Slow cooker moroccan chicken and lentil stew

Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken and Lentil Stew combines tender chicken with lentils and carrots, seasoned with spices like turmeric and cinnamon. This hearty stew is easy to prepare and slow cooks for a rich, flavourful meal.

10 Dec 2025
Cook time 360 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 cups carrots
1.50 cups lentils
32 oz chicken breasts
2 tbsp garlic
3/4 tsp salt
3/4 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp red pepper (spice)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
4 cups chicken broth

Slow Cooker Moroccan Chicken and Lentil Stew is a delicious and hearty meal that's perfect for cozy nights in. Packed with protein, fiber, and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds straight to Morocco. Easy to prepare and cook in a slow cooker, it's a stress-free meal that leaves you plenty of time to relax.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Dice the carrots into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
- Mince the garlic if not already pre-minced.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into large chunks, about 1-2 inches each.

3. Layer the Slow Cooker:
- Place the diced carrots at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the lentils on top of the carrots.
- Arrange the chicken chunks over the lentils.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, turmeric powder, ground red pepper, and ground cinnamon evenly over the chicken.

4. Add the Broth:
- Pour the chicken broth over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring that all ingredients are submerged.

5. Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken and lentils are thoroughly cooked and tender. Alternatively, you can set it to high heat and cook for 4-5 hours.

6. Serve:
- Once cooked, gently stir the contents of the slow cooker to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the Moroccan chicken and lentil stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley if desired.

7. Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The stew can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

By following this recipe, you'll have a warm, flavorful dish that's not only satisfying but also nutritious. The blend of spices, tender chicken, and hearty lentils create a wholesome meal that pairs well with rice, couscous, or bread. Enjoy your homemade Moroccan Chicken and Lentil Stew with friends and family for a truly comforting dining experience.

Slow cooker moroccan chicken and lentil stew FAQ:

What is the cooking time for the slow cooker?

Cook the stew on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours until the chicken and lentils are tender.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with thighs or even turkey. Adjust the cooking time if using larger or tougher cuts.

What type of lentils should I use?

Use brown or green lentils for this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking, unlike red lentils which tend to become mushy.

How can I tell when the chicken and lentils are done?

The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork, and the lentils should be soft but not mushy. This typically happens within the suggested cooking times.

Tips:

- For even more flavor, consider browning the chicken breasts and garlic in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.

- Soaking the lentils for a few hours before cooking can help reduce the cooking time and ensure they are tender.

- If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the lid of the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

- Customize the spice levels to suit your taste; add more red pepper for extra heat or additional cinnamon for a sweeter note.

- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 390kcal
Protein 50g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 3.41g
Fat 4.62g

Slow cooker moroccan chicken and lentil stew