Description
This African Chicken Curry is rich, flavorful, and slightly spicy, with tender chicken simmered in a creamy, aromatic sauce made with coconut milk, curry spices, and vegetables. It’s a comforting dish perfect for serving over rice or with warm flatbread.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 lbs (900 g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder (preferably mild or medium)
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 large bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or flatbread, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in the curry powder, ground coriander, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to toast the spices.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the pot, stirring to coat with the spice mixture. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer: Add the diced tomato, chicken broth, and coconut milk. Stir well, then add the carrots and bell pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover the pot and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Season & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or with flatbread.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken with a bit of curry powder, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- You can add other vegetables like sweet potatoes or green beans for variety.