Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare? Meet the Roast Chicken Tomato and Lentil One Pot—your new go-to recipe that combines the savory flavors of a perfectly roasted chicken with the hearty goodness of lentils and tomatoes. In just one hour, you can create a mouthwatering meal that serves four, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hello to simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in one pot for minimal cleanup. Dive into this delightful recipe and discover why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 cup lentils
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels and season generously inside and outside with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the whole chicken on all sides until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
- Add lentils to the pot and stir to coat with the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Season with additional salt and pepper.
- Nestle the seared chicken on top of the lentil mixture, ensuring it sits partially submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and lentils are tender.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for a free-range or organic chicken for the best flavor and texture. A whole chicken ensures that the meat stays juicy during cooking.
- Sear the Chicken: Don’t skip the searing step! It creates a beautiful golden crust and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary not only add a burst of flavor but also make your kitchen smell amazing. Feel free to mix and match your favorite herbs!
- Monitor the Liquid: Ensure the lentils are partially submerged in the broth for even cooking. If the mixture looks too dry before covering, add a splash more chicken broth.
- Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest for 10 minutes after roasting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the pot for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 511kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: mg
