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Bowl of creamy chicken curry with red bell peppers and steamed jasmine rice garnished with fresh parsley on a white plate.

Creamy Chicken Curry with Rice – Easy 30-Minute Dinner Recipe

A creamy, flavorful chicken curry made with coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender chicken — ready in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cuisine Indian-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tbsp curry powder or garam masala blend
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 can 13.5 oz coconut milk
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar optional, to balance acidity
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked basmati or jasmine rice for serving

Instructions
 

  • Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent (3–4 minutes).
  • Add Garlic & Ginger: Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Toast Spices: Add curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
  • Cook Chicken: Add chicken pieces and sear until lightly browned on all sides.
  • Make the Curry Sauce: Stir in tomato paste, coconut milk, and broth. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed.
  • Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked and sauce thickens.
  • Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan.

Notes

Tips & Variations

Add Veggies: Stir in peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
Make it Vegan: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Add a Creamy Twist: Stir in 1 tbsp Greek yogurt at the end for richness.
Spice It Up: Add red chili flakes or extra curry powder for more heat.
Flavor Boost: A squeeze of lime or a pinch of garam masala before serving brightens the flavors.

Storage

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

✅ Suitable For:

Dairy-Free
Gluten-Free
High-Protein diets

❌ Not Suitable For:

Vegan
Vegetarian
Keyword 30 minute meal, creamy chicken curry, curry with rice, easy coconut curry, leftover chicken recipes, one-pan chicken recipe, quick weeknight dinner