Craving a comforting, flavorful, and healthy meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delicious chicken and lentil stew! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea that's packed with protein and fiber. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, nutritious, and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew.
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Combine ingredients: Stir in the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the lentils are tender.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. This hearty and healthy meal is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Lentil Stew:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Follow the cooking time guidelines closely.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences. A dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or spinach. Just add them along with the carrots and celery.
- Make it ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Lentil Stew: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Chicken and Lentil Stew: Substitute the chicken with 1 cup of cooked mushrooms or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Lentil Stew: Transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fiber: Approximately 15-20g
This chicken and lentil stew recipe is a fantastic example of a healthy and delicious meal that's quick and easy to prepare. It's perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing guests with its rich flavors and hearty texture. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish!