Tropical Coconut Chicken Curry
Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this hearty and flavorful Tropical Coconut Chicken Curry made in a slow cooker. Featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce, adorned with hearty potatoes and vibrant peas, this dish is beloved for its balance of spices and its appealing heat. Perfectly suited for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, serve this curry over rice or noodles to soak up all the delicious sauce. Let the warm aromas fill your kitchen as it slowly cooks to perfection, making it a family favorite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
vegetable oil
1 tablespoon (for frying)
boneless skinless chicken breast halves
4 pieces (browned)
medium potatoes
3 (peeled and chopped)
medium onion
1 (sliced)
coconut milk
1 (14 ounce) can (canned)
salt
1/2 teaspoon
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon
curry powder
1 1/2 teaspoons (or to taste)
hot sauce
1 teaspoon (optional, to taste)
chicken broth
1 cup
frozen peas
1 (10 ounce) package (thawed)
toasted flaked coconut
2-3 tablespoons (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1
Heat the vegetable oil in a medium fry pan over medium heat.
2
Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the pan and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
3
In a slow cooker (crock pot), layer the peeled and chopped potatoes, followed by the sliced onion.
4
Place the browned chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.
5
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, salt, black pepper, curry powder, optional hot sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6
Pour the coconut milk mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring that everything is well covered.
7
Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together.
8
About 30 minutes before serving, gently add the thawed peas on top of the chicken mixture without stirring.
9
Just before serving, stir the entire mixture well to combine, and if desired, sprinkle with toasted flaked coconut for added texture and flavor.
10
Serve hot over rice or Asian noodles to enjoy this creamy, flavorful curry.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tropical Coconut Chicken Curry?
It is a hearty slow cooker dish featuring chicken breasts, potatoes, and peas in a creamy spiced coconut milk sauce.
How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?
The curry should be cooked on low heat for 6 to 8 hours until the chicken is tender.
Do I need to sear the chicken before adding it to the crock pot?
Yes, searing the chicken breasts in vegetable oil for about 5 minutes per side helps brown them and lock in flavor.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for four boneless, skinless chicken breast halves.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted and will remain very juicy in the slow cooker.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
Medium potatoes that are peeled and chopped work best for this hearty curry.
Is this chicken curry spicy?
The spice level depends on the curry powder used and the optional addition of hot sauce.
When should I add the peas?
Add the thawed frozen peas about 30 minutes before serving to ensure they stay vibrant and do not overcook.
What should I serve with Tropical Coconut Chicken Curry?
It is best served hot over a bed of rice or Asian noodles to soak up the creamy sauce.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe uses coconut milk instead of dairy cream, making it naturally dairy-free.
Can I use lite coconut milk?
You can use lite coconut milk, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy than if you use full-fat canned coconut milk.
How do I garnish this dish?
You can sprinkle toasted flaked coconut over the curry just before serving for added texture and a tropical touch.
What spices are used in this curry?
The primary spices are curry powder, salt, and black pepper, with optional hot sauce for heat.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, vegetables like carrots or bell peppers would make excellent additions to the slow cooker.
How much coconut milk is required?
One 14-ounce can of coconut milk is needed for this recipe.
Is it necessary to use chicken broth?
Yes, one cup of chicken broth helps create enough liquid for the slow cooking process.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your curry powder and chicken broth are certified gluten-free.
What type of onion is recommended?
A sliced medium yellow or white onion provides the best flavor base for the curry.
How do I toast the coconut flakes?
Lightly toast them in a dry pan over low heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this curry freezes well in an airtight container for up to three months.
How do I store this dish?
Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can be used; add them at the same time you would add the frozen ones.
What if I don't have a slow cooker?
You can simmer the ingredients in a heavy-bottomed pot on the stove over low heat until the chicken and potatoes are tender.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
You can mash some of the cooked potatoes into the sauce or add a small cornstarch slurry at the end of cooking.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a suitable substitute if you prefer.
Is searing the chicken mandatory?
While not strictly mandatory for safety, it is highly recommended for the best flavor and appearance.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on using four chicken breast halves, it typically serves four people.
Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes are a delicious alternative to regular potatoes in this curry.
Does the chicken need to be chopped before cooking?
The recipe suggests browning the whole breast halves, but you can chop them into bite-sized pieces if you prefer.
Can I add fresh ginger or garlic?
Absolutely, adding minced garlic or fresh grated ginger during the searing process will enhance the tropical flavors.