Delicious Lentil Chicken Cutlets Recipe for a Healthy Meal

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If you’re searching for a wholesome and delectable dish to add to your culinary repertoire, look no further than Lentil Chicken Cutlets. This delightful recipe brings together the rich flavors of chicken and lentils, resulting in a meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these cutlets are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering dish.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients:

3 slices white bread (crusts removed)
1 egg white
1 clove garlic, crushed
Salt, to taste
250 g canned tomatoes
40 g grated Parmesan
1 sprig parsley
120 g green lentils
1 tablespoon flour
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 bay leaf
500 g ground chicken
1 cup milk
1 onion

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 6

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread and Vegetables:
- Soak the slices of white bread in milk. Once softened, gently squeeze out excess milk.
- Finely chop the onion and garlic. Sauté them in 1 tablespoon of olive oil for about 5 minutes until they turn golden.
Mix the Chicken Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with the soaked bread, sautéed onion and garlic, and egg white. Season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Shape the Cutlets:
- With damp hands, form small cutlets from the mixture, approximately 2.5 cm in diameter. Place them on a flour-dusted tray and refrigerate for a few minutes to firm up.
Cook the Lentils:
- Rinse the green lentils thoroughly. Boil them in salted water for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
Fry the Cutlets:
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet. Fry the cutlets over medium heat, turning frequently, for about 6 minutes until browned on all sides.
Simmer with Tomatoes:
- Add the canned tomatoes with their juice, bay leaf, and parsley to the skillet. Simmer for 4 minutes to blend the flavors.
Assemble and Serve:
- Stir in the cooked lentils and gently mix. Let them simmer together for an additional 6-8 minutes over low heat. Before serving, discard the parsley and bay leaf. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and serve hot.

Tips and Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.
Herb Swap: Use cilantro instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 6g

Conclusion

Lentil Chicken Cutlets offer a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve them with a fresh salad or your favorite side dish for a complete dining experience. With their rich flavors and health benefits, these cutlets are bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of green?

While you can use red lentils, they tend to cook faster and may alter the texture.

How long do these cutlets last in the fridge?

Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the cutlets?

Yes, freeze them before frying for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.

Expert Tips

Ensure the bread is thoroughly soaked for the best texture.
Use fresh Parmesan for a richer taste.
Adjust seasoning to your preference.

Cultural Context

Lentil Chicken Cutlets are an innovative fusion of traditional comfort food elements with a modern twist. Chicken cutlets are popular worldwide, and the addition of lentils not only enhances the nutritional value but also introduces a delightful texture. This dish reflects a growing trend towards incorporating legumes into everyday meals for health and flavor benefits.