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 mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Servings 4
Calories 410 kcal
- 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
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.
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