Lunch: Skinny Orange Chicken

Recipe by Lindsay Funston If you love ordering this for takeout, now you can enjoy it at home with zero guilt.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast, Sesame Seeds, Honey

Health benefits of Skinny Orange 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.

Sesame seeds help with progesterone balance. Lignans found in in sesame seeds help to prevent excess estrogen production.

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

2 c. all-purpose flour
2 large Eggs, beaten
2 c. panko bread crumbs
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Juice and zest of 2 oranges
1/3 c. low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 c. honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp. freshly grated ginger
2 tbsp. cornstarch
2 c. cooked jasmine rice
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Sliced scallions, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
Set up a dredging station with one bowl of flour, one of beaten eggs, and one of panko. Dredge the chicken in flour, then coat in eggs and cover in panko. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Arrange chicken on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake until no longer pink, 18 to 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, make sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk until combined and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Transfer chicken to a large bowl and toss in orange sauce.
Serve over rice with orange zest, sesame seeds, and scallions.

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