There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Tender Chicken Curry Simmered in Coconut & Spices. This aromatic dish combines juicy chicken pieces with a velvety coconut milk sauce, infused with a harmonious blend of fragrant spices. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of warmth, creaminess, and depth — the hallmark of great homemade curry.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare and can be customized for any spice preference. Serve it over steamed rice or with warm naan bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
For the Chicken Curry:
- 1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (14 oz / 400ml) coconut milk
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth or water
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and sauté until translucent and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Spices
- Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder to the pan.
- Toast the spices for 30 seconds to release their aroma.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Add chicken pieces and stir until coated with the spice mixture.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
- Add coconut milk, chicken broth, and chopped tomatoes.
- Stir well, reduce heat to low, and let simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice, naan, or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with basmati or jasmine rice for a classic presentation.
- Add roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or cauliflower for extra nutrition.
- Serve with warm naan to soak up the rich coconut curry sauce.
- For a lighter twist, serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 365 |
| Protein | 28 grams |
| Total Fat | 24 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 14 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 510 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Coconut milk provides healthy fats and a creamy texture without dairy.
- Chicken is a lean protein source, keeping you full and energized.
- Spices like turmeric and ginger add anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Low in carbohydrates, this dish fits well into balanced or low-carb meal plans.
Tips for Best Results
- For extra depth, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier curry.
- Adjust heat by adding more or less chili powder or fresh chilies.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
Variations to Try
- Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or sweet potato for more texture and nutrients.
- Substitute shrimp or tofu for chicken to make a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
- Use light coconut milk to reduce calories and fat content.
- Sprinkle toasted cashews or almonds on top for added crunch.
This Tender Chicken Curry Simmered in Coconut & Spices is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Rich, aromatic, and incredibly flavorful, it’s a dish that brings restaurant-quality taste straight to your home kitchen.
Serve it at family dinners, cozy nights in, or festive gatherings — this curry will always be the star of the table. Each bite delivers tender chicken enveloped in a velvety coconut sauce, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor.