Chicken Lentil Curry

Cozy, fiber-rich curry to support gentle digestion and everyday nourishment.

Recipe description

Chicken Lentil Curry pairs lean protein with fiber-rich lentils in a gently spiced curry sauce. The dish highlights plant diversity and a balanced mix of nutrients, making it easy to fit into everyday meals. Lentils bring soluble and insoluble fiber that support comfortable digestion as part of a varied diet, while the spices and vegetables contribute polyphenols that may support a diverse, gut-friendly intake. This recipe is approachable for weeknights, adaptable to taste, and supports steady, enjoyable eating habits.

Published on: June 11, 2026
Chicken Lentil Curry
Prep 15 min Cook 30 min Easy
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Why this recipe fits you

  • Rich in fiber from lentils and vegetables.
  • Includes colorful plant foods and spices that contribute polyphenols.
  • Balanced with lean protein from chicken and slow carbohydrates for steady energy.

Gut Health Score

🌿 Fiber diversity
85
🍇 Polyphenol density
80
🧬 Diversity support
85
🫧 Fermentation support
20

Ingredients

Chicken, breast
2 piece
Chicken, breast
Red lentils
1 cup
Red lentils
Onion
1 piece
Onion
Garlic
3 piece
Garlic
Ginger
0.0625 cup
Ginger
Curry powder
1.5 teaspoon
Curry powder
Turmeric
1 teaspoon
Turmeric
Seed, cumin
0.5 tablespoon
Seed, cumin
Tomato
1 piece
Tomato
Tomato, paste
1 tablespoon
Tomato, paste
Coconut milk
1 cup
Coconut milk
Vegetable broth
1 cup
Vegetable broth
Oil, olive
1 tablespoon
Oil, olive
Salt
1 teaspoon
Salt
Black pepper
0.5 teaspoon
Black pepper
Cilantro
2 tablespoon
Cilantro
Lime
1 piece
Lime

Instructions

1

Dice the onion and mince the garlic and ginger.

2

In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.

3

Add the chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces and cook until browned.

4

Stir in the curry powder and cook for another minute.

5

Add the lentils and coconut milk, bring to a simmer, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender.

6

Add the spinach and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

7

Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

Nutrition

420 kcal Calories
26 g Protein
40 g Carbohydrates
12 g Fiber
8 g Sugar
12 g Fat
3 g Saturated fat
0.9 g Salt

FAQ

Is Chicken Lentil Curry gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free curry paste/spices and avoid wheat-based thickeners; always check labels.
What are the main nutrients in this dish?
Lean chicken provides protein, lentils supply fiber, vegetables add vitamins, and the spices offer polyphenols.
Can I prepare ahead or freeze leftovers?
Yes. Cool and refrigerate 3–4 days; freeze for 2–3 months. Reheat until steaming hot.
Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas and keep the curry sauce flavorful.
How spicy is it and how can I adjust the heat?
Spiciness depends on the curry paste and chili. Use milder spices, omit chili, or add yogurt/coconut milk to mellow.
What should I serve this curry with?
Serve with rice, quinoa, or warm flatbread and extra vegetables.
How long does it take to cook?
About 30–40 minutes from start to finish.
How can I make this dish lower in calories?
Choose skinless chicken, use less oil, add more vegetables and lentils, and watch portions.
Are there common allergens in this dish?
The dish contains chicken; if you use dairy or gluten ingredients, check labels and adapt.
Why do lentils help digestion?
Lentils provide both soluble and insoluble fiber that supports comfortable digestion as part of a varied diet.

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