Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils

There’s something truly special about the comfort of a warm bowl of Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the aroma wafted through the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen. It was a chilly afternoon, perfect for something hearty and wholesome. As I stirred the pot, I could already envision the smiles on my kids’ faces as they dug into this flavorful meal. This recipe balances the warmth of spices with the nourishing goodness of chicken and lentils, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner. The vibrant colors and inviting scent create an irresistible atmosphere, inviting all to gather around the table.

What to Gather for Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. The heart of the dish lies in the spices and the chicken, while fresh vegetables add texture and nutrition. Together, they create a delightful harmony that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

• 1 small onion: A base for flavor, it adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 medium carrots: They offer a subtle sweetness and a vibrant color.
• 1 cup cauliflower florets: Adds texture and helps to bulk up the dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness.
• 1 clove garlic: Essential for aroma, it enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 slice fresh ginger root: A hint of warmth that elevates the spices.
• 1 teaspoon coriander: Adds a citrusy, nutty flavor to the curry.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Provides a warm earthiness that complements the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric: Its beautiful color and health benefits make it essential.
• 1 cup lentils, raw: The star protein source, they’re filling and nutritious.
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, chopped: Adds heartiness and protein to the curry.
• 1 can chickpeas, canned: They contribute creaminess and fiber.
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste, canned: For a rich, deep flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning.
• 3 1/2 cups water: To create the perfect curry consistency.
• 1/2 medium lemon: Fresh juice brightens the entire dish.
• 1 cup cooked brown rice: A delightful base for serving the curry.
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt: A creamy topping that balances the spices.

Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils Instructions

Getting started with Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils is a breeze, and I promise you’ll enjoy every moment of the cooking process. Here’s how to bring this delightful dish to life, one step at a time:

1. In a heavy, 5-quart pot over medium heat, add olive oil and let it warm up. Then, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and cauliflower. Cook them for about ten minutes until they start softening and become translucent.

2. Next, add minced garlic and ginger to the pot. It’s time to awaken the spices! Sprinkle in the coriander, cumin, and turmeric, and fry for one minute longer. You’ll love the fragrance that fills your kitchen.

3. Now, it’s time to bring all the magic together. Add the lentils, chicken, drained chickpeas, tomato paste, and salt, along with 3.5 cups of water. Stir well to combine everything.

4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. You’ll want to stir occasionally until the lentils are completely softened and the stew has thickened, which takes about 20 minutes.

5. When the curry is done, remove it from heat. Squeeze fresh juice from half a lemon into the dish and stir it in. This adds a lovely brightness to the curry.

6. For serving, ladle the Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils over cooked brown rice. This adds a wonderful base to the dish.

7. Finally, top each serving with a spoonful of yogurt. It balances the spices beautifully and adds a creamy texture.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Ready to take your Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils to the next level? Here are some handy tips that I have gathered over the years to make this dish even better:

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store them in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out into containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with warm naan or pita for a delightful experience. You can also add a side salad to introduce some crunch.
• Variations: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also swap out the chickpeas for other beans.
• Serving Styles: Consider using a large bowl for family-style serving, allowing everyone to help themselves.

What to Serve With Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils

When it comes to serving Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils, there are plenty of delicious pairings that can elevate the experience. Here are some ideas:

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a fantastic accompaniment, soaking up the curry’s flavors beautifully.
• Warm Naan: Soft, warm naan bread is perfect for dipping into the curry, adding a delightful texture.
• Side Salad: A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad balances the warm, spiced curry and adds crunch.
• Yogurt Sauce: A cool yogurt sauce with mint can enhance the spiciness of the curry, providing a refreshing counterpoint.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Seasonal Pairings: Serve it during colder months for a warm, cozy meal that everyone will love. It’s also great for gatherings during festive seasons.

FAQ

Conclusion

Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful way to gather with family and friends. This recipe celebrates simple ingredients that come together in a warm, comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. I encourage you to try making it and experience the joy it brings to your dining table.

Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils

The ultimate comfort food for families! Kids Curry with Chicken and Lentils combines tender chicken, nutritious lentils, and vibrant vegetables for a delicious meal. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an easy weeknight meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Indian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 small Onion
• 2 medium Carrot
• 1 cup Cauliflower, florets
• 2 tablespoon Olive oil
• 1 clove Garlic
• 1 slice Ginger root, fresh
• 1 teaspoon Coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin, ground
• 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric, ground
• 1 cup Lentils, raw
• 1 cup Chicken Breast, cooked, chopped
• 1 can Chickpeas (garbanzo beans), canned
• 3 tablespoon Tomato paste, canned
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 3.5 cup Water
• 1/2 medium Lemon
• 1 cup Brown rice, cooked
• 1/2 cup Yogurt, plain

Instructions

 

• In a heavy, 5-quart pot over medium heat, fry chopped onions, carrots, and cauliflower in olive oil until softening and translucent, about ten minutes.
• Add minced garlic, ginger, and dry spices, and fry one minute longer.
• Add red lentils, chicken, drained chickpeas, tomato paste, and salt, plus 3.5 cups water.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until lentils are completely softened and the stew has thickened, about 20 minutes.
• Remove curry from the heat, and stir in fresh juice from half a lemon.
• Ladle over brown rice (if using) and top each serving with a spoonful of yogurt.

Notes

• Tip 1: Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in airtight containers. They last up to four days.
• Tip 2: This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out into containers and freeze for up to three months.
• Tip 3: Serve with warm naan for dipping into the curry.
• Tip 4: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Tip 5: Consider using a large bowl for family-style serving.

Keyword Chicken and Lentils Curry, Easy Family Dinner, Healthy Curry for Kids, Kids Curry Recipe

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.