Indian Inspired Chicken and Lentils

I picked up some lentils the other day mostly because I have been seeing a lot of them lately, especially over at Eat, Live, Run.  I am pretty novice when it comes to Indian food, but I thought I would throw together a recipe that was healthy and I would enjoy.  I am not sure what to call this – because I didn’t follow an exact authentic recipe.  It was good, healthy, and got approval from Mr. BKL, so in my world that is about all I need. 

I remembered that I bought some frozen garlic naan from Trader Joe’s oh, about a really long time ago, so decided to serve that alongside.  It was okay.  Next time I will make the real deal from scratch.

This ended up pretty thick, so serving it over rice would also be a great way to get more servings out of this dish.

Indian Inspired Chicken and Lentils
1 cup lentils (I used brown)
3 cups low sodium chicken stock (I used my trusty Pacific brand)

20 oz, or 3 medium skinless boneless chicken breast cut into bite size pieces
1 14 oz diced tomatoes
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. paprika
1-2 tsp. cayenne
1 Tbsp. garam masala
1 Tbsp. curry powder
1 Tbsp. olive oil
chopped green onion, parsley, or cilantro for garnish (optional)

In a large pot, bring broth and lentils to a boil then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are soft and most of the broth is absorbed.

In a large dutch oven, heat olive oil on medium heat.  When oil is hot, add garlic and onions.  Cook until fragrant.  Add chicken, cook for 1-2 minutes, reduce heat, then add remaining spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes more until chicken is done then add tomatoes.  (You could also add some milk or half and half here if you want the dish to be more creamy). When chicken and tomatoes are combined and simmering, add lentils and continue to simmer until combined, about 15 minutes.  Serve over rice and garnish if using either.  Makes 5 servings.

Note: my measurements for the spices aren’t exact.  I usually just add to taste, so you may want more or less especially the hot stuff and the curry and garam masala which can be potent.  Just taste it and adjust to your liking.

Nutrition Facts for whole recipe
Calories: 1181.5
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 111.5
Protein: 160.5

Per serving
Calories: 236.3
Fat: 4.4g
Carbs: 22.3g
Protein: 32.1g