Description
This Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry features tender chicken simmered in a velvety coconut milk sauce infused with warm spices, creating a rich and comforting dish perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner. It pairs wonderfully with rice or naan for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Oil
- 2 tbsp oil (coconut or vegetable)
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
Spices
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric (optional)
Liquids
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
Additional Flavorings
- 1 tsp sugar or honey (optional, to balance flavors)
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of coconut or vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat to prepare for searing the chicken.
- Brown the chicken: Season 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet and cook until lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté onions: In the same skillet, cook the finely chopped onion until soft and translucent, which will build a flavorful base for the curry.
- Add garlic and ginger: Stir in minced garlic and grated fresh ginger and cook for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, enhancing the aroma.
- Bloom the spices: Add curry powder, ground cumin, paprika, and optional turmeric to the pan. Cook for 30 seconds to release their full flavors.
- Incorporate liquids and tomato paste: Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, chicken broth, and stir in tomato paste along with sugar or honey if using, creating a smooth and flavorful sauce.
- Simmer with chicken: Return the browned chicken to the pan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook covered: Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken beautifully.
- Adjust flavors: Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with salt or additional spices as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and serve warm with rice or naan bread, optionally adding lime wedges for a citrusy finish.
Notes
- Using chicken thighs adds extra richness and keeps the meat very tender compared to breasts.
- Adjust the spice level easily by adding chili flakes or fresh chilies according to your heat preference.
- Leftovers benefit from resting overnight, allowing flavors to meld and deepen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired / Asian-Inspired
