At this time of year in Canada, there isn’t much that is in season. In Hawaii, however, the papaya fruit is ready for picking after a 6-9 month growth period. The papaya harvest is usually during our winter months from January to March and at around $2.00/pound, it’s nice to see a reasonably priced fruit. Papayas contain an enzyme called papain that aids digestion and has been used by some populations as a meat tenderizer. Zeaxanthin, an antioxidant found in papaya is credited with playing a protective role in eye health, decreasing the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Choose a papaya when it is partly or completely yellow in colour and gives slightly to pressure. So what can you do with papaya? Half of a papaya or 140g is about 70 calories of straight carbohydrates and has a Balance Factor of 17. This balances perfectly with chicken. Anniversary Chicken is a delicious dish that is easy to make and can be used the next day for lunch! Enjoy!
Anniversary Chicken
- Course: Dinner
- Balance Factor: -15
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins to cook chicken
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 head of romaine lettuce, washed and trimmed
- 1 ripe papaya, peeled and sliced horizontally
- 1 ripe avocado, seeded and sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced into rings
- 4-6 chicken breasts, cooked
For Dressing:
- 2 T maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp dry mustard
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 T papaya seeds
- 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup salad oil (1/4 cup of each olive and safflower oil)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients “For Dressing” in a blender and blend well.
- Place lettuce on the plate, then layer on a slice or two of chicken, papaya, avocado and onion.
- Drizzle dressing over top.
Recipe Notes:
Slice papaya lengthwise first to remove seeds properly. Peel then place flat side down and slice towards the cutting board.
