Name: Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk: Creamy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Any neutral oil will work); 1 small Onion (Shallots can be used as a substitute); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced fresh garlic is best); 2 tablespoons Fish Sauce (Soy sauce can be a substitute); 2 tablespoons Curry Powder (Adjust based on spice preference); ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (Freshly ground produces better flavor); 2 pounds Chicken (Thighs or drumsticks are preferable); 1 medium Potato (Sweet potatoes can be used); 1 medium Carrot (Green beans can be a substitute); 1 medium Green Bell Pepper (Red bell pepper can be used); 1 piece Fresh Chili Pepper (Cut into 4-5 pieces); 1 can Coconut Milk (400 mL, coconut cream can be richer); 1 tablespoon Paprika Powder (Optional based on taste)

As I stirred a pot filled with vibrant colors and aromatic spices, the rich scent of my Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk filled the kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace of nostalgia. This delicious dish doesn’t just celebrate the bold flavors of traditional Filipino cuisine; it also promises quick prep without sacrificing taste, making it a go-to option for any busy weeknight. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal that will impress family and friends, all while being gluten-free—a total win! As the creamy coconut milk melds beautifully with tender chicken and vegetables, you’ll find yourself transported to a comforting space reminiscent of home-cooked family dinners. Ready to bring a little taste of the Philippines into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why is this Chicken Curry a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: With a cook time of under 30 minutes, this Filipino Style Chicken Curry fits perfectly into your busy schedule, just like our Honey Chili Chicken.

Comforting Creaminess: The rich coconut milk brings unparalleled creaminess that complements the tender chicken, creating an indulgent meal with every bite.

Endless Variations: Feeling adventurous? You can easily swap in different meats or add extra veggies like peas or zucchini for a personalized twist.

Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy this dish guilt-free, as it caters to gluten sensitivities while still delivering bold flavors.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a surefire hit that will leave everyone coming back for seconds!

Filipino Style Chicken Curry Ingredients

For the Curry Base

Vegetable Oil – Provides the fat needed for frying; any neutral oil will work in a pinch.
Small Onion – Caramelizes beautifully and adds essential flavor; shallots can be a lovely substitute.
Garlic (3 cloves) – Enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor; fresh minced garlic is always the best choice.
Fish Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Introduces umami depth; if you’re out, soy sauce is a good alternative.
Curry Powder (2 tablespoons) – Gives the dish its distinct flavor; adjust to a milder or spicier version based on your preference.
Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds warmth to the dish; freshly ground produces the best flavor.

For the Chicken

Chicken (2 pounds) – The star of the dish; thighs and drumsticks offer more flavor, but boneless breasts can work if chopped small.

For the Vegetables

Medium Potato – Adds heartiness; sweet potatoes can offer a delightful twist.
Medium Carrot – Provides sweetness and color; green beans make a nice alternative.
Medium Green Bell Pepper – Brings a crunchy texture; substitute with red bell pepper for added sweetness.
Fresh Chili Pepper (1 piece, cut into 4-5 pieces) – Adds spice; adjust based on your desired heat level.

For Creaminess

Coconut Milk (1 can, 400 mL) – Central to the recipe for that creamy texture; coconut cream infuses even more richness.

Optional Additions

Paprika Powder (1 tablespoon) – Introduces mild sweetness and vibrant color; this is purely optional based on your taste.

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

Step 1: Fry Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium potato and 1 medium carrot, frying until they are tender and the edges are golden, about 5–7 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside; this helps build the foundation of flavors for your Filipino Style Chicken Curry.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Using the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 small onion for about 2–3 minutes, until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent. This step is essential as it infuses the oil with aromatic goodness that will enrich the entire dish.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
Once the aromatics are ready, add 2 pounds of chicken (preferably thighs or drumsticks) to the pan. Sear the chicken for about 1–2 minutes on each side until it’s lightly browned. This step locks in those delicious juices, ensuring your Filipino Style Chicken Curry is flavorful and tender.

Step 4: Season
Stir in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of curry powder, 1 tablespoon of paprika (optional), and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Mix everything well, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the spices to meld together, creating a fragrant base for your curry.

Step 5: Integrate Coconut Milk
Reduce the heat and slowly pour in 1 can (400 mL) of coconut milk. Stir the mixture until fully combined and let it simmer uncovered for about 8–10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is cooked through. Keep an eye on it to achieve your desired consistency for the ideal Filipino Style Chicken Curry.

Step 6: Add Vegetables
Return the cooked potato and carrot to the pan, along with 1 medium green bell pepper and 1 fresh chili pepper (cut into pieces). Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the vegetables to warm through and the flavors to unite harmoniously.

Step 7: Serve
Carefully transfer the finished Filipino Style Chicken Curry to a serving dish. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or your preferred side. Let the warmth of this delightful curry wrap around you and enjoy the comfort of homemade goodness!

