Description
Golden Coconut Chicken Curry is a rich and flavorful Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a vibrant coconut milk-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, garlic, ginger, and a hint of lime. This creamy, gluten-free curry is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or naan.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Spices
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Garnish
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and golden, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant, to build a flavorful base.
- Bloom Spices: Add the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and chili flakes if using, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds to release their aromas and deepen the flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken thigh pieces to the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir in the fish sauce or soy sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Gently: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the curry simmer for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the curry and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.
Notes
- This curry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or warm naan bread.
- For a spicier curry, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a chopped fresh chili.
- Add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or potatoes during the simmering step for added nutrition and variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
