There’s something incredibly satisfying about knowing you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes, especially when it’s as mouthwatering as this Filipino Style Chicken Curry. Picture this: tender chicken simmering in a rich, creamy sauce made from coconut milk, mingled with aromatic spices that dance in the air. This heartwarming dish not only brings a taste of the Philippines right into your kitchen, but it also offers the perfect escape from the mundane weeknight meals that often leave us uninspired.
I discovered this recipe on a busy evening when I craved comfort but was too tired to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, including fresh vegetables and pantry staples, this curry has turned into a go-to we all look forward to. Whether you enjoy it over fluffy jasmine rice or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, you’ll find that this dish is not just a meal—it’s a warm hug on a plate. Let’s dive into this creamy, comforting recipe that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters!
Why is Filipino Style Chicken Curry so special?
Rich, Creamy Sauce: The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a velvety sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Hearty Ingredients: Tender chicken and nutritious veggies provide a comforting and satisfying meal.
Versatile Recipe: Easily switch proteins or customize with seasonal veggies for endless options.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: This dish brings a taste of the Philippines to your table, guaranteed to delight family and friends!
Filipino Style Chicken Curry Ingredients
For the Curry
• Vegetable Oil – A versatile cooking fat; feel free to substitute with olive oil or coconut oil if you prefer.
• Potato – Adds heartiness and texture; can substitute with sweet potatoes or skip for a low-carb version.
• Carrot – Offers sweetness and vibrant color; zucchini or bell peppers are great alternatives for a different taste.
• Garlic – Essential for aromatic flavor; in a pinch, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder works well.
• Onion – Forms the flavor base; shallots can be used for a slightly sweeter taste.
• Chicken – The main protein in this curry; bone-in thighs provide more flavor, while breasts are leaner.
• Fish Sauce – Delivers umami depth; opt for soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Curry Powder – This spice blend defines the flavor profile; choose mild or medium based on your spice preference.
• Paprika Powder (optional) – Adds depth and color; use smoked paprika for a delightful smoky flavor.
• Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste for the perfect kick.
• Coconut Milk – Creates that rich, creamy sauce; coconut cream can be used for an even richer consistency.
• Green Bell Pepper – Adds crunch and color; any color bell pepper works, or substitute with green beans for added texture.
• Fresh Chili Pepper – Infuses extra heat; dried chili flakes can substitute for a milder option or omit for no spice.
How to Make Filipino Style Chicken Curry
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Heat Oil: Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped potato and carrot, frying them until they become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Set them aside for later.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, around 2-3 minutes. This base will elevate your curry’s flavor.
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Sear Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, searing both sides for about one minute until they start to brown. This step locks in the juices for a more flavorful dish.
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Incorporate Flavors: Pour in the fish sauce, curry powder, paprika (if using), and black pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients, cover, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Add Coconut Milk: Lower the heat and stir in the coconut milk. Let it simmer gently. Cook until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked through, typically about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender and the sauce has a rich consistency.
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Mix in Veggies: Gently stir in the previously cooked carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper along with the fresh chili peppers. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the veggies to heat through and soak up the flavors.
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Serve: Ladle the delicious curry over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or pair it with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy each flavorful bite!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Filipino Style Chicken Curry Variations
Feel free to mix it up and create your perfect version of this comforting dish, making it uniquely yours!
- Pork Alternative: Swap out chicken for pork belly or shoulder for a richer flavor and tender texture.
- Beef Twist: Use beef stew meat, which adds a hearty, robust taste; just allow it to simmer a bit longer until tender.
- Turkey Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey breast or thighs for a leaner option that’s equally delicious.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like eggplant or butternut squash for added nutrition and a different flavor profile. Just remember to adjust cooking times for softer veggies.
- Coconut Cream Boost: For an ultra-creamy curry, use coconut cream instead of coconut milk; this ups the richness and creaminess beautifully.
- Spice It Up: Add more fresh chili peppers or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an