Dinner

Spicy Harissa Chicken with Lentils Recipe

ByHailey Reed November 19, 2025November 19, 2025

Introduction

This spicy harissa chicken with lentils is a warming and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a fragrant harissa-spiced tomato sauce with hearty puy lentils for a nutritious one-pot meal.

A white plate holds a dish with two main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of small green-brown lentils and bits of cooked carrots, creating a rough textured base with a mix of brown and orange colors; the top layer consists of pieces of cooked liver or meat, brown and tender looking, scattered evenly over the lentils. Some green chopped herbs are sprinkled on top and around the plate edge for color contrast. A torn piece of light brown bread sits to the right of the plate. All is set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 red onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
50g harissa
500g chicken thighs, skin removed, boned and diced
1 medium carrot, grated
200g dried puy lentils
2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
1.2l stock, made from 1 chicken or vegetable stock cube
Flat-leaf parsley, to serve (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over low heat. Add the chopped onion and fry gently for 5-6 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the crushed garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Step 2: Stir in the harissa paste, then add the diced chicken thighs. Cook until the chicken is well browned all over, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the grated carrot, dried puy lentils, and chopped tomatoes to the pan. Pour in the stock, ensuring the chicken and lentils are fully covered by the liquid.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, scatter freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley over the dish before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes along with the harissa.
Swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breast if preferred, but be careful not to overcook them.
Use vegetable stock for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version, substituting chicken with firm tofu or extra vegetables.
Serve with crusty bread or a side of couscous to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot, adding a splash of water or stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A full white plate holds a single layer of lentils cooked with chunks of browned meat and small pieces of carrots, mixed in a light brown sauce with green herbs sprinkled on top. The lentils are dark brown and appear soft, while the meat pieces are meaty and tender with a slightly crispy outside. Bright green chopped herbs are scattered across the dish, adding freshness. In the background, on the top right side of the plate, two pieces of light brown soft bread appear slightly torn. The setting is on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Canned lentils can be used, but they do not absorb the flavors as well and may make the dish a bit watery. If using canned, add them towards the end of cooking and reduce the amount of stock.

Is this dish very spicy?

The heat level depends on the harissa paste you use. Most store-bought harissa has a moderate spicy kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste or choose a milder version.