If you’re craving a weeknight meal that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly, this Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, aromatic dish loaded with tender chicken bathed in a luxuriously creamy, spiced coconut sauce that’s both comforting and exciting to the palate. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe delivers a gorgeous balance of warm spices, fresh herbs, and a touch of zesty lime, making it a perfect go-to for any night you want to bring a little sunshine to your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each one bringing its own magic to the dish. From the richness of coconut cream to the bright zing of fresh lime, every item is essential in building those layers of flavor and color.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Easy to cook and perfect for soaking up the curry sauce.
- Coconut cream: Adds a luscious, creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor.
- Chicken broth: Helps thin the sauce just enough while adding depth.
- Diced onion: Provides a sweet and savory base.
- Minced garlic: Gives aromatic warmth and a punch of flavor.
- Grated fresh ginger: Adds brightness and a gentle kick that lifts the dish.
- Curry powder: The heart of the flavor profile, blending spices perfectly.
- Turmeric: Delivers an earthy note and beautiful golden hue.
- Cumin: Adds a nutty, warm undertone crucial for authentic taste.
- Paprika: Brings mild smokiness and vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors.
- Diced tomatoes: Provide acidity and texture variation.
- Baby spinach: Adds freshness and a pop of green.
- Fresh lime juice: Elevates the dish with a zesty finish.
- Chopped cilantro: Offers bright herbal notes and garnish appeal.
- Coconut oil: Ideal for sautéing with a hint of tropical flavor.
How to Make Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Sauté until the pieces develop a lovely light brown color, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in moisture and creates a savory foundation for the rich sauce. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest for a moment.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Spices
In the same skillet, add diced onion, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Stir and cook until the onions soften and turn translucent, releasing their sweetness. Next, sprinkle in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and paprika. Cook for about one minute, stirring constantly, allowing the spices to toast and awaken their full fragrance — this step is where the magic starts!
Step 3: Build the Coconut Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes, coconut cream, and chicken broth. Stir everything together thoroughly, scraping the flavorful browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet. Let the curry simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, occasionally stirring until the sauce thickens into a creamy, luscious coating while the chicken cooks through perfectly.
Step 4: Add Greens and Fresh Finishes
Once the curry has thickened, toss in the baby spinach and stir until wilted — this adds freshness and a bit of color contrast. Finally, splash in the fresh lime juice and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed. Your vibrant skillet masterpiece is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe even further, garnish with extra chopped cilantro and a few lime wedges on the side. If you love a little heat, scatter some chili flakes or drizzle a bit of chili oil over the top for a beautiful, spicy contrast.
Side Dishes
This curry pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Traditional fluffy basmati rice or fragrant jasmine rice soak up the sauce wonderfully. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a vibrant alternative. Warm, buttery naan bread is also amazing for dipping and adds a comforting, chewy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, serve the curry directly from the skillet on the table — it makes for a warm, inviting presentation. Alternatively, plate it over rice or inside shallow bowls so the colors pop. Adding a small dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can bring an exciting twist to the presentation too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious curry longer, freezing works well. Transfer cooled curry into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Frozen, it will maintain quality for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions, but stir halfway through the heating process for even warmth. If the sauce has thickened too much in storage, splash a little water or broth in to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute, offering a richer, more succulent texture that complements the creamy curry sauce beautifully. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is coconut cream the same as coconut milk?
Not quite. Coconut cream is thicker and richer than coconut milk, which adds a luxurious texture to the curry. You can use coconut milk if you prefer a lighter sauce, but expect a slightly different consistency.
How spicy is this Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe?
This recipe is mildly spiced to please a broad palate but packs plenty of flavor. You can easily increase heat by adding red chili flakes or a spoonful of red curry paste during cooking for a bolder kick.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
While this particular version highlights chicken, you can swap the meat for tofu, chickpeas, or hearty vegetables like cauliflower and sweet potatoes to create a tasty vegan or vegetarian-friendly curry.
What can I serve with this curry if I don’t want rice?
If rice is not your thing, try pairing the curry with warm naan bread, quinoa, or even a green salad for a lighter meal. Cauliflower rice is also a fantastic, low-carb alternative that soaks up the sauce well.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say the Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe is a winner in any kitchen. It’s creamy, colorful, and packed with cozy yet vibrant flavors that feel like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious adventure!
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Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Coconut Cream Chicken Curry Skillet is a rich and flavorful Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy coconut sauce with aromatic spices and fresh spinach. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, it brings warmth and vibrant flavors without complicated prep or cook times.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Spices and Aromatics
- 1 medium diced onion
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Liquids and Sauce
- 1 cup coconut cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
Greens and Finishing Touches
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Cooking Fat
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season evenly with salt and pepper. This ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it is lightly browned on all sides but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Spices: Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and paprika. Cook the spices with the aromatics for about one minute until they become fragrant. This step helps to bloom the spices and deepen their flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes, coconut cream, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and create a thick sauce. Return the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet.
- Simmer the Curry: Reduce the heat to low-medium and simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Add Spinach and Finish: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Then add the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro, stirring to evenly incorporate the fresh flavors into the curry.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste the curry and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot alongside steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Serve with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or warm naan for a satisfying meal.
- For added heat, incorporate chili flakes or a spoonful of red curry paste during the spice cooking step.
- Substitute chicken thighs if you prefer a richer and more moist texture.
- Use full-fat coconut cream for the best creamy consistency and flavor.
- Fresh lime juice brightens the dish; add it last to retain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
