Name: Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487765H54M45S
Total time: PT-487765H54M45S
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 teaspoons canola oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast halves; 1 cup light coconut milk; 4 teaspoons curry powder; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon reduced-sodium chicken bouillon granules; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 2 cups hot cooked rice; Optional: Cilantro, shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, and thinly sliced red chiles for garnish

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Coconut Curry Chicken is a rich and aromatic dish that combines tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and fragrant curry spices. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, leaving you with a flavorful meal that pairs perfectly with rice. This easy-to-make dish is not only comforting but also a delightful way to enjoy the warm, complex flavors of curry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Coconut Curry Chicken is a perfect blend of creamy, savory, and spicy flavors. The coconut milk makes the curry sauce smooth and rich, while the curry powder, garlic, and other spices give it a warm depth of flavor. With the slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, it’s an effortless dish to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a busy night or for a gathering with friends, it’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 small onion, chopped
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast halves
1 cup light coconut milk
4 teaspoons curry powder
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon reduced-sodium chicken bouillon granules
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups hot cooked rice
Optional: Cilantro, shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, and thinly sliced red chiles for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes and chopped onion in the bottom of a 3- or 4-quart slow cooker.
Brown the Chicken: Heat the canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breast halves and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until lightly browned on both sides. Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
Make the Curry Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, curry powder, minced garlic, chicken bouillon granules, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Chicken: Pour the curry sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Slice the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Slice the chicken into pieces.
Serve: Serve the sliced chicken with the curry sauce over hot cooked rice. If desired, garnish with cilantro, shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, and thinly sliced red chiles for an extra layer of flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5-6 hours on low
Total time: 5-6 hours (slow cooking time)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version of this dish.
Spicy Kick: If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the curry sauce.
Add Veggies: Add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to the slow cooker for more nutrition and color.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Coconut Curry Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken may take a bit longer to cook, so be sure to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. Can I use regular coconut milk instead of light coconut milk?

Yes, you can use regular coconut milk for a richer sauce. However, the dish will be higher in fat and calories.

3. Can I cook this recipe on high in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 2.5-3 hours, but I recommend cooking it on low for the best results, as slow cooking on low yields more tender chicken.

4. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add some finely chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of sriracha sauce to the curry sauce before cooking. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to your desired spice level when serving.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store the curry and chicken in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

6. Can I add more curry powder for a stronger flavor?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your taste. Start with 4 teaspoons and add more as desired, keeping in mind that curry powder can vary in strength.

7. Can I make this recipe without potatoes?

Yes, if you prefer not to use potatoes, you can skip them or replace them with other vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or cauliflower.

8. Can I make this dish on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish on the stovetop. Brown the chicken in a skillet, then add the coconut milk, curry powder, and vegetables, and simmer on low heat until the chicken is fully cooked, about 25-30 minutes.

9. What can I serve with Coconut Curry Chicken?

Serve this dish with steamed rice, naan bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

10. Can I make this dish spicier without changing the flavor?

You can add more garlic or ginger for a bolder flavor, or use a hotter curry powder for a more intense spice level without changing the base flavor of the dish.

Conclusion

Coconut Curry Chicken is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The rich coconut milk and curry powder create a creamy, aromatic sauce that pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken and potatoes. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish can easily become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy it with rice and your favorite garnishes for a meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor!