Herb-Crusted Chicken with Spicy Lentils: A High-Protein, High-Fiber Dinner

Looking for a delicious and nutritious dinner that’s packed with flavor and health benefits? This herb-crusted chicken served over a spicy lentil mix is the perfect balanced meal. It’s rich in lean protein, high in heart-friendly fiber, and offers a satisfying combination of textures and spices. Great for a weeknight dinner or healthy meal prep, this dish is full of whole-food ingredients that provide lasting energy and nourishment.

Why This Dish Is Good for You

This recipe combines chicken breast, a lean source of protein, with lentils, which are packed with fiber, minerals, and plant-based protein. The herb crust adds flavor without needing high levels of salt or fat. Lentils are known to be good for heart health, blood sugar control, and digestive wellness. The fresh herbs, including parsley, thyme, and rosemary, add antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory properties. Spices like cumin and chili flakes in the lentils not only deliver heat but also help boost metabolism. However, people with sensitivities to legumes or strong spices may want to adjust the recipe to their needs.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

For the Herb-Crusted Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Spicy Lentil Mix:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Herb-Crusted Chicken with Spicy Lentils

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

In a medium-sized pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the cumin, red pepper flakes, and paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the rinsed lentils and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and check the liquid level, adding more broth or water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste after cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While the lentils are cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix the chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make a paste-like herb mix. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add a small drizzle of olive oil if needed. Cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through (a thermometer should read 165°F or 74°C in the thickest part). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

Spoon a generous portion of the spicy lentil mix onto each plate. Place sliced herb-crusted chicken on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve warm and enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.

Tips and Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with the herb mix for 1–2 hours before cooking.
• Swap out lentils for canned chickpeas or black beans for variety.
• Add spinach or kale to the lentils in the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra greens.
• Serve leftovers cold or reheated for a protein-packed lunch the next day.

This meal is easy to prepare, nutrient-rich, and full of savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this herb-crusted chicken with spicy lentils is a healthy dinner recipe you’ll want to make again and again.