Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Lentils

This Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Lentils is a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for a healthy lunch. Packed with protein, fiber, and a medley of colorful vegetables, it's both satisfying and delicious.

Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Lentils
45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
American
450 kcal

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast, diced - 250 grams
  • Green lentils, rinsed - 100 grams
  • Carrot, diced - 1 medium
  • Celery, diced - 1 stalk
  • Bell pepper, diced - 1 medium
  • Onion, chopped - 1 small
  • Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
  • Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
  • Chicken broth - 300 ml
  • Dried thyme - 1 teaspoon
  • Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
  • Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped - 2 tablespoons
  • Cheddar cheese, shredded - 50 grams (optional)

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed lentils with 500 ml of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. While the lentils are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the diced chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
  5. Stir in the diced carrot, celery, and bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and mix well.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and spread it evenly. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  8. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Carbs: 45 g
  • Fiber: 15 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

  • High in protein, supporting muscle health and satiety.
  • Rich in fiber from lentils and vegetables, aiding digestion.

Tags

AmericanHealthyLunch