Easy Chicken or Lentil Curry Recipe

Curry is one of those comforting, flavor-packed dishes that can instantly elevate your weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a fan of tender, juicy chicken or prefer a plant-based option like lentils, this easy curry recipe delivers a rich, aromatic meal with minimal effort. With just a handful of pantry staples, some fragrant spices, and a bit of simmering, you can enjoy a wholesome and satisfying dish in under an hour.

One of the best things about curry is its versatility. You can adjust the spice levels, swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences, and even prepare it in advance for a hassle-free meal. This recipe offers two delicious variations—one with succulent chicken pieces that soak up all the flavors of the sauce and another with hearty lentils that create a creamy, protein-packed alternative.

The heart of this dish lies in its bold yet balanced flavors. A combination of warm spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, along with aromatic garlic, onions, and ginger, creates a deeply flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with rice. Coconut milk adds a touch of creaminess, while tomatoes bring a hint of tang that balances everything beautifully.

What You’ll Need

To make this easy chicken or lentil curry, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Below is a breakdown of the ingredients required for both versions—whether you choose the chicken option or the lentil alternative.

For the Chicken or Lentil Curry Base:

Protein Option (Choose One):
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- OR 1 cup of dry lentils (red or green), rinsed and drained
Aromatics and Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped (or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional, for extra texture)
Spices and Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon paprika (or chili powder for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids and Creaminess:
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
Oil for Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil

For the Rice Side Dish:

1 ½ cups white or brown rice
3 cups water or broth
½ teaspoon salt

With all these ingredients ready, you’re set to create a delicious homemade curry that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Now that we’ve covered what you’ll need, let’s move on to how to make it step by step.

How to Make Easy Chicken or Lentil Curry

Making this easy chicken or lentil curry is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps—sautéing the aromatics, adding the spices, incorporating the main ingredients, and letting everything simmer to perfection. Whether you opt for the chicken or lentil version, the steps remain largely the same, with slight adjustments for cooking times.

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped:

Chop the onion, tomatoes, and bell pepper (if using).
Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces OR rinse the lentils thoroughly.
Measure out all the spices so they’re ready to go.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Spices

Add 1 teaspoon each of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, along with ½ teaspoon of paprika.
Stir continuously for about 1 minute to release the flavors of the spices. Be careful not to burn them!

Step 4: Add the Protein and Vegetables

For the chicken version:

Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it turns white on all sides.
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes until they start breaking down.

For the lentil version:

Stir in the lentils along with the chopped tomatoes and let them cook for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Simmer the Curry

Pour in 1½ cups of vegetable or chicken broth and 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk.
Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
For chicken curry, let it simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is tender.
For lentil curry, cover and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and creamy. If the curry thickens too much, add a bit more broth.

Step 6: Final Touches

Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Cook the Rice

Rinse 1½ cups of rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water or broth to a boil.
Add the rice and ½ teaspoon of salt, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes (depending on the type of rice).
Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and serve alongside the curry.

Now your homemade chicken or lentil curry is ready to enjoy! Let’s move on to how to store leftovers and the best ways to serve this delicious dish.

Serving and Storage Tips for Easy Chicken or Lentil Curry

Best Ways to Serve This Curry

This curry is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

Classic Style: Serve over a bed of warm, fluffy rice for a comforting meal.
With Naan or Flatbread: Pair it with naan, chapati, or pita bread to scoop up the rich, flavorful sauce.
Over Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: For a lighter, low-carb option, swap regular rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.
With a Side Salad: A fresh cucumber and yogurt salad balances the spices and adds a refreshing contrast.

For extra flavor, you can also garnish the curry with:

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sliced green chilies for added spice
A dollop of yogurt for a creamy finish
Toasted cashews or almonds for crunch

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:

In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
In the Freezer: This curry freezes beautifully! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Rice Storage Tip: If storing rice separately, let it cool completely before refrigerating. Adding a few drops of water while reheating prevents dryness.

Mistakes to Avoid for Easy Chicken or Lentil Curry

Even though this recipe is simple and beginner-friendly, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the texture and flavor of your curry. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

1. Not Cooking the Spices Properly

One of the biggest mistakes when making curry is adding the spices too late or not toasting them properly. Spices need heat to release their essential oils, which is what gives curry its depth of flavor. If you skip this step, your dish might taste bland or one-dimensional. Always toast your spices for at least 30 seconds to 1 minute in oil before adding the other ingredients.

