Chicken for Health and Fitness
For anyone training for fitness, strength, or simply enjoying social time with friends, we all recognise how essential protein is for our bodies. One of the top ways to introduce protein into your diet is through food, and chicken stands out for numerous reasons. Here are 11 of them:
- High Protein Content: Chicken is rich in protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and maintenance. Protein, composed of amino acids, is often termed the “building blocks” of muscles. A typical 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken breast provides about 27 grams of protein.
- Low Fat: Chicken is a lean meat, particularly when you remove the skin. This makes it a favoured choice for those mindful of their fat intake. Moreover, most of the fat in chicken is unsaturated, which is healthier than saturated fats in many other meats.
- Versatility: Chicken is adaptable and can be cooked in myriad ways. Whether grilled, baked, broiled, or stir-fried, it’s suitable for diverse meal plans and taste preferences.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken offers a range of essential vitamins and minerals, including B-vitamins (such as niacin and B6), phosphorus, and selenium, vital for energy production, neurological health, and antioxidant defence.
- Cost-Effective: In comparison to many other protein sources, especially certain red meats and seafood, chicken is usually more cost-friendly.
- Digestibility: Chicken is typically easier to digest than meats like beef or pork, which can be particularly beneficial post-workout.
- Low in Sodium: Fresh, unprocessed chicken has low sodium content, making it a wise choice for those watching their salt intake.
- Other Meat Options: While the chicken breast is the leanest, other parts such as thighs and legs provide variety for those seeking a bit more fat or flavour.
- Widely Available: Chicken can be found in most parts of the world, making it a convenient choice.
- Contains Healthy Fats: Some chicken parts, like the thighs, have beneficial fats for those on high-fat diets or those seeking the advantages of fats for hormone production, energy, and other bodily functions.
- Taste and Texture: The flavour and texture of chicken are generally well-received, aiding in dietary adherence.
Our freshly marinated chicken is ideal for all dietary requirements, and we offer a selection to tantalise any palate.
- BBQ Chicken:
- Flavour Profile: BBQ chicken often has a tangy and slightly sweet glaze.
- Health Benefits: Using minimal sugar and natural ingredients in the BBQ sauce offers a delightful taste without excessive calories. Many BBQ sauces, being tomato-based, also supply lycopene, an antioxidant.
- Chicken Tikka:
- Flavour Profile: This involves marinating chicken in spices and yoghurt before grilling or baking.
- Health Benefits: The yoghurt helps tenderise the meat, offering probiotics and calcium. Spices like turmeric and ginger add anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Lemon and Herb:
- Flavour Profile: Seasoned with zesty lemon and a mix of herbs for a tangy kick.
- Health Benefits: Lemons are vitamin C-rich, benefiting skin health and immunity. Herbs have their own sets of health perks, including anti-inflammatory properties.
- Peri Peri:
- Flavour Profile: This chicken is drenched in spicy chilli sauce.
- Health Benefits: Chillies contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Chicken Kebab:
- Flavour Profile: Skewered chicken, often accompanied by vegetables, grilled to perfection.
- Health Benefits: Paired with veggies, it offers additional fibre, vitamins, and minerals, and helps with portion control.
- Tandoori Chicken:
- Flavour Profile: Chicken marinated in yoghurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor or oven.
- Health Benefits: Similar to chicken tikka, with yoghurt providing probiotics, and the spices bringing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Perfect for Meal Preps: These chicken varieties are not only flavoursome but also versatile, perfect for meal prepping. Pair them with sides like rice, quinoa, vegetables, or salads for a balanced, protein-rich meal. Changing between these flavours can keep your meals fresh and exciting, motivating you to stay on track with your nutrition goals.
