This Mexi-Chicken and Lentil Rice Bowl recipe is such a nice change from all the holiday dinners and desserts. I’ve loved every bite, but I’m definitely feeling a renewed desire to eat cleaner and more nutritiously as we move into the new year.
Lentils, which are packed with protein, fiber and minerals, are a step in the right direction, and I’m grateful that I’ve been partnering with Canadian Lentils on this #LoveALentil campaign and learning more about cooking with pulses.
I do believe my tummy hollered out a “thank you” when I made these lentil rice bowls for dinner!
Remember when I made this Beef and Lentil Shepherd’s pie? I mentioned in that post that the two most common types of lentils are whole green lentils and split red lentils. I used the split red lentils in the shepherd’s pie recipe, and I used whole green lentils for this rice bowl recipe.
I always have both kinds of lentils in the pantry, because they’re an amazing source of protein and fiber. In a 100 gram serving of whole green lentils, there are 26 grams of protein, and in the same size serving of split red lentils, there are 18 grams of fiber.
Packaged lentils should be stored in airtight containers in a dry, dark cool location (like in a pantry or on a cupboard shelf) for up to a year.
Try this shepherd’s pie recipe with lentils too!
Another perk to lentils is that they’re simple to cook (rinse, simmer, serve), but did you know you can also puree and freeze lentils? If you freeze them in specific portions, then all you have to do when you need them for a recipe is to thaw the right amount!
For the Mexi-chicken and lentil rice bowl, I rinsed then simmered whole green lentils in some chicken broth until they were tender, about 30 minutes. I told you it was easy! Of course, you could use water rather than chicken broth, if you desired. Not a problem. They’re drained after cooking anyhow.
While the lentils were simmering, I sauteed some peppers and onions, then tossed in some fire roasted corn as well.
I also cubed, seasoned and cooked some chicken.
At the same time all of this was happening, I had some brown rice cooking on that fourth burner, and just before serving, I added the drained and cooked lentils, lime juice and some chopped cilantro.
When everything was ready, the only thing left to do was build a Mexi-chicken and lentil rice bowl and eat!
To make mine, I lined a bowl with the lentil rice, then added some chicken, chopped romaine lettuce, freshly diced tomatoes, salsa and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. You could top with sour cream and guac if you wanted, and some people may enjoy a pinch of salt and pepper.
Mexi-Chicken and Lentil Rice Bowl
Mexi-Chicken & Lentil Rice Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole green lentils
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- Brown or white rice prepared according to pkg directions
- 2 Tbsp cilantro
- 2 Tbsp lime juice
- 2 lbs chicken breast cut into cubes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 Tbsp olive oil divided
- 1 ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cayenne
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red pepper seeded and chopped
- 1 cubanelle pepper seeded and chopped
- ½ sweet onion chopped
- 1 14.75- oz can fire-roasted corn drained
- 1 head romaine lettuce trimmed, washed and chopped
- 1 to mato washed and diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: salsa, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole for topping
Instructions
Start the lentils and rice, then work on chicken and vegetables while they're cooking.
- In medium saucepan, add soup broth, water and lentils. Bring to a boil, cover and let simmer for about 20-30 minutes or until tender.
- In medium saucepan, cook rice according to package directions. Set aside and keep covered when done cooking.
- Heat 2 Tbsp oil in sauté pan over high heat, and sauté peppers for about 4 minutes. Add onions, sauté for another 3 minutes. Remove from heat; set aside. Cover to keep warm.
- In frying pan, heat 2 Tbsp oil over medium high heat. Add chicken, chili powder, cayenne, black pepper and salt. Sauté about 6 minutes. Add garlic. Continue to cook until chicken is done.
- Build your own bowl with the ingredients and enjoy!
Nutrition
Lentils are easy to cook and eat, heart-smart and rich in nutrition, so I love featuring them in this Mexi-chicken and lentil rice bowl recipe. Enjoy!
Karly says
This is going on my list to make ASAP! Thanks for linkin’ up with What’s Cookin’ Wednesday!
Jasmine Eclipse says
I love cooking chicken because that’s really the only meat my boyfriend will eat, but I’ve been struggling to come up with different dishes to cook! This will be a fun one to try out!
CourtneyLynne says
Omg how yummy!!!!! I will be giving your rice bowl recipe a try! Sure it will be a hit with the family
Alissa Apel says
I love rice bowls. I should make them more at home. I usually only have them when I go out to eat. They’re pretty easy to make. Lentils are a nice touch!
Toni | Boulder Locavore says
This looks so flavorful! I love cooking with lentils! Would love to try this!
Marielle Altenor says
Oh, this is something I must try. I love lentil but only had it in the form of soup. Your recipe looks so good with the chicken!
Robin Rue says
This looks so delicious! I love a good rice bowl and this right here looks like my whole family would eat it along with me.
