30-MINUTE MEALS ON A BUDGET: Comfort Food Edition

(Because sometimes you need a hug in food form)

MONDAY: Creamy Chicken & Rice Soup

Warm, simple, and the kind of meal that makes everything feel 5% more manageable.

Ingredients (~$10, serves 4-6):

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs — $4
• 1 cup rice — $0.50
• 1 diced onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks — $2
• 6 cups chicken broth — $2.50
• ½ cup heavy cream — $1
• Garlic, salt, pepper, thyme — pantry staples

Method: Sear seasoned chicken (4 min/side), set aside. Sauté veggies (5 min), add garlic (1 min). Add broth, rice, thyme, nestle chicken back in. Simmer covered 20 min. Shred chicken, stir in cream. Serve with crusty bread.

Cost per serving: ~$2

TUESDAY: Sheet Pan Sausage & Roasted Vegetables

Minimal dishes, maximum flavor. Oven does the work.

Ingredients (~$12, serves 4):

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced — $4
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved — $3