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Coconut Curry Chicken (Super Easy!): A Flavorful 30-Minute Meal Recipe


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4.3 from 59 reviews

  • Author: Diane
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This easy Coconut Curry Chicken recipe combines tender chicken breast with vibrant spices, creamy coconut milk, and fresh vegetables for a flavorful and comforting meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner served over fluffy cooked rice and garnished with fresh cilantro.


Ingredients

For the Coconut Curry Chicken

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 1½ pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1½ teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice)

To Serve

  • 4 cups cooked rice
  • ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro


Instructions

  1. Saute the veggies. Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for another minute to release their aromas.
  2. Add chicken and seasonings. Add the cubed chicken breasts to the pan along with curry powder, garam masala, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Sauté everything together for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken pieces are cooked through and nicely coated with the spices.
  3. Make the curry sauce. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and squeeze in the lime juice. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, then reduce the heat slightly and let the curry simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Garnish and serve. Spoon cooked rice into serving bowls. Top with several spoonfuls of the coconut curry chicken and sauce. Finish by sprinkling with chopped fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili along with the spices.
  • Use light coconut milk for a lower-fat option, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
  • If you prefer, substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful curry.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Serve with naan or steamed vegetables if you want to add more variety to the meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired