Chicken and Apple Puree: Nutritious Baby Food
Many infant meals are boiled in open pots, which can let natural juices escape. You will make this chicken and apple puree using a sealed aluminium foil packet. Steam the packet for 20 minutes to lock in freshness and flavour. This method ensures the chicken breast stays tender while absorbing the gentle sweetness of the Granny Smith apple. Using a foil packet creates a controlled environment that preserves nutrients better than open simmering.
The result is a creamy, savoury mash with a smooth consistency. The blending step decides the final texture. Pulse the mixture in a food processor until it reaches the desired thickness. Use a baby-safe thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached 74°C (165°F) for safety. Add a small amount of reserved liquid if the puree is too thick. This process produces a protein-rich meal that is free from added salt and sugars.
Chicken and Apple Puree: Nutritious Baby Food
Recipe cardIngredients
Watch how it's made
Instructions
-
Prepare the ingredients
Trim any excess fat or tendons from the chicken breast. Pat the meat dry with a paper towel. Peel, core, and dice the apple into small cubes.
-
Assemble the packet
Place the apple cubes in a small bowl and set the chicken breast on top. Add the water or stock and sprinkle with parsley if you are using it.
-
Seal the foil
Cover the mixture with aluminium foil. Seal the edges tightly to create a packet. This keeps the moisture inside to ensure the chicken stays tender.
-
Steam the mixture
Place the packet in a steamer basket or a saucepan with a tight lid. Steam for 20 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
-
Cool the food
Remove the packet and let it sit for 2 minutes to prevent scalding. Open it carefully and transfer the contents to a heat-proof bowl to cool to room temperature.
-
Blend the puree
Transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender. Pulse until the texture is smooth and creamy. Add reserved liquid one teaspoon at a time if the mix is too thick.
-
Finish and serve
Taste the puree to ensure there is no salt. Drizzle in the extra-virgin avocado oil if you want added healthy fats. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a baby-safe thermometer. If it is below 74°C (165°F), it may contain harmful bacteria. Steam it for a few more minutes until it reaches this specific temperature to guarantee the food is safe for your baby.
How it differs from the traditional method
Steaming in a sealed foil packet locks in freshness and flavour. This method ensures the chicken stays tender by trapping moisture. Boiling the meat in a pot is a traditional choice, but it often results in drier chicken and a loss of nutrients into the cooking water.
Storing and reheating
Store the puree in a sealed container for up to 48 hours at 4°C (39°F). You can freeze it in a zip-lock bag for 90 days. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and use a baby-safe sprayer to steam a small portion before feeding.
Nutrition per serving
- Calories
- 165
- Protein
- 22.5 g
- Carbs
- 11.2 g
- Fat
- 5.1 g
- Fiber
- 1.8 g
- Sugar
- 7.4 g
Estimated, and offered as a guide rather than a medical figure.
Made it? Rate it.
Questions people ask
What can I mix chicken with for baby puree?
Combine chicken with fruits or vegetables. Apple provides a gentle sweetness, while sweet potato adds potassium. These combinations ensure the baby receives a variety of nutrients and flavours during their first meals.
How do you make chicken and apple baby puree?
Steam diced chicken and apple together in a sealed foil packet for 20 minutes. Once the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F), blend the mixture into a smooth consistency using a food processor or blender.
What to mix with apple puree for babies?
Mix apple puree with proteins like chicken for a balanced meal. You may also blend it with mashed banana or pureed sweet potato to introduce different textures and tastes to the baby's diet.
About the author
Mary C. Rivero
Mary C. Rivero specializes in comforting home‑cooked meals, from hearty pastas and sheet‑pan dinners to quick weeknight snacks. Her recipes feature clear, step‑by‑step directions and practical tips, helping readers create flavorful dishes with confidence and ease.
