Hey, fellow foody in the house.Today, I will throw us into a whirlwind of flavors with my 15-minute meal prep cilantro lime chicken and lentils deliciousness.
Get ready for a taste sensation.
What Makes this the Best?
I know you are definitely asking yourself, “What sets our cilantro lime chicken and lentils apart?”
Well, my friend, I know I am not ‘yourseld, bug I will answer that question nonetheless.
This recipe is the perfect fusion of vibrant flavors, speedy preparation, and a touch of citrusy magic.
It is everything and more.
Now, let’s get to the basics.
Basics of 15-Minute Meal Prep Cilantro Lime Chicken and Lentils
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts (2, boneless and skinless)
- Lentils (1 cup, cooked)
- Fresh cilantro (½ cup, chopped)
- Lime juice (2 tbsp)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Garlic powder (1 tsp)
- Cumin (1 tsp)
- Paprika (1 tsp)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Alternative Ingredients:
Don’t have the ingredients I mentioned above. Fear not my friend for below are some alternatives;
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Chicken breasts | Turkey cutlets |
| Lentils | Quinoa |
| Cilantro | Parsley |
| Olive oil | Avocado oil |
Steps:
1. Marinate chicken: Combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Thoroughly marinate 2 chicken breasts for a burst of flavor.
2. Sear chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides. The aroma will make your kitchen a paradise.
3. Add lentils: Toss in 1 cup of cooked lentils and fresh cilantro. Let the flavors dance together for a minute. 4. Serve: Plate your cilantro lime chicken and lentils, garnish with extra cilantro, and indulge in the freshness.
Expert Tips
Let me give you some tips that will help you make the best cilantro lime chicken and lentils.
- Ensure even marination for a burst of flavor in your mouth.
- Adjust lime juice for your preferred level of tanginess.
- Experiment with alternative herbs for a personalized touch. Seriously, try it. You will be surprised at what you will discover.
Utensils/What You Need
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
Frequently Asked Questions About Cilantro Lime Chicken and Lentils
Can I use dried lentils?
Yes, you can use dried lentils, but it’s crucial to cook them beforehand.
Dried lentils require soaking and extended cooking time, which is not feasible for our quick 15-minute recipe.
Opt for pre-cooked lentils for a time-efficient option.
Is there a substitute for cilantro?
You know there is. Don’t know, it alright. But there is a substitute for cilantro.
If you’re not a fan of cilantro or looking for a milder alternative, parsley is an excellent substitute. It adds a fresh herb kick without the distinctive cilantro flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, you can. Chicken thighs can be a delicious alternative to chicken breasts.
Ensure they are boneless for quicker cooking. Adjust the cooking time to make sure they are thoroughly cooked and have that golden brown exterior.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is a breeze. Place any remaining cilantro lime chicken and lentils in an airtight container and refrigerate.
When reheating, consider adding a splash of lime juice to revive the flavors.
Is it suitable for meal prepping?
It definitely is. This recipe is a meal-prepping gem. Prepare a batch on your designated meal-prep day, divide it into containers, and you’ve got hassle-free lunches ready for the week.
It stays fresh and delicious even after reheating.
Can I make it spicier?
Ohhh. If you wondered this, I want to let you know that I like you and the way you think.
If you’re a spice enthusiast, (like yours truly) feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences for an extra kick.
Any alternatives to chicken?
There are alternatives to chicken. If you’re looking to switch things up, turkey cutlets work wonderfully as an alternative to chicken.
They offer a lean and tasty option, complementing the vibrant flavors of the dish.
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, canned lentils are a convenient option. Ensure they are drained and rinsed before adding them to the dish.
Canned lentils significantly cut down the preparation time, making this recipe even more time-efficient.
Have any comments or questions? Drop them in the comment box below. I will reply ASAP.
Also, check out our other recipes that are sure to make you go cray-cray with joy 😹.
You will find the recipe in full below 👇👇👇.
15-Minute Meal Prep Cilantro Lime Chicken and Lentils
Ingredients
- 2 Chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 1 cup Cooked lentils
- ½ cup Fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 tbsp Lime juice
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Thoroughly marinate 2 chicken breasts for an explosion of flavor.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides. The aroma will make your kitchen a paradise.
- Toss in 1 cup of cooked lentils and fresh cilantro. Let the flavors dance together for a minute.
- Plate your cilantro lime chicken and lentils, garnish with extra cilantro, and indulge in the freshness.
Notes
- Ensure even marination for a burst of flavor in your mouth.
- Adjust lime juice for your preferred level of tanginess.
- Experiment with alternative herbs for a personalized touch. Seriously, try it. You will be surprised at what you will discover.
