Can comfort and health go hand-in-hand? In the case of this comfort meal, the answer is a resounding yes!
This delightful bacon-wrapped chicken and asparagus dish is designed to elevate your spirits and uplift your mood. Combining the rich, smoky flavors of bacon with the earthy, nutritious goodness of asparagus and chicken, this one doesn’t disappoint your taste buds and has the extra addition of doing tons of good for your mental wellness.
So, let’s find out how to make this delicious combination and discover how it improves our mental well-being.
Anything wrapped in bacon, I’m 110% game for. So, get ready to elevate your mood and tingle your tastebuds one bite at a time! This recipe will keep you full for hours, and the flavors offer the perfect synergy where it feels like an indulgence but is actually good for you.
The best part is this meal comes all together in less than an hour. I recommend making extra to have over the coming days (who doesn’t love leftovers?). So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Inevitably, we all had bad days. In life, what goes up must come down. It’s like yin and yang. But we can proactively ensure we’re doing everything in our power to fuel our bodies and minds in the best way possible. This can help dips from lasting for days (or weeks) and keep us on track toward a healthy and happy life.
So, how does this bacon wrapped chicken and asparagus help improve your mental wellness? Here’s a few ways!
Asparagus is more than just a tasty veggie. Rich in folate, it helps regulate serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters essential for maintaining a balanced mood.
Asparagus, like many veggies, also contains antioxidants. Antioxidants in our diets are essential for combating any harm caused by free radicals. Antioxidants work to stabilize these unstable compounds, ensuring you stay in tip-top shape.
While often considered an indulgence, bacon (in moderation) can positively impact your mental health. With essential B vitamins, bacon may play a role in helping reduce your risk of depression (actually!) and keeping your brain functioning as it should.
Although this is one food, we don’t want to overindulge in due to the high-fat content. Yet, as part of a meal, like this one, it can have tons of benefits and add heaps of flavor! Even the aroma of bacon might uplift our mood.
Chicken is not just a lean source of protein; it's also rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that serves as a precursor for serotonin — the 'feel-good' neurotransmitter. Elevated serotonin levels can help improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall emotional well-being.
Chicken is also an excellent source of vitamins, like B6 and B12 — both of which play a critical role in brain health. Vitamin B6 aids in the production of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that regulate mood, while B12 supports the maintenance of the nervous system. Together, these nutrients make chicken a mentally nourishing choice!
Related Article: Boost Your Serotonin Levels With This Easy Turmeric Chicken Recipe
Some side dish options include salads, mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, or whatever you fancy! My personal favorite is a mix of zucchini, carrots, and potatoes grilled with a bit of seasoning or sauce.
Related Article: Asparagus with Poached Eggs & Prosciutto: Can This Meal Fight Depression?
Add this to your regular rotation, and enjoy bacon in a healthy mix. Surprisingly, most people don’t eat enough protein but recipes like this one can help ensure you get at least 20-30 grams at each meal. Bon Appetit!
Read Next: Have You Ever Wondered How Much Your Diet Affects Your Mental Health?
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July 6, 2025
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