Description
Golden Coconut Chicken Curry is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender boneless chicken thighs simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices like curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Enhanced with fresh garlic, ginger, and vibrant spinach leaves, this curry offers a perfect balance of warmth and creaminess, served best over rice or with naan for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken & Proteins
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Oils & Fats
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Aromatics & Vegetables
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cups spinach leaves (or vegetables of your choice)
Spices
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
Liquids & Sauces
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
Seasonings & Garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Serving Suggestions
- Cooked rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
- Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat the coconut oil over medium heat until hot, preparing the base for sautéing.
- Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent, building a flavorful foundation.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes more until fragrant, enhancing the aroma.
- Add Spices: Incorporate curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander into the pan. Stir well to evenly coat the onions and release the spices’ aromas.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and cook them until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, sealing in the flavor.
- Pour Liquids: Add the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine and ensuring the chicken is fully submerged for even cooking.
- Season: Mix in the fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option), salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the spinach or other chosen vegetables in the last 5 minutes of cooking to wilt and heat them evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish the curry with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with lime wedges alongside cooked rice or naan.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but thighs offer more tenderness and flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with firm tofu and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
- Adjust the curry powder quantity according to desired spice level.
- Adding lime juice just before serving brightens the flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.