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High Protein Lentil Chicken Power Meals - Simple, Satisfying, and Meal-Prep Friendly

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450
This hearty and nutritious dish combines tender chicken, lentils, and vegetables for a satisfying meal that's perfect for meal prep and packed with protein.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup dry green or brown lentils (rinsed)
  • 1 large yellow onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 large carrot (diced)
  • 1 stalk celery (diced, optional but recommended)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced, optional)
  • 1 can 14-15 oz diced tomatoes (no salt added)
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (plus more as needed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional for color and warmth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1 lemon zest and juice

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions 

  • Pat the chicken dry and season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3-4 minutes per side until browned, then transfer to a plate.
  • Lower heat, add onion, carrot, and celery with a pinch of salt. Cook 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, turmeric, and thyme; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in diced tomatoes, scrape up browned bits, then add lentils, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  • Return chicken to the pot, nestling it into the mixture. Cover and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender and chicken is cooked through. Garnish with lemon zest, juice, and herbs before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Calories: 450kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Healthy
Keyword: chicken, Lentils, Meal Prep