Healthy Chicken Dinner

Here’s a healthy chicken dinner recipe. Chicken makes a healthy dinner. Here are some of the health benefits of chicken, which makes a fantastic substitute for red meats. A great source of protein, the meat has been linked to a variety of health benefits:

Stronger Bones and Muscles

The lean protein in chicken is an excellent source of amino acids. Our bodies use amino acids to build muscle tissue, something that is particularly important as we age. Studies have also shown that higher protein intake helps to maintain bone mineral density. Eating chicken can help to build stronger muscles and promote healthier bones, decreasing the risk of injuries and diseases such as osteoporosis.

Weight Management and Heart Health

Research suggests that 25-30 grams of protein per meal can help us feel more full. Protein rich meals can make us feel fuller despite us eating less, which helps to promote better weight management. Healthier weight leads to improvements in risk factors for heart problems such as high triglyceride levels and high blood pressure. A food rich in protein, chicken can help with weight management and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Better Mood

Chicken contains the amino acid tryptophan, which has been linked to higher levels of serotonin (the “feel good” hormone) in our brains. The tryptophan levels in chicken aren’t high enough to make you feel instantly euphoric, but studies show it could help to boost serotonin levels when paired with other factors.

Nutrition

Chicken is filled with high-quality proteins and doesn’t contain much fat — especially if you eat lean cuts. Beyond its rich protein content, chicken also contains:

• Vitamin B12
• Tryptophan
• Choline
• Zinc
• Iron
• Copper

Nutrients per Serving

A raw, boneless skinless chicken breast fillet contains:

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 26 grams
• Fat: 2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Sugar: 0 grams

This super-easy one-pan dinner is ready in a flash, and low-calorie.

Healthy Chicken Dinner: One-Pan Caprese Chicken

Ingredients (serves 4)

• 1/2 French shallot, finely chopped
• 1 large garlic clove, crushed
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, plus 1 tbsp finely chopped, extra
• 2 Chicken Breast Fillets, halved lengthways
• 300g mixed baby tomatoes, halved
• 4 (about 140g) bocconcini, sliced
• 1 tbsp Coles Italian Red Wine Vinegar
• 1/2 tsp caster sugar
• Crusty bread, to serve

Directions

Step 1

Combine the shallot, garlic, 1 tbs oil and the extra basil in a bowl. Season. Heat the remaining oil in a large ovenproof non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken and cook, turning, for 4 minutes or until browned. Remove the pan from the heat.

Step 2

Preheat the oven grill to high. Scatter the tomato around the chicken. Spread chicken with half the basil mixture. Top with the bocconcini and spoon over the remaining basil mixture. Drizzle tomato with vinegar and sprinkle with sugar. Season. Grill for 4 minutes or until the cheese melts and tomatoes blister. Sprinkle with the basil. Serve with bread.