If you're looking for a healthy, filling meal, look no further than a 4 oz (112 g) Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara. This tasty dish boasts just 180 calories, perfect for those looking to keep their calorie intake under control.
In addition to being low in calories, chicken breast is also high in protein, making it a great choice for building and maintaining muscle. Ricotta cheese adds a delicious creaminess and flavor while also providing essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin A, and zinc.
Combined with a flavorful basil marinara sauce, this dish is a delicious and healthy alternative to more calorie-dense meals. Let's explore some of the other benefits of this tasty and nutritious dish.
High Protein Content
Chicken breast is known for its high protein content, making it an excellent choice for those looking to build and maintain muscle. A single 4 oz (112 g) serving of chicken breast contains around 35 grams of protein, which is about 70% of the recommended daily intake for the average adult. Ricotta cheese is also high in protein, with around 14 grams per half cup serving. Protein is essential for many bodily functions, including building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and skin. By incorporating a high protein dish like Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast into your diet, you'll stay full for longer periods, reduce cravings, and keep your muscles strong and healthy.
Low in Calories
One of the standout features of this dish is its low calorie content. A single 4 oz (112 g) serving of Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara contains just 180 calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to keep their calorie intake under control. Reducing your calorie intake is an important part of losing weight and promoting overall health. By swapping calorie-dense meals with healthier options like this chicken breast dish, you'll feel more satisfied and energized while still reducing your calorie intake.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Ricotta cheese is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin A, and zinc. Calcium is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth, while vitamin A is important for healthy skin and eyesight. Zinc is necessary for proper immune function and wound healing. Chicken breast is also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium. B vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy brain function and energy levels, while phosphorus is necessary for healthy bones and teeth. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect against cellular damage and inflammation.
Gluten-Free
Many people today suffer from gluten intolerance or celiac disease, making it difficult for them to enjoy certain dishes. Fortunately, this dish is completely gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and can cause a variety of symptoms in those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, including bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue. By choosing gluten-free options like this Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast, you'll still be able to enjoy delicious and nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor.
Low in Carbohydrates
Another benefit of this dish is its low carbohydrate content. A single serving of Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara contains just 5 grams of carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for those following a low carb or ketogenic diet. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body, but consuming too many can lead to weight gain and other health issues. By keeping your carbohydrate intake low and focusing on protein and healthy fats, you'll feel more satisfied and energized throughout the day.
Great for Weight Loss
If you're looking to lose weight, incorporating dishes like this Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast into your diet can be a game-changer. High in protein and low in calories, this dish will help you feel full and satisfied while still reducing your overall calorie intake. Losing weight requires a caloric deficit, which means you need to burn more calories than you consume. By swapping calorie-dense foods for healthier options like this chicken breast dish, you'll be able to achieve your weight loss goals while still enjoying flavorful and satisfying meals.
Healthy Alternative to Fast Food
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to grab a quick and convenient meal from a fast-food restaurant. However, eating a diet high in fast food can lead to weight gain, poor health, and other issues. This Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast is a delicious and healthy alternative to fast food, providing a satisfying and flavorful meal without all the added calories, sodium, and unhealthy fats found in many fast-food options. By taking the time to prepare wholesome and nutritious meals like this chicken breast dish, you'll be doing your body a favor and helping to promote overall health and wellbeing. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is a convenient and tasty way to eat well and nourish your body.
Ideal Portion Size
One of the challenges of eating healthy is figuring out the proper portion sizes for your meals. This Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast is the ideal portion size, providing just the right amount of calories and nutrients to satisfy your hunger and fuel your body. By choosing portion-controlled meals like this chicken breast dish, you'll be less likely to overeat and consume too many calories. This can help with weight loss and overall health, as well as giving you a better sense of control and balance with your meals.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
Another great feature of this recipe is how easy and quick it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in no time. To make Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast, simply cut a pocket into the chicken breast and stuff it with ricotta cheese. Then, season with your favorite spices and bake in the oven until cooked through. Top with basil marinara sauce and enjoy!
Versatile Dish for Any Occasion
Finally, this Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, a healthy lunch option, or a crowd-pleasing dinner party dish, this chicken breast recipe is sure to satisfy. You can also customize the dish to your liking by switching up the spices, adding different herbs or vegetables, or swapping the marinara sauce for a different flavor. With so many possibilities, you'll never get bored of this delicious and nutritious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara
1. How many servings is a 4 oz Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara?
A 4 oz Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara is one serving.
2. How many calories are in a 4 oz Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara?
A 4 oz Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara has 180 calories.
3. What ingredients are in Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara?
The main ingredients of Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara are boneless chicken breast, ricotta cheese, and basil marinara sauce. Other possible ingredients include garlic, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese.
4. How is a 4 oz Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara prepared?
The chicken breast is typically pounded flat, then stuffed with a mixture of ricotta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. After being rolled up, it is baked or grilled until cooked through. The basil marinara sauce is then added to the top of the chicken.
5. Can Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara be made without certain ingredients?
Yes, Ricotta Stuffed Boneless Chicken Breast with Basil Marinara can be customized to personal preferences. For example, if someone is lactose intolerant, they could use a lactose-free cheese instead of ricotta. If someone doesn't like basil, they could use a different marinara sauce or even skip the sauce altogether.