Garf says
This is making me hungry. It is almost 10 in the morning and I haven’t eaten anything yet.
AMANDA says
looks delicious! i will have to try this!
Laura Funk says
The colors in this are amazing! Also I didn’t know a lot about lentils, so thank you for sharing storage tips too!
Vanessa says
This looks super yummy. I have to do low carb, so I’m going to try it and just leave out the rice and replace with extra veggies.
Aaronica Cole says
I have every ingredient this recipe requires in my kitchen right now! I LOVE lentils and am always looking for an excuse to make them! This is an awesome recipe!
Elizabeth O. says
That is one flavorful dish! I think it’s filling and packed with healthy ingredients as well. You can’t go wrong with a dish like this! It’s perfect for dinner or movie nights!
Tami Qualls says
While my family is not a big fan of lentils, I definitely am. Maybe this recipe will change their interest.
Tara L says
Yum, looks so good. I love mexican chicken. I have a slow cooker and I make something similar to this.
mhaan a says
Oh wow! That looks yummy and healthy at the same time. Perfect snack this holiday season. Thanks for sharing!
Mhaan | www.mommyrockininstyle.com
Echo says
This looks really good! I love Mexican flavors! I have never tried lentils before, I really should give them a shot.
Debra Schroeder says
This Mexi-chicken and lentil rice bowl looks so delicious and healthy. I don’t like lentils but my husband does so he’s going to love this dish. Thanks for the recipe.
Chubskulit Rose says
I would love to try your recipe. I love lentils and rice and you just made me drool over this.
Betty Manousos says
oh yum! this looks amazing! drooling over it! thanks for sharing this great recipe, dear liz.
here’s wishing you and yours a very happy 2017! XoXo
Amy Jones says
Rice bowls are my absolute favorite! I can’t live without those. I have to try this one recipe out
Brianne says
This recipe sounds delicious and perfect for the winter months. I will have to try this one!
tauyanm says
that looks so yummy and divine! now im hungry! i can’t remember if i had tried lentils before, probably i di but just can’t recall. this is nice for a week starter in january 2017
Seattle Travel Blogger says
This looks like a great meal.
And, packed with protein, so it definitely meets that diet requirement.
Emma white says
Wow this sounds Absolutly amazing!! It’s healthy get so simple to cook, I’ll give it a try and see what my 6 critics make of it 🙂
Rebecca Swenor says
This mexi chicken and lentil rice bowl looks delicious. I am going to have to try making this for sure because we have been eating a lot of rice and lentils lately. The split red lentils is something I have not used so I will have to check out the shepard’s pie too. Thanks for sharing the recipe.
Kita Bryant says
this looks like a very filling yet healthy meal option. Love the combinations here!
Coralie says
This looks delicious. I am going to have to make this – my whole family will love it and it will be a good healthy meal option for us. Thanks!
Adriana Lopez (@MrsALOMartin) says
I love lentils they have many nutritional benefits and this dish that you are presenting today looks so perfect I need to try soon =)
Nicole says
oooh i can totally make this with my vegetarian “chicken”
Tina Gleisner says
As I’ve only been making lentil soup, love the idea of lentil rice bowls & I’m sure I can come up with other combinations once I’ve mastered your recipe. Wondering how long this dish will last, e.g. can you make a bigger batch & freeze for future use?
Liz says
I would think it would be quite easy to make a bigger batch for freezer meals!
Melissa @ thestatenislandfamily says
As vegetarians We eat lentils all the time! They are the perfect source of protein and blend so well into all kinds of recipes! Pretty sure this would be a Huge hit in our family!
Our Family World says
I’m going to make this first today, it’s tempting I wanna grab it from my screen!
Amber Myers says
Mm, my mouth is watering. This looks so delicious. Yum!
Reesa Lewandowski says
I love rice bowls! They’re so comforting! I’ve never had lentils though!
Chrystal | Nevermore Lane says
I have a bag of dried lentils I have been looking for a new recipe to make. This sounds amazing..going to have to try it. All of my favorite flavors. Can’t go wrong.
gingermommyrants says
This is a recipe my family will love. I have been looking for recipes to use lentils. I will have to get the ingredients I need to make this on the weekend.
Ann Bacciaglia says
This Mexi-Chicken and Lentil Rice Bowl recipe looks so delicious and easy to make. I am always looking for new healthy recipes to try.
mommyblogexpert says
Mexican food is my favorite and your Mexi Chicken and Lentil Rice Bowl looks healthy. Such a great healthy dish to try during the otherwise indulgent holidays.
Gloria @ Homemade & Yummy says
Lentils are so healthy. This is perfect to get in the “healthy eating” mode for January.
wendy says
Ms. Liz, this looks amazing! I am super hungry right now from looking at all the gorgeous photos you have taken of this Mexi-Chicken and Lentils n Rice Bowls. Yumm!
