Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe

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If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, flavorful dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite, let me introduce you to the Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe. This curry is a glorious celebration of warm spices, luscious coconut cream, and tender chicken thigh fillets, all coming together in a silky, golden sauce that comforts as much as it excites. Brightened with fresh coriander and topped with crispy fried shallots, it’s an irresistible dish that tastes like a cozy hug with a little tropical sunshine on the side.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that build incredible depth and texture. Each element plays an essential role, from the fragrant star anise and cinnamon that awaken the senses, to the creamy coconut cream that makes the sauce irresistibly rich and smooth.

• 3 tbsp coconut oil: Adds a tropical aroma and perfectly toasts the spices for full flavor.
• 3 star anise: Brings a subtle, sweet licorice note that’s key to the curry’s complexity.
• 1 cinnamon stick: Provides warm undertones that balance the savory ingredients beautifully.
• 1 onion, finely diced: Creates a savory base that caramelizes slightly for natural sweetness.
• 500g / 1lb chicken thigh fillets, cut into small 1cm slices: Juicy and tender, the thighs soak up all the curry’s delicious flavors.
• 1 tsp garlic, finely grated: Adds pungency and depth without overpowering the dish.
• 1 tsp ginger, finely grated: Brings a fresh zing that brightens the creamy sauce.
• 3 tsp turmeric, finely grated: Gives the curry its iconic golden color and subtle earthiness.
• 2 cups chicken stock/broth, low sodium: Forms a savory liquid base that enhances the spices.
• 400g / 14 oz coconut cream, unsweetened: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that makes every bite indulgent.
• 1 large head broccoli, florets cut small: Adds a fresh bite and vibrant green contrast, with nutritious crunch.
• 1 cup coriander/cilantro leaves, lightly packed plus extra for garnish: Lifts the flavors with fresh herbal brightness, although optional.
• 1 1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt: Enhances and balances all the other flavors perfectly.
• 1 1/2 tsp garam masala: Contributes a fragrant warmth and complexity to the curry.
• 1 1/2 tsp coriander powder: Offers a citrusy, nutty undertone that complements the turmeric and cumin.
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder: Adds earthiness and depth to round out the spice profile.
• 1/2 tsp fennel powder: Imparts a subtle sweetness; if unavailable, more garam masala works great too.
• Crispy fried shallots, store bought, for garnish: Gives a delightful crunch and a burst of caramelized onion flavor.
• Rice: Basmati or jasmine rice pairs perfectly to soak up that golden coconut goodness.

How to Make Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix

Start by combining the garam masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, and fennel powder in a small bowl. This blend is the flavor powerhouse of your Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe, so mixing these upfront keeps the process smooth and flavorful.

Step 2: Toast the Whole Spices

Heat the coconut oil in a large, heavy-based pot over medium-high heat. Add the star anise and cinnamon stick, toasting them for about 2 minutes until their aroma fills the kitchen. This quick step unlocks those hidden layers of flavor that make the curry so inviting.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

Add the finely diced onion to the pot and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onion softens and starts to sweeten, creating a perfect foundation that marries beautifully with the spices.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

Stir in the sliced chicken thigh fillets. Cook for about 3 minutes until the outside is no longer pink but the inside still raw. This initial sear locks in juiciness and builds a rich base for your curry sauce.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Next, add the grated garlic, ginger, and turmeric to the pot. Cook these fragrant aromatics for one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to release their essential oils into the dish.

Step 6: Incorporate the Spice Mix

Sprinkle in your prepared spice mix and stir continuously for about 30 seconds. This quick toast with the aromatics brings out the full spectrum of flavors, making the curry deeply satisfying.

Step 7: Simmer with Stock and Coconut Cream

Pour in the chicken stock and coconut cream. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to an energetic simmer. Let it cook, undisturbed, for 12 minutes. This is where the magic happens — the sauce thickens, becomes velvety, and the chicken perfectly tenderizes.

Step 8: Add the Broccoli

Stir in the small broccoli florets, bringing the curry back to a gentle simmer. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant, adding fresh color and texture contrast to the dish.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and let the curry cool for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to harmonize fully. Finally, stir in the fresh coriander leaves, serve over fluffy basmati or jasmine rice, and garnish generously with more coriander and crispy fried shallots for that perfect finishing crunch.

How to Serve Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe, I love topping it with a handful of fresh coriander leaves and crispy fried shallots. The fresh herbs add a pop of brightness, and those shallots bring an addictive crunch and a hint of sweetness that balances the creamy, spiced curry beautifully.

Side Dishes

This curry shines best when paired with fragrant basmati or jasmine rice that soaks up every last drop of the golden sauce. You could also serve it alongside warm naan bread or steamed vegetables for a more varied, colorful plate that complements the curry’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe in individual bowls topped with a drizzle of coconut cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. Or, layer it over roasted sweet potatoes and finish with a squeeze of lime for a tangy contrast that wakes up the dish in the best way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen even more after sitting overnight, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this curry even later, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure it cools completely before freezing and leave some room at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating

Reheat your curry gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts. If the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration or freezing, stir in a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it back up and revive its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely, but keep in mind that chicken breast is leaner and can dry out more easily during cooking. To keep it moist, you might want to reduce the simmering time just slightly and watch closely so it doesn’t overcook.

What can I substitute for coconut cream?

Coconut milk is a great alternative if you don’t have coconut cream on hand. It’s lighter, so your curry will be less thick and creamy, but it still delivers lovely coconut flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe is wonderfully aromatic and warm with spices but generally mild in heat. If you like spicier food, feel free to add chili flakes or fresh chilies to taste during cooking.

Can I make this curry vegan?

Yes! Swap the chicken thighs for chickpeas, tofu, or your favorite vegetable medley, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The coconut cream and spices will keep it rich and flavorful.

What rice pairs best with this curry?

Basmati and jasmine rice are both excellent choices as they have fragrant aromas and light textures that complement the creamy, spiced curry sauce without overpowering it.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Coconut Chicken Curry Recipe is one of those dishes that feel as special as they are simple. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this curry never fail to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own little golden treasure in the kitchen.

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