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Lentils and chicken make a perfect pair—both are hearty, protein-packed, and take on flavor really well. When I want to cook something filling but still healthy, I often combine these two ingredients in soups, stews, skillets, and even salads.
It’s the kind of combo that works year-round and never gets boring. This list pulls together my favorite chicken and lentil recipes. Some are one-pot wonders, others are great for meal prep or cozy dinners.
All of them are easy to make and full of comfort and flavor.
1. Chicken and Lentil Soup
This is a go-to comfort dish in my house. I simmer chicken breast or thighs with green lentils, carrots, celery, and garlic in chicken broth. It’s warm, hearty, and makes great leftovers.
Author’s Note
Shred the chicken at the end and stir it back in—it makes the soup extra satisfying.
Get the Chicken and Lentil Soup recipe.
2. Moroccan-Spiced Chicken and Lentils
I cook chicken with lentils, tomatoes, cinnamon, cumin, and paprika for a warm, spiced dish that smells incredible. It’s great with couscous or flatbread.
Author’s Note
Brown the chicken first—it builds flavor and gives the final dish a deeper color and aroma.
Get the Moroccan-Spiced Chicken and Lentils recipe.
3. Chicken and Lentil Stew
This one-pot meal is thick and comforting. I use bone-in chicken thighs, green lentils, and root veggies like carrots and potatoes. Let it simmer until everything is tender.
Author’s Note
Use a mix of herbs like thyme and bay leaves for added depth.
Get the Chicken and Lentil Stew recipe.
4. Chicken Lentil Curry
I make a quick curry with lentils, coconut milk, curry powder, and garlic, then stir in shredded chicken. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect with rice.
Author’s Note
Use rotisserie chicken to save time—just add it toward the end to warm through.
Get the Chicken Lentil Curry recipe.
5. Chicken and Lentil Skillet
For a fast dinner, I sauté diced chicken with garlic, onions, and spinach, then stir in canned lentils and a splash of broth. It’s simple, quick, and full of flavor.
Author’s Note
Add a squeeze of lemon before serving—it perks up all the savory flavors.
Get the Chicken and Lentil Skillet recipe.
6. Chicken Lentil Chili
This is a leaner twist on classic chili. I use ground chicken, brown lentils, diced tomatoes, and chili spices. It’s thick, hearty, and just the right amount of spicy.
Author’s Note
Simmer it low and slow if you have the time—it helps the lentils break down and the flavors come together better.
Get the Chicken Lentil Chili recipe.
7. Mediterranean Chicken and Lentil Bowl
I pair grilled chicken with lentils, chopped cucumber, tomato, olives, and a lemony vinaigrette. It’s a great light meal that still keeps you full.
Author’s Note
Crumble a little feta on top for extra flavor without overdoing the calories.
Get the Mediterranean Chicken and Lentil Bowl recipe.
8. Chicken Lentil Stir-Fry
I cook bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic, ginger, and veggies, then stir in canned lentils and a light soy-based sauce. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and full of flavor.
Author’s Note
Add lentils at the end so they hold their shape and don’t turn mushy from too much stirring.
Get the Chicken Lentil Stir-Fry recipe.
9. Chicken and Lentil Casserole
I mix cooked lentils with shredded chicken, herbs, and a little cheese, then bake it until bubbly and golden. It’s cozy and perfect for meal prep.
Author’s Note
Add a little low-sodium chicken broth if the mixture looks dry before baking—it helps keep everything moist.
Get the Chicken and Lentil Casserole recipe.
10. Indian-Inspired Chicken and Lentil Dal
This is a mild, comforting dal with red lentils and shredded chicken. I simmer it with turmeric, cumin, ginger, and a splash of coconut milk.
Author’s Note
Add a pinch of garam masala at the end for a warm, slightly sweet finish.
Get the Indian-Inspired Chicken and Lentil Dal recipe.
11. Chicken Lentil Lettuce Wraps
I sauté ground chicken with lentils, garlic, and chili sauce, then spoon it into lettuce leaves for a light, low-carb dinner.
Author’s Note
Add shredded carrots or chopped bell pepper for crunch and color.
Get the Chicken Lentil Lettuce Wraps recipe.
12. Chicken and Lentil Pasta
I make a quick tomato sauce with garlic, herbs, canned lentils, and shredded chicken, then toss it with whole grain pasta. It’s high in protein and fiber—great for dinner.
Author’s Note
Stir in fresh basil or parsley just before serving—it brightens the dish without adding extra calories.
