The Top 15 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Summer

Chicken lovers, unite for the summer! 

Why is chicken the ultimate summer protein? Well, not only is it incredibly versatile, but it also cooks quickly, so you don’t have to create a sauna-like environment in your home in order to make it. (No one wants that in summer.) And the less time you spend in the kitchen, the more time you have for fun in the sun! (Or while staying out of the sun, depending on the temp.) 

Whether you’re grillin’ it, bakin’ it, or tossing it into a refreshing salad, chicken pairs great with in-season veggies and refreshing flavors. And, because it’s a lean protein, it will keep you energized without making you feel overly full or weighed down.  

That’s why we’ve scoured our recipe archives to create a list of the 15 best summer chicken recipes! So grab your tongs, and let’s get to it.

Perfect Summer Chicken Appetizers

Chicken Satay

Looking for an appetizer to take your summer gathering to the next level? Chicken Satay with a side of peanut sauce is one of the best things you can make for the summer, whether it’s just for the fam or for a pool party full of friends. It’s easy to make and even easier to eat. Just imagine tender chicken skewers marinated in a blend of garlic, ginger, and other amazing aromatics, then grilled to golden brown perfection! They’re great for a summer cookout or just a quick meal when you’re short on time. If you want to make sure your guests stay hydrated, don’t forget to pair this appetizer with some fresh veggies or a skewered fruit plate!

Get the recipe here!

Oven Barbecue Chicken Wings

Want something sticky-sweet and finger-licking good? Check out our Oven Barbecue Chicken Wings, smothered in a sweet and smoky homemade barbecue sauce that’s about to blow your mind. Made with honey and balsamic vinegar, it’s an unforgettable condiment you might be tempted to throw on much more than just chicken. And speaking of chicken, these wings are baked to perfection until they’re crispy and delicious. If you’re looking to impress the whole family, these are your go-to finger food!

Check out the recipe!

Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken Wings

When you’re feeling less mesquite and more herby (or just looking to cover all your bases with an assortment of great chicken appetizers) these Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken Wings are a must-try. Not only are they healthier than fried wings, but this delicious recipe also comes with an optional Dijon mustard blue cheese dipping sauce how-to that is sure to become your new best friend. And let’s talk about those wings for a sec. They’re coated in a mixture of parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, and baked until they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This is one of those wildly easy recipes that’s great for larger gatherings or just an easy weeknight dinner. 

Find the full recipe here!

 

Refreshing Chicken Summer Salads

Asian Sesame Chicken Noodle Salad

Nothing says “I’m prepared for summer” like having a few great salad recipes up your sleeve, and this Asian Sesame Chicken Noodle Salad makes a delicious addition to your summer season lineup. Refreshing cucumber, chili peppers, and Japanese (or Chinese) noodles, all tossed together with tender chicken and a zesty sesame sauce. This is one of my favorite summer comfort foods, and BONUS: it’s also a great way to use up any leftover chicken you might have lying around.

Dig into the recipe here!

Chicken Salad with Sesame Miso Dressing

If you’re ready to elevate your salad game, this Chicken Salad with Sesame Miso Dressing is here for you. It’s a healthy summer salad that features butter lettuce and tender chicken, topped with crunchy roasted sesame seeds, and topped off with a homemade creamy dressing made of sesame and miso. The combo of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a delicious meal, while the ingredient list makes it a refreshingly nutritious summer addition.

Get the full recipe here!

Charred Tomato Salsa Chicken Bowl

When you can’t put your finger on exactly what you want to eat, but you know you just want something FRESH, look no further than this Charred Tomato Salsa Chicken Bowl. It’s an amazing vibrant salad bursting with in-season tomatoes, fresh herbs like garlic and cilantro, sauteed chicken, chili peppers, and black pepper. Low in calories, but BIG on flavor.

Find the recipe here!

