Snack: Chicken Spinach Dip Bread Bowls Recipe

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast, Spinach

Health benefits of Chicken Spinach Dip Bread Bowls Recipe

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.

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients

1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 loaves sourdough bread (1 pound each)
1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1-1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 can (14 ounces) water-packed artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained and chopped
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled, divided

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 °. Thaw spinach, reserving 2 tablespoons liquid.
In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine oil and garlic. Microwave on high 30-45 seconds or until warmed. Cut a thin slice off top of each bread loaf. Hollow out bottoms, leaving 1/2-in.-thick shells (save removed bread for another use). Brush 2 tablespoons oil mixture over outside and inside of bread bowls. Place bread bowls on a baking sheet.
Strain remaining oil mixture into a large skillet; discard garlic. Heat oil over medium-high heat. Add pepper and onion; cook and stir 5-7 minutes or until tender. Remove from pan.
Add chicken to pan; cook and stir over medium-high heat 6-8 minutes or until no longer pink. Reduce heat to medium. Add artichoke hearts, cream cheese, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, spinach, pepper mixture and reserved spinach liquid; cook and stir until cream cheese is melted. Stir in 1/4 cup crumbled bacon. Remove from heat.
Divide mixture between bread bowls; top with remaining bacon. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese over filling and bowls.
Bake, uncovered, 10 minutes. Cover loosely with foil; bake 8-12 minutes longer or until filling is heated through. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. To serve, cut each bowl into 4 wedges. Freeze option: Cool chicken mixture before filling bread bowls. Securely wrap unbaked bowls in foil; place in resealable plastic freezer bags and freeze. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Unwrap bowls and place on a baking sheet. Cover loosely with foil and bake in a preheated 350 ° oven 1 hour. Bake, uncovered, 10-15 minutes longer or until filling is heated through and a thermometer inserted in center reads 165 °.