Dinner: Grilled Chicken Breasts and Chipotle-Cilantro Carrots with Feta

Recipe by Amelia Saltsman Here, grilled chicken turns into a fiesta-style main course. Use leftover canned chipotles to flavor mayonnaise for sandwiches, or butter for chops and steaks.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast, Lemon, Honey

Health benefits of Grilled Chicken Breasts and Chipotle-Cilantro Carrots with Feta

Skinless chicken breast, often heralded for its lean nutritional profile, is undeniably a powerhouse when it comes to protein content. With an impressive 21 grams of protein packed into every 100 grams of the breast, it emerges as a preferred choice for those conscious about their protein intake. Delving deeper into the nutritional matrix of chicken, one can't overlook the copious amounts of vitamin B6 it houses. This particular vitamin plays an indispensable role in our body, especially when discussing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) management.

For individuals grappling with PCOS, the internal hormonal turbulence can be overwhelming, often leading to a spike in testosterone and androgen levels. This is where vitamin B6 comes into the spotlight. Acting as a balancer, vitamin B6 diligently works behind the scenes to keep these hormones in check, ensuring they don't surge beyond desirable levels. It is this equilibrium that becomes paramount for those earnestly looking to curtail the excessive flow of testosterone and androgen. In the broader spectrum of PCOS management, incorporating foods rich in vitamin B6, like chicken breast, can be a strategic move, providing both nutritional sustenance and hormonal balance.

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

1 1/4 pounds boneless chicken breast halves with skin
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
2 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano
3 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel, divided
2 garlic cloves, pressed
Freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 pounds large carrots, peeled, cut on deep diagonal into 1/4- to 1/3-inch-thick slices
3/4 teaspoon minced canned chipotle chiles*
Coarse kosher salt
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided
1 1/2 teaspoons honey
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
4 ounces feta cheese, coarsely crumbled

Instructions

Place chicken between 2 sheets of plastic wrap; pound with meat mallet to 1/2- to 3/4-inch thickness. Place chicken in 11 x 7 x 2-inch glass baking dish. Drizzle with 4 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with oregano, 2 teaspoons lemon peel, garlic, and pepper. Turn to coat. Cover and let stand 1 hour at room temperature.
Fill large bowl halfway with ice cubes and water. Cook carrots in boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Drain. Immediately place carrots in bowl of ice water to cool. Drain carrots; pat dry.
Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Toss carrots, 1 tablespoon oil, and chipotle chiles in large bowl; sprinkle lightly with coarse salt. Place chicken, skin side down, on grill, along with carrots. Grill chicken until cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes per side. Grill carrots until tender and grill marks appear, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to cutting board. Transfer carrots to large bowl. Drizzle carrots with remaining 1 tablespoon oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and honey. Add cilantro and remaining 1 teaspoon lemon peel; toss to coat. Season with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper. Slice chicken on diagonal. Arrange on platter, surround with grilled carrots, and sprinkle with crumbled feta. Drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice over and serve.
Dried, smoked jalapeños in a spicy tomato sauce called adobo; available at some supermarkets and at specialty foods stores and Latin markets.