Chicken

Grilled Chicken Parmesan

992234_spaghettiYou obviously can’t have the typical breaded and very cheesy version of this traditional Italian dish while you are on the P90X plan. But you can have something similar to kick any chicken parmesan cravings you might be having. This is a simple recipe and one that is great for people who select the portion approach. It’s simple but does require some cook time. Make enough on the weekend for lunch leftovers throughout the week and you will thank yourself.

 

2- 3 oz. portions of boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 T. Olive Oil
2 oz. Parmesan Cheese
2 Cups Cooked Whole Grain Spaghetti
2 Cups Spaghetti Sauce (plain, no cheese or meat added)
Italian Spice Blend

Heat stove top grill or skillet on medium heat. Coat pan with 1 T. of olive oil and add chicken breasts seasoned with Italian spices and black pepper. Heat spaghetti sauce and boil pasta while chicken is cooking. Cook chicken, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through (180 degrees, approximately 10 minutes per side depending on thickness). When pasta is al dente (tender-firm), remove from heat and drain. Stir the other tablespoon of olive oil into the pasta and serve pasta with chicken and sauce on top. Top each serving with 1 oz of parmesan cheese.

This recipe serves two and each serving includes: 1 protein, 1 vegetable, and 1 grain. Double the chicken if you are short on your daily proteins.

Chicken Salad: Classic Health Food, Cool Summer Meal

Sometimes the best foods are the easiest to prepare. In the heat of summer no one wants to turn on the stove if they don’t have to or eat a meal that will weigh heavy on their stomach. Everything is a bit more laid back in the summer. No need to break out the measuring spoons with this chicken salad recipe; eyeballing the measurements and adjusting them to fit your taste makes the recipe your own.
 
The beauty of chicken salad is you can use the leftover grilled chicken breasts from last night’s dinner, or buy a can of all white chicken breast meat when you don’t have the time to spark the grill. Whichever chicken you use, just be sure it is either shredded or cut into bite sized chunks.

  • Chicken (Breast meat, shredded or cubed)
  • Grapes (Green or red seedless, sliced in halves)
  • Apple (Cubed. Any variety will do, add your favorite)
  • Walnuts (Chopped. You can substitute pecans or any other nut of your choice)
  • Light mayonnaise (Use sparingly, to taste)

Add all ingredients in bowl and combine. Simple enough!

This chicken salad is great alone or served on a whole grain pita. You can also serve on a bed of mixed greens or a slice of good whole grain bread.

Chicken salad is a great source of protein. Adding the fruit and nuts not only increases the nutritional value but also makes this an interesting and fun take on the traditional chicken salad. Served with iced tea and lemon, this is a great lunch time treat for one or to share with guests.