2. Rushing the Simmering Process

A good curry needs time to develop rich flavors. If you don’t let it simmer long enough, the ingredients won’t have time to blend together.

For chicken curry, let it cook for at least 15–20 minutes to ensure the meat becomes tender.
For lentil curry, allow 25–30 minutes so the lentils break down slightly and thicken the sauce.
If you rush this step, your curry may taste raw or watery.

3. Adding Too Much Liquid at Once

A common mistake is making the curry too watery. While it will naturally thicken as it cooks, adding too much broth or coconut milk at once can lead to a thin, soupy consistency.
Tip: Start with the recommended amount of liquid and add more if needed. If your curry turns out too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the sauce.

4. Overcooking the Chicken or Lentils

Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough and dry. Be sure to simmer it just until tender.
Lentils: Red lentils break down more quickly, while green lentils hold their shape longer. Overcooking them can turn your curry into mush. Keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

5. Not Seasoning Correctly

Curry relies on a balance of spices, salt, and acidity.

If it tastes bland, add more salt or a pinch of garam masala.
If it’s too spicy, a bit of coconut milk or yogurt can mellow it out.
If it lacks brightness, a squeeze of lemon juice at the end will enhance the flavors.

6. Using Low-Quality Spices

Old or stale spices won’t give you the bold flavors needed for a good curry. Make sure your spices are fresh and aromatic. If they smell weak, it’s time to replace them.

By keeping these common mistakes in mind, your curry will always turn out flavorful and perfectly textured. Now, let’s move on to some useful Tips and Tricks to make this dish even better!

Tips and Tricks for Easy Chicken or Lentil Curry

Now that you know what mistakes to avoid, let’s look at some expert tips and tricks to elevate your curry-making skills. These small adjustments can make a huge difference in flavor, texture, and convenience.

1. Enhance the Flavor with Whole Spices

For an even richer taste, try adding whole spices like:

1 cinnamon stick
2–3 cardamom pods
1–2 cloves
Sauté them in oil before adding the onions. Whole spices infuse the dish with a warm, deep aroma that takes your curry to the next level.

2. Marinate the Chicken for Extra Tenderness

If you’re making the chicken version, marinating the meat can add an extra layer of flavor and tenderness. Simply mix the diced chicken with:

½ teaspoon turmeric
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon yogurt (optional)
Let it sit for 15–30 minutes before cooking. This step helps the meat absorb more flavor and stay juicy.

3. Adjust the Heat to Your Preference

If you love spice, add a chopped green chili or an extra pinch of chili powder.
If you prefer mild flavors, use only paprika and skip the chili powder.
This way, you can control the heat level according to your taste.

4. Add a Touch of Sweetness for Balance

If your curry tastes too acidic due to the tomatoes, a small pinch of sugar or honey can balance the flavors. This is especially useful if using canned tomatoes, which can sometimes be too tangy.

5. Let the Curry Rest Before Serving

Just like soups and stews, curry tastes even better after resting for a few minutes. Once cooked, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

6. Make It Ahead for Meal Prep

This curry tastes even better the next day, as the spices have more time to infuse. If you’re meal prepping, make a big batch and store it in portions for easy lunches or dinners.

7. Use Leftovers Creatively

If you have extra curry, here are some ways to use it differently:

As a filling for wraps or sandwiches
Over roasted vegetables for a hearty meal
Mixed into scrambled eggs for a spiced breakfast

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to customize and enhance your curry for the best possible results.

Suggestions

Now that you have a solid understanding of how to make this easy chicken or lentil curry, let’s explore some creative ways to modify and enhance it to suit different preferences, dietary needs, and occasions.

1. Make It Vegan or Vegetarian-Friendly

If you prefer a plant-based meal, here are a few ways to modify this curry without sacrificing flavor:

Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu: Chickpeas add a hearty texture, while tofu absorbs the curry flavors beautifully.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth: This keeps the dish completely vegetarian while maintaining depth of flavor.
Increase the vegetables: Add ingredients like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

2. Try Different Protein Options

Shrimp Curry: Swap out chicken or lentils for shrimp. Add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Beef Curry: Use small cubes of tender beef, but increase the simmering time to ensure it becomes soft and flavorful.
Egg Curry: Hard-boiled eggs simmered in the curry sauce make for a simple yet protein-rich meal.