Chinese Chicken Salad

This is a classic that never gets old. Our Chinese Chicken Salad combines chicken breast, lettuce, cucumber, snow peas, and a tangy dressing that’s a throwback to Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing. This is one of those easy chicken recipes that’s perfect for any time of year, but you’ll love how refreshing it is for summer. Ready to enjoy a great meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen?

Check out the recipe here!

 

Chicken-Based Buddha Bowls

Grilled Chicken Buddha Bowl with Sweet Tangy Mango Sauce and Roasted Peanuts

Buddha Bowls are the perfect summer meal. They’re light, super nutritious, easy to make, and they put your leftovers to good use with their adaptability. Our Grilled Chicken Buddha Bowl is no exception! It features raw fruits and veggies and grilled chicken on a bed of rice. If you thought it was over, guess again! This large bowl is then topped with a sweet and tangy homemade mango sauce and roasted peanuts for a little extra crunch. This is essentially a party in a bowl, but somehow still insanely healthy and nutritious, especially when you’re looking to stay fueled with lean protein and hydrated with natural electrolytes in the summertime. (It also makes a great meal prep dish!)

Get the recipe here!

Rotisserie Chicken Buddha Bowl with Sweet Pomegranate Sauce

Looking for an ultra easy meal this summer? Try our Rotisserie Chicken Buddha Bowl. It’s a breeze to whip up! Just grab a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, toss in some grains and veggies, and drizzle on a little homemade sweet pomegranate sauce. (Oh, and some nuts and pomegranate seeds for a little crunch!) When you’re running low on time or energy this summer, even cooking chicken can seem like a big task. That’s where this recipe shines!

Check out the recipe here!

Chicken Tandoori Bowl with Minty Indian Yogurt Dressing

Seeking a completely different type of chicken bowl? Are you a fan of Indian recipes? If so, this Chicken Tandoori Bowl is everything you’re looking for. Delicious cubed chicken breast. Warm cauliflower rice. Hydrating broccoli. All smothered in a refreshing minty yogurt dressing. This chicken dish is packed with flavor and spice, perfect for anyone looking for a cool contrast to spiced chicken.

Find the recipe here!

Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Buddha Bowl

Summer is the perfect time to get tropical, and that’s exactly what we’ve done with our Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Buddha Bowl. It’s a bowl that mixes sweet and savory together in a way that just WORKS. And it’s ridiculously adaptable! Use your favorite pasta or noodles. Throw in some leftover veggies. Use whatever nuts or seeds you happen to have on hand. This is one of those easy chicken recipes that you’ll end up whipping up again and again.

Discover the recipe here!

Satisfying Chicken Entrees for Your Summer Table

Pineapple Fried Rice

Need a delectable chicken dinner that’s got a tropical twist? Then our Pineapple Fried Rice is what you need! Juicy chicken meets shrimp, rice, and savory seasonings all in a pineapple bowl. You just need one wok, and you can even use leftover rice. In this recipe, I’m gonna teach you how to avoid soggy, heavy rice and why cooking some ingredients separately is essential for this dish. It’s a beautiful, creative dinner that’s guaranteed to impress. 

Grab the recipe here!

Healthy General Tso’s Chicken

This is a light, refreshing, and healthy twist on a classic favorite: Healthy General Tso’s Chicken. By cooking chicken in a wok rather than deep frying, you end up with a delicious dish that’s more suited for summer! With boneless chicken breasts and homemade General Tso sauce, this healthy chicken recipe is sure to become a new summer favorite. You can even pair it with some steamed veggies or zucchini noodles for a balanced meal that’s also super satisfying.

Check out the recipe here!

Chicken Caprese

If you love Italian recipes and want some zest in your life, this Chicken Caprese is a must-try! It features chicken breasts, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, creamy mozzarella cheese, a little olive oil, and a light balsamic vinegar drizzle. It’s a super simple recipe that tastes like a restaurant-quality meal, and you can replace the chicken with any protein you like! My lazy-day version uses pre-made grocery store chicken, and it works just as well. It’s the perfect summer evening dinner.

