January 12 National Curried Chicken Day #CurriedChickenDay & National Marzipan Day #NationalMarzipanDay

Food Holidays Recipes

As we begin a new week I wanted to share 2 #Holidays being celebrated today and one of the Holiday might help you decide what to make for #dinner this evening. Join me as we celebrate January 12 National Curried Chicken Day #CurriedChickenDay & January 12th is also National Marzipan Day #NationaMarzipanDay.

I don’t think I’ve ever had Curried Chicken and I’m sure Charlie hasn’t either. As for David he could have before for we got together. As for Marzipan I wasn’t sure if any of us have had it or not. Which was a #teachingmoment for our family as I had to look up what Marzipan is and what it’s used for.

Curried Chicken is a bright, aromatic celebration of one of the world’s most beloved comfort dishes. Perfect for winter, perfect for families, and perfect for your friends and family who love trying new flavors.

From creamy coconut curries to bold spice‑packed versions, today is all about celebrating the global flavors that make curried chicken a timeless favorite. Which is why I’ve shared a recipe below with you.

Curried Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • Boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite‑size pieces
  • Onion, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Fresh ginger, grated
  • Curry powder (mild or medium)
  • Turmeric
  • Paprika
  • Coconut milk
  • Chicken broth
  • Olive oil or butter
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

  • Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a skillet. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until fragrant.
  • Add chicken: Stir in chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned.
  • Season well: Sprinkle curry powder, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
  • Pour liquids: Add coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Cook until tender: Let it simmer 12–15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
  • Finish and serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve over warm rice.

Tips for Families

  • Use mild curry powder for kid‑friendly flavor.
  • Add veggies like peas, carrots, or potatoes for a fuller meal.
  • Swap proteins with tofu or shrimp for variation.

National Marzipan Day — January 12

On January 12th we celebrate the sweet artistry of marzipan, which is a almond‑based confection loved around the world for its smooth texture and sculptable charm. Whether marzipan is misshaped into fruits, flowers, or festive treats, marzipan brings a touch of whimsy to any dessert table.

Ways to Celebrate

  • Make simple marzipan candies: Roll, shape, and decorate with the kids for a hands‑on family activity.
  • Bake a marzipan‑filled dessert: Think cookies, cakes, or a classic European-style loaf.
  • Share fun facts: Marzipan has been enjoyed since the Middle Ages and is still a holiday favorite across many cultures.
  • Create a colorful photo post: Bright, pastel marzipan shapes make beautiful social media visuals.

Kid‑Friendly Homemade Marzipan– A fun, no‑bake treat for little hands

Marzipan is one of those magical sweets that kids love because they can roll it, shape it, color it, and turn it into anything their imagination dreams up. This version uses simple pantry ingredients and is gentle enough for even young helpers.

Ingredients

  • Almond flour – 2 cups
  • Powdered sugar – 2 cups
  • Vanilla extract – ½ teaspoon
  • Almond extract – ½ teaspoon (optional but yummy)
  • Light corn syrup or honey – 3–4 tablespoons
  • Food coloring – optional
  • Sprinkles or edible decorations – optional

Instructions

  • Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine almond flour and powdered sugar.
  • Add the flavoring: Stir in vanilla and almond extract.
  • Sweeten and bind: Add corn syrup or honey 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture forms a soft dough.
  • Knead until smooth: Kids can help with this part — it’s like edible play‑dough.
  • Color the dough: Divide into small balls and knead in a drop of food coloring.
  • Shape and decorate: Make fruits, animals, flowers, or simple candy balls. Add sprinkles if you like.
  • Chill to set: Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving.

Fun Variations

  • Rainbow marzipan ropes: Roll colored dough into long ropes and twist together.
  • Marzipan fruit basket: Shape tiny apples, bananas, oranges, and grapes.
  • Chocolate‑dipped marzipan bites: Dip small balls into melted chocolate for a special treat.
  • Holiday shapes: Hearts for Valentine’s Day, eggs for Easter, pumpkins for fall.

Tips for Cooking With Kids

  • Use small bowls to divide ingredients so each child gets a job.
  • Keep wipes nearby for sticky hands.
  • Offer simple shape ideas to get them started.
  • Let them choose colors to spark creativity.

Thank you,

Glenda, Charlie and David Cates