When it comes to cooking, sometimes it’s hard to decide between two favorite ingredients: lentils and chicken. But why choose when you can combine them in a single dish? The result is often a flavorful, nutritious, and filling meal that will become a staple in your kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering lentil and chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From hearty stews and curries to fresh salads and casseroles, each dish showcases the perfect harmony between these two protein-packed ingredients.
Spicy Lentil and Chicken Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of spicy and savory flavors, made with tender chicken, red lentils, and aromatic spices. It’s an ideal comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the chicken in a little oil until browned. Remove from heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, bell pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Coconut Lentil and Chicken Curry
This rich and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of spices, coconut cream, and tender chicken and lentils. Serve with steamed basmati rice or naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chicken, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, coconut cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with cilantro leaves. Serve hot over rice or naan.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Herb Lentil and Chicken Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that combines the flavors of garlic, herbs, lentils, and chicken for a nutritious and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked lentils (such as green or brown)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked lentils, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the lentil mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-18 minutes.
Lemon Garlic Lentil and Chicken Soup
This vibrant soup combines the comfort of chicken with the warmth of lentils, all infused with the brightness of lemon and garlic. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils, broth, lemon juice, and cooked chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Lentil and Chicken Tagine
Moroccan Spiced Lentil and Chicken Tagine: A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the richness of chicken and lentils with the warmth of Moroccan spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add ginger, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add lentils, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Return the chicken to the pot; cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Tomato Basil Lentil and Chicken Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tender lentils, and fresh basil with a hint of tomato. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken, lentils, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, basil, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Paprika Lentil and Chicken Bake
This hearty, flavorful casserole combines the richness of chicken with the comforting warmth of lentils, all smothered in a deep red paprika sauce. A perfect blend of savory and sweet, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add lentils, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
6. Combine cooked chicken and tomato mixture in the skillet; stir to coat.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Curried Lentil and Chicken Salad
This flavorful salad combines the warmth of curry with the comfort of lentils and chicken, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack. With its vibrant colors and aromatic spices, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup red or yellow lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, lentils, curry powder, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. If desired, stir in the Greek yogurt to add creaminess.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on lentil cooking time)
Rosemary Thyme Lentil and Chicken Stew
This comforting stew combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the savory taste of chicken, infused with the aromatic herbs rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, rosemary, thyme, water or broth, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Cumin Lime Lentil and Chicken Tacos
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines tender chicken, creamy lentils, and a zesty cumin lime sauce for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado or sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken in a skillet with olive oil until browned and cooked through.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and lime juice. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Serve chicken mixture on tortillas with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Potato Lentil and Chicken Curry
This hearty curry combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the comforting warmth of lentils and chicken, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic spice blend. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, chicken, sweet potatoes, lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes and lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spinach Lentil and Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the protein-packed power of chicken with the nutritional benefits of spinach and lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful stir-fry. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the cooked lentils, spinach, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir-fry until heated through.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chili Lentil and Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this easy recipe that combines the warmth of chili, the comfort of lentils, and the protein-packed punch of chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, lentils, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ginger Turmeric Lentil and Chicken Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of spices, lentils, and chicken, providing a comforting and nutritious meal for any time of the year. The combination of ginger, turmeric, and cumin adds depth and warmth to this flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken, cumin, turmeric, and lentils. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Parsley Lemon Lentil and Chicken Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of lentils, all wrapped up in a hearty dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe is also easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, water or broth, diced chicken, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Harissa Lentil and Chicken Skewers
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful skewers, combining the warmth of harissa, the comfort of lentils, and the juiciness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon harissa
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, harissa, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and lentils to the bowl; toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread chicken and lentil mixture onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Lentil and Chicken Stew
Roasted Red Pepper Lentil and Chicken Stew: A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the natural sweetness of roasted red peppers with the comforting warmth of chicken and lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked lentils (red or green)
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add roasted red peppers, cooked lentils, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return the chicken to the pot and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Basil Pesto Lentil and Chicken Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a hearty lentil and chicken stew. Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of herby goodness to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in cooked lentils, basil pesto, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the lentil mixture.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir until coated with the sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 mouth-watering lentil and chicken recipes! From hearty stews and curries to flavorful salads and casseroles, this collection has something for everyone. Try the Spicy Lentil and Chicken Stew for a bold and spicy kick, or opt for the Creamy Coconut Lentil and Chicken Curry for a rich and creamy treat. With ingredients like garlic, herbs, and spices, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
