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One Pot Chicken and Lentils

One Pot Chicken and Lentils
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One Pot Chicken and Lentils is a comforting, nutritious, and easy meal that cooks everything in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Featuring tender chicken thighs, fiber-rich lentils, aromatic vegetables, and warm spices, this dish offers a wholesome and balanced dinner perfect for busy weeknights or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4–6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on

Lentils & Grains

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Liquids

  • 3 cups chicken broth

Spices & Herbs

  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Oils & Fats

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces. Rinse lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
  2. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot and brown on all sides to lock in flavor.
  3. Add Lentils and Liquids: Stir in the rinsed lentils, canned diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Sprinkle in cumin, paprika, and thyme, mixing everything well.
  4. Simmer the Dish: Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, until lentils are tender and chicken is cooked through.
  5. Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the dish is too thick, add extra broth or water until your preferred consistency is reached.

Notes

  • Brown the chicken well for deeper flavor and caramelization.
  • Use kitchen scissors to quickly chop fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
  • Avoid over-stirring lentils to prevent them from becoming mushy.
  • Add liquid gradually because lentils absorb moisture as they cook.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: One pot, chicken, lentils, easy dinner, healthy, nutritious, comfort food, Mediterranean, weeknight meal

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