Find the recipe here!

Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf with Honey Mustard Chicken

Last, but definitely not least, is our Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf with Honey Mustard Chicken. It’s packed with chicken and veggies like Swiss chard, carrots, and onions as well as quinoa, so it’s both nutritious and delicious! The lemon zest and slices brighten up the flavor even further, and the overnight honey mustard marinade is ridiculously easy to whip up. If you’re looking for a summer dish that’s light, healthy, and somewhat addicting, this is what you want! 

Get the full recipe here!

Did Your Favorite Make The List?

What’s your favorite chicken summer dish? As always, we love to hear about what you like to cook and eat! Let us know your favorites in the comments below!

The post The Top 15 Best Healthy Chicken Recipes for Summer appeared first on Steamy Kitchen Recipes Giveaways.

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The Ultimate Seasonal Guide to Summer Vegetables

Summer is not only a season of sunshine and BBQs. It’s also the time of year for fresh, vibrant veggies to add a riot of color (and nutrients!) to your dishes. What’s that you say? You’re a seasoned chef? Perfect. You’re someone who just discovered that your stove has more than one setting? Also perfect! Summer veggies are for everyone and they’re easy to incorporate into our meals. Today, we’re gonna talk all things summer vegetables, their health benefits, what dishes they’re good for, and some tips on storing them. 

Basic Summer Vegetables

Let’s talk green beans. 

These crunchy little guys are wildly versatile and incredibly nutritious. They’re great for stir-fries, salads, or simply steamed with a little garlic and olive oil. AND, they’re at their peak during the summer months!

As for their benefits, green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and are a great source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps you maintain a healthy gut. They’re also low in calories and high in antioxidants, which work to reduce the risk of chronic diseases by fighting free radicals.

Next up, bell peppers. 

These bad boys of summer are found in a rainbow of colors, including green, red, yellow, and orange. They’re a little bit sweet, which makes them perfect for grilling, and deliciously crunchy, which also makes them great for salads. (We recommend pairing them with fresh basil and feta cheese for a vibrant, refreshing summer salad.)

Bell peppers come packed with vitamins, but particularly vitamin C! In fact, one medium-sized bell pepper contains more than 150% of the daily recommended dose of vitamin C. They also boast a good amount of vitamin A, which is great for eye health. You’ll also find a wealth of antioxidants in them, including beta-carotene and lycopene, which help to support immune function and reduce the risk of certain cancers.

But it’s not summer without sweet corn! 

Talk about versatility. You can grill it, boil it, turn it into a creamy corn salad, whatever you like! Fresh picked corn is really where it’s at because it only retains its sweetness for so long, so try to buy it from your local farmers’ market. Look for bright green husks and plump kernels for the best flavor.

Sweet corn is a great source of fiber to help the “flow” of your digestive tract, and it can help lower cholesterol levels. It’s also got B-complex vitamins (including folic acid), which help your body to produce energy and encourage brain health. Sweet corn also contains antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial to the health of your eyes and protect against age-related macular degeneration.

Summer Squash and Potatoes

Summer squash includes both yellow squash and zucchini, and it’s a summer veggie you’ll want to take advantage of this season.

They’re perfect for everything from sautéing to grilling to roasting to baking. You can stuff them, make them into zoodles, add them to pizza, make them into a salad, or go full ratatouille.

When it comes to body benefits, summer squash is rich in vitamins A and C, which help to maintain healthy skin and an effective immune system. It also promotes digestive health with its wealth of dietary fiber and helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Want another reason to love summer squash? It’s high in water content, which means it’s perfect for staying hydrated during the warmer months.

Speaking of squash, have you ever tried bottle gourd? 

Also known as calabash, this versatile vegetable features a unique flavor and can be used in soups, stews, and even desserts.

Its high in water content to help hydration, and is a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. Like summer squash, it’s also low in calories and rich in dietary fiber to aid in digestion and support weight loss.

