Buttery toasted English muffins are the foundations for these extra-easy hot chicken and tomato sandwiches.

Artichokes stand in for the traditional ham in our version of these tasty French-toasted sandwiches.

This boned chicken breast marinates for an hour with ginger and soy, then cooks in minutes in the microwave. For a low-calorie meal, round out the menu with steamed vegetables and hot rice.

Chili sauce and a hint of vinegar and sugar give chicken a tangy, slightly sweet flavor.

San Francisco’s Russian bakery—delicatessens sometimes feature a spinach soup like this one, laden with vegetables and chunks of chicken.

Anise seeds and orange segments give a fresh new look to an old-fashioned favorite.

Yogurt adds tangy flavor and extra nutrition to a homey childhood treat.

Egg yolks, Parmesan, and cream enrich this velvety-smooth soup.

Whether you’re watching from the grandstand or your favorite armchair, a mug of turkey soup with tomatoes, green chiles, and rice is just the thing for a football game on a blustery day. (If you transport the soup, either omit the tortilla strips or wrap them carefully in foil to avoid breakage.)

Here's a great way to use up every last bit of a holiday bird. First make a rich, flavorful stock with the roast turkey carcass; then add yams, corn, and a generous quantity of cooked meat for a hearty soup.