3. Experiment with Different Spice Blends

If you want to give your curry a unique twist, try using different spice combinations:

Madras-style curry: Add extra chili powder and a pinch of ground fennel for a spicier kick.
Thai-inspired curry: Swap garam masala for Thai red or green curry paste and use coconut milk for a creamy base.
Middle Eastern touch: Add a teaspoon of ground cumin and coriander, along with a squeeze of lemon juice at the end.

If you’re a fan of easy cooking, you won’t want to miss this!

4. Serve with Different Accompaniments

While rice is the traditional pairing, here are some other delicious ways to enjoy your curry:

Naan bread or chapati: Perfect for scooping up the rich, flavorful sauce.
Cauliflower rice: A great low-carb alternative.
Quinoa or couscous: Adds an interesting texture and makes the dish more protein-packed.
Mashed sweet potatoes: A creamy, slightly sweet base that complements the spices beautifully.

5. Adjust the Texture to Your Liking

For a thicker curry: Mash some of the lentils or let the sauce simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
For a soupier curry: Add extra broth or coconut milk for a comforting, stew-like consistency.

6. Add a Fresh Garnish for Extra Flavor

Before serving, try topping your curry with:

Fresh cilantro for brightness
A squeeze of lemon or lime juice to enhance the flavors
Toasted coconut flakes for added texture
Crushed nuts (almonds, cashews) for a bit of crunch

With these suggestions, you can customize your curry to suit your personal preferences and experiment with new flavors. Now, let’s address some common FAQs before wrapping up!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I Make This Curry in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! If you’re using chicken, simply place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours. For lentil curry, reduce the broth slightly, as slow cooking releases more liquid.

2. How Can I Make My Curry Less Spicy?

If you find your curry too spicy, you can:

Add extra coconut milk or yogurt to mellow the heat.
Increase the tomatoes or broth to dilute the spiciness.
Avoid using red chili powder and opt for mild paprika instead.

3. Can I Freeze This Curry?

Absolutely! Curry freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Want a different twist on this recipe? Try this variation!

4. How Long Does This Curry Last in the Fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, your curry will stay fresh for 4–5 days in the refrigerator.

5. Can I Use Canned Lentils Instead of Dried?

Yes! If using canned lentils, drain and rinse them before adding them to the curry. Reduce the cooking time since they’re already cooked—10 minutes should be enough.

6. What’s the Best Way to Reheat This Curry?

Stovetop: Heat on low with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

7. Can I Use Store-Bought Curry Powder Instead of Individual Spices?

Yes! If you don’t have all the individual spices, 2 tablespoons of curry powder can work as a shortcut. However, freshly ground spices will always give a more vibrant flavor.

8. How Can I Make This Curry Creamier?

For an extra creamy texture, you can:

Stir in a few tablespoons of yogurt or coconut cream before serving.
Blend a small portion of the sauce and mix it back into the pot.

With these FAQs answered, you should be fully prepared to make this delicious curry. Let’s wrap up with a quick Conclusion!

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken or Lentil Curry with Rice is the perfect recipe for anyone looking for a flavorful, hearty, and customizable meal. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this dish offers a simple yet rewarding experience that can be adjusted to fit different dietary preferences and spice levels.

Need a tasty side dish to pair with this? Here’s an idea!

A Recap of What We Covered

Throughout this blog, we’ve explored:
✔ What you’ll need to make this curry, including all essential ingredients.
✔ Step-by-step instructions with full measurements to ensure success.
✔ How to store and reheat leftovers to maximize freshness.
✔ Common mistakes to avoid so you get the best results every time.
✔ Tips, tricks, and variations to make the dish your own.
✔ Frequently asked questions to troubleshoot any concerns.

By now, you have all the tools you need to create a delicious homemade curry that’s better than takeout. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Give It a Try and Share Your Experience!

Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out. Did you make any modifications? Have any tips of your own? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you!

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family. And for more delicious, easy-to-make meals, be sure to check out my other blog posts!

Happy cooking! 🍛