Have you heard of new potatoes?

They’re small, tender spuds that are best enjoyed right after being freshly harvested. Due to their thin skins and creamy insides, they’re perfect for roasting, boiling, or even grilling, and make a mean summer side dish.

New potatoes are big in vitamin C to promote immune health and collagen production. They also provide you with potassium to regulate blood pressure, and are high in dietary fiber to help you keep your blood sugar levels steady.

One of our absolute favorites… summer is the season for sweet potatoes! 

While they might be available year-round, they REALLY hit their stride in late summer. They are versatile veggies and can be roasted, mashed, or turned into fries. They also make a great addition to soups, stews, and casseroles. If you want to go sweet, try baking them into pies, muffins, or even cookies!

Sweet potatoes are packed with a ton of essential nutrients like vitamin A, which is important for vision, immune function, and skin health. They also feature LOTS of vitamin C and manganese, both of which are crucial for bone health and metabolism. And, of course, they’re high in dietary fiber and antioxidant rich, especially when it comes to beta-carotene, which helps combat inflammation and protects against chronic diseases.

Looking for a Different Kind of Summer Heat?

If you’re someone who loves a little spice in the summer, you can’t go wrong with hot peppers.

That’s right, the hot summer heat energizes our spicy, colorful little friends, from jalapeños to habaneros. And you can use them in salsas, marinades, and sauces to boost flavor or add a spicy twist. They’re great for grilling, you can add them to stir-fries, or incorporate them into spicy soups and stews. You can even use them to infuse oils or create zesty pickles! 

Health-wise, hot peppers are rich in capsaicin, which boosts metabolism, reduces pain and inflammation, and supports heart health. They also have a ton of vitamins A and C, which strengthen the immune system and help to maintain healthy skin and eyes.

Wanna Keep It Cool?

Let’s face it. On those scorching summer days, we all need something a little more refreshing. Veggies like cucumber provide a cooling effect that’s perfect for this time of year. 

Cucumbers are perfect for giving a little crunch to your salads, sandwiches, or wraps. They can also be sliced and added to water for an even more refreshing drink, or blended into smoothies to aid in hydration. They’re also great in dips like tzatziki or eaten on their own. Enjoy them with lemon juice, Tajin, a little hot sauce, or all 3 combined! 

Like we mentioned, cucumbers are high in water, so they help to you hydrated and promote healthy skin. They super low in calories, but high in vitamin K, which is important for bone health and proper blood clotting. As a bonus, they contain antioxidants like beta-carotene, which helps fight inflammation and protects against many chronic diseases.

Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon, is kind of an acquired taste, but it can be used in lots of different dishes like stir-fries, curries, and soups. It’s also delicious when stuffed with spices and herbs as a main dish or juiced for a health tonic. 

Despite its bitter taste, its main appeal is its health benefits. Bitter gourd is rich in vitamins C and A to boost your immune function and skin health. As well, it contains compounds that help regulate blood sugar levels, so it’s especially good for those with diabetes, boasts anti-inflammatory properties, and has been known to support liver health and digestion. Talk about beneficial!

When to Buy What

Timing is everything when it comes to getting summer veggies at their peak. Here’s a quick summer guide to help you out:

• Early summer: New potatoes.
• Mid to late summer: Summer squash, cucumbers, and green beans.
• Late summer to early fall: Eggplant, corn, sweet potatoes, and sweet peppers. (Tomatoes as well, which are technically a summer fruit.)

Tips for Storing and Using Summer Vegetables

Storage is the secret to making the most of your summer veggies. Most summer vegetables do well at room temperature for a day or two, but if you plan to keep them longer than that, store them in a cool place like the refrigerator. For instance, tomatoes should ripen at room temp, then be moved to the fridge to maximize their shelf life.

