Lunch: Orange Blossom Honey-Glazed Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potato Puree

Recipe by Charlie Trotter Orange blossom honey adds unique flavor to this chicken and sweet potato comfort-food recipe from chef Charlie Trotter.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Orange Blossom Honey-Glazed Chicken with Roasted Sweet Potato Puree

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 c. orange blossom honey
1/4 c. chicken stock
1 Chicken
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 sweet potatoes
2 tbsp. unsalted butter

Instructions

To prepare glaze: Place honey and stock in a small saucepan and whisk over medium heat for 5 minutes, or until smooth. Reserve 1/4 cup glaze for sweet potatoes and 1/3 cup for sauce.
To prepare chicken: Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Place chicken in a roasting pan and season with salt and pepper. Thoroughly brush chicken with glaze and roast 45 to 60 minutes, or until juices run clear. Brush on additional glaze every 15 minutes during roasting. Remove from oven, let rest 10 minutes, and carve.
Meanwhile, prepare sweet potatoes: Prick sweet potatoes with a fork and bake alongside chicken for 45 minutes, or until soft. Remove skins and place sweet potatoes in a bowl with butter and 1/4 cup glaze. Using an electric mixer or hand masher, whip potatoes until smooth.
To prepare sauce: Drain pan drippings from chicken and remove and discard fat. Cook drippings and 1/3 cup reserved glaze in a small saucepan over medium heat 5 minutes, or until warm.
Spoon some sweet potatoes on one side of each plate. Layer chicken slices in an overlapping pattern alongside potatoes, and spoon sauce over chicken.