Print

One Pot Chicken and Lentils

One Pot Chicken and Lentils
Print Recipe

This easy One Pot Chicken and Lentils recipe combines tender chicken thighs, hearty brown or green lentils, and a flavorful blend of spices, all cooked together in a single pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is nutritious, comforting, and requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for anyone seeking a wholesome, quick, and delicious dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 6 bone-in chicken thighs, skin-on

Lentils & Legumes

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced

Liquids

  • 4 cups chicken broth

Spices & Herbs

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Other

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and the spice blend (cumin, paprika, thyme). Add them to the pot and brown on both sides until golden, locking in juices and enhancing flavor.
  3. Add Lentils and Liquids: Pour in the rinsed lentils and chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients. The broth will help cook the lentils and chicken evenly while developing rich flavors.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove the pot from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, then serve your One Pot Chicken and Lentils warm.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
  • Rinse lentils before cooking, but do not rinse after cooking to retain flavor.
  • Add just enough broth to cover ingredients to avoid mushy lentils.
  • Brown the chicken well to enhance overall taste.
  • Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, chicken lentils, easy dinner, healthy meal, weeknight recipe, gluten free

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/one-pot-chicken-and-lentils/