When it comes to using summer vegetables before they go bad, here are a few ideas:

• Grill ’em up!: Summer veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn are great for grilling. High heat really brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a nice smoky flavor.
• Toss them into salads: Fresh, crunchy salads are a prime way to enjoy the more raw flavor of summer veggies and get the most out of their nutrients, especially when it comes to cucumber and green beans.
• Make a veggie platter: When you wanna communicate to your guests that you care about their health, veggie platters are the way to go. Pair them with a dip made from Greek yogurt, lime juice, and herbs to really make a statement.
• Roast them: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of carrots, sweet potatoes, and new potatoes. Want to make them real flavorful? Toss them with olive oil, salt, and some of your favorite herbs, and then roast until tender and golden!

Don’t Forget to Support Your Local Farmers

Perhaps the best way to enjoy summer produce is to buy them from local farmers’ markets. By doing this, you support local agriculture, and get the freshest produce possible. Farmers’ market produce generally travels a shorter distance to get to you, so it’s often fresher and tastier. It’s a win-win for everyone!

​Time to Summer Veg Out!

We hope you enjoyed this ultimate guide to summer veggies. 

What’s your favorite summer veggie and how do you like to prepare it? We’d love to hear all your summer veggie tips and tricks, and how you spot and get the best produce, so be sure to leave a comment below!

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A Quick and Easy Way To Properly Clean Your Toaster

Cleaning your toaster is an often-procrastinated (or even completely avoided) job. It just feels like one of those “last thing I wanna do today” types of tasks, and we don’t blame you. There’s nothing fun or interesting about it, BUT… it also doesn’t have to be daunting or take very long. 

Let’s face it, cleaning your toaster is a “necessary evil”, not just for sanitary reasons, but because a dirty toaster is a potential fire hazard, and nobody wants that. So we’ve put together a super simple, straight-forward step-by-step guide to getting your toaster clean in no time! In fact, this guide may even redefine your relationship to cleaning your toaster, and allow you do it more often! 

Why Clean Your Toaster?

Why should you clean your toaster? 

• To Prevent Food Poisoning: All that crumb buildup can harbor harmful bacteria that can spread to the clean pieces of bread you put in your toaster! Regular cleaning helps you avoid the risk of making yourself sick.
• To Prevent a Fire Hazard: Did you know that accumulating burnt crumbs can actually cause your toaster to catch fire? The chance is even higher when your toaster is on its side, so be sure to avoid using it in any position that it wasn’t meant for.
• To Ensure It Functions Properly: Cleaning your toaster regularly will ensure that it functions at its best. An accumulation of food debris can cause uneven toasting or even burning. Make sure your toaster gets cleaned regularly to prevent this.

 

How Often Should You Clean Your Toaster?

If you use your toaster almost daily, you should clean it once a week. If you use it less often, perhaps only once or twice a week, then you’ll want to clean it once every few weeks, but be sure to empty the crumbs out on a weekly basis.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Soft-bristle pastry brush
• Damp cloth
• Dish soap
• White vinegar
• Baking soda (optional)
• Microfiber cloth

The Cleaning Process:

1. Unplug and Prepare – First things first: unplug your toaster. Always disconnect the power source before dealing with electrical components to avoid the risk of electrocution.

2. Remove the Crumb Tray – Detach the crumb tray. (Sometimes it slides out and detaches entirely, and sometimes it swings open on a hinge, but stays attached, like I have photo’d below. In this case, you will not remove it entirely from the toaster.) Dump out any crumbs into your garbage disposal or trash can. Doing this step alone regularly can significantly decrease your chance of a toaster fire accident.

3. Shake Out Any Loose Crumbs – Don’t forget to turn your toaster upside down and give it a gentle shimmy over the sink or trash can. This will help get rid of leftover crumbs stuck inside.

4. Brush the Inside – Get out your handy-dandy pastry brush and gently clean the inside of the toaster. Be sure to pay special attention to the heating elements and hard-to-reach spots. These are where food particles and crumbs tend to accumulate.

