Ground Chicken Lentil Chili

Chili is a classic comfort food that warms you up from the inside out. This recipe for Ground Chicken Lentil Chili is a delicious twist on the traditional dish, adding in healthy lentils for extra fiber and protein. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this hearty chili is perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.

### Ground Chicken Lentil Chili

**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, avocado slices

**Instructions:**

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.

4. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, rinsed lentils, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the chili simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender.

6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

7. Serve the Ground Chicken Lentil Chili hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheese, chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or slices of creamy avocado for extra richness and flavor.

Dig into this hearty and wholesome chili on a cold day for ultimate comfort and satisfaction. The combination of ground chicken and lentils makes this dish not only delicious but also nutritious, providing you with a balanced meal that will keep you full and content. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of this Ground Chicken Lentil Chili as you gather around the table with loved ones or savor a quiet moment of self-care. This recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your tastes, so feel free to experiment with different spices and toppings to make it your own.