Two of the most sincere expressions that people can share are love and cooking. In my view, love begins in the kitchen, where cooking nourishes the spirit as much as the body. As I go through the process of getting ready for a bikini competition, I’ve come to understand how important it is to prepare meals that are flavorful and nutritional.

The Art of Flavorful, Lean Proteins:

One key challenge when preparing for a fitness competition is making lean proteins appetizing. It brings me joy to light up the grill and turn basic items into dishes that express love as we welcome grilling season. Today, I want to show you how to make your grilled chicken even better using a special marinade and careful cooking.

Marinade Magic:

Mouthwatering chicken breasts are made possible by a particular marinade mixture. I add pickle juice for an unexpected twist, Dijon mustard for an acidic kick, and coconut aminos for a sweet-savory touch. This adds taste to the chicken by tenderizing it and introducing flavors of pickling spices, garlic, and bay leaf. Before grilling, marinating the chicken for a full day makes sure that these delicious tastes permeate every bite.

Grilling to Perfection:

Grilling is more than just cooking; it’s an experience. I like to grill the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy and tender. Don’t overcook! It can lead to dry, unpalatable meat, so attention to cooking time and temperature is crucial.

A Twist of Lemon:

Try grilling lemons aside the chicken to enhance the flavor. The warm, caramelized citrus drizzled over the chicken adds a layer of complexity to the dish. 

This grilled chicken is not just for one meal but can be a superstar component in various dishes. Slice it up for a hearty chicken salad, lay it over a bed of veggies and rice, or tuck it into tacos. The possibilities are endless, and having this protein ready to go makes meal prep both simple and exciting.

Reheating Tips:

Avoid the microwave to keep your chicken juicy. Instead, gently reheat slices in a pan to retain their moisture and texture.

Remember that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. It’s all about using quality ingredients, cooking with care, and adding a sprinkle of creativity! Stay tuned for more tips and recipes from my kitchen to yours – because true self-care begins with what we eat.

Love, 

Chef Mareya 👩🏻‍🍳