Lunch: Yogurt-BBQ Chicken with Creamy Slaw compliments of Dannon® Light and Fit® Greek Yogurt

It's summer time, pool time and BBQ time! Add a delicious twist to your barbeque chicken and cole slaw with a creamy yogurt sauce. It is sure to be a hit with the entire family after a day of fun in the sun!

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast, Lemon, Honey, Basil

Health benefits of Yogurt-BBQ Chicken with Creamy Slaw compliments of Dannon® Light and Fit® Greek Yogurt

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.

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.

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.

Basil is an excellent stress reliever, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups Dannon® Light & Fit® Plain Greek Nonfat Yogurt
3 tablespoons minced fresh mint or basil
3 tablespoons chopped scallions
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon Srirachi sauce
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and ground black pepper, as needed
4 (4-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12 ounces shredded cabbage slaw mix (about 6 cups)

Instructions

In a bowl mix Light & Fit Greek Nonfat Yogurt, mint, scallions, honey, oil, Srirachi and lemon juice and zest along with salt and pepper, as needed. Mix well.
Place chicken pieces in a separate bowl and add 1/2 cup of the Yogurt mixture and toss chicken pieces until thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Add slaw mix to bowl with 1/2 cup Yogurt mixture and toss very well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate at least 15 minutes before serving.
To cook, place marinated chicken pieces on a prepared, hot grill and cook 1-2 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from grill.
Mound slaw evenly onto 4 plates, top with chicken pieces and serve with remaining Yogurt sauce.