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Harissa Chicken with Lentils

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Harissa Chicken with Lentils is a bold and hearty one-pan meal that pairs tender chicken with smoky harissa, earthy lentils, and aromatic spices. It’s healthy, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy, protein-packed dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless)
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste (mild or spicy)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with harissa paste, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
  2. Heat remaining olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté onion and carrots for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika. Stir for 1–2 minutes to toast the spices.
  4. Stir in the lentils to coat with aromatics. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  5. Return seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the lentils. Cover and cook on low heat for 30–35 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and lentils are tender.
  6. Uncover and simmer an additional 5–10 minutes if needed to reduce liquid. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Use chicken breasts if preferred; reduce cooking time to prevent drying out.
  • Add chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes for extra greens.
  • Red lentils cook faster and create a creamier texture if desired.
  • Make it vegetarian by omitting chicken and adding roasted veggies or chickpeas.
  • Harissa intensity varies—start mild and adjust to taste.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/harissa-chicken-with-lentils/