Lunch: Simple Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey, Basil

Health benefits of Simple Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe

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

1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup prepared mustard
1 envelope ranch salad dressing mix
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper
6 chicken drumsticks
6 bone-in chicken thighs

Instructions

For sauce, in a small bowl, combine the first nine ingredients. Set aside 1/2 cup for serving. Place chicken in a greased 15x10x1-in. baking pan; drizzle with remaining sauce.
Bake, uncovered, at 350 ° for 45-50 minutes or until a thermometer reads 170 °, basting occasionally with pan juices. Warm reserved sauce; serve with chicken. Freeze option: Cool chicken. Freeze chicken with reserved sauce in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through slowly in a covered skillet until a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 165 °, stirring occasionally and adding a little broth or water if necessary.

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