We all get bored with making the same recipes over and over. Whenever I get into a recipe rut, I pick a random country, head over to Pinterest and see what fantastic cuisine they have to offer. Sometimes I’ll use a random selection generator online. I tried this for this week, came up with Peru, and the recipe I found did not disappoint! This soup is warming for the cold weather, but also light and refreshing. It’s loaded with nutrient-dense cilantro, peppers, lean chicken and complex carbs from brown rice and potato. This soup has a little kick to it, so let’s talk about what makes peppers spicy: capsaicin. Capsaicin is a phytochemical (we’ve heard that word before!) that has quite a bit of research around it. Studies show that those who each chilis on a regular basis have an associated reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer and a 25% relative reduction in all-cause mortality. Embrace the chilis! — Dana Mealing, RDN, LDN
Tag: chicken
One Pan Pomegranate Chicken and Squash
Pomegranate is a beautiful and delicious fruit packed with nutrients. One serving, or half a fruit, had almost 6g fiber, 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates and tons of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, including the powerful antioxidant, anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are chemicals that are responsible for red, blue and purple colors in many fruits and vegetables. This chemical has been getting a lot of attention as more and more research comes out on its health benefits. Anthocyanins, along with other antioxidant chemicals found in plant foods, help reduce chronic inflammation, which is thought to be an underlying condition of many chronic diseases such cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s and cancers. This recipe features both pomegranate juice as the seeds (also called arils) and it’s easy to make, using a single sheet pan.
Sheet Pan Bake – Harvest Apple Chicken
Sometimes making dinner can be chaotic. Having those go-to recipes that are fast, easy and with minimal cleanup are crucial to minimizing stress while your home. You can even prep the pan ahead of time and keep it in the fridge covered with foil until you are ready to cook. This recipe features seasonal apples of your choice as well as hearty veggies. Chicken is lean protein and a more heart-healthy option compared to red meats. Using skinless cuts will further help reduce unnecessary saturated fats from your meals. This dish would pair well with a side brown rice or farro, tossed with some fresh rosemary.
Harissa and Persimmon Chicken
Persimmon is an underrated fruit here in the states. A golden, jammy combination of tangy tart and sweet. It’s not often they are in the grocery store, but you may find them at a local market or farm stand, Asian grocery, or you may come across them on your next hike.
Chicken Burritos
Meal prep is a great way to ensure you have healthy meals available when you are busy, and these chicken burritos will hit the spot for breakfast!
Sesame Chicken Stir Fry
Nothing is better than a quick and easy meal that is healthy and satisfying! Try this sesame chicken stir fry and pair with any whole grain you choose.
Chicken Taco Salad
This taco salad really is delicious and full of protein and veggies!
Chicken Cabbage Salad
This salad filled with colorful veggies, grilled chicken and a healthier version of ranch will hit the spot! Time to get out that grill! For a vegetarian option, try adding chickpeas or kidney beans instead of chicken.
Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Burgers
Swapping out ground beef for chicken in a burger will not only cut out saturated fat, but it will be lower in calories. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to a beef burger, this buffalo chicken burger recipe is for you!
Barbecue Ranch Chicken Quinoa Bowls
If you have a slow cooker and love barbecue chicken, this recipe will be right up your alley! This barbecue chicken quinoa bowl is not only beautiful but it has lots of nutritional value and fiber!