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Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken

Tender chicken pieces in a rich, aromatic coconut curry sauce with Thai-inspired flavors. Ready in under 20 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian, Thai-inspired
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 red pepper diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons ginger grated
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 1-2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs cut into strips (or chicken breast)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt or more to taste
  • 13.66 ounces full-fat coconut milk 1 can
  • 1 lime juiced (plus more for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce optional
  • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves for serving

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet
  • Paper towel
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, stir to combine.
  2. Lower the heat to low and add in the curry powder, red curry paste, and coriander. Stir often for 1 minute until lightly toasted and fragrant. Remove the mixture to a bowl.
  3. Wipe the pan down with a paper towel. Heat to medium-high heat. Add in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and strips of chicken. Season with salt. Cook for 5 minutes or until the chicken is browned on both sides, but not cooked through.
  4. Turn the heat down to low. Add the veggies with seasoning back in with the chicken, mix well to combine.
  5. Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, and brown sugar (to taste; start with 1 tablespoon). Stir until chicken is cooked through for about 5 more minutes and curry is slightly thickened. If desired, stir in the fish sauce.
  6. Serve over rice. Garnish with cilantro leaves.

Notes

Chicken thighs are preferred for the most juicy, tender texture. Use full-fat coconut milk for best creaminess. Fresh garlic and ginger are strongly recommended over powdered versions. Fish sauce adds incredible umami depth but is completely optional.