Crash Course

A simple plate of protein and vegetables can sometimes be so much more.

Take this meal as a perfect example.

It starts with of a collision of worlds: a vegetarian-protein-packed base lending support to my favorite post-veg paprika style chicken.  It ends with an explosion of contrasting flavors: a bang of paprika spice grounded by nutty lentils, sweet coconut milk, carrots, a red bell pepper mellowing bitter kale greens.

The result: a wholesome combination that can be made again and again.  Omit the chicken and go full-veg for a lighter version, keep the chicken or sub salmon for a post-workout muscle rebuild, and definitely save the leftovers for a delicious, pack-able, work-day lunch.

Coconut Lentil Bowls with Paprika Chicken

Note: original recipe inspiration was lost but I think it was altered from Food52!


Ingredients

For the Lentils

• 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
• 2 t garlic, minced
• 2 T oil
• 1 c lentils, uncooked
• 2 t basil, dried
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 1/2 c water
• 7 oz full fat coconut milk, very well shaken 
• 2 medium carrots, shredded
• 1/2 red bell pepper
• 4 c kale, chopped

For the Chicken

• 1 T oil
• 1 lb chicken
• 2 t smoked paprika
• 1 t garlic, powdered
• 1 t onion, powdered
• 1/2 t red pepper
• 1/4 t cumin
• 1 t salt

Combine

For the Lentils

1. Heat two tablespoons of oil in a medium pot over medium heat then add the onions and garlic and saute for 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the lentils, basil, salt, pepper, and water.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat for 10 minutes then reduce heat to low, stir in the coconut milk, carrots, and pepper and simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are just cooked through.
4. Stir in the kale and cook until just wilted.

For the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 350 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk the spices together in a small dish.
3. Trim any extra fat off the chicken, rub lightly with oil, and sprinkle the spices onto each side of the chicken so each piece is well coated.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.

Notes:

1. If you want this to be a 30 minutes dinner I suggest starting by prepping all of the veggies and spices, then preheating the oven, then starting the lentils.  Once you reduce them to a simmer you can focus on the chicken and get it going.
2. This meal is best with a side of fresh, toasted bread.
3. Enjoy!