Lunch: Chicken and Rice with Mint Pesto

Peas, scallions, and a lemony mint pesto give basic white rice and shredded chicken an infusion of fresh flavor. Use already-made roast chicken in this dish.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Nuts, Basil

Health benefits of Chicken and Rice with Mint Pesto

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. Nuts are a natural source of Inositol, a derivative of Vitamin B (which is often prescribed in the form of supplements for women with PCOS). Inositol can effectively control the symptoms of PCOS by reducing insulin resistance and improving insulin sensitivity. Basil is an excellent stress reliever, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

4 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
fine sea salt
1 c. long grain white rice
1 1/2 c. frozen peas
2 c. packed fresh mint leaves
1 c. fresh basil leaves
1/2 c. freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1/4 c. pine nuts
1/4 c. fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic
1 1/2 c. shredded roast chicken
1 small cucumber
3 scallions

Instructions

In a 2-quart saucepan, bring 1 3/4 cups water, 1 tablespoon oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil; add rice. Return to a boil and cover. Reduce heat to low and simmer rice until water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork; let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Spread on a baking sheet and let cool.
For mint pesto: In a food processor, puree 1/2 cup peas, mint, basil, cheese, pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, remaining 3 tablespoons oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
In a bowl, toss together rice, remaining 1 cup peas, pesto, chicken, cucumber, and about two-thirds scallions. Transfer to a serving bowl; sprinkle with remaining scallions and mint.

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