Nourish and Reset: Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken Lentil Stew
The week between Christmas and New Year’s often feels like a much-needed pause—a time to recharge and nourish yourself after the holiday hustle. But with all the festivities, finding time for a wholesome, stress-free meal can be challenging. That’s where the Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken Lentil Stew comes in—a comforting, nutrient-packed dish that takes minimal effort and delivers maximum health benefits.
Why This Stew is Perfect for the Post-Holiday Reset
After a season of indulgent meals and sugary treats, your body craves balance. This stew is a one-pot wonder that’s not only easy to prepare but also brimming with ingredients to help you feel your best:
- Supports Gut Health
The combination of lentils and butternut squash provides a rich source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and supports a balanced gut microbiome. This is particularly important after consuming heavy holiday foods that can disrupt your system. - Packed with Immune-Boosting Nutrients
With the colder months in full swing, staying healthy is a priority. The garlic, ginger, and turmeric in this recipe are known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to ward off seasonal illnesses. - Sustained Energy for Busy Days
The mix of complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and lentils, along with lean protein from chicken, offers long-lasting energy. Whether you’re tackling a post-holiday to-do list or simply relaxing, this stew keeps you full and energized without the crash. - Stress-Reducing Ingredients
Curry spices like turmeric and cumin are known for their calming properties and ability to reduce inflammation, which can be heightened during stressful times. The fragrant coconut milk adds a creamy, indulgent touch while providing healthy fats for brain and hormone health.
Why Slow Cooker Meals Are a Game-Changer
Between wrapping up the year and prepping for the next, time is a precious commodity. The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity:
- Minimal Effort, Big Flavor: Toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it do the work.
- Hands-Free Cooking: Spend your time doing what matters most—whether that’s connecting with loved ones, reflecting on the year, or simply relaxing.
- Meal Prep Made Easy: This stew stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Enjoy leftovers as a quick, healthy lunch or dinner option.
Serve It Your Way
While this stew is delicious on its own, you can customize it to fit your preferences. Pair it with warm, whole-grain bread or a side of fluffy basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
A Bowl Full of Nourishment and Comfort
As you close out the year, let this Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken Lentil Stew be a part of your reset. It’s not just a meal; it’s an act of self-care, helping you transition into the new year feeling nourished, balanced, and ready to take on what’s ahead.
Looking for more inspiration to eat well and live well as the new year begins? Stay tuned for more nourishing recipes and wellness tips to kick off 2025 with your healthiest self!
Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken Lentil Stew
Equipment
- slow cooker
- cutting board
- knife
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- mixing spoon
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or turkey breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils rinsed
- 1 can 13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth low-sodium
- 1 large sweet potato peeled and diced
- 1 carrot peeled and sliced
- 1 cup butternut squash peeled and cubed
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder optional for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in the slow cooker.
- Add the lentils, sweet potato, carrot, butternut squash, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder.
- Pour in the coconut milk and broth, stirring to combine.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked, and the vegetables and lentils are tender.
- Optional Instructions for Red Lentils:
- If using red lentils instead of brown or green, add them during the last 1-2 hours of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Once the stew is done, squeeze the juice of one lime into the pot and stir for added brightness.
- Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with a side of warm, whole-grain bread or naan if desired.
