Healthy Chicken and Lentil Masala

I love curry.  I love red curry, green curry, yellow curry and any combination of spices that equal that deliciously rich and spicy flavour that can not be mistaken for anything but CURRY.  One of the best things about it is that you can make an unbelievably healthy meal that is so flavourful and rich, you'll fool even the fatty food junkies and McDonald's addicts.  Oh, and its also super easy and quick so on those nights when you just don't feel like cooking, you can still have a hearty, warm meal that leaves you feeling satisfied and good about what you just ate.  By the way, the longer it mingles the better so don't hesitate to take the leftovers for lunch the next day!  Tonight we ate ours over quinoa which I totally love, but it can be eaten over rice, potatoes or just on its own.  Get creative and enjoy!

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
1 large can chickpeas (drained and rinsed thoroughly)
1 large can green lentils (drained and rinsed thoroughly)
1 extra large bunch spinach
1/2 head of broccoli
1/2 head cauliflower
1/2 a large white onion (or whatever kind of onion you like-diced)
2 cloves of garlic (minced)
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 tbsp cumin
3 tbsp masala mix (or really whatever curry powder you like)
1 cup water
Salt and Pepper to taste

In a large pot or large cast iron pan, heat coconut oil on medium.  Add diced onion and allow to cook until translucent.  Add water and chicken breasts.  Cover for about 10 minutes and allow chicken to cook.

While chicken is cooking, cut broccoli and cauliflower into bite sized pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl.  Add about 1/4 cup of water, cover with plastic wrap and microwave for approximately 3-4 minutes or until tender crisp.  Add the spinach, lentils, chickpeas, masala and cumin to the broccoli/cauliflower mixture and stir well to ensure the spices are distributed evenly.

Uncover chicken and turn breasts over.  I usually check their doneness at this point.  If they are not fully cooked, replace lid and cook another 5 minutes or until juices run clear.  If they are done, remove the chicken breasts and add broccoli and lentil mixture to the pan.  Pull the chicken or cut it into small cubes and add it back to the pan with the veggies and lentils.  Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-8 minutes in order for the spices to cook...you don't want the raw spice flavour as it is bitter and pungent.  Add salt and pepper if you like.

Serve hot over rice, potatoes, barley, quinoa or whatever else you fancy and finish with a dollop of plain yogurt.  Enjoy!!