Coconut Chicken Curry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a perfect blend of warm spices and creamy coconut that creates a luscious, aromatic curry. It’s easy to prepare with pantry staples and delivers restaurant-quality flavors at home. The tender chicken pieces soak up the sauce beautifully, while lime juice adds a refreshing brightness. It’s a comforting dish ideal for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (14 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Directions

1. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic, red curry paste, tomato paste, and grated ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
4. Add butter and chicken pieces to the pan. Cook until chicken is browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Add brown sugar, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. Stir in lime juice just before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable addition: Add bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice level: Adjust cayenne pepper and red curry paste according to your preferred heat level.
• Creamier sauce: Stir in extra coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt just before serving.
• Protein swap: Use chicken breasts, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken thighs.
• Garnish options: Top with toasted cashews or chopped peanuts for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or coconut milk if the sauce thickens too much.
• This curry can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful in this curry.

How spicy is this dish?

It can range from mild to medium-spicy depending on the amount of red curry paste and cayenne pepper used.

Is the coconut milk necessary?

Yes, it provides creaminess and balances the spices; full-fat coconut milk gives the best flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or vegetables.

Can I prepare this curry ahead of time?

It tastes great the next day, allowing flavors to deepen; reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with Coconut Chicken Curry?

Steamed jasmine rice, basmati rice, or rice noodles complement this curry well.

How do I store leftover curry?

Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I freeze this curry?

Yes, freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?

Avoid boiling after adding coconut milk and simmer gently while stirring.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, add bell peppers, green beans, carrots, or spinach during cooking for added nutrition.

Conclusion

Coconut Chicken Curry is a rich, flavorful dish that brings together warm spices and creamy coconut milk for a comforting and satisfying meal. Its ease of preparation and adaptable nature make it a fantastic choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. This curry offers a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and tang, making it a standout favorite in your recipe collection.

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