Chicken Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry: 5 Simple Steps to Joy

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this delicious chicken sweet potato and lentil curry! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with vibrant flavors that just dance on your taste buds. The tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and soft sweet potatoes come together beautifully, making this dish not just a meal, but an experience. Plus, you get all the goodness of lentils packed in there, bringing protein and fiber to the party. Trust me, you’ll feel satisfied and nourished after just one bowl! It’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you need to impress guests with minimal effort. Seriously, who doesn’t love a hearty curry that’s as comforting as it is nutritious? Get ready to fall in love with this recipe!

chicken sweet potato and lentil curry - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
1 cup packed red lentils, rinsed and drained
1 onion, chopped finely
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated or minced
1 can (about 13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing

How to Prepare Chicken Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry

Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this chicken sweet potato and lentil curry! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time.

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

First, grab a large pot and heat up those 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Oh, the aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is absolutely heavenly! Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent. Trust me, this step is crucial for building that flavor base!

Step 2: Cook Chicken

Next, it’s time to add the diced chicken breast into the pot. Stir it around and let it cook for about 6-7 minutes, or until it’s browned on all sides. You want that lovely color to develop, and it’ll ensure your curry has that rich depth of flavor. Don’t rush this part; it’s worth the wait!

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices

Now, go ahead and add the cubed sweet potato, rinsed red lentils, curry powder, and cumin to the pot. Give everything a good stir to coat the ingredients in those aromatic spices. It’s like a cozy hug for your veggies! Make sure everything is well mixed together so the flavors can mingle.

Step 4: Simmer the Curry

Pour in that luscious can of coconut milk and the vegetable broth. Bring everything to a nice boil, and then reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer gently for about 25 minutes. You’ll want the sweet potatoes to be tender and the lentils to be cooked through. Keep an eye on it, and give it a stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. The smell is going to be amazing!

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Once everything is cooked, it’s time to season your curry with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavor to your liking! Serve it hot with a side of rice or warm bread, and don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top if you have them. They add a gorgeous touch and a burst of freshness!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk numbers! This hearty chicken sweet potato and lentil curry is not just delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a rough breakdown of what you’re getting in each serving (about 1/4 of the recipe):

Calories: 450
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 500mg

These values are estimates, so keep that in mind as you savor your curry! It’s a nutritious meal that fuels your body while delivering fantastic flavor. Enjoy every bite knowing you’re nourishing yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: You’ll have this delicious chicken sweet potato and lentil curry on the table in just 45 minutes!
Hearty and filling: With tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and nutritious lentils, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger.
Flavorful and aromatic: The combination of curry powder and coconut milk creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
Packed with nutrients: This curry is loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a wholesome meal choice.
Gluten-free option: Enjoy a delicious meal that caters to gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor!

Tips for Success

Alright, friend, let’s make sure your chicken sweet potato and lentil curry turns out absolutely fabulous! Here are some of my best tips for success:

Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have red lentils on hand, you can use green or brown lentils, but keep in mind they may take a bit longer to cook. You can also swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian twist that’s just as hearty!
Spice It Up: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to suit your taste! If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick. Conversely, if you prefer milder flavors, reduce the curry powder a bit.
Texture Tweaks: If you want a creamier texture, blend a portion of the curry before serving. Just take out a cup or so, blend it until smooth, and then stir it back in for that silky finish!
Fresh Herbs: Always, and I mean always, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving. It elevates the dish and adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Cooking Techniques: Make sure to keep an eye on the simmering process—if it starts to get too thick, just add a splash more vegetable broth or water. You want that perfect balance of creamy and saucy!
Make It Ahead: This curry is even better the next day! If you can, make it a day in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delightful chicken sweet potato and lentil curry that’ll impress everyone at your table!

Variations of Chicken Sweet Potato and Lentil Curry

If you’re feeling adventurous, let’s shake things up a bit with some fun variations of this chicken sweet potato and lentil curry! The beauty of this dish is its versatility, so don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preference. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken, try using diced turkey, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, shredded beef or lamb can add an incredible depth of flavor!
Veggie Boost: Get creative with your vegetables! Add in some spinach, kale, or bell peppers for an extra nutrient punch. You can also toss in some carrots or peas to enhance the color and texture. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed.
Spice It Up: Want to turn up the heat? Add some diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your curry for a spicy kick. Alternatively, for a milder version, reduce the curry powder or add a dollop of yogurt before serving to cool things down.
Coconut Milk Alternatives: If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, consider using light coconut milk or even almond milk instead. You’ll still get a lovely creaminess, but with fewer calories!
Different Lentils: While red lentils are fantastic, you can experiment with green or brown lentils for a heartier texture. Just keep in mind that they may require a longer cooking time to get tender.
Herb Infusions: Fresh herbs can change the entire flavor profile! Try adding fresh basil or mint for a unique twist that pairs beautifully with the curry spices.

With these variations, you can keep your chicken sweet potato and lentil curry exciting and fresh every time you make it. So go ahead and let your culinary creativity shine! Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This chicken sweet potato and lentil curry stores beautifully, and I can’t wait to share how to keep it tasting just as fantastic for your next meal!

To store, let the curry cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to seal it tightly—nobody wants their delicious curry to absorb other fridge odors!

If you want to keep it longer, this curry freezes wonderfully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion, and pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date so you know what you’ve got on hand!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw your curry overnight in the refrigerator. For reheating, you have a couple of options: heat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a rush, you can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl. Just cover it (to avoid splatters!), and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until it’s hot.

Oh, and here’s a little tip: If the curry thickens up too much after storing, just add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to bring back that creamy consistency. You want it to be as luscious as the first time you made it! Enjoy every bite again!

Share Your Thoughts

I absolutely love hearing from you, so don’t be shy! If you’ve tried this chicken sweet potato and lentil curry, I’d be thrilled if you’d take a moment to leave a comment below. Let me know how it turned out for you and if you made any fun tweaks to the recipe!

Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps others in our cooking community find their way to this delicious dish. Plus, sharing your experience is a great way to inspire fellow food lovers to try it out! Did you serve it with rice or maybe some warm naan? I want to hear all about it!

If you enjoyed the recipe, I’d also appreciate it if you could give it a rating. It really brightens my day to know you loved it as much as I do! So go ahead, drop your thoughts below, and let’s keep the conversation going. Happy cooking!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.