Irresistible Coconut Milk Curry Chicken : Family Favorite in 30 Mins

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate, this Coconut Milk Curry Chicken is just what you need! Bursting with rich flavors and creamy goodness, this dish combines tender chicken with aromatic spices and smooth coconut milk. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s an easy way to bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. Gather everyone around, and let’s get cooking !

If you’re a fan of creamy flavors, you might also enjoy my Delicious One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken in Just 30 Minutes ! It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor—perfect for a weeknight family dinner that feels special without the hassle!

Coconut Milk Curry Chicken Recipe

Coconut Milk Curry Chicken Recipe

Lu-Ann

This Coconut Milk Curry Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish packed with rich flavors of coconut milk, tender chicken, and a perfect blend of spices. It's a family-friendly recipe that’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian-inspired

Servings 4 people

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 450 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can 14 oz coconut milk
• 1 onion finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger minced
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tspn turmeric
• 1 tspn ground cumin
• 1 tspn ground coriander
• 1 tspn chili powder optional, for heat
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1 cup diced tomatoes fresh or canned
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Chicken : Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
  
• Add the Spices : Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder (if using). Let the spices toast for about a minute to release their flavors.
  
• Cook the Chicken : Add the chicken pieces to the pan, coating them in the spice mixture. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
  
• Simmer the Sauce : Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Pour in the coconut milk, bring to a simmer, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked.
  
• Season & Serve : Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
  

Video

Keyword Chicken, Coconut Lime Chicken, Curry, Milk

Why You’ll Love It

• Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of spices and coconut milk creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: With familiar ingredients and a mild spice level, it’s a dish everyone will enjoy.
• Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare and ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your family’s tastes.

How to Make Coconut Milk Curry Chicken

• Sauté the Aromatics : In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until softened.
• Cook the Chicken : Add diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides.
• Add the Curry Powder : Sprinkle curry powder over the chicken, stirring to coat evenly.
• Pour in Coconut Milk : Add the coconut milk and sliced bell pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
• Serve : Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot!

Helpful Tips

• Adjust the Spice : If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced chili.
• Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk : For a richer, creamier sauce, opt for full-fat coconut milk, which contains around 9-15% fat, giving it a thicker consistency similar to whole milk. This type of coconut milk enhances the flavor and texture of dishes, especially in curries, where it beautifully complements the spices and adds depth to the sauce.
• Use Bone-In Chicken : For even more flavor, you can use bone-in chicken thighs.
• Thicken the Sauce : If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer.

Wondering how long to boil chicken thighs for the best results? Check out our guide for essential cooking times and tips for perfect, juicy chicken.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option : Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a delicious plant-based version.
• Add Veggies : Feel free to toss in vegetables like spinach, peas, or carrots for added nutrition.
• Different Coconut Milk : Light coconut milk can be used for a lower-calorie option.

What to Serve with Coconut Milk Curry Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or naan bread. You can also serve a side salad or some roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Leftovers and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking to achieve even cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat when ready to serve.

What kind of curry powder should I use?
A standard curry powder works well, but feel free to experiment with specific blends like garam masala for different flavors.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the curry in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is this dish spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preferences. It’s generally mild but can be made spicier if desired.