Irresistibly Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite

When you need a dinner that’s comforting yet packed with vibrant flavors, this Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry is the ultimate choice. It’s rich, creamy, and brimming with the exotic tastes of coconut, ginger, and warm spices. From the first bite, you'll experience a burst of savory and slightly sweet flavors, balanced perfectly by the heat of cayenne and the freshness of cilantro. This curry is sure to become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I first came across this recipe on Insanely Good Recipes, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I’m excited to share this delicious take on coconut chicken curry with you!

This dish has its roots in South and Southeast Asian cuisine, where coconut milk and curry spices are commonly used to create comforting, aromatic meals. What sets this particular curry apart is the balance between its creaminess and spiciness, making it ideal for those who love bold flavors but don’t want the dish to be overwhelming. With the addition of chicken thighs, this recipe guarantees tender, juicy bites of meat in every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (14-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: Begin by warming the coconut oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Infuse with Flavor: Add the garlic, red curry paste, tomato paste, grated ginger, curry powder, turmeric, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Stir the mixture continuously for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. This step is key to releasing all the complex flavors of the spices.
3. Brown the Chicken: Stir in the butter, allowing it to melt, and then add the chicken pieces. Stir to coat the chicken thoroughly in the spice mixture, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir everything together, bringing the curry to a simmer. Once it’s gently simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the curry to cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and let the sauce thicken slightly while the chicken cooks through.
5. Final Touches: Taste the curry and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you'd like the curry spicier, you can always add a bit more cayenne pepper. Once ready, serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread, and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness.

Pro Tips and Variations:

• For Extra Flavor: Using bone-in chicken thighs will give you a richer, more flavorful curry. Just extend the cooking time by an extra 10 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
• Creamier Curry: Want a thicker, creamier sauce? Add an additional can of coconut milk and omit the chicken broth. This variation is perfect for a richer dish.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like your curry with a serious kick, increase the cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce or omit it entirely.
• Pairings: This curry is best enjoyed with fragrant jasmine rice or soft naan to soak up the luscious sauce. A side of cucumber salad can add a refreshing crunch to complement the rich curry.

This Coconut Chicken Curry recipe is a great way to enjoy an authentic, flavorful curry at home without needing any hard-to-find ingredients. It’s an easy, satisfying meal for any night of the week. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you enjoy it? Want to try different variations? I’d love to hear from you!

And if you liked this recipe, be sure to follow me for more easy, delicious dinner ideas!