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Coconut Chicken Curry

Coconut Chicken Curry
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This Coconut Chicken Curry is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with bold spices, fresh ingredients, and a rich coconut milk base. Easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, it’s a comforting meal perfect for weeknights that everyone will love, with customizable spice levels and versatile variations for different dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken & Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • Optional: bell peppers, spinach, or potatoes (for extra veggies)

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder or 1-2 fresh chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Liquids & Fats

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full fat or light for low-fat option)
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee

Finishing Touches

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the onions, garlic, and ginger, and prep any additional vegetables you’d like to add. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant to build the flavor base for your curry.
  3. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle curry powder and chili powder (or fresh chilies) into the pan, stirring well to coat the aromatics. Then add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and begin releasing their juices.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to combine with the spice and tomato base. Cook until the chicken is mostly browned and sealed, ensuring a flavorful curry.
  5. Pour in Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking uncovered for about 15 minutes so the chicken cooks through and the sauce thickens beautifully.
  6. Finish and Season: Add salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level as needed before removing from heat.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the curry for a fresh, herbal note that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs over breasts for juicier, more flavorful meat.
  • Fresh curry powder or freshly ground whole spices elevate the dish’s taste.
  • Do not rush the simmering step; it allows the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld.
  • Add chili gradually to find your preferred heat level and avoid overpowering the creaminess.
  • Let the curry rest a few minutes before serving to deepen flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: coconut chicken curry, easy chicken curry, creamy chicken curry, weeknight curry, gluten free curry, spicy chicken curry, coconut milk curry

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/coconut-chicken-curry/