Name: Easy Chicken Curry Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces; 1½ tablespoons red curry paste; 1 tablespoon yellow curry powder; 1 small onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (1-inch) knob ginger, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, but recommended); 13.5 ounces coconut milk (1 can); 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 lime); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water (to make cornstarch slurry); Cooked basmati rice; Chopped fresh cilantro; Lime wedges; Chopped cashews

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 4 reviews

If you are craving a rich, comforting meal that comes together in just half an hour, this Easy Chicken Curry Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s a delightful blend of tender chicken breasts infused with aromatic red curry paste, vibrant yellow curry powder, and creamy coconut milk, making for a beautifully balanced dish that’s both mild and packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to curry or a seasoned fan, this recipe promises an approachable yet satisfying culinary adventure that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight routine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear round glass bowl filled with small pieces of orange-marinated chicken, evenly coated with spices and set against a white marbled surface. The chicken pieces have a soft texture with some visible juice and seasoning along the inside of the bowl's rim. Around the bowl are scattered small pieces of light beige nuts, fresh ginger roots on the top left, and the edge of a red bell pepper on the bottom right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Easy Chicken Curry Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen pantry and fridge. Each item plays a crucial role, from the spices that build layers of flavor to the fresh vegetables that add texture and color.

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and easy eating.
1½ tablespoons red curry paste: Adds the authentic aromatic foundation with a gentle spice kick.
1 tablespoon yellow curry powder: Brings warmth and earthiness, enhancing flavor complexity.
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used for sautéing to develop lovely caramelized notes.
1 small onion (sliced): Softens and contributes a subtle sweetness to the curry base.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a soulful depth and inviting aroma.
1 (1-inch knob) ginger (minced): Fresh and zesty, it gives a bright lift to the curry.
1 red bell pepper (sliced): Adds vibrant color and gentle bite for an appealing texture contrast.
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional but recommended): A touch of sweetness to balance the spices and acidity.
13.5 ounces coconut milk (1 can): The creamy base that smooths and enriches every bite.
2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1 lime): Brings freshness and a slight tang to brighten the dish.
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water: This slurry helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Optional for serving: Cooked basmati rice, chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and chopped cashews to elevate the presentation and taste.

How to Make Easy Chicken Curry Recipe

Step 1: Season and Marinate the Chicken

Begin by combining those tender chicken pieces with the red curry paste and yellow curry powder in a large bowl. This step ensures every bite is bursting with the curry’s deep, aromatic flavors. Give it a good mix so the paste coats the chicken evenly, effectively marinating as you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and brown it on all sides. This not only locks in juicy flavors but also adds a nice golden crust that enhances both taste and texture. After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside for the next step.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the sliced onion. Season lightly with salt and sauté until the onion turns soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic, fresh ginger, and sliced red bell pepper, cooking just long enough for them to soften and release their fragrant oils.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the browned chicken to the skillet and mix in the brown sugar, which gently enhances the overall flavor profile with its subtle sweetness. Pour in the creamy coconut milk and freshly squeezed lime juice, stirring to combine everything beautifully. Cover the pan and let the curry gently simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through perfectly while the sauce thickens and melds with those fragrant spices.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to make a smooth slurry. Pour this into the simmering curry and stir well. The sauce will thicken to a luscious consistency, making every spoonful irresistibly creamy and coating each piece of chicken wonderfully.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Curry Recipe

A white bowl holds a dish with three main layers: the bottom layer is white rice with fluffy texture, the middle layer is chunks of creamy yellow curry with small pieces of red bell pepper mixed in, and the top layer is sprinkled with chopped green cilantro and small pieces of light brown nuts. On the edge of the bowl, there is a wedge of lime with bright green skin and pale green inside. The background is a white marbled surface, and soft light brightens the fresh look of the food. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish to something truly special, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro and crunchy cashews on top just before serving. A wedge of lime on the side allows you to add a zesty brightness as you eat, enhancing the curry’s fresh flavors.

Side Dishes

This chicken curry pairs perfectly with steamed basmati rice, whose fluffy texture soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. You can also serve it alongside warm naan bread, which is fantastic for scooping up every last bit of curry.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve the curry in deep bowls with rice on the side. If you’re entertaining, try plating it on a colorful platter garnished with cilantro and cashews, making it the stunning centerpiece that invites your guests to dig right in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This Easy Chicken Curry Recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating to keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from separating. Adding a splash of water or coconut milk can help loosen the sauce if needed, bringing it back to its perfect, silky texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay tender and juicy, making the dish even more flavorful and forgiving during cooking.

Is it possible to make this curry spicier?

Yes, just increase the amount of red curry paste or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the heat to your preference for a bolder curry experience.

Can I substitute the coconut milk with something else?

You can use coconut cream for a thicker, richer sauce or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk, but these will slightly alter the flavor and texture.

How long does this curry take to make?

From start to finish, this Easy Chicken Curry Recipe takes about 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick, weekday meal.

What if I don’t have cornstarch? How else can I thicken the sauce?

You can use arrowroot powder or plain flour as an alternative thickener. Just mix them with water before adding to the sauce to avoid lumps.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Easy Chicken Curry Recipe feels like handing you a treasure from my own kitchen — a quick, tasty, and heartwarming dish that makes dinner effortless and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this curry combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to produce something truly special. Give it a try and watch how it becomes a favorite in your recipe repertoire.