Slow Cooker Chicken and Lentils Recipe

Chicken and lentils make a filling meal that does not need a side dish to feel complete. This slow cooker chicken and lentils simmers thighs with green lentils, carrots, and onion so the lentils soak up the broth as they soften.

With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe delivers a comforting meal that is both satisfying and healthy.

Hearty Chicken and Lentils in the Slow Cooker

This recipe features chicken thighs or breasts cooked with lentils, carrots, and spices in a flavorful broth. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is tender and the lentils are perfectly cooked. It takes about 6-8 hours in the slow cooker and serves 6 people.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the lentils and chop the vegetables.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the lentils, carrots, onion, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper on top.
3. Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through and lentils are tender.
5. Shred the Chicken: Before serving, shred the chicken using two forks and stir it back into the lentils.
6. Add Greens: If using, stir in the fresh spinach or kale until wilted.
7. Serve: Ladle the mixture into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 320kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

This is one of those dinners where I do not bother with a side, just a slice of bread. The lentils soak up the broth as they cook, so the pot is thick by the time it is done.