git add

Skip to main content

Chicken with Kale and Freekeh-Lentil Pilaf

This chicken with kale and freekeh-lentil pilaf is a sophisticated, high-protein meal that balances hearty grains with vibrant, punchy flavours. The dish features tender chicken cutlets served alongside a wholesome blend of nutty freekeh and earthy lentils, all tied together by a toasted cumin and sherry vinegar vinaigrette. The addition of finely chopped raisins adds a subtle sweetness that cuts through the savoury notes of the pulses and the bitterness of the kale.

Ideal for a nutritious mid-week dinner or a healthy post-workout meal, this recipe is packed with fibre and essential nutrients. Using shop-bought pre-cooked grains makes this preparation deceptively simple, allowing you to focus on achieving the perfect sear on the chicken and a silky finish to the sauce. Serve it warm for a satisfying lunch or dinner that feels both light and incredibly sustaining.

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Chicken with Kale and Freekeh-Lentil Pilaf

  • 2 tablespoons cumin seeds

  • 120ml Sherry vinegar

  • 2 small garlic cloves, minced

  • 120ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped Hunza raisins

  • 2 teaspoons whole grain mustard

  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

  • Kosher salt

  • 60ml (or more) olive oil, divided

  • 675g skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2"-thick cutlets

  • Kosher salt

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • 1 garlic clove, smashed

  • 450g kale, large centre ribs and stems removed, torn into pieces

  • 240ml cooked freekeh

  • 240ml cooked lentils

Stir cumin in a small dry skillet over medium heat until toasted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat; add vinegar and garlic. Let stand for 30 seconds. Transfer to a blender; add oil and next 3 ingredients. Purée. Season with salt.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large heavy nonstick skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt. Working in 2 batches and adding 1 tablespoon oil between batches, cook chicken in single layers until browned on both sides and just cooked through, 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Remove pan from heat; add 60ml water. Stir, scraping up browned bits. Whisk in 60ml vinaigrette. Scrape sauce into a bowl.

Melt butter with 1 tablespoon oil in same skillet over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook until just beginning to brown, 1-2 minutes. Discard garlic. Working in 3 batches and adding more oil as needed, add kale to skillet and toss until wilted, 1-2 minutes per batch. Transfer to a large bowl. Season lightly with salt. Cover to keep warm.

Add freekeh and lentils to same skillet. Increase heat; stir until warm, 2-3 minutes.

Spoon pilaf onto plates. Top with chicken. Whisk juices from plate with chicken into sauce; drizzle over chicken and pilaf. Top with kale.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

About the authorView full bio

Author image

UK recipe editors

About the reviewerView full bio

Author image

UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.