this family favorite Buffalo and Blue Cheese Chicken recipe. Making some extra time for yourself is as simple as starting with Minute White Rice Cups packed conveniently in single-serving BPA-free cups you can finish preparing in just 1 minute.

When you’re looking for a fun way to introduce your little learner to the kitchen, try creating your own homemade Buffalo sauce for this dish by mixing hot sauce, butter, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper and garlic powder. Heat in a saucepan until the butter melts and the mixture simmers, then turn down the heat and wait for it to cool.

If your loved ones aren’t big fans of spice, turn to a tamer take on a kid-friendly classic with “Mac” and Cheese in a Cup, a creamy rice version of the familiar favorite made with milk, cheddar and cream cheese. Just because you may not have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen doesn’t have to mean suffering through boring meals – simply use the microwave to enjoy this speedy yet tasty option.

It’s easy to enjoy the buttery taste and aromatic scent of jasmine rice – regardless of how packed your schedule is – by using Minute Jasmine Rice Cups to make quick dinners a reality. This taste bud-tingling take on mac and cheese made in a microwaveable cup saves you from clean-up duty and leaves more time for homework, after-school activities, school projects and all the excitement that comes with a new school year.

To find more quick yet satisfying and delicious dinner ideas for busy school nights, visit MinuteRice.com.

Buffalo and Blue Cheese Chicken Recipe

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1

  • 1 cup Minute White Rice
  • 1 breaded chicken tender, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Buffalo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon crumbled blue cheese, for garnish
  • 1 green onion, sliced, for garnish
  1. Heat rice according to package directions.
  2. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine chicken and sauce. Microwave on high 2-3 minutes.
  3. Serve chicken over rice. Garnish with blue cheese and green onion.

"Mac" and Cheese in a Cup Recipe

Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1

  • 1 cup Minute Jasmine Rice
  • 1/3 cup 2% milk
  • 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon cream cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pinch dry mustard powder (optional)
  1. Heat rice according to package directions.
  2. In a microwave-safe cup, stir rice, milk, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder and mustard powder, if desired.
  3. Microwave on high, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted and saucy.

Tips: For extra-cheesy rice, add 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese.

Substitute garlic powder with 1/2 clove minced, fresh garlic.

(Family Features)



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • 2025 Free Fishing Days in New York State

    No freshwater fishing license required to fish on designated days

    Governor Kathy Hochul has announced designated Free Fishing Days in New York will take place on: June 28-29, September 27 (National Hunting and Fishing Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). During these days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. read more »
  • Use caution when purchasing vitamins and dietary supplements

    Tips from New York State Division of Consumer Protection

    The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is warning consumers to take precautions when selecting vitamins and dietary supplements. read more »
  • Easy, Creamy Spring Goodness

    Take advantage of this early crop

    For a soup that smells as divine as it tastes, warm up your home with the fresh scents and flavors of Creamy Asparagus Soup. Pair with chicken salad croissants for a simple weeknight meal without the hassle. read more »
  • "Goodnight Moon" Stamps to be Unveiled at The Rabbit hOle

    Get yours starting May 2

    The U.S. Postal Service will unveil its Goodnight Moon stamps at The Rabbit hOle in North Kansas City, MO, on May 2 as part of an event leading up to Children’s Book Week (May 5-11). read more »
  • Preventing Child Abuse

    Five must-ask questions before enrolling your child in any activity

    As families consider before and after school programs, youth sports, and summer camps, asking the right questions can make all the difference in ensuring a secure, safe and supportive environment for your children. read more »
  • A springtime twist on classic chicken soup

    Try adding some citrusy flavor

    Chasing away those final cool days in the spring can be done in a cinch: just turn classic chicken noodle soup into a fresh, lemony meal. read more »
  • Planning for a positive economic future

    Financial literacy tips for teens

    By understanding the basics of money management, teens can make informed decisions and avoid common financial pitfalls. read more »
  • 5 facts pet parents need to know about protecting pets from heartworms

    Expert advice for you

    Heartworms are one of the most common and serious health threats faced by pets. read more »
  • Get Hooked on Fishing, Not Drugs

    Join the Annual Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby

    Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler on Tuesday,February 18, 2025, announced the launch of the fifth Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby. The Derby will run from April 1, 2025, through September 7, 2025,and is open to children between the ages of four and eighteen who are children or grandchildren of Orange County residents. read more »
  • Expand Your Menu with a Versatile Enchilada Recipe

    Get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes

    An easy recipe that can serve your family or a crowd is a perfect solution for any cookbook. Look no further than this Easy Enchilada Casserole, an ideal fit for family dinners or hosting a group when served as a dip. read more »