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Craving a dish that combines rich flavors and simple steps? Coconut Curry Chicken is your answer! This hearty meal uses tender chicken thighs, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic spices to create a dish that bursts with flavor. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Experience: This coconut curry chicken is a harmonious blend of spices and creamy coconut that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and colorful vegetables, this recipe is as healthy as it is delicious.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or swap in your favorite vegetables to make this dish your own.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Coconut Curry Chicken
– 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Coconut curry chicken shines with simple yet bold flavors. The main star is the boneless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender during cooking. Coconut milk adds creaminess and richness to the dish. Curry powder gives it warmth and depth. Fresh ginger and garlic bring a punch of flavor that brightens the whole meal.
Vegetables and Aromatics
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
The vegetables make the dish colorful and healthy. The onion adds sweetness and depth. Red bell pepper adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. Green beans provide crunch and freshness. Olive oil helps to sauté the aromatics and adds healthy fat. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
– Cooked jasmine rice or quinoa
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Serving this dish over jasmine rice or quinoa completes the meal. The grains soak up the creamy sauce. Fresh cilantro adds a bright note and a burst of color. Enjoy this dish warm for the best taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
Start by cutting 1.5 lbs of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Mix well to coat the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes. If you have time, an hour gives even better flavor.
Cooking the Aromatics
In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. This step builds a great base for your curry. After that, add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until you smell that wonderful aroma.
Adding the Chicken and Vegetables
Next, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook it until it turns lightly brown on all sides. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once the chicken is browned, toss in 1 sliced red bell pepper and 1 cup of chopped green beans. Stir everything well to mix the vegetables with the chicken.
Completing the Dish
Now it’s time to make it creamy and flavorful! Pour in 1 can of coconut milk and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of curry powder over the mixture. Stir until everything is nicely combined. Reduce the heat to low and let the dish simmer for 15-20 minutes. This lets the chicken cook through and the flavors meld beautifully. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste before you serve!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Marinating Chicken
Marinating chicken adds flavor and moisture. When you soak the chicken in soy sauce and lime juice, it helps the meat absorb those tasty notes. I suggest marinating for at least 20 minutes. For deeper flavor, aim for an hour. You can also try yogurt or buttermilk as alternatives. These options add tang and help tenderize the chicken.
Cooking Techniques
When sautéing the chicken, use medium heat. This prevents burning and ensures even cooking. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, about 6 to 8 minutes. Always check that the chicken is cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or coriander. Fresh herbs like basil or mint also work well. Fresh ingredients often have a brighter taste than dried ones. However, dried herbs can be more convenient. Just remember to use less, as they are more concentrated.
Pro Tips
- Marinate for More Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour for a deeper flavor infusion from the soy sauce and lime juice.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic significantly enhance the taste of your curry, making it more aromatic and vibrant.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat level by adding red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper according to your preference.
- Serve with a Twist: Consider adding a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.

Variations
Spice Level Adjustments
You can easily change the spice level in your coconut curry chicken. If you want it spicier, add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes. Start with just a pinch, then taste and adjust. For a milder dish, skip these spices or reduce the curry powder. You can also use sweet curry powder for less heat.
Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions
If you need gluten-free options, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. This will keep your dish safe for those with gluten issues. For vegan variations, swap the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Both options work well and soak up the flavor. Just ensure you adjust cooking times for tofu.
Serving Style Alternatives
You have fun choices for serving this dish. Try it over jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For garnish, fresh cilantro is great, but you can also use sliced green onions or toasted coconut flakes. These add nice textures and flavors to your meal.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your coconut curry chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it right after it cools. This way, it stays tasty and safe to eat. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, heat them gently. The best method is to use a stove. Pour the chicken into a pan over low heat. Stir it often to keep it moist. You can also use a microwave. Place the chicken in a bowl, cover it, and heat it in short bursts. This helps keep the flavors and texture. If it seems dry, add a splash of coconut milk or water to refresh it.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your coconut curry chicken lasts about 3 to 4 days. If you freeze it, it can last up to 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or has a strange color, it’s best to throw it away. Trust your senses—better safe than sorry!
FAQs
What can I serve with Coconut Curry Chicken?
You can serve Coconut Curry Chicken with several tasty sides. Here are a few options:
– Jasmine rice: This fluffy rice soaks up the curry.
– Quinoa: A healthy grain that adds a nutty flavor.
– Naan bread: Perfect for scooping up the curry.
– Steamed broccoli: A fresh veggie side that adds crunch.
– Cucumber salad: A cool salad to balance the spice.
These sides make the meal complete and delightful.
Can I use different cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use various cuts of chicken. Chicken breasts work well, but they cook faster. Thighs are juicier and richer in flavor. Adjust the cooking time as follows:
– Chicken breasts: Cook for about 5-6 minutes.
– Drumsticks or wings: Increase cooking time to 10-12 minutes.
Different cuts bring different tastes, so choose what you enjoy most.
How can I make Coconut Curry Chicken ahead of time?
Making Coconut Curry Chicken ahead is easy. Here are some tips:
– Marinate the chicken: Do this the night before for deeper flavor.
– Cook and cool: Prepare the dish and let it cool completely.
– Store in the fridge: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Reheat gently: Warm it slowly on the stove to keep it tasty.
This way, you save time and still enjoy a fresh meal.
Coconut curry chicken is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients like chicken, coconut milk, and vegetables. We explored marinating techniques to enhance flavors and the importance of sautéing for taste. Tips for adjusting spice levels and dietary variations ensure everyone can enjoy this meal. Storing leftovers properly keeps it fresh for later. In conclusion, this dish is not only comforting but also adaptable. You can easily make it your own and enjoy a flavorful meal anytime. Dive in and experience the warmth of coconut curry chicke
Coconut Curry Chicken
A flavorful and creamy coconut curry dish featuring tender chicken and fresh vegetables.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Thai
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz)
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- to taste salt and pepper
- fresh cilantro for garnish
- cooked jasmine rice or quinoa for serving
In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, soy sauce, and lime juice. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour for more flavor.
In a large pan or skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the marinated chicken to the pan, cooking until lightly browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes).
Add the sliced red bell pepper and green beans to the pan. Stir well to combine with the chicken.
Pour in the coconut milk and sprinkle the curry powder evenly over the mixture. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Reduce heat to low and let the curry simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the coconut curry chicken over bowls of jasmine rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Serve with jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, coconut, curry, dinner, easy
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