Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Roasted Bell Peppers and Broccoli

Why?

This Lemon-Garlic Chicken with Roasted Bell Peppers and Broccoli is a great recipe for your digestive tract as it offers a substantial amount of the synergy couple Vitamin C and Iron:

• Vitamin C: Lemon juice and bell peppers are excellent sources of Vitamin C, providing a boost to your immune system and aiding in iron absorption from other ingredients in the meal.
• Iron: Chicken is a good source of heme iron, while broccoli contributes non-heme iron to the meal, ensuring a well-rounded intake of this essential mineral.

Ingredients

For the Lemon-Garlic Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 2 lemons
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Roasted Bell Peppers and Broccoli:

• 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Prepare Vegetables: On a large baking sheet, spread out the sliced bell peppers and broccoli florets. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Roast Vegetables: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the vegetables for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned, stirring halfway through.
5. Cook Chicken: While the vegetables are roasting, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
6. Serve: Once the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are roasted, remove them from the oven and serve immediately. Plate the lemon-garlic chicken alongside the roasted bell peppers and broccoli. Optionally, you can garnish with additional lemon slices and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.

Scientific Insights

The synergy between Vitamin C and Iron in this meal is rooted in science. Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron by converting ferric iron (Fe^3+) to ferrous iron (Fe^2+), a form that is more readily absorbed in the intestine. Additionally, the acidic environment created by Vitamin C facilitates the solubility of non-heme iron, further aiding its uptake by intestinal cells.

Conclusion

With its vibrant flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients, this meal is not only satisfying but also provides the essential nutrients your body needs to thrive. Enjoy the goodness of Vitamin C and Iron in every delicious bite!