Hearty Herb Chicken and Lentil Skillet

A protein-rich meal featuring tender herb-seasoned chicken and hearty lentils, cooked in a savory broth, perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cubed chicken breast. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure it's fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the drained lentils. Stir them in the flavorful chicken drippings, allowing them to warm up and slightly crisp for about 2-3 minutes. This not only enhances their flavor but also adds a delightful texture contrast.
3. 3.
   Sprinkle the dried thyme over the lentils and stir to combine, then pour in the chicken broth. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, or until the liquid reduces by half, creating a light, herb-infused sauce.
4. 4.
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly. Let the mixture cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring that the sauce coats the chicken and lentils well.
5. 5.
   For best results, serve the dish hot. If you find the sauce too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water to loosen it up. Ensure that the chicken remains tender by not overcooking beyond the specified times.