Lunch: Honey-Mustard Skillet Chicken

Recipe by Lauren Miyashiro This ain't your mama's chicken.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Honey-Mustard Skillet Chicken

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

1/4 c. Dijon mustard
1/4 c. honey
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
salt
Pepper
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 c. chicken stock
Chopped parsley, for serving
cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
Make honey-mustard. Mix together mustard, honey and garlic cloves in a small bowl.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper, then add them skin side-down to the skillet. Cook until the skin gets golden brown and crispy, about 8 minutes.
Pour the chicken stock into the pan and bring to simmer. Spoon honey-mustard over the chicken and transfer pan to the oven. Bake until the chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes more.
Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve warm over cooked white rice.

Share Honey-Mustard Skillet Chicken