Chicken Curry Coconut Milk Veg Recipes Of India Made Easy

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Indian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, and nothing quite exemplifies this more than a hearty chicken curry with coconut milk. This recipe blends tender chicken pieces with rich, creamy coconut milk and an array of fresh vegetables, creating a dish that is both comforting and exotic.

Originating from the coastal regions of India, where coconuts are plentiful, this curry offers a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, making it a favorite across households and restaurants alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this recipe will guide you through crafting a delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, the inclusion of vegetables makes it a wholesome, nutritious option for any day of the week.

Dive into the heart of Indian culinary tradition with this delightful chicken curry coconut milk veg recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken curry with coconut milk is a crowd-pleaser because it combines the best of Indian spices with the creamy sweetness of coconut milk. It’s comfort food with a twist, rich in texture yet light enough to enjoy any time.

The addition of vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile, making it a well-rounded meal.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice levels or swap vegetables based on what you have on hand.

It’s perfect for meal prepping and tastes even better the next day. Plus, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or even a fresh salad.

For more inspiration on flavorful Indian dishes, you might want to check out our Christmas Recipes Kerala which also celebrate coconut-infused flavors.

Ingredients

  • 500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for richness)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, green beans)
  • 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp red chili powder (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

  • Large skillet or heavy-bottom pan
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Grater for ginger
  • Serving bowl

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and vegetables. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a pan: Place the skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onions and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  5. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring well so they’re coated with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-6 minutes until chicken starts to brown.
  6. Add vegetables and coconut milk: Toss in the mixed vegetables and green chilies. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine everything evenly.
  7. Simmer gently: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the curry simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
  8. Finish with garam masala and lemon juice: Sprinkle garam masala over the curry, stir well, and cook uncovered for another 2 minutes. Add lemon juice for a hint of fresh acidity.
  9. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with steamed rice or Indian bread.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use homemade coconut milk or add a handful of cashew nuts ground into a paste before simmering.

  • Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with paneer or tofu and increase the cooking time slightly to allow vegetables to absorb flavors.
  • Spice adjustment: If you prefer milder curries, reduce or omit the green chilies and red chili powder.
  • Extra vegetables: Try adding eggplant or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.
  • Boost flavor: Adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during the sautéing stage infuses warmth and depth.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (approx.)
Calories 350 kcal
Protein 30g
Fat 20g
Carbohydrates 12g
Fiber 4g
Sodium 550mg

Serving Suggestions

This chicken curry with coconut milk pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or fragrant jeera (cumin) rice. You can also serve it alongside warm Indian breads like naan or chapati to scoop up the creamy sauce.

For a complete meal, accompany this dish with a fresh cucumber raita or a tangy mango chutney. If you’d like to explore other Indian vegetable recipes with rich coconut flavors, consider trying Christmas Recipes Kerala, which offer a festive variety of coconut-infused dishes.

Other Indian Chicken Curry Coconut Milk Veg Recipes to Try

Kerala Style Chicken Curry with Coconut and Curry Leaves

This recipe features a bold use of curry leaves and freshly ground spices combined with coconut milk for a deeply aromatic and flavorful curry. The slow-cooked chicken absorbs the spices beautifully.

Goan Chicken Xacuti with Coconut Milk

A spicy and complex curry, Goan Chicken Xacuti uses roasted coconut and a unique blend of spices such as poppy seeds and dried red chilies, giving it a robust flavor profile. Perfect for those who love a kick.

Chicken and Vegetable Stew from Tamil Nadu

This stew is a comforting dish where chicken and seasonal vegetables are simmered gently in coconut milk with mild spices like cinnamon and cardamom. Ideal for a light yet satisfying meal.

South Indian Chicken Curry with Coconut and Mustard Seeds

A quick and simple curry that highlights mustard seeds and curry leaves tempered in coconut oil, creating a fragrant base for the creamy coconut milk and tender chicken.

For more inspiration on healthy and flavorful chicken dishes, check out our Pcos Chicken Recipes and Chicken Recipe With Mayonnaise And Chutney.

Conclusion

Chicken curry with coconut milk and vegetables offers a delicious and wholesome way to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of India. The combination of creamy coconut milk with fragrant spices and fresh vegetables makes this dish a perfect balance of comfort and nutrition.

It’s adaptable to your spice preferences and vegetable choices, ensuring you can tailor it exactly to your taste.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing taste.

Give this recipe a try and bring a little bit of India’s coastal magic into your kitchen today.

📖 Recipe Card: Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk

Description: A flavorful Indian chicken curry made with creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices. This dish is rich, comforting, and perfect with rice or flatbread.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden brown.
  2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Add turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and garam masala; stir well.
  4. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned.
  5. Pour in tomato puree and cook for 5 minutes.
  6. Add coconut milk and salt; simmer on low heat for 25 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Nutrition: Calories: 400 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 25 g | Carbs: 10 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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