Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table, then this Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken is just what you need. This delightful recipe is inspired by Thai cuisine and is packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. In just about 30 minutes, you can create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

What I love most about this coconut milk curry chicken is how simple yet satisfying it is. You can whip it up in one pan, which means less cleanup for you and more time spent enjoying the meal with loved ones. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With only 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have more time to unwind after a long day.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking in one pan makes cleanup a breeze—more time enjoying your delicious meal!
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors make this curry appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The creamy coconut milk blends perfectly with spices for a comforting dish that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Curry

• 2-3 tbsp coconut oil (canola or vegetable)
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 2-inch cubes)
• 3 tbsp curry powder (divided)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup yellow onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped, about 2 tsp)
• 2 tbsp fresh ginger (about a 2-inch knob, finely chopped—not powdered)
• 3 tbsp tomato paste (about half a 6 oz can)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ancho chili powder
• 1-15.25 oz can coconut milk (full fat, not reduced fat)
• 1 cup chicken broth or stock
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)

For Serving

• Hot cooked rice
• Warm naan
• Lime wedges
• Cilantro leaves
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to cater to different tastes, here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist on this dish.
• Add some veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add sliced jalapeños or extra crushed red pepper flakes.
• Go vegetarian: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken for a hearty veggie dish.

How to Make Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a medium bowl, toss your chopped chicken pieces with ½ tablespoon of curry powder along with some salt and pepper. This step ensures the chicken absorbs those beautiful flavors before cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat one tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken and cook until lightly browned but not fully cooked—about 2 minutes per side. Removing the chicken at this stage keeps it juicy!

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt one to two more tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onions and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until they’re softened and starting to turn golden. This step builds a flavorful base for your curry as they caramelize beautifully.

Step 4: Create the Spice Paste

Add garlic and ginger to the softened onions and stir them together for an aromatic boost. Then mix in tomato paste along with the remaining curry powder, cumin, coriander, and ancho chili powder until everything forms a thick paste—this forms the heart of your curry’s flavor!

Step 5: Combine Liquids

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth while stirring thoroughly to incorporate everything well; using a flat whisk helps combine them smoothly.

Step 6: Let It Simmer

Turn up the heat until it bubbles gently before reducing it to let simmer. Allowing it to simmer for about eight minutes allows those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Finish Cooking Chicken

Add brown sugar if desired; then return your browned chicken back into the skillet. Stir gently and let everything simmer until cooked through—about another 3-5 minutes or when a meat thermometer reads 165º F.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Serve this glorious Coconut Milk Curry with hot cooked rice, lime wedges for zestiness, and fresh cilantro leaves sprinkled on top. Don’t forget those crushed red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken

Cooking can be a joyful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs enhance the flavor significantly, providing a vibrant taste that dried ingredients simply can’t match.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer more heat, add extra chili powder or serve crushed red pepper flakes on the side. This way, everyone can customize their own spice level according to their taste.
• Let it simmer: Allowing your curry to simmer gently helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. This enhances the depth of flavor in your dish.
• Cook rice properly: Perfectly cooked rice is essential for serving with your curry. Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and ensure fluffy grains that soak up the delicious sauce perfectly.
• Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Consider making a double batch and storing leftovers in the fridge for an easy lunch or dinner later in the week.

How to Serve Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken

Serving your Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken can be just as delightful as cooking it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the curry.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their curry, brightening up each bite.
• Crushed peanuts: A light sprinkle of crushed peanuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the curry.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fragrant qualities of jasmine rice pair perfectly with coconut milk curry, absorbing its rich sauce while adding a lovely aroma.
• Warm naan bread: Soft and pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up curry, making every bite satisfying and enjoyable.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing provides a crisp contrast to the creaminess of the curry. It keeps things light and balances out flavors.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli brings out their natural sweetness, offering a colorful side that complements your curry wonderfully.

Enjoy every mouthful of this delightful Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken is not only bursting with flavor, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the curry cool down before pouring it into a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, divide into individual portions for easy thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of coconut milk or broth if it seems too thick.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other meats instead of chicken in Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or firm tofu as great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

What can I serve with Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken?

Serve this dish with hot cooked rice, warm naan, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro for a complete meal. Don’t forget some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little extra heat!

Is Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from coconut milk. It’s also rich in flavor without being overly heavy.

Can I make Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite vegetables. You might want to adjust cooking times accordingly so everything cooks perfectly!

How long does Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last about 3-4 days in the fridge. Enjoy those leftovers!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Coconut Milk Curry with Chicken as much as I do! The vibrant flavors and creamy texture create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking and savor every bite!