Name: Curry Chicken and Lentils in Instant Pot
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 white onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (pressed); 2 tsp curry powder; 1 tsp turmeric; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup red lentils; 1 lb chicken breast; 2 tomatoes (chopped)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This Curry Chicken and Lentils made in the instant pot is savory, high in fiber and protein, easy to prepare, and ready in 40 minutes. It will be your new go-to quick meal prep recipe.

curry chicken and lentils made in instant pot served with rice

Why You’ll Love Curry Chicken and Lentils in Instant Pot

When you need a savory meal prep packed with nutrients and ready in 40 minutes, this curry chicken and lentils will be your go-to! Curry powder and turmeric add strong flavors, so this won’t be a bland chicken meal prep.

Iron is important for athletic performance as iron is needed for oxygen transport. Lentils are a good source of iron with 3.5 mg, providing 19% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for women.

One serving of Curry Chicken and Lentils provides 35 grams of protein and 5.5 grams of fiber. This easy instant pot recipe will help you reach your protein goals and keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Ingredients

Onion, garlic, curry powder, and turmeric: adds the savory flavors for this curry dish.

Chicken broth: the liquid for the lentils. You can replace with water, but broth adds flavor.

Red lentils: packed with nutrients, including iron, fiber, and protein. A 1/4^th cup serving of dried lentils provides 3.5 mg iron, which is 19% of the RDA for women.

Chicken breast: the main protein source. You can also use chicken thighs.

Tomatoes: adds a little color and provide antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium.

How to Make Curry Chicken and Lentils in Instant Pot

Set instant pot/pressure cooker to sauté and add olive oil. Once oil is shimmering, add onion and cook for 3 minutes. Add garlic, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute. Turn off sauté function.

Add chicken broth to instant pot and stir. Then, add lentils, chicken, and tomato. Stir to combine. Lock on lid and set to pressure cook for 8 minutes.

curry chicken and lentils in instant pot before cooking

Once done, quick release pressure. Remove chicken to shred and then stir back in. Enjoy!

curry chicken and lentils in instant pot with shredded chicken

How to Store Curry Chicken and Lentils

For meal prep, divide recipe into 4 meal prep containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Curry chicken and lentils can be stored in the freezer for 3 to 4 months. I recommend storing in individual meal prep containers to make it easier to thaw and reheat.

curry chicken and lentils in meal prep containers

What to Serve with Curry Chicken and Lentils

Curry chicken and lentils can be eaten on its own as it provides protein, carbs, and fat. You can make it a more filing meal by adding another carb source. Enjoy with rice or dip pita and naan bread in it for classic meal. You can also add more vegetables, like cauliflower or a side salad.

Tips

Rinse lentils and remove debris. Tiny rocks can sneak into lentils.

Curry Chicken and Lentils makes a great freezer recipe. Make it and store in the freezer divided into meal prep containers so you can easily take one out when you need a quick meal.

Enjoy the recipe on its own or pair with rice, pita, or naan.

Try These Meal Prep Recipes Next:

Get My Free Meal Plan

Do you struggle with knowing what to meal prep for the week? Check out my FREE meal plan for a week of high protein meal prep recipes and get my favorite healthy snacks and quick meals. Get it here.