If you're looking for a healthy and delicious way to enjoy chicken breast, consider making stewed chicken breast. With just 25 calories per ounce (with bone raw, without skin, yield after cooking and bone removed), it's an excellent source of low-fat protein that can help you reach your fitness goals.
In addition to being low in calories and fat, stewed chicken breast is also high in protein and essential nutrients. In fact, a four-ounce serving of stewed chicken breast contains about 27 grams of protein, which is more than half of the daily recommended amount for most adults.
In this article, we'll explore the calorie, protein, and fat content of stewed chicken breast, as well as its vitamin and mineral content, health benefits, and cooking methods. We'll also provide a few recipe ideas, storage and reheating tips, and precautions to take when eating stewed chicken breast.
Calorie Content of Stewed Chicken Breast
As mentioned earlier, one ounce of stewed chicken breast (with bone raw, without skin, yield after cooking and bone removed) contains approximately 25 calories. However, the number of calories in your serving may vary depending on the recipe you use and how you prepare the chicken breast. To reduce the calorie content of stewed chicken breast, you can use a low-sodium broth or stock instead of full-fat chicken broth. You can also add plenty of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions, to help fill you up without adding too many calories.
Protein Content of Stewed Chicken Breast
Stewed chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. In fact, a four-ounce serving of stewed chicken breast contains about 27 grams of protein, making it the perfect post-workout meal. Protein is also essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, as well as for keeping your hair, skin, and nails looking their best. If you're looking for a quick and easy way to boost your protein intake, try adding stewed chicken breast to your diet.
Fat Content of Stewed Chicken Breast
Compared to other cuts of chicken, such as dark meat and skin-on chicken breast, stewed chicken breast is relatively low in fat. In fact, a four-ounce serving of stewed chicken breast contains only about 1 gram of fat. To keep the fat content of your stewed chicken breast even lower, avoid adding extra butter or oils to the recipe. You can also remove any visible fat from the chicken breast before cooking to further reduce the fat content of the dish.
Vitamin and Mineral Content of Stewed Chicken Breast
Stewed chicken breast is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, phosphorus, and selenium. Vitamin B6 is important for maintaining a healthy nervous system, while phosphorus is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Selenium, meanwhile, is an antioxidant that helps protect your body against free radicals, which can damage your cells and increase your risk of chronic diseases. By including stewed chicken breast in your diet, you can help promote overall health and well-being.
Health Benefits of Stewed Chicken Breast
In addition to being low in calories and fat and high in protein, stewed chicken breast offers several health benefits. For example, it may help boost your metabolism, increase satiety, and support healthy immune and nervous system function. It may also help reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic diseases. To reap these benefits, try incorporating stewed chicken breast into your diet on a regular basis.
How to Cook Stewed Chicken Breast
Stewing chicken breast is a relatively simple and straightforward process that can be done on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in the oven. To get started, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken breast, chicken broth, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
3. Allow the chicken breast to simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until it is cooked through and tender.
4. Serve the stewed chicken breast hot or warm, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.
Recipe Ideas for Stewed Chicken Breast
There are many ways to enjoy stewed chicken breast, depending on your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- Stewed chicken breast and vegetable soup
- Creamy chicken and vegetable stew
- Chicken pot pie with stewed chicken breast
- Chicken and dumplings with stewed chicken breast
Storing and Reheating Stewed Chicken Breast
To store leftover stewed chicken breast, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. When you're ready to reheat it, you can do so in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Be sure to check the chicken breast for doneness before serving it, and dispose of any leftovers that have been sitting at room temperature for more than two hours to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Substitutes for Stewed Chicken Breast in Recipes
If you don't have stewed chicken breast on hand or prefer a different type of protein, there are several substitutes you can use in your recipes. Some good options include:
- Roasted turkey breast
- Poached salmon
- Grilled shrimp
- Grilled tofu
Precautions When Eating Stewed Chicken Breast
While stewed chicken breast is generally considered safe and healthy for most people, there are a few precautions you should take when preparing and eating it. First, be sure to cook the chicken breast all the way through to an internal temperature of 165°F to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. You should also be careful not to leave cooked chicken breast at room temperature for more than two hours, as this can allow bacteria to grow and multiply. Finally, if you have a history of food allergies or sensitivities, be sure to check the recipe and ingredients carefully to avoid any potential triggers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stewed Chicken Breast
1. How many ounces of stewed chicken breast make up 25 calories?
One ounce with bone and without skin yields approximately 25 calories after cooking and bone removal.
2. Is skinless chicken breast healthier than chicken with skin?
Yes, skinless chicken breast is lower in saturated fat and calories than chicken with skin. Removing the skin can also reduce cholesterol and sodium intake.
3. What are some healthy ways to prepare stewed chicken breast?
Healthy ways to prepare stewed chicken breast include grilling, baking, or roasting without added fats or oils. Using herbs and spices for flavoring instead of sauces and marinades can also be a healthier option.
4. How does stewed chicken breast fit into a balanced diet?
Stewed chicken breast can be a lean source of protein and can be incorporated into a balanced diet. Pairing it with vegetables and whole grains can provide a satisfying and nutrient-dense meal.
5. Can stewed chicken breast be frozen and reheated?
Yes, stewed chicken breast can be frozen and reheated. It is important to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag and label it with the date. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator or microwave and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.