Are you ready to spice up your weeknight dinners? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken Lentils. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. In just six hours, you can have a hearty meal that your whole family will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those busy nights when you need quick family dinners that don’t skimp on taste. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze!
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
- Rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice.
- Great for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and comforting.
- Can be easily customized with your favorite spices and veggies.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Making Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken Lentils is as easy as 1-2-3! Here’s how:
- Start by placing the chicken thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add the lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, and diced tomatoes on top of the chicken.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the chicken is tender and the lentils are cooked through.
- Once done, shred the chicken with two forks and stir everything together. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- For a little extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the lentils after cooking.
- Feel free to substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
- Pair this dish with a side of creamy garlic pasta for a delightful contrast!
- Don’t forget to check out other easy pasta recipes for more delicious ideas!
How to Serve
This dish is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
- Top with avocado slices for a creamy texture.
- Pair it with a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
- Use it as a filling for tacos or wraps for a fun twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
Now that you have this delightful recipe in your arsenal, you’ll never run out of weeknight dinner ideas again! I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken Lentils with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Sweet & Spicy Chicken Lentils
Ingredients
Protein
- 3.5 pounds Chicken Breast (Trimmed and halved)
Oil
- 1.5 tablespoons Olive Oil
Garlic
- 1.5 teaspoons Minced Garlic (or 3 cloves)
Vegetables
- 1 sweet onion Sweet Onion
- 6 ounces Carrots
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon Basil
Lentils
- 1.5 cups Lentils
Sauces
- 12 teaspoons Chili Sauce (Sriracha)
- 16 tablespoons BBQ Sauce
- 16-24 ounces Water (Adjust as needed)
Instructions
- Trim and halve the chicken breasts.
- Chop the onion and carrots.
- Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and mix.
- Cook on Low for 6 hours.