Filipino Style Chicken Curry Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours!

Pork or Beef: Swap chicken with pork or beef for a heartier version that brings a different depth of flavor.
Turkey Twist: Use turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option; it still packs a delicious punch! This is perfect if you’re looking for a light alternative.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in peas, zucchini, or bell peppers to elevate the veggie content and add vibrant colors to your curry.
Creamy & Rich: For a more indulgent version, replace coconut milk with coconut cream for a gloriously creamy consistency.
Spice It Up: Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer fresh chili peppers or sprinkle in some cayenne for extra kick.
Sweet Potato Delight: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor and added nutrition.
Mild Curry Option: Opt for a milder curry powder if you’re cooking for kids or those who prefer a gentle spice.
Coconut & Lime: Add a splash of lime juice before serving for a zesty twist that brightens the rich flavors.

This is your canvas for creativity! You might also enjoy these comforting meals like Tropical Chicken Pineapple or Savory Chicken and Cheesy Potato Drumsticks to keep your culinary adventures going!

Make Ahead Options

These Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your vegetables and marinate the chicken in the fish sauce and spices up to 24 hours in advance, storing everything in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the coconut milk sauce separately and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply sauté the aromatics, add the marinated chicken, and incorporate your prepped vegetables and sauce. This way, you’ll have a decadent, flavorful curry with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!

What to Serve with Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk

Elevate your dining experience by exploring delightful side dishes and beverages that perfectly complement the rich flavors of your curry.

Steamed Jasmine Rice:
The delicate aroma of jasmine rice provides the perfect base, soaking up the creamy sauce and balancing the spices beautifully.
Warm Naan Bread:
Soft and inviting, naan is ideal for scooping up the luscious curry, adding a comforting touch to your meal.
Aromatic Cucumber Salad:
Crisp cucumbers tossed with vinegar and sugar add a refreshing crunch, brightening the palate between bites of rich curry.
Roasted Vegetables:
Colorful roasted vegetables enhance the meal with an earthy flavor, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy curry.
Chilled Coconut Drink:
Stay within the theme by sipping a chilled coconut drink which harmonizes with your dish’s coconut milk base for extra indulgence.
Mango Sticky Rice:
This classic dessert, sweet and sticky, brings a satisfying finish, blending tropical flavors with the savory curry you just enjoyed!
Ginger Lemonade:
A refreshing glass of ginger lemonade awakens the senses, providing a zingy contrast to the rich and creamy tastes of your curry, ensuring a balanced dining experience.
Fried Plantains:
Sweet and crispy on the outside, they add a delightful textural contrast while bringing a hint of sweetness to your savory meal.

Expert Tips for Filipino Style Chicken Curry

Perfect Timing: Keep an eye on your chicken while cooking; overcooking can lead to toughness. Aim for just the right tenderness.
Thickening Control: For a thicker curry, allow the coconut milk to simmer longer. Adjust according to your preference for its creamy consistency.
Flavor Balancing: Don’t skimp on the fish sauce—it’s essential for the umami depth in your Filipino Style Chicken Curry. If using soy sauce, start with less to avoid overpowering flavors.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to be creative with your vegetables! Adding extras like zucchini or peas can enhance the dish while personalizing it to your family’s tastes.
Spice Levels: Adjust the number of chili peppers based on your spice tolerance. A mild curry can be made hot by gently increasing the chili count.
Meal Prep Magic: This curry keeps well in the fridge! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy them for up to 3 days.

Storage Tips for Filipino Style Chicken Curry

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the curry to cool before refrigerating to preserve its creamy texture.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the Filipino Style Chicken Curry in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of coconut milk or water to restore creaminess as it warms up.

Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
I recommend using thighs or drumsticks, as they provide more flavor and remain tender during cooking. If you prefer white meat, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can work well too; just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.

How do I store leftovers of Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
Store any leftover Filipino Style Chicken Curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to the fridge to maintain its creamy texture.

Can I freeze Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
Absolutely! You can freeze the curry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove. If needed, you can add a splash of coconut milk or water to help restore its creamy consistency.

What if the curry is too thick?
If you find your Filipino Style Chicken Curry too thick, you can easily adjust this during cooking. Simply add a bit of coconut milk or water and stir until you reach your desired thickness. For an extra creamy result, I often add a small amounts of coconut milk while stirring.

Are there any common substitutions for ingredients in this curry?
Certainly! If you’re out of fish sauce, soy sauce is a fantastic substitute, just start with a smaller quantity to prevent overwhelming the flavor. For vegetables, feel free to swap the bell pepper with zucchinis or peas to suit your taste preferences and use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different twist.

Can pets eat Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
While the chicken itself is safe for pets, it’s best to avoid giving them any curry made for human consumption due to ingredients like garlic and onion, which can be harmful to pets. If you want to share the love, set aside a plain piece of cooked chicken for them!