Curried Lentils With Chicken
A hearty and flavorful lentil stew with chicken, aromatic spices, and vegetables, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for those who enjoy bold curry flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except peas in a large soup pot and simmer for 40 minutes.
- Add peas and cook until tender.
- Serve with polenta or brown rice and prepared curry sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker preparation, use canned lentils instead of dried, and feel free to substitute chicken with chickpeas for a vegetarian option. If you like more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicier curry sauce. Ensure the lentils are rinsed before cooking to remove any debris. This dish can easily be altered by incorporating other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the curried lentils with polenta or brown rice, as they complement the flavors beautifully. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of naan or a fresh salad. This dish pairs well with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. Browse more Indian recipes for more delicious ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if it becomes too thick. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Lentils With Chicken contains roughly 842 calories, with 23g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (142% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1434mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables or using chickpeas instead. This will maintain the protein content while keeping the dish hearty and flavorful.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, start with 2 tablespoons of curry sauce and taste as you go. You can add more for extra flavor or use a milder curry paste if you prefer a gentler heat. Consider serving with a side of yogurt to balance the spice.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. These additions will enhance the nutrition and flavor profile of the dish while keeping it vibrant and colorful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).