Name: Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons curry powder (yellow or mild); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you have been searching for a dish that feels like a warm, cozy hug on a plate, this Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Tender chunks of chicken bathed in a luscious, creamy coconut milk curry sauce, flavored with aromatic spices, create a harmony of tastes that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you are whipping up a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests without too much fuss, this recipe brings vibrant color, delightful texture, and rich flavor into your kitchen with ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with fresh ingredients neatly arranged. At the top right, two pieces of raw, pale pink chicken sit on white paper. Next to them are two halves of a light yellow onion. Below the onion, there is a small blue can of light coconut milk, and next to it, a small glass jug filled with pale yellow liquid. Below the jug is a white bowl full of cooked brown rice. To the left of the rice, two lime halves sit cut side up, their bright green color contrasting with fresh dark green spinach leaves beside them. Above the spinach are several dark green kaffir lime leaves. In the center, a small white bowl holds a reddish-brown paste. Around the bowl and leaves are orange cubes of sweet potato. At the far left, two halves of a red bell pepper show the white inner core with seeds. At the bottom left, two mango halves are scored in a grid pattern, showing vibrant yellow flesh. The whole setup is brightly lit and neatly displayed. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe is how simple yet essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s building depth of flavor, contributing a silky texture, or lending that inviting golden hue that makes curry so irresistible.

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs offer more tenderness and richness, but breasts keep it lean and still very tasty.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavors and balances the spices.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that wakes up the dish.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil: Essential for browning the chicken and sautéing aromatics.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and a soft texture that melts into the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the curry with robust, savory undertones.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds a fresh, zingy brightness that lifts the dish.
2 tablespoons curry powder (yellow or mild): The star spice blend that defines the curry’s flavor profile.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Contributes earthiness and warmth.
½ teaspoon ground turmeric: Gives that beautiful golden color and subtle bitterness.
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk: Creates the creamy, dreamy sauce that ties everything together.
½ cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth without overpowering the coconut milk.
1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens and balances the richness just before serving.
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish): Adds a burst of herbal freshness and color.

How to Make Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. This simple step ensures that every bite carries flavor right from the start. It’s a quick but crucial foundation for a well-rounded dish.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat your choice of oil—vegetable or coconut—over medium heat in a large skillet or pot. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook until each piece is lightly browned. This not only adds texture but also locks in flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside; don’t worry, it will finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking them briefly for about 30 seconds to release their wonderful aromas without burning.

Step 4: Bloom the Spices

Stir in the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Let these spices cook for about one minute to bloom, which means their flavors will deepen and intensify. This step is what transforms the dish from a simple chicken dinner into something truly special.

Step 5: Add Coconut Milk and Broth

Pour in the full-fat coconut milk along with the chicken broth, stirring everything together until smooth. This luxurious liquid base is what makes the curry creamy and flavorful. It also helps the spices meld perfectly.

Step 6: Simmer the Chicken

Return the chicken to the pan, submerging it in the sauce. Let everything simmer uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. This gentle simmer allows the chicken to soak up all the curry goodness.

Step 7: Finish with Lime Juice and Seasoning

Once cooking is complete, stir in fresh lime juice for a touch of brightness. Taste and adjust any seasonings like salt or pepper as needed. This final zing balances the richness and brings every ingredient together beautifully.

How to Serve Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe

Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Finishing your Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe with fresh cilantro leaves not only adds a vibrant splash of green but also infuses each bite with a burst of herbal freshness. If you like a little crunch, toasted cashews sprinkled on top can add a lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

Because this curry is rich and creamy, it pairs exceptionally well with soft, fragrant rice varieties such as basmati or jasmine. Naan bread is another fantastic option to swipe up every last bit of sauce. For a lighter contrast, try steaming some fresh greens or roasted vegetables on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party or just to wow your family, serve the curry in a shallow, wide bowl with a few lime wedges on the side. Garnish with more cilantro and a drizzle of coconut milk for that photo-ready finish. Layer the curry over a bed of fluffy rice in individual bowls garnished with microgreens for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve the fresh flavors and creamy texture. Before enjoying again, simply give it a good stir to reincorporate any separated sauce.

Freezing

This curry freezes well, making it an ideal batch cook for busy weeks. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Frozen curry will stay good for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your coconut curry gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Reheating slowly helps maintain the creamy texture and deep flavor without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs in this Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs deliver a richer, more tender texture, chicken breasts are a leaner alternative and still work wonderfully. Just be careful not to overcook breasts as they can dry out more easily.

Is this recipe spicy?

By default, this Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe is mild thanks to the use of yellow or mild curry powder. However, you can easily adjust the heat by adding chili flakes, fresh chilies, or even a spoonful of curry paste if you want more kick.

Can I add vegetables to the curry?

Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach is a fantastic way to boost both nutrition and texture. Add vegetables partway through cooking so they remain vibrant but tender.

What can I substitute for coconut milk?

If you don’t have coconut milk on hand, you can try using heavy cream or a mix of cream and water, but the curry won’t have that signature coconut flavor. Canned coconut cream diluted with water is another great substitute to keep the richness.

How long does this dish take to make?

This Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe is ready in about 40 minutes total, including prep and cooking time. It’s perfect for a wholesome weeknight meal that doesn’t keep you waiting too long.

Final Thoughts

This Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to bring comfort and satisfaction to the table. Its inviting creaminess, fragrant spices, and tender chicken make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy the delightful blend of warmth and flavor that only this recipe can offer. Happy cooking!