Chicken Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry

Chicken Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry is a wholesome, hearty, and deeply satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy lentils, sweet potatoes, and bold spices in a rich, comforting curry sauce. It’s a one-pot meal that’s full of nutrition and flavor, perfect for cooler weather or anytime you crave something warm and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling with balanced protein, fiber, and carbs
• One-pot simplicity for easy cooking and cleanup
• Warm, aromatic spices create a comforting flavor profile
• Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
• Nutritious ingredients with anti-inflammatory benefits
• Great for batch cooking and meal prep
• Customizable with your favorite veggies or legumes
• Freezer-friendly
• Perfect for family dinners or packed lunches
• A full, satisfying meal in a bowl

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cubed)
• Sweet potatoes (peeled and diced)
• Red lentils (rinsed)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Curry powder
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Coconut milk
• Chicken broth or water
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and coriander; cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
4. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add diced sweet potatoes, red lentils, canned tomatoes, coconut milk, and broth. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25–30 minutes or until lentils and sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use chickpeas or white beans instead of lentils
• Add spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking
• Swap sweet potatoes for butternut squash or pumpkin
• Use vegetable broth and omit chicken for a vegetarian version
• Add chili flakes or fresh chili for extra heat
• Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter for creaminess and depth

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1–2 minute intervals, stirring in between.
This curry also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red?

Red lentils cook faster and break down for a creamy texture. Other lentils work, but cooking time will be longer.

Do I need to soak the lentils?

No soaking is necessary for red lentils—just rinse them well before cooking.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this curry spicy?

Not inherently. You can add chili flakes or fresh chilies if you want heat.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, add it in the last 10 minutes so it heats through without drying out.

What goes well with this curry?

Serve it with rice, naan, or quinoa, or enjoy it on its own as a stew.

Can I use light coconut milk?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and slightly less rich.

How do I thicken the curry if it’s too soupy?

Simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid, or mash some of the sweet potatoes and lentils.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely—try bell peppers, zucchini, peas, or carrots.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes and reheats very well. Just store in portions for easy meals later.

Conclusion

Chicken Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry is a flavorful, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With warm spices, wholesome ingredients, and easy prep, it’s a go-to recipe for comfort, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this hearty curry is a delicious and reliable choice.

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