Although there are many vegan athletes who may be thriving off no-meat diets, most people agree that meat protein is highly important. The different types of meat that people consume provide different nutrients, which the body then transforms into energy, essential for athletes to perform well.
But meat protein, in this case, protein from chicken breast is not just relevant for athletes but for everyone who sources nutritious foods, and everyone who is looking to eat healthy.
Chicken breast is one of the most consumed meats all over the world and is relatively inexpensive, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.
Various health benefits of chicken breast
- Chicken breast is a good source of low-fat protein that contributes to muscle development, weight-loss and maintaining proper weight.
- High in tryptophan, chicken meat protects against depression and anxiety. Tryptophan is a very important amino acid that naturally produces hormones and regulates moods. Chicken is highest in tryptophan among all types of meat.
- Another protein-related benefit, chicken helps against developing various bone diseases like osteoporosis and arthritis, common with older age.
- Chicken breast maintains heart health by regulating levels of homocysteine in the body. Homocysteine is an amino acid that can produce heart disease when levels are too high. Eating various foods such as chicken meat, respectively chicken breast will lower high levels of homocysteine.
- High in phosphorus, chicken breast supports healthy teeth and bone health. The nutrient is also relevant in maintaining proper functioning of the liver and the kidney.
How to cook chicken breast to rip benefits
As with many other types of foods, chicken breast is best when cooked on the grill or in the oven using only a small amount of cooking oil, preferably good quality olive oil.
The healthiest way to eat chicken breast is to grill the meat along with some vegetables and serve warm. Another good option is to stir-fry in a small amount of oil with vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, peppers, and carrots.
Chicken soup is a very popular way to cook chicken breast too, either the traditional way with noodles or simply with vegetables. Staple vegetables for making chicken breast soup are carrots, green beans, and celery. Kale and mushrooms can also be added for more nutrition and extra flavor.
Frying chicken breast poses a number of health risks, especially when the meat is deep fried and consumed as such often. The more and the longer the meat is fried, the higher the risk of developing various health issues, something that stands true with all deep fried foods, not just chicken breast.
How to buy and store chicken breast
Buying fresh chicken breast is the best way to avoid spoiled meat. When the chicken is fresh, color and smell can tell a lot about the quality of the product.
Chicken breast lasts up to two days in the refrigerator and can be stored in the freezer for later use. It should, however, be frozen immediately if not prepared and consumed within two days after purchasing.
When intended for use, it is important to keep chicken at room temperature prior to the cooking process no longer than two hours to prevent bacteria from growing.
How to store efficiently
- Slice if necessary into various portions.
- Prepare airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Or use plastic wrap to wrap the meat tightly.
- Maintain a constant 0 ̊F temperature or below for best quality.
When stored properly, chicken breast has a storage life of up to 9 months, although preferably the meat should be consumed within 4 months after freezing.