Easy One Pot Chicken and Lentils Dinner

If you’re craving a comforting, nourishing meal that’s effortless to prepare, this One Pot Chicken and Lentils recipe is just what you need. Whip up a hearty One Pot Chicken and Lentils meal in minutes—simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, protein-packed lentils, and aromatic spices all cooked together, this dish delivers delicious layers of flavor while saving you time on cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this easy, satisfying dinner checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate convenience: Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Rich, comforting flavors: The combination of chicken and lentils creates a hearty, delicious meal.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish keeps you satisfied longer.
• Versatile and adaptable: Easily customize with your favorite spices and veggies to suit your taste.
• Perfect for weeknights: Ready in under 45 minutes, ideal for busy schedules.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple with essential ingredients that each add great texture, flavor, or color. From tender chicken thighs to earthy lentils, and fragrant herbs to savoriness-enhancing spices, every component plays a key role in creating a balanced one pot meal.

• Chicken thighs: Choose bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor and juicy meat.
• Brown or green lentils: Hold their shape well during cooking and add a pleasant bite.
• Onion and garlic: These aromatics provide a savory foundation bursting with depth.
• Carrots and celery: Add sweetness and crunch, rounding out the dish beautifully.
• Chicken broth: Adds moistness and enriches the lentils with savory notes.
• Tomato paste: Brings a subtle tangy sweetness and enhances the overall color.
• Spices like cumin and smoked paprika: Offer warmth and a mild smokiness.
• Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro: Add bright, fresh undertones at the end.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing all the flavors perfectly.

Variations for One Pot Chicken and Lentils

This recipe is incredibly easy to customize, so don’t hesitate to adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to sneak in more veggies or try different seasoning blends, the possibilities are endless.

• Swap lentils: Use red or yellow lentils for a softer texture and quicker cooking time.
• Make it spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chopped chili for a fiery kick.
• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth.
• Use different herbs: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or oregano to change the flavor profile.
• Bonus veggies: Throw in spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

How to Make One Pot Chicken and Lentils

Step 1: Prepare the chicken and aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them skin-side down until golden brown and crispy. Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pot, sauté chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add lentils and spices

Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, and any additional spices you’re using. Mix well to coat the vegetables and toast the spices lightly. Then add the lentils, stirring to combine everything before adding the broth.

Step 3: Cook everything together

Return the seared chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the lentil mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the pot to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Finish with fresh herbs and seasoning

Once cooked, remove the lid and check seasoning. Add salt, pepper, and fresh chopped parsley or cilantro to brighten the dish. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly, then serve warm.

Pro Tips for Making One Pot Chicken and Lentils

• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken: Adds flavor and keeps the meat tender and juicy during cooking.
• Don’t skip searing: Browning the chicken and aromatics first builds deeper flavor layers.
• Rinse lentils well: Helps remove dust and prevents bitterness for a cleaner taste.
• Keep an eye on liquid levels: Lentils absorb a lot, so add extra broth if needed to avoid drying out.
• Let it rest uncovered briefly: This allows the sauce to thicken up nicely before serving.

How to Serve One Pot Chicken and Lentils

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even a squeeze of lemon juice add a bright touch that balances the earthy lentils and savory chicken. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of good olive oil can also add creaminess and richness.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread for sopping up all the delicious juices or a light green salad to contrast the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken pieces on top of the lentils with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added texture. You can also use this as a filling for pita pockets or wraps, garnished with fresh veggies for a quick lunch option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the One Pot Chicken and Lentils cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the mixture looks dry. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may cook faster and can dry out more easily, so adjust cooking time accordingly and consider adding broth gradually to keep the chicken moist.

Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?

No soaking is necessary for brown or green lentils; they cook relatively quickly and hold their shape well, making them ideal for one pot meals.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! One Pot Chicken and Lentils store and reheat very well, making it a convenient and nutritious option for preparing meals ahead.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop or in a slow cooker?

You can cook this on the stovetop as directed or adapt it for a slow cooker by combining ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours, adding broth as necessary.

What can I substitute if I don’t have smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder works well to add mild smokiness, or you can omit it for a milder flavor.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Chicken and Lentils recipe has quickly become a go-to for busy nights when you want something satisfying without fuss. It’s wholesome, comforting, and full of flavor, all prepared in a single pot to keep life simple yet delicious. Give it a try and enjoy a flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug on your plate!

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