Description
Looking for a dish that delivers rich flavor, creamy texture, and a touch of exotic spice? Coconut Curry Chicken is your perfect go-to for a cozy yet exciting meal. This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting curry that’s loaded with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and luscious coconut milk. It’s ideal for a quick dinner, an easy weeknight favorite, or even as part of your meal prep lineup. If you’re hunting for quick dinner recipes, easy food ideas, or healthy dinner ideas, this dish checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
0.5 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
0.5 cup chicken broth or water
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of half a lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked jasmine rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sear until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add remaining oil and sauté chopped onions until soft. Add garlic and ginger; cook for another minute.
3. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Toast spices for 1–2 minutes to intensify flavor.
4. Add tomato paste, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Add lime juice and brown sugar. Simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes to thicken sauce. Adjust seasoning.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with jasmine rice or naan.
Notes
Marinating the chicken in yogurt and turmeric before cooking can boost tenderness.
Full-fat coconut milk is key for a creamy and stable sauce.
Don’t skip toasting the spices — it’s essential for unlocking deep flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg