Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk Recipe

  • July 5, 2025

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is an incredibly flavorful dish that perfectly balances the richness of coconut milk with aromatic spices, creating a comforting, satisfying meal that is both easy to make and family-friendly. If you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine with something simple yet full of bold flavors, this recipe is an absolute must-try!

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is a delicious, creamy curry recipe that combines tender pieces of chicken with a fragrant mix of spices and a velvety coconut milk sauce. The dish is inspired by Indian and Southeast Asian curry traditions, known for their vibrant flavors and comforting textures.

The curry is balanced with the mild sweetness of coconut milk, which complements the savory and spicy ingredients. With a base made from onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes, the dish is both comforting and nourishing. This recipe offers the perfect combination of richness and heat, making it ideal for curry lovers who enjoy a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver chicken curry with coconut milk

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together to create the perfect harmony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Chicken thighs (boneless and skinless are preferred for tender meat)
  • Coconut milk (full-fat for richness)
  • Onions (sliced thinly for sweetness and depth)
  • Garlic (minced for flavor base)
  • Ginger (freshly grated or chopped for a zesty kick)
  • Tomatoes (chopped for acidity and texture)
  • Curry powder (a mix of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander)
  • Chili peppers (optional, for those who love a bit of heat)
  • Ground cinnamon (to add warmth)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish and freshness)
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil (for sautéing)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Lime (for added zest and brightness)
  • Rice (to serve the curry with)

Equipment Needed

This dish requires only basic kitchen equipment, making it accessible even for beginners. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Large pot or deep pan (for cooking the curry and simmering the chicken)
  • Sharp knife (for chopping vegetables and cutting chicken)
  • Wooden spoon (for stirring and mixing the curry)
  • Grater (if using fresh ginger)
  • Measuring spoons (for precise spice measurements)
  • Rice cooker or pot (for cooking the rice to serve with the curry)
  • Chopping board (for prep work)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk?

Making this curry is relatively simple, even for those who might be new to cooking!

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Prepare The Ingredients

    • Start by dicing the chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks.
    • Slice the onions, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop the tomatoes.
    • Prepare your rice according to package instructions, as the curry will take about 30 minutes to cook.
  2. Cook The Aromatics

    • Heat some oil in your large pan over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until they become fragrant and the onions soften (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Add The Spices

    • Sprinkle in the curry powder, ground cinnamon, and optional chili peppers. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to toast slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add Chicken And Tomatoes

    • Toss in the diced chicken and chopped tomatoes, stirring to combine. Cook the chicken until it starts to brown slightly on the edges (around 5-7 minutes).
  5. Pour In The Coconut Milk

    • Add the coconut milk, stirring well to create a smooth sauce. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the curry to cook for 20 minutes. The chicken will become tender, and the sauce will thicken.
  6. Final Touches

    • Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with salt and lime juice, adding more for brightness if necessary.
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
  7. Serve

    • Serve the curry hot over a bed of fluffy rice. Optionally, add a side of naan bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

Expert Tips

  • For Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken in the curry powder and a little lime juice for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help intensify the flavor of the meat.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder curry, skip the chili peppers. If you love spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh green chilies.
  • Make It Creamier: If you want an even creamier sauce, you can add a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
  • Leftovers: This curry stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based variation.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is a hearty and comforting dish that brings a perfect blend of rich, creamy, and aromatic flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and will certainly please your taste buds.

The versatility of this curry allows it to be customized to your personal preferences, whether it’s adding more heat or making it vegan. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something comforting and full of flavor.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk

jamie oliver chicken curry with coconut milk

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is a vibrant, flavorful dish, loved for its combination of spices and creamy coconut base. It’s versatile, so you can easily modify it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few easy variations you can try:

  1. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrients:
    While Jamie’s recipe focuses on chicken, adding vegetables can enhance both the texture and nutritional value. Try adding sliced bell peppers, carrots, spinach, or peas. These veggies will absorb the curry flavors beautifully and add a bit of color to the dish.

  2. Swap Chicken for Other Proteins:
    If you want to make the dish vegetarian or change the protein, there are plenty of options. Tofu works wonderfully as a substitute, soaking up the rich flavors of the coconut milk. Alternatively, you could try paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a creamy, satisfying dish. For seafood lovers, shrimp or fish fillets are great alternatives.

  3. Make It Spicier:
    If you love heat, boost the spice level by adding fresh chopped chili peppers, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of chili flakes to the curry. This will add a punch without altering the dish too much. For those who enjoy smoky heat, a bit of smoked paprika could work wonders too.

  4. Coconut Milk Alternatives:
    While coconut milk is the classic base for the curry, you can switch it up if you want to try something new. Almond milk or oat milk will work as a lighter alternative to coconut milk, though they won’t give the curry that rich, creamy texture. Alternatively, you could use coconut cream for a thicker, even richer sauce.

  5. Go Gluten-Free:
    To keep this recipe gluten-free, make sure to check your curry paste for any hidden gluten ingredients. You can also make your own curry paste using fresh ingredients like garlic, ginger, turmeric, and cumin. Pairing the curry with gluten-free rice or quinoa makes for a perfect meal.

  6. Add Fresh Herbs:
    While Jamie’s recipe calls for fresh coriander (cilantro) to garnish, you can explore other herbs for variation. Thai basil or mint leaves can add a refreshing aroma and flavor to the dish. Fresh herbs bring a burst of freshness that complements the warm spices beautifully.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Chicken curry with coconut milk can be stored easily and remains delicious for a couple of days. However, following the best practices ensures that your leftovers stay fresh and maintain their flavor:

  1. Cool Down Before Storing:
    After you’re done cooking, let the curry cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid leaving it out for too long (no more than 2 hours), as bacteria can grow at room temperature. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container to lock in flavor and prevent any contaminants.

  2. Refrigerating Leftovers:
    Store your chicken curry in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Ensure the container is sealed properly to prevent odors from affecting the curry’s taste. Label the container with the date it was made, so you’ll know when it’s time to finish the leftovers.

  3. Freezing Leftovers:
    If you want to store your curry for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Divide the curry into smaller portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to leave some space in the container for the curry to expand as it freezes. You can freeze the curry for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove.

  4. Reheating Leftovers:
    When reheating, add a splash of water or coconut milk to bring back the curry’s original creamy texture. Reheat it gently on medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning or sticking. Make sure the curry is piping hot before serving.

  5. Avoid Reheating Multiple Times:
    Reheating your curry multiple times can cause the chicken to become tough and the flavors to degrade. For best results, only reheat the portion you plan to eat, ensuring that each serving is enjoyed at its freshest.

What Goes Well With Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk?

Chicken curry with coconut milk is a rich, aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with various sides, creating a complete meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with it:

  1. Rice:
    The most common pairing with curry is rice, and for good reason!

    Basmati rice is particularly well-suited, as its long grains complement the curry without overpowering the dish. You could also try coconut rice for a more decadent pairing or jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma.

  2. Naan or Roti:
    Soft, pillowy naan or roti is perfect for dipping into the rich curry sauce. You can choose from different types of naan, such as garlic naan or butter naan, which add a subtle flavor and a lovely texture contrast to the curry.

  3. Raita or Yogurt:
    The coolness of raita or plain yogurt is a refreshing complement to the spicy heat of the curry. Raita, made with yogurt, cucumber, and spices, adds a light, tangy contrast that balances the richness of the coconut milk. Alternatively, a simple yogurt drizzle can help tame the heat while adding creaminess.

  4. Salads:
    A fresh, crunchy salad made with cucumber, tomato, and red onions provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced curry. You can dress the salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette or a cooling yogurt-based dressing for an extra layer of flavor.

  5. Pickles and Chutneys:
    Indian pickles (achar) or a sweet chutney (like mango chutney) are great condiments to serve alongside your curry. The tanginess and sweetness of these sides balance the richness of the curry and offer a delightful burst of flavor.

  6. Saag or Saag Paneer:
    If you’re a fan of greens, pairing your chicken curry with a saag (spinach) dish like saag paneer (spinach with Indian cheese) or saag aloo (spinach with potatoes) offers a lovely, nutritious complement. The earthy flavors of the greens balance the creamy, rich curry.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is a versatile, hearty dish that works well for customizing to your personal taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re adding vegetables, switching proteins, or altering the spice levels, the basic flavors of this curry remain as comforting as ever.

Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can enjoy the dish for days, and when paired with rice, naan, yogurt, or chutney, it becomes a complete and satisfying meal. By following a few simple tips, you can keep this dish exciting and fresh every time you prepare it!.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk?

The essential ingredients typically include chicken breast or thigh, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder or paste, coconut milk, chopped tomatoes, fresh coriander, and olive oil. Optional additions may include chili, lemon juice, and garam masala depending on the variation.

What Type Of Chicken Works Best For This Recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and ability to stay juicy during cooking. However, chicken breast can also be used for a leaner version, though care must be taken not to overcook it.

Can I Use Light Coconut Milk Instead Of Full-fat?

Yes, light coconut milk can be used as a healthier alternative, but it may result in a thinner sauce with less richness. To compensate, you can simmer the curry a bit longer to concentrate the flavors.

Is This Curry Recipe Spicy?

Jamie Oliver’s version of chicken curry is generally mild to moderately spicy. The heat level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili or curry paste used. Removing seeds from chilies or using mild curry paste will make it more child-friendly.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk?

The recipe typically takes about 40 to 50 minutes, including preparation and cooking time. This may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and whether you’re making the curry paste from scratch.

Can I Prepare This Curry In Advance?

Yes, this curry can be made ahead of time and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

What Can I Serve With This Chicken Curry?

Common accompaniments include steamed basmati rice, naan bread, chapati, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A side of cucumber raita or mango chutney complements the dish well.

Can This Recipe Be Made Vegetarian Or Vegan?

Yes, substitute the chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or mixed vegetables like cauliflower and potatoes. Ensure the curry paste used is vegan-friendly, and continue to use coconut milk as the creamy base.

Does Jamie Oliver Use A Homemade Curry Paste In This Recipe?

In some versions, Jamie uses a quick homemade curry paste made from garlic, ginger, chili, and spices blended with oil. However, store-bought curry paste can be used for convenience without sacrificing too much flavor.

How Do I Thicken The Curry If It’s Too Runny?

To thicken the curry, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer time to let excess liquid evaporate. Alternatively, add a spoonful of ground almonds or coconut cream to give it a richer texture.