Creamy Chicken and Sweet Potato Curry
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this delightful Chicken and Sweet Potato Curry. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with sweet, vibrant sweet potatoes and hearty split red lentils, all simmered in a luscious coconut milk curry sauce. It's a family-friendly meal that's not only mild and comforting but also packed with nutrition. Perfect for cozy dinners, this curry pairs beautifully with fragrant basmati rice or slurp-worthy rice noodles, making it a true crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sunflower oil
1 teaspoon (For cooking)
Mild curry paste
2 teaspoons (For flavoring)
Boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 (Cut into bite-sized pieces)
Sweet potatoes
2 (Peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces)
Split red lentils
4 tablespoons (Rinsed before use)
Chicken broth
1 1/4 cups (For simmering)
Coconut milk
1 3/4 cups (For a creamy texture)
Frozen peas
6 ounces (Added at the end)
Instructions
1
Heat the sunflower oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium heat.
2
Add the mild curry paste and fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3
Stir in the bite-sized pieces of chicken, sweet potatoes, and lentils, ensuring everything is well coated with the curry paste.
4
Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, mixing well to combine.
5
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to soften and the lentils to cook.
6
After 15 minutes, add the frozen peas, stirring to incorporate them into the curry. Bring the dish back to a gentle boil and simmer for an additional 4-5 minutes.
7
Once cooked, taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
8
Serve the curry hot over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or alongside rice noodles for a comforting family meal.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken and Sweet Potato Curry?
It is a rich and creamy dish that combines tender chicken breasts, sweet potatoes, and split red lentils in a luscious coconut milk curry sauce.
Is this curry recipe spicy?
No, this recipe uses mild curry paste and coconut milk, making it a mild and family-friendly meal.
How long does it take to cook the sweet potatoes?
The sweet potatoes should simmer for about 15 minutes until they are softened and fork-tender.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for two boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used as a flavorful and juicy alternative.
Do I need to soak the split red lentils?
No soaking is required; simply rinse the lentils before adding them to the pan.
What type of oil should I use for frying?
Sunflower oil is recommended for its neutral flavor, but other cooking oils can be substituted.
Is this curry dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe uses coconut milk instead of dairy, making it naturally dairy-free.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the label of your curry paste and chicken broth to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
What should I serve with this curry?
It pairs beautifully with fragrant basmati rice or slurp-worthy rice noodles.
Can I make this curry vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
When do I add the frozen peas?
Add the frozen peas after the initial 15-minute simmer, then cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used and should be added at the same stage as frozen peas.
What is the purpose of split red lentils in this dish?
Lentils add heartiness, nutrition, and help naturally thicken the curry sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this curry?
Yes, this curry freezes well. Ensure it is completely cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat the curry?
Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What if I don't have mild curry paste?
You can use a mild curry powder mixed with a little oil to form a paste as a substitute.
Can I use light coconut milk?
Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy and thinner than if using full-fat coconut milk.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, its mild flavor and creamy texture make it an excellent family-friendly meal for kids.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
Yes, the recipe suggests peeling the sweet potatoes before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Can I add other vegetables to this curry?
Absolutely; vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cauliflower would make great additions.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on the ingredients, it typically serves 3 to 4 people.
What if the sauce is too thick?
If the curry is too thick, stir in a little extra chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
What if the sauce is too thin?
You can simmer the curry for a few extra minutes without a lid to allow the liquid to reduce.
Is the chicken broth essential?
Chicken broth provides depth of flavor, but you can use water with a pinch of salt if broth is unavailable.
How do I know when the lentils are cooked?
Split red lentils are cooked when they are soft and have lost their distinct disc shape, usually after 15 minutes.
Can I use a different type of lentil?
Split red lentils are preferred because they cook quickly; other lentils like green or brown will take much longer to soften.
Does this recipe require any special equipment?
No, just a deep frying pan or a wok is sufficient for preparation.
Can I add garnish to the dish?
Yes, fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice added just before serving provides a wonderful fresh finish.