Name: Creamy Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil (Olive oil can be a healthier substitute.); 1 medium Potato (Waxy potatoes for better texture.); 1 medium Carrot (Can be replaced with bell pepper.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh garlic is preferable.); 1 small Onion (chopped) (Shallots can be used as an alternative.); 2 pounds Chicken (Tender cuts like thighs or drumsticks are best.); 2 tablespoons Fish sauce (Can substitute with salt or soy sauce.); 2 tablespoons Curry powder (Adjust to your taste preference.); 1 tablespoon Paprika powder (Optional for depth and color.); 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper (Adjust based on spice tolerance.); 1 can Coconut milk (400 mL, essential for creaminess.); 1 medium Green bell pepper (Cut into squares.); 1 small Fresh chili pepper (Cut into pieces; can substitute with dried chili flakes.)

The moment I first tasted Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk, I was transported to a cozy kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of simmering spices and coconut. This delightful dish takes just 25 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you crave the warmth of home-cooked comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy richness of coconut milk melds beautifully with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, creating a flavorful experience that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, this recipe is versatile—feel free to experiment with different meats or add your favorite veggies! What’s your go-to comfort dish?

Why is Filipino Style Chicken Curry Special?

Creamy Comfort: The rich coconut milk brings a luxurious creaminess to every bite, making this dish a quintessential comfort food.

Quick and Easy: Whip up this culinary gem in just 25 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights when you still want to treat your family to something special.

Flavor Explosion: Each ingredient works harmoniously, creating a vibrant flavor profile that enchants the taste buds and tantalizes the senses.

Versatile Delight: Not just for chicken! Feel free to swap in pork or beef or throw in extra veggies like peas for added nutrition.

Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is guaranteed to impress friends and family alike, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Elevate your meal options with other delectable dishes, such as Chicken Buttered Noodles or Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Mayo, for even more deliciousness!

Filipino Style Chicken Curry Ingredients

For the Curry
• Vegetable oil – A great cooking fat for frying; olive oil can be a healthier substitute.
• Medium potato – Adds heartiness to the dish; opt for waxy potatoes for better texture.
• Medium carrot – Brings sweetness and color; can be replaced with bell pepper for a crunchy twist.
• Garlic (minced) – Acts as an aromatic base to enhance flavor; fresh garlic is always preferable.
• Small onion (chopped) – Creates a base layer of flavor; shallots can be used as an alternative.
• Chicken (2 pounds) – The star of this recipe; tender cuts like thighs or drumsticks are best for flavor.
• Fish sauce (2 tablespoons) – Heightens umami flavors in the dish; if unavailable, 2 tsp salt or soy sauce works well.
• Curry powder (2 tablespoons) – Provides the essential spice; feel free to adjust to your taste preference.
• Paprika powder (1 tablespoon, optional) – Introduces depth and vibrant color; omit for a milder taste.
• Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a touch of heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
• Coconut milk (1 can or 400 mL) – Introduces a creamy dreaminess, essential for this Filipino Style Chicken Curry. Evaporated milk can work in a pinch.
• Medium green bell pepper (cut into squares) – Adds crunch and freshness; any preferred pepper can substitute.
• Fresh chili pepper (1, cut into pieces) – Gives extra spice; dried chili flakes can replace if fresh isn’t available.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the medium potato and medium carrot, frying them until they’re lightly browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside, allowing the oil and flavors to remain for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion over medium heat. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This aromatic base will enhance the flavors of your Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Next, add the 2 pounds of chicken pieces to the pan, ensuring they are evenly placed. Sear the chicken on both sides for about 1-2 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step will lock in the juices and flavors, making the chicken tender and delicious.

Step 4: Build the Flavor
Stir in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of curry powder, optional 1 tablespoon of paprika powder, and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Mix well, coating the chicken in the spices. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Coconut Milk
Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 can (400 mL) of coconut milk, stirring gently to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, uncovered, or until the sauce thickens and the chicken cooks through. Stir occasionally, checking that the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 6: Incorporate Remaining Vegetables
Finally, add the cooked potatoes, carrots, cut green bell pepper, and pieces of fresh chili into the pan. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the vegetables to heat through while soaking up the flavors of the Filipino Style Chicken Curry.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is heated perfectly, serve your creamy Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk hot, ideally with a side of steamed rice. This delightful dish is sure to bring comfort and joy to any meal!