5. Clean the Crumb Tray – If your crumb tray detaches completely, wash it with warm soapy water in the sink. Use dishwashing liquid and a sponge or soft-bristle brush to remove any food residue or crumbs from it. Rinse and dry it well before you put it back in.

6. Wipe Down the Exterior – To clean the outside of your toaster, wipe it down with a damp cloth and a bit of dish soap. If you have a stainless steel toaster, use a solution of warm water and white vinegar to really make it shine. (Never use any harsh chemicals or abrasives to clean your toaster.)

7. Remove Stubborn Stains with Baking Soda – For tougher stains or stubborn grease on the outside of your toaster, mix together equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste. Apply this paste to the stains and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it with a damp sponge. (Soft side only!)

8. Dry Your Toaster Thoroughly – Dry the outside of the toaster with a microfiber cloth or a lint-free cloth. Dry the crumb tray as well, and reattach it. Let the inside of your toaster dry on its own by letting it sit out overnight before you plug it back in. You want to make sure your toaster is 100% dry before plugging it in!

More Cleaning Tips:

• Clean Your Toaster on a Regular Basis: Make cleaning your toaster a part of your weekly cleaning routine will help you to keep it free from the buildup of crumbs and burnt food particles, and you’ll spend less time cleaning it in general.
• Use a Soft Cloth for Stainless Steel: Always use a soft cloth or sponge to clean stainless steel appliances to make sure you don’t leave scuff marks on the surface.
• Cleaning the Control Panel: You can use a damp paper towel or a soft cloth to clean the control panel, but be mindful to avoid getting any moisture into the electrical components.

 

You Got This!

​See? Easy peasy!

We hope this step-by-step guide not only helped you learn how to clean your toaster the right way, but that it’s shown you how easy it is! With just a few simple steps, and a little time, you may even be ready to give your toaster a good cleaning on a weekly basis! 

Do you have any tips or tricks for cleaning your pop-up toaster or other small appliances? We’d love to hear about it! Be sure to leave a comment below with your favorite tips.

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The Best Starbucks Vanilla Coffee Drink for You

Are you a vanilla fiend looking for the best vanilla drink at Starbucks? It doesn’t matter if you’re a casual coffee drinker or a Starbucks aficionado, finding the right vanilla coffee for yourself can be a bit intimidating, especially with so many options. 

Don’t worry, vanilla coffee lover! That’s why we created this comprehensive guide to match you with your perfect vanilla delight based on your preferences. Whether you want to keep it low-cal or just need a massive pick-me-up, there’s a Starbucks vanilla drink for everyone. Let’s find your next favorite cup of joe, shall we?

The Starbucks Vanilla Drink Lineup

If You’re Looking for a Lower Calorie Option…

Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte – Grande: 190 calories, 28 grams sugar, 4 grams fat, and 170mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

This is kind of like the lighter (but still delicious) cousin to your classic iced latte. It features Starbucks® Blonde Espresso, a touch of vanilla syrup, and cold milk over ice cubes, AND… it’s only 190 calories, which is perfect for those who are watching their waistline. Lucky for those of you who also need some energy, low-cal does not necessarily mean low caffeine, as this one comes in at 170mg.

When Want Something Warm and Comforting…

Blonde Vanilla Latte – Grande: 250 calories, 35g sugar, 6g fat, and 170mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

If you like your coffee beverages warm and comforting, the regular (non-iced) Blonde Vanilla Latte is what you’re looking for. This drink is created with a combination of extra-smooth Starbucks® Blonde Espresso, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup. Its light, velvety taste is great for those who enjoy the milder flavors of a medium roast coffee bean. It does have more calories than the iced version (250 calories to be exact), but it’s a lovely treat during the cooler months when you’re looking for something to make you feel cozy from in the inside out.

