Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan

Name: Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or coconut oil); 1 large yellow onion; 3 cloves garlic; 1 tbsp fresh ginger; 2 tbsp red curry paste; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

September 7, 2025

Updated:

September 7, 2025

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Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a rich coconut sauce, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or special occasions. With its aromatic spices and creamy texture, this curry pairs wonderfully with soft naan bread for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a creamy and flavorful sauce that elevates the chicken.
Versatile Meal: Serve it with rice or naan, or even enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful, this curry appeals to both adults and kids alike.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

A large skillet or wok
A cutting board
A sharp knife
Measuring spoons and cups
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet or Wok: Provides even heat distribution for cooking the chicken perfectly while allowing ample space for stirring.
Cutting Board & Knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of ingredients like onions and garlic.
Measuring Spoons & Cups: Guarantees accurate ingredient amounts, which is crucial for achieving the best flavor.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Curry

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp neutral oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp red curry paste
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1/2 cup chicken broth

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil.
2. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion.
3. Sauté until translucent (about 4-5 minutes).
4. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices and Chicken

Next:
1. Mix in 2 tablespoons of red curry paste along with 1 teaspoon each of ground turmeric, ground coriander, and ground cumin.
2. Stir well to combine everything.
3. Add in the chicken pieces; coat them thoroughly with the spice mixture.

Step 4: Pour in Coconut Milk

Once the chicken is browned:
1. Pour in one can of full-fat coconut milk plus ½ cup of chicken broth.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer; reduce heat if necessary.

Step 5: Simmer Until Cooked

Allow the curry to simmer gently:
1. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve with Naan

Finally:
1. Taste your curry; adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Serve hot with warm naan bread on the side.
3. Garnish with finely chopped parsley before enjoying!

How to Serve Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan

Serving your Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan is an experience that delights the senses. The rich flavors of the curry pair beautifully with the soft, warm naan. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pairing with Fresh Herbs

Cilantro – Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Mint – Add mint leaves for a refreshing twist that complements the curry.

Accompanying Dips

Raita – Serve a cooling yogurt-based raita on the side to balance the spices.
Chutney – Mango or coriander chutney adds a sweet and tangy contrast.

Serving Temperature

Warm Naan – Ensure naan is served warm; it enhances the overall dining experience.
Hot Curry – Serve the curry immediately after cooking so that it retains its creamy texture.

How to Perfect Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan

Perfecting your Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality. Here are some tips to ensure success.

Use fresh ingredients – Fresh chicken, herbs, and spices make a significant difference in flavor.
Adjust spice levels – Modify the amount of red curry paste based on your heat preference.
Simmer slowly – Allowing the curry to simmer helps deepen the flavors and tenderize the chicken.
Add vegetables – Incorporate bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and texture.
Taste as you go – Regularly taste your curry and adjust seasoning if necessary for a balanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan

Complement your dish with sides that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan.

Basmati Rice – Fluffy rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
Vegetable Samosas – These crispy pastries add a crunchy texture and savory flavor contrast.
Cucumber Salad – A light salad with cucumber and tomatoes refreshes your palate between bites.
Pickled Onions – The tanginess of pickled onions cuts through the richness of the curry.
Lentil Dal – A hearty lentil dal provides additional protein and complements Indian flavors nicely.
Mango Chutney Rice – Sweet mango chutney mixed into rice creates a delightful combination of sweetness and spice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan, it’s easy to make some common missteps. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:

Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken enhances flavor. Take time to marinate your chicken thighs in spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink, then remove it from heat to prevent drying out.
Ignoring the spice balance: Too much or too little spice can throw off the flavor. Start with smaller amounts of curry paste and spices, tasting as you go.
Using low-fat coconut milk: Low-fat options lack creaminess. Always opt for full-fat coconut milk for that rich, creamy texture that defines this dish.
Not letting it simmer long enough: A quick cook won’t allow flavors to meld. Let your curry simmer for at least 20 minutes for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store your Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan

Allow the curry to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the curry in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Pour the curry into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry?

Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry is a flavorful dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce and aromatic spices. It’s often served with naan bread.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. Adjusting the spice level is also easy—simply add more or less curry paste as desired.

How do I serve Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan?

Serve this delicious curry over steaming basmati rice or alongside warm naan bread for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added touch!

How long does this dish last?

When stored properly, your Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Coconut Chicken Curry with Naan is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize ingredients based on your preferences and enjoy a taste of tropical goodness right at home!