Let’s break down why this meal is so powerful.

Cortisol-Balancing Ingredients

Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, which wreaks havoc on your energy, metabolism, sleep, and mood. The ingredients in this bowl were intentionally chosen to reduce cortisol spikes and stabilize blood sugar:

• Lentils – A plant-based protein and fiber powerhouse. Fiber slows digestion, reducing blood sugar spikes that trigger cortisol surges.
• Chicken – Lean, high-quality protein helps regulate cortisol and supports neurotransmitter production for calm, focused energy.
• Tahini – Rich in magnesium and healthy fats, tahini supports adrenal function and reduces cortisol output.
• Olive oil & fresh herbs – Full of polyphenols and anti-inflammatory compounds that calm the stress response and nourish the gut.

Seasonal May Produce

Eating with the seasons isn’t just trendy—it’s good for your health. This power bowl highlights May’s freshest ingredients, which are bursting with nutrients:

• Snap peas – Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C to reduce inflammation and support immune health.
• Radishes – Known for their natural detoxifying properties and support for liver function, which plays a role in hormone balance.
• Asparagus – A natural diuretic packed with folate and prebiotic fiber for gut health.
• Fresh herbs (parsley & dill) – Support digestion, reduce bloating, and add vibrant anti-inflammatory compounds.

Meal Prep-Friendly & Versatile

Serve it warm or chilled—it’s delicious either way. This bowl holds up well for 2–3 days, making it a great option for stress-free weekday lunches or light dinners. Top it with creamy feta, tangy goat cheese, or hemp seeds for a dairy-free version, and enjoy a deeply nourishing meal that tastes as good as it makes you feel.

If you’re looking for more ways to balance your stress, nourish your gut, and feel like yourself again, my Heal Your Stress from the Inside Out coaching program is the place to start. Watch the program video and apply today—we’ll create a plan that works with your real life, not against it.

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Savory Spring Lentil and Chicken Power Bowl

This protein-packed power bowl features chicken, lentils, and seasonal veggies for a fiber-rich, blood sugar-balancing meal. Topped with a lemon-tahini dressing, it's a gut-friendly and anti-inflammatory option.

Course Brunch, dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword anti-inflammatory meal ideas, chicken power bowl, cortisol balancing diet, healthy meal prep, high-protein lentil bowl

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes minutes

Total Time 30 minutes minutes

Servings 3

Calories 327kcal

Equipment

• medium saucepan
• skillet
• cutting board
• knife
• mixing bowl

Ingredients

For the Bowl:

• 1 cup cooked lentils brown or green for better texture
• 1 chicken breast grilled and sliced
• 1/2 cup sugar snap peas sliced
• 1/4 cup radishes thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup asparagus roasted or blanched
• 1/4 cup feta cheese or goat cheese or hemp seeds for dairy-free
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill

Lemon-Tahini Dressing:

• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp warm water to thin
• Sea salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions

• Cook lentils: If using dry lentils, rinse, then simmer in water for 20 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool.
• Grill chicken: Season with salt & pepper, then grill or pan-sear for 5-7 minutes per side. Let rest before slicing.
• Blanch asparagus: Boil for 1-2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath.
• Prepare dressing: Whisk together tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic powder, and water. Adjust consistency as needed.
• Assemble bowls: Start with lentils, then add snap peas, radishes, asparagus, and sliced chicken.
• Drizzle with dressing and top with feta/goat cheese or hemp seeds.

Video

Notes

Nutrition Information per serving (My Fitness Pal):

Calories: 327

Fat: 16g

Carbohydrates: 18.5g (net 11g)

Protein: 28g