Cool Down With Dogsicles (Chicken Flavored)

June 7, 2010

As avid readers of my blog know, I am a big fan of Dog Fancy magazine. And the latest issue contains a couple of tasty treat recipes that you furry friend is sure to love. June promises to be a hot month for Tennessee residents. I wouldn't be surprised if your state's forecast is the same. So, why not help your four-legged family member cool down the tasty way - with dogsicles!

You Will Need:
- 12 paper cups (like Dixie cups) in 3 oz size for small dogs / or 8 paper cups in 5 oz size for large dogs
- Saucepan
- Blender

Chicken-sicles Ingredients:
- 1 quart chicken broth (low sodium) or water
- 1/2 pound boneless/skinless chicken breast (thawed)
- 1 garlic clove, peeled & minced (optional*)

Directions:
Put the chicken broth (or water), chicken breast and garlic in a large saucepan. Boil until the chicken is cooked through and soft (about 20 minutes). Remove the pan from heat. Carefully remove the chicken breast and cut it into very small pieces, or shred it using either two forks or a food processor. Return the chicken and juices to the pot. Allow to cool completely.

Assembly:
1) Arrange paper cups in a shallow pan that will fit in your freezer. Carefully spoon or pour the chicken-sicle mix into the cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Fill just half full for very small dogs. Carefully place the tray in the freezer and allow to freeze completely overnight.
2) To serve, remove from the freezer and offer it to your dog, preferably outside, to minimize any mess. Peel off the paper cup and put the popsicle in your dog's bowl.

If your dog likes this dogsicle, try inventing more flavors on your own. Yogurt with chopped apples with a dash of cinnamon? Cooked skinless turkey in broth with shredded carrots? Over-ripe bananas with a spoonful of peanut butter blended with apple juice? You can even freeze your dog-friendly leftovers such as lean meats and chopped vegetables in broth (no onions). Just spoon your creation into paper cups and freeze. How cool is that?