Michele says
Why I don’t think of making lentils I have no idea. They are very good for you and as you said very easy to prepare. I definitely like this recipe and may try it some time soon.
Kelly says
This recipe is something my family would totally appreciate. Lentils are a staple in our home!
Ana De- Jesus says
OOh yum! I love mexican food and this mexican food bowl looks incredible! I love lentils too!
Tara says
I love cooking with lentils. They add so much to a meal. I will have to try this recipe.
Alicia says
This looks absolutely delicious. I will have to save the recipe to try sometime.
Marcie W. says
Delicious and a great change from all of the heavy holiday food. I need to incorporate more lentils into our diet.
Lisa Favre says
I actually have a whole bag of lentils that I don’t know what to do with! Glad that I stumbled upon this healthy recipe.
Ashley @irishred02 says
This looks amazing! Mmm lentils and Mexican food, yes please!
Rebecca Bryant says
Ohmy this loos delicious. I am so coming over for dinner. You make the best food ever and this is just another great recipe for me to add to my growing collection.
DogVills says
Oh my goodness! This is really looks good and tempting! I’ve never tried this amazing recipe. Bookmarked. Thank you!
Alison | So Chic Life says
I always forget about lentils unless I’m making lentil soup. This is a great way to incorporate in a more interesting way for sure. Pinning this to make later this week. Maybe I can even get my kids to try it.
Kerri says
This looks so yummy. I could use a little more salad in my life right about now after all of this holiday cooking.
MJ. L says
This looks yummy! It would make a great meal addition to Taco Tuesday!!
Eloise says
OMGoodness! that looks super good for dinner… I’ll be sure to try this out soon… great combo of food and healthy as well, thanks!
Neely (@Neelykins) says
We make bowls like this all the time! They are perfect for easy weeknight meals. So good!
MEagan says
My tummy is rumbling looks at these photos! I need to add this to the weekly menu!
Melanie Smith says
I loooove Mexican food!! I would love to try this recipe for dinner, it looks so delicious!
Stephanie JEannot says
I think I love every single ingredient you are adding to this recipe to cook the meal. I love tomatoes. I enjoy lentils a lot. Rice, corn. Yes! Sounds so chipotle. Sounds so good. I’d enjoy this!
Destany says
How delicious and healthy! This looks like a great meal for me to try with my son – he just recently decided that he likes chicken that isn’t a McNugget 🙂
Jennifer Gilbert says
This looks yummy! I’ll have to try it for dinner one day this week. I love the flavor combinations of the chicken, cilantro, garlic, and lime!
Jenn @ EngineerMommy says
I love a good rice bowl. This combo of chicken and lentil rice sounds absolutely delicious. I can’t wait to try this recipe.
Pam Wattenbarger says
This looks yummy and super healthy. I really need to cook with lentils more often. I have some in the pantry that I have never touched.
Sarah Bailey says
Gosh I don’t know the last time I ate lentils but how nice does this sound, I could totally see myself tucking into a delicious bowl! x
Cathy says
I haven’t eaten lentils in forever. This sounds like a perfect (and easy) winter recipe, especially on a Sunday when we’re watching a football game.
Catherine Sargent says
This looks so yummy. I have never tried lentils, but I would like to. Thanks for sharing the recipe.
Divya @ Eat Teach Blog says
Since moving to a rural town, I don’t live near a Chipotle anymore. I think I need to start being more creative in the kitchen – with recipes like this – so that I can satisfy my cravings!
lisa says
This recipe looks so delicious. I love lentils and this would be a great new way to make a chicken dish for dinner!
Jennifer Siegler says
What a delicious and healthy meal. I’m loving all the different colors and textures of this meal. A very welcome treat after all those sweets we had on Christmas!
Janell Poulette says
This looks really great, i am going to print this recipe for later. We love mexican in this house but don’t make it often because the kids aren’t a huge fan lol. I have never made anything with lentils but i sure will now!
candy says
This bowl is perfect for after all the heavier meals and food after the holidays. Plus we love lentils and rice bowls.
Paula Schuck says
Oh yum! I love southwest flavors, and lentils are so healthy. I can’t wait to give this a try.
Mandy Carter says
Yummy and healthy Mexican recipe. Perfect for addition to a taco tuesday at home!
Alli says
I’m also tired of the heavy holiday meals and desserts. My body is craving to eat cleaner and your rice bowl looks amazing. It’s a great meal to start the new year off right.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
That sounds so good! This is exactly the kind of healthy recipe I love to make. It’s good and good for the family. Perfect!
Jacqui @FlightsFancyMom says
Ok Liz, I haven’t eaten yet this morning and now am super hungry! LOL. This looks really good!