Barbeque Pulled Chicken
Pulled chicken is a simple yet full-of-flavor recipe that can be prepared in 10 minutes with a short list of ingredients. This versatile dish can be enjoyed throughout the whole week at any time of the day in sandwiches, tacos, nachos, wraps, salads, on top of a baked potato, with rice, or on its own. This dairy-free, gluten-free, soft, juicy, full of protein dish is great for anyone who is experiencing weight loss, dry mouth, or loss of taste. You can make this recipe with either chicken or pork tenderloin, but it is important to note that pork tenderloin is considered red meat and should be consumed in moderation up to 3 portions per week or 12 to 18 ounces or less per week [i].
Ingredient Highlights
Chicken: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein containing complete amino acids essential for growth, tissue repair, and healthy immune function. It is important to consume enough protein during cancer treatment to prevent muscle breakdown and aid in recovery from illness [ii].
Onion and garlic: Allium vegetables onion and garlic are great sources of micronutrients, including selenium, iron, potassium, and vitamin C. Their bioactive sulfur compounds have cancer-preventative, detoxification, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory benefits [iii]. They are good flavor enhancers in dishes which can be helpful when experiencing altered or loss of taste from cancer treatment side effects. Onions and garlic are also prebiotics that serve as food for probiotics.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms collectively called the gut microbiome which can have benefits regulating intestinal flora, maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier, improving inflammation, and strengthening immune function. Consuming probiotic-containing foods such as pickles, sauerkraut, kimchi, or yogurt can improve compromised immunity, diarrhea, inflamed mouth or gut caused by cancer treatments [iv]. (Note: patients with severely impaired immune function should consult with a medical practitioner).
