Name: Coconut Curry Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini; 1 lb ground beef; 3 cups fresh spinach; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp butter; 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

There’s something irresistible about the warmth and spice of a good coconut curry chicken dish. The moment you catch the aroma of simmering curry paste mingling with creamy coconut milk, you know you’re in for something comforting and deeply flavorful. This recipe brings together bold spices, tender chicken, and just the right amount of sweetness for a hearty dinner that feels exotic yet homey.

Coconut curry chicken is one of those meals that satisfies every craving at once. It’s rich, creamy, slightly spicy, and layered with flavor thanks to garlic, ginger, curry, and a touch of lime. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, it makes a complete meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent, perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy Sunday evening at home.

Why You’ll Love This Coconut Curry Chicken

This dish delivers comfort in every bite. The coconut milk adds a luxurious texture that balances the punch of spices, while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful from being simmered in the sauce. It also comes together surprisingly quickly, making it ideal for busy nights. Best of all, it’s customizable—mild or hot, loaded with veggies or served simply, it’s always a hit.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for coconut curry chicken because they stay moist and tender during cooking. However, if you prefer white meat, chicken breasts work just fine—just be mindful not to overcook them. You can even use rotisserie chicken in a pinch if you want to save time.

Ingredients for the Coconut Curry Chicken

A great coconut curry starts with a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that each bring something special to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken thighs: These offer deep flavor and tenderness that holds up well in the sauce.
Coconut milk: The creamy base of the curry, adding richness and mellowing the spice.
Yellow curry powder: This gives the dish its signature warmth and color.
Garlic: A punchy aromatic that brings the sauce to life.
Ginger: Fresh and slightly spicy, it deepens the curry’s flavor.
Onion: Adds natural sweetness and body to the base.
Red bell pepper: For a pop of color and slight crunch.
Lime juice: Brings brightness to balance the richness.
Cilantro: Optional but recommended for a fresh, herby finish.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics and chicken.

How To Make the Coconut Curry Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Stir in the bite-sized pieces of chicken thighs, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned on all sides. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet.

Step 3: Build the Curry Base

Sprinkle in the curry powder and stir well to coat the chicken and aromatics. Let the spices toast briefly before pouring in the coconut milk. Add sliced red bell pepper.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat and let the curry simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. The sauce will thicken and the chicken will cook through, absorbing all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Brighten the Dish

Just before serving, stir in a squeeze of fresh lime juice and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro if you like.

Serving and Storing This Coconut Curry Chicken

This recipe generously serves 4 people and pairs beautifully with jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up every drop of that luscious curry sauce. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even more flavorful lunch the next day.

To reheat, simply warm it over medium-low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

What to Serve With Coconut Curry Chicken?

Jasmine or Basmati Rice

A must-have for soaking up the curry sauce. Their delicate flavors complement the rich curry perfectly.

Homemade Naan Bread

Soft, warm, and great for scooping up bites of saucy chicken.

Roasted Vegetables

Try carrots, cauliflower, or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition.

Cucumber Yogurt Salad

A cool and creamy contrast to the heat of the curry.

Pickled Red Onions

Bright and tangy, they cut through the richness of the dish.

Mango Chutney

Adds a sweet, tangy note that pairs beautifully with curry spices.

Thai Iced Tea

A fun, refreshing beverage to complete your curry night.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this coconut curry chicken became your new favorite, there’s more where that came from. Check out these other easy, flavor-packed meals on Mia Plates:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it whenever you need a cozy weeknight favorite.

Tried it already? Let me know how yours turned out! Did you keep it mild or turn up the heat? Any fun additions? I’d love to hear your twist on this classic curry.

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