Lunch: Lemon-Mustard Grilled Chicken

The secret to this herbed, lemony chicken? It's microwaved for 10 minutes before being grilled.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast, Lemon, Honey

Health benefits of Lemon-Mustard Grilled Chicken

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

4 bone-in chicken breast halves
1 tsp. grated lemon zest
3 tbsp. lemon juice
1/4 c. honey Dijon mustard
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1 lemon

Instructions

Arrange chicken breasts skin side up, in an 11- by 8- by 2-inch glass baking dish.
Whisk together all remaining ingredients except lemon wedges. Brush half the mixture over chicken. Cover chicken with wax paper and refrigerate at least 2 hours.
Place chicken (still covered with wax paper) in microwave and cook on high power for 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of chicken registers 150 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer. Prepare an outdoor grill or heat the broiler.
To grill chicken: Lightly oil a grill rack and grill chicken, skin side down, 5 minutes. Flip chicken, brush with reserved lemon-mustard mixture, add lemon wedges, and grill for 5 minutes longer, or until internal temperature of chicken registers 170 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer.
To broil chicken: Place chicken skin side down on a broiler pan. Broil on lowest rack in oven (so glaze doesn't burn) 5 minutes. Flip chicken, brush with reserved lemon-mustard mixture, add lemon wedges, and broil until skin is crispy, about 5 minutes longer, or until internal temperature of chicken registers 170 degrees F on instant-read thermometer.

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