Lunch: One-Pan Basil Halloumi Chicken

One-Pan Basil Halloumi Chicken

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast, Lemon, Basil

Health benefits of One-Pan Basil Halloumi Chicken

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

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 8oz block of halloumi cheese
2 cartons red cherry tomatoes
4 large leaves Basil
2 tsp salt (or to taste)
2 tsp pepper (or to taste)
1/3 cup olive oil

Basil Oil:
1/3 cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves
2 large handfuls of basil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
Juice from ½ a lemon

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350˚F / 175˚ C

Turn the block of halloumi on its side and cut it into 3-4 even slices. Set aside. Pour the olive oil, salt, and pepper into a large plastic bag. Put the tomatoes and chicken in and massage until everything is evenly coated in the seasoned oil. Dump everything onto a foil lined baking sheet. Top the chicken with the large basil leaves and then the slices of halloumi.

Bake for 15 minutes at 350˚, then turn on the broil setting and cook for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and the chicken is cooked. (note: oven times vary, especially broil so keep an eye on it!) Take the chicken out and let it rest on a plate and continue to cook the tomatoes for 10 more minutes back on 350˚ F. (They will become super sweet and have a great concentrated tomato flavor!)

Meanwhile, add the olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to a blender and blitz for 30 seconds. Next add the basil and blitz until it’s the consistency of pesto, about 30 seconds.

Recipe by Claire King