If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with vibrant flavors, Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice is your new go-to meal. This recipe brings together tender chicken breast simmered in a luscious coconut curry sauce, infused with aromatic spices, fresh ginger, and garlic. Served over fluffy rice, it’s a satisfying and wholesome dish perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a curry aficionado or just beginning to explore this wonderful cuisine, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

There’s a reason why this Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice shines on the dinner table:

Balanced flavors: The richness of the coconut milk mellows the warmth of the curry powder, while fresh ginger and garlic add brightness and depth.
Simple ingredients: Using pantry staples like chicken broth and curry powder means you can whip this up anytime without a special trip to the store.
One-pan cooking: The chicken and vegetables simmer together, making cleanup easy and infusing every bite with flavor.
Versatile and customizable: You can swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
Comfort food with a twist: This dish is creamy, hearty, and cozy, but still light enough for a weeknight dinner.

What Goes In

1 lb chicken breast, diced – tender protein that cooks quickly
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk – provides creamy texture and subtle sweetness
1 cup chicken broth – adds savory depth and thins the sauce to the perfect consistency
2 tbsp curry powder – the star spice blend that defines the dish
1 onion, chopped – offers sweetness and aromatic foundation
2 garlic cloves, minced – pungent flavor enhancer
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated – adds a zesty, warming note
1 bell pepper, sliced – for crunch and color
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen) – bursts of sweetness and a pop of green
2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing
Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
2 cups cooked rice – the perfect base to soak up the creamy curry sauce
Fresh cilantro, for garnish – bright, fresh finish

Equipment & Tools

Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the chicken and simmering the curry sauce
Cutting board and sharp knife – to prep the chicken and vegetables
Grater or microplane – for fresh ginger
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure perfect seasoning balance
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring the curry gently
Rice cooker or pot – to prepare the rice

Stepwise Method: Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing 1 lb of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion finely, mince the garlic cloves, grate the fresh ginger, and slice the bell pepper into thin strips. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides and mostly cooked through.

Step 4: Add Curry Powder and Bell Pepper

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of curry powder over the chicken and stir well to coat every piece. Add the sliced bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly and the peppers to soften.

Step 5: Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth

Pour in 1 can of coconut milk and 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer and Add Peas

Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add 1 cup of green peas during the last 3 minutes of cooking to warm them through without losing their vibrant color.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste the curry and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve the creamy coconut curry chicken over 2 cups of cooked rice. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have a coconut allergy, substitute coconut milk with cashew cream or a blend of almond milk and a tablespoon of tahini for creaminess.
For garlic or onion sensitivities, use asafoetida powder (hing) sparingly in place of garlic and onion to mimic the flavor.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free, which most commonly are.
Swap olive oil with avocado oil or sunflower oil if preferred or for higher smoke points.

Chef’s Rationale

The magic of this Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice comes from balancing bold spices with creamy, soothing elements. Using chicken breast keeps the protein lean but juicy, while the coconut milk adds richness without heaviness. Fresh ginger and garlic bring brightness, ensuring the dish never feels one-dimensional. I always recommend cooking the curry in one pan because it lets the flavors meld beautifully and keeps things simple for busy cooks.

The bell pepper and peas provide texture contrast and vibrant color, making the dish visually inviting. Serving over rice not only makes it filling but also helps soak up the luscious sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. This recipe also pairs wonderfully well with other creamy dishes, such as the Creamy Tuscan Salmon Tagliatelle or the Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Alfredo Ziti, which are great options if you’re looking to expand your creamy dinner repertoire.

Prep Ahead & Store

To save time on busy days, you can dice the chicken and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the fridge. The curry sauce itself can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the curry over low heat, stirring in a splash of chicken broth if it has thickened too much.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop. For best texture, reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a richer flavor and remain tender even with longer cooking. Just dice them similarly and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

How spicy is this curry? Can I make it milder or hotter?

The curry powder used offers a mild to moderate spice level. To make it milder, use less curry powder or add a touch of honey to balance the heat. To spice it up, add fresh chopped chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

What type of rice works best with this dish?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works beautifully because of its fluffy texture and subtle aroma. Brown rice is also a nutritious alternative if you prefer more fiber and a nuttier taste.

Can I make this dish vegan or vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken breast with tofu, chickpeas, or vegetables like cauliflower and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it plant-based.

Quick Weeknight Wins

For another comforting chicken dinner, try the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne—it’s cheesy, saucy, and easy to prepare.
If you love creamy dishes with a vegetable twist, the Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Alfredo Ziti is a fantastic choice for a quick, satisfying meal.
For seafood lovers, the Creamy Tuscan Salmon Tagliatelle offers a rich and elegant dinner option that’s just as simple to prepare.

Bring It to the Table

This Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken with Rice truly shines when garnished with fresh cilantro, adding brightness and a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the golden curry. Serve it with lemon or lime wedges on the side to give guests the option to add a zesty twist. Pair with a simple cucumber salad or steamed greens for a complete meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to delight with its creamy texture and inviting aromas.

This recipe is a perfect balance of easy weeknight cooking and gourmet flavors, making it ideal for anyone looking to add a bit of exotic comfort to their dinner rotation. Enjoy!

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