High Protein Chicken And Lentils

Name: High Protein Chicken And Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup green lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Favorites

When I first combined chicken and lentils, I had no idea it would become one of our go-to meals! I love the hearty texture of the lentils paired with tender chicken, making this dish not only nutritious but incredibly satisfying. It's packed with protein, which keeps me feeling full for hours. Plus, cooking everything in one pot saves time on cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:49:36.916Z

After experimenting with various combinations, I found that using chicken thighs adds a depth of flavor that chicken breasts sometimes lack. I sear the chicken before adding it to the lentils, which locks in moisture and enhances the overall taste. This simple step has made all the difference in achieving a juicy, flavorful chicken.

One of my favorite aspects of this dish is the versatility. You can add seasonal vegetables or spices that you enjoy, making it a unique meal every time. Try using different lentils like green or black for varying textures, or experiment with herbs to find your perfect flavor profile!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with high-quality protein to keep you energized
One-pot meal for easy cleanup and preparation
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for family dinners

Understanding Ingredients

The combination of chicken and lentils in this recipe not only delivers a punch of protein but also ensures a variety of textures. Chicken thighs are an excellent choice here as they stay tender and juicy even with longer cooking times. Rinsing the green lentils before adding them helps eliminate any dust or debris, and it also prepares them for even cooking. Green lentils hold their shape well, providing a nice bite against the soft chicken.

Each vegetable in this recipe brings its own flavor profile. Onions provide a sweet base, while garlic adds depth with its aromatic qualities. The carrot and celery not only contribute to the dish’s nutritional value but also build a robust profile. Incorporating these vegetables first allows their flavors to meld beautifully before introducing the lentils and broth, ensuring a rich and flavorful broth at the end.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Searing the chicken at the beginning is a critical step that infuses the dish with flavor. As the chicken develops a golden-brown crust, those caramelized bits adhere to the pot, enhancing the taste of the entire dish. Be sure to maintain a medium-high heat during this process; otherwise, the chicken may steam instead of sear, preventing those delicious crusty bits.

When stirring in the lentils and spices, I recommend taking a moment to toast the spices briefly in the pan before adding the broth. This enhances their flavors, making them more aromatic. Additionally, keeping an eye on the heat while simmering is important; a gentle simmer allows the lentils to cook evenly without breaking apart.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup green lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to check for any additional spices or flavors you might want to incorporate!

Instructions

Before you begin, ensure all your ingredients are prepped and within reach.

Sear the Chicken

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Add Lentils and Broth

Stir in the rinsed lentils, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the chicken broth into the pot and bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, add the seared chicken back to the pot, and cover. Let it simmer for about 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy the rich flavors and healthy ingredients!

Make sure to enjoy this dish warm, and feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for a few hours before cooking. This added step will make your chicken incredibly tender and flavorful.

Storing and Reheating

This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. To store, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to rediscover the dish's moisture and flavor. Heat slowly on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short increments, stirring in between.

If you plan to freeze portions, consider doing so before adding the broth to maintain optimal texture. The cooked lentils and chicken freeze well for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating advice to bring it back to life.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a twist on this recipe, try adding different vegetables such as spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the nutritional content but also adds vibrant color to the dish. You could also use brown or red lentils, keeping in mind that they may require different cooking times and will alter the texture slightly – brown lentils will be a bit softer while red cook faster and become mushy.

Serving this dish is versatile; it pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for extra carbohydrates. Garnishing with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice before serving can brighten the flavors, offering a fresh contrast to the hearty meal. For those daring to experiment further, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, if using canned lentils, add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat them through.

→ What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.