For the Caffeine Connoisseur…

Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew – Grande: 70 calories, 4g sugar, 5g fat, and 265mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

Do you prefer your caffeine fix super smooth and velvety? If so, this one is your match. Starbucks’ Nitro Cold Brew is served cold straight from the tap and topped with house-made vanilla sweet cream. It’s also got a cascading, creamy texture, but don’t let it fool you. This one’s not for the faint of heart! It packs a serious 265mg caffeine punch. And yet, it’s only 70 calories, so if you’re calorie-conscious and looking to be absolutely amped, this is the one for you.

If You Love a Rich, Indulgent Flavor…

Caffè Vanilla Frappuccino Blended Beverage – Grande: 250 calories, 33g sugar, 7g fat, and 150mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

If you’re the kind of person who prefers their coffee taste like a decadent dessert-like treat, opt for this beautiful blend of Frappuccino® roast coffee, vanilla bean powder, and milk. Blended with ice and topped with whipped cream, this thing is pure joy, but as expected with more indulgent treats, this iced coffee contains 410 calories and 63 grams of sugar. We all need a little treat sometimes! So if you enjoy a sweet vanilla flavor that makes you feel like you’re having ice cream in your coffee, you and this coffee are a match made in heaven.

If You Prefer a Smooth, Creamy Experience…

Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew – Grande: 110 calories, 14g sugar, 5g fat, and 185mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

This Starbucks’ Cold Brew Coffee is slow-steeped with an addition of vanilla sweet cream, and it’s SUPER smooth! However, you might be delighted to find that it doesn’t overdo it on the sweetness. Perfect for when you need a refreshing, subtly sweet coffee during the summer months.

For Fans of All Things Caramel…

Caramel Macchiato – Grande: 250 calories, 33g sugar, 7g fat and 150mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

Caramel lovers, we got you. The Caramel Macchiato features steamed milk, vanilla-flavored syrup, and rich shots of espresso with a little caramel drizzle on top. If you’re seeking a balanced but still sweet coffee experience, this is a super comforting hot option that can be customized with almond milk or soy milk for a lighter twist.

Iced Caramel Macchiato – Grande: 250 calories, 34g sugar, 7g fat, and 150mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

Want it iced? They have that too! The Iced Caramel Macchiato features a full-bodied espresso, vanilla-flavored syrup, cold milk, ice, and… you guessed it—a drizzle of caramel syrup. It’s a well-balanced option that provides the caffeine and sweetness you’re craving.

For the Adventurous Coffee Explorer…

Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew – Grande: 310 calories, 21g of sugar, 25g of fat, and 185mg of caffeine. 

Photo: Starbucks

This drink blends together Starbucks Reserve® Cold Brew with vanilla bean syrup and extra virgin olive oil-infused cold foam, and it’s definitely got a unique flavor profile. So if you’re someone who’s a little bit more adventurous, we highly recommend it! 

For The Tea Enthusiasts…

Iced London Fog Latte – Grande: 140 calories, 25g sugar, 2.5g fat and 40mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

Love tea AND vanilla? This lovely drink is a take on the classic Earl Grey tea, but with a twist. It blends together bergamot, hints of lavender, and vanilla syrup with milk and ice. It’s both low-cal (140) and low caffeine (40mg), and it boasts a sophisticated flavor that iced tea drinkers will love.

Teavana® London Fog Tea Latte – Grande: 180 calories, 29g sugar, 4g fat and 40mg of caffeine. 

Photo: Starbucks

When you want to enjoy hot tea with the froth of a latte, then go for the Teavana® London Fog Tea Latte. The only difference from the iced version is its addition of steamed milk (and obviously, no ice). If you’re looking for a non-dairy version, be sure to try it with oat milk!

For the Non-Caffeine Lovers…

Vanilla Crème – Gande: 350 calories, 43g sugar, 14g fat, and 0mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

Looking to enjoy a hot drink without the rich coffee flavor? Then Vanilla Crème is all you, baby! This smooth, frothy drink is basically a vanilla-flavored luxury. It’s creamy, warm, and comforting without the caffeine kick, but it will certainly satisfy your vanilla cravings.

Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino – Grande: 380 Calories, 52g sugar, 16g fat, and 0mg of caffeine.

Photo: Starbucks

Looking for a cold, creamy option that’s caffeine-free? Look no further! The Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino is waiting for you. It’s a rich blend of vanilla bean, milk, and ice topped with a little whipped cream, and it’s a match made in heaven for those seeking for a cool dessert-like treat in a cup. If you’re feeling really adventurous (and you’d like a little caffeine), try it affogato-style by adding a hot espresso shot over the top!

Starbucks Secret Menu Vanilla Delights

You won’t find these on the menu, but they’re worth trying nonetheless!

When You’re Craving Something a Little Different…

Iced Vanilla Bean Coconut Milk Latte

Photo: Starbucks

This tropical drink is a unique spin on the classic vanilla iced latte with just a dash of coconut milk and real vanilla bean powder. Because it’s shaken with ice and topped with Starbucks’ signature espresso, it gives you a super flavorful rich and nutty flavor profile, but with a lighter feel. If you’re a fan of non-dairy milk options and are looking for a drink that’s not too heavy on the dairy or sugar, then this is your go-to. 

However, this delicious drink is seasonal, and its availability varies at different locations, but we’re going to tell you how to order it, no matter the season. 

To order, say: “I’d like a grande iced upside down blonde latte with coconut milk and vanilla bean powder. Shaken, please!”

If You Love TikTok Trends…

Pink Drink w/ Heavy Cream

This Tiktok sensation takes the regular Pink Drink, with a flavor profile that includes passion fruit and creamy coconut milk, and mixes it up by swapping the coconut milk out for heavy cream. But that’s not all! You’ll also add in some vanilla bean powder, then top it all off with whipped cream. It’s creamy and fruity and perfect for those who enjoy having a dessert in your cup of iced coffee. 

To order, say: “Can I get a grande Pink Drink with heavy cream instead of coconut milk, 2 scoops of vanilla bean powder, and whipped cream on top?”

If You’re a Fan of Sweet and Spicy…

Iced Vanilla Chai Latte

Looking for a blend of sweet vanilla and spicy chai? This drink is your perfect match! It mingles together the warm spices of black tea and the smoothness of vanilla, and it’s the best way to enjoy chai if you’re a fan of clove, cinnamon, and vanilla.

To order, say: “A grande Iced Chai Latte with vanilla, please.”

If You Like Quick, Intense Coffee Shots…

The Undertow Espresso

Looking for a hidden gem that’ll having you movin’ and groovin’ in record time? This pick-me-up happens in layers: a bottom layer of vanilla syrup, two ounces of Half & Half, and two shots of espresso on top. Perfect for those who need something quick and easy and don’t have time to sit there and sip for the next hour. It’s a fun, unique drink in a short cup that’s meant to be enjoyed quickly. 

To order, say: “In a short cup, can I get 2 pumps vanilla, then 2 ounces of Half & Half, with 2 shots of espresso on top?”

If You Love Sweet and Nutty Flavors…

French Vanilla Latte

Looking to combine the smooth, sweet flavors of a Blonde Vanilla Latte with something a little more nutty in your daily cup of joe? Easy peasy, lemon squeezy! 

To order, just say: “A grande Blonde Vanilla Latte with 2 pumps of hazelnut.”

If You Prefer Cold and Creamy Treats…

French Vanilla Frappuccino

Like the Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino, but want to give it a French accent? Just add hazelnut syrup for a rich, nutty flavor! 

To order, just say: “A grande Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino with 2 pumps of hazelnut.”

 

Time to Go Vanilla Crazy!

By now, you should be paired up with at least one vanilla Starbucks beverage, and hopefully have found your perfect match!

What will you be opting for? Iced espressos? A classic iced vanilla latte? Let us know in the comments!

The post The Best Starbucks Vanilla Coffee Drink for You appeared first on Steamy Kitchen Recipes Giveaways.

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