Easy Coconut Chicken Curry
Easy Coconut Chicken Curry is a creamy, rich, and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken simmered in a luscious coconut milk base infused with aromatic spices. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive for guests. This comforting and versatile curry is mild enough for families but can be easily spiced up, making homemade curry approachable and delicious.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Proteins
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
Liquids
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp curry powder or 2 tbsp curry paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh Herbs
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Prep the Ingredients: Chop the onions, mince the garlic and ginger, and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to prepare for a smooth cooking process.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a bit of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Cook the onions until translucent, then add the garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until they start to turn golden on the outside, sealing in the juices.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle curry powder or stir in curry paste, coating the chicken and aromatics evenly. Pour in diced tomatoes and allow the mixture to simmer, melding the flavors.
- Add Coconut Milk and Simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Finish with Freshness: Stir in chopped fresh cilantro and a splash of lime juice just before serving to brighten the dish and add a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness.
- Toasting the curry powder before adding liquids enhances aroma.
- Don’t skip the lime juice to balance the rich coconut sauce.
- Adjust the heat by adding chili flakes incrementally.
- Let the curry rest off heat for a few minutes to deepen flavors before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: coconut chicken curry, easy curry recipe, quick chicken curry, weeknight dinner, creamy curry, gluten free curry