Cozy up with this Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken Lentil Stew, a nourishing blend of tender chicken, hearty lentils, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a fragrant coconut curry broth—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Packed with warming spices and rich flavors, this easy recipe is a comforting, nutrient-dense dinner that satisfies.
Prep Time:15 minutesmins
Cook Time:8 hourshrs
Total Time:8 hourshrs15 minutesmins
Equipment
slow cooker
cutting board
knife
measuring cups
measuring spoons
mixing spoon
Ladle
Ingredients
1lbboneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or turkey breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
1cupdried brown or green lentilsrinsed
1can13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
4cupsvegetable or chicken brothlow-sodium
1large sweet potatopeeled and diced
1carrotpeeled and sliced
1cupbutternut squashpeeled and cubed
1oniondiced
3clovesgarlicminced
1tablespoonfresh gingergrated
2teaspoonscurry powder
1teaspoonground turmeric
1/2teaspoonground cumin
1/2teaspoonchili powderoptional for heat
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantrochopped (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.