Filipino Style Chicken Curry Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Filipino Style Chicken Curry and make it uniquely yours with these delightful twists!

Pork Alternative: Swap chicken for pork shoulder for a rich, savory flavor; just adjust cooking times slightly.
Beef Option: Substitute beef chuck for a heartier texture, but be sure to simmer longer until tender.
Turkey Twist: Perfect for holiday leftovers! Use diced turkey in place of chicken, and enjoy a festive spin on the classic.
Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped spinach or kale near the end for extra greenery and nutrition; it’s a great way to sneak in healthy veggies without losing flavor.
Mild Flavor: If you’re cooking for kiddos, skip the chili and reduce curry powder for a milder taste while keeping the creamy essence intact.

For more delightful variations, why not try adding vibrant bell peppers like in Garlic Tomato Chicken or even experiment with a sweet twist by pairing with sweet potatoes? The excitement is limitless!

Make Ahead Options

These Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk are perfect for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them refrigerated to maintain freshness. Also, feel free to prepare the curry base (steps 1-4) a day ahead and simply refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, just warm it in a skillet, then add the coconut milk and simmer for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy all the delicious flavors just like it was freshly made!

Expert Tips for Filipino Style Chicken Curry

Use the Right Chicken: Opt for bony cuts like thighs or drumsticks; they provide more flavor and stay juicy during cooking.
Control the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. Just be cautious not to let the coconut milk separate!
Season to Taste: Always taste your curry before serving and adjust the seasoning, especially when adding fish sauce for that umami kick.
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add more veggies like peas or green beans for extra nutrition and color in your Filipino Style Chicken Curry.
Serve with Care: Pair this comforting dish with jasmine or basmati rice, which beautifully complements the creamy coconut sauce.

Storage Tips for Filipino Style Chicken Curry

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the curry has cooled down before sealing to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezer: You can freeze Filipino Style Chicken Curry for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date for easy access later.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to restore creaminess.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving the curry out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage and maintain safety.

What to Serve with Creamy Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk

Transform your delightful chicken curry into a full-fledged feast with these enticing pairings that will enhance every mouthful.

Steamed Jasmine Rice:
Pillowy soft jasmine rice soaks up the rich coconut sauce, offering the perfect balance to the creamy flavors.
Green Mango Salad:
A refreshing kick from the tartness of green mango contrasts beautifully with the curry’s richness, adding a vibrant crunch to your meal.
Garlic Naan:
Soft, buttery naan laced with garlic makes for a delightful bread to scoop up the creamy curry, embracing its warm flavors.
Crispy Eggplant Chips:
A crunchy side that brings texture, these chips add a savory crunch and can be enjoyed as an appetizer or snack.
Lemonade or Calamansi Juice:
A cool, refreshing drink balances the spices in the curry, elevating the overall dining experience with each sip.
Sliced Cucumbers with Vinegar:
Bright and crisp, these pickled cucumbers cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the savoriness of the chicken curry.
Banana Fritters:
Sweet, warm banana fritters provide a delightful contrast to the savory curry, rounding out the meal with a hint of sweetness.
Coconut Rice:
For an extra tropical touch, coconut rice infuses subtle sweetness, complementing the flavors of the curry beautifully while keeping it cohesive.

Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your curry, I recommend using bone-in cuts like thighs or drumsticks. They tend to remain juicy and tender during cooking, enhancing the overall dish with more robust flavors compared to boneless varieties.

How should I store leftovers of the Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the curry cool entirely before sealing it to keep its creamy texture intact. To enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed.

Can I freeze Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the curry into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy this creamy delight again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally.

How do I know when my chicken is cooked through?
A good rule of thumb is to cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink and the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken. This ensures you’re serving a safe and delicious meal!

What can I substitute if I have an allergy to fish sauce?
If you or someone in your household has a fish allergy, you can replace fish sauce with 2 teaspoons of soy sauce or use ½ teaspoon of salt instead. This will still provide a bit of that savory umami flavor without causing any allergic reactions, allowing everyone to enjoy your Filipino Style Chicken Curry!