Heart-Healthy Bicol Express

Savor the vibrant flavors of this Heart-Healthy Bicol Express, a lighter take on the traditional Filipino favorite. This guilt-free version swaps out fatty pork for lean, protein-rich chicken breast and uses light coconut milk to maintain the dish's creamy signature sauce, all while reducing saturated fat. Aromatics like garlic, onion, and ginger infuse the dish with bold depth, while red chili peppers bring a subtle heat that can be adjusted to suit your spice preference. The addition of green bell peppers and optional kaffir lime leaves creates layers of fresh, zesty flavor, complemented by a touch of low-sodium fish sauce for a healthier balance of umami. Served over nutty brown rice and garnished with fragrant basil leaves, this recipe offers a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for anyone aiming to eat cleaner without sacrificing taste. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a wholesome dinner idea that’s big on flavor and kind to your heart.

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams Chicken breast
• 400 ml Light coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 4 Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium Onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Ginger, minced
• 3 Red chili peppers, sliced
• 1 medium Green bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons Low-sodium fish sauce
• 3 Kaffir lime leaves (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 5 leaves Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• 200 grams Brown rice, cooked

Directions

Step 1

Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips, ensuring that the pieces are even in size for uniform cooking.

Step 2

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, chopped onion, and minced ginger, sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3

Add the sliced red chili peppers and green bell pepper to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften.

Step 4

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced chicken breast to the pan. Stir-fry until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

Step 5

Pour in the light coconut milk and stir to combine with the other ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 6

Add the low-sodium fish sauce, ground black pepper, and kaffir lime leaves if using. Stir to distribute evenly. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 7

Remove the pan from heat and discard the kaffir lime leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 8

Serve the Bicol Express hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and alongside a serving of cooked brown rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1545.7 grams (1545.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1569

Total Fat 67.20g	86%
Saturated Fat 25.60g	128%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.80g
Cholesterol 430mg	143%
Sodium 3138mg	136%
Total Carbohydrate 94.90g	35%
Dietary Fiber 13.00g	46%
Total Sugars 19.00g
Protein 157.40g	315%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 228mg	18%
Iron 13mg	74%
Potassium 3220mg	69%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.5%

Protein: 39.0%

Carbs: 23.5%