It smells like stew season — that cosy, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen and warms every corner of your home. This one-pot Chicken and Lentil Stew is the definition of wholesome goodness: tender South African poultry, soft lentils, and hearty vegetables simmered together in a rich, flavourful broth. It’s simple, nutritious, and perfect for cold nights when you need a little warmth from the inside out. Pair it with crusty bread or fluffy rice, and you’ve got the ultimate family meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
🧂 Ingredients
- 6 Fresh Chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup brown lentils (rinsed)
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 potatoes, cubed
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 can chopped tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
👩🍳 Method
- Heat oil in a large pot and brown the chicken pieces. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and spices for about 5 minutes.
- Add the potatoes, lentils, tomatoes, and chicken stock.
- Return the chicken to the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and the chicken is tender.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve warm.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread, steamed rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped coriander for colour.
- For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of cream or butter before serving.
⏱ Cooking Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
🔥 Nutritional Info (per serving)
Serves: 6
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
