Inflammation-Fighting Turmeric Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a small bowl, mix together the turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the olive oil and lemon juice to the spice mixture and stir until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add a little olive oil to the skillet, and when hot, add the marinated chicken breasts.
- Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Benefits
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce inflammation in the body.
- Rich in Antioxidants: The spices used in this recipe, especially turmeric and cumin, are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Supports Immune Health: The combination of garlic, onion, and turmeric can help boost the immune system due to their antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
- Promotes Heart Health: Olive oil and spices like turmeric and cumin have been shown to support heart health by improving cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure.
- Aids Digestion: Spices like coriander and cumin aid in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes.
Conclusion
This Inflammation-Fighting Turmeric Chicken is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. The combination of spices not only adds incredible flavor but also provides numerous anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a perfect addition to a healthy diet. Whether served with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this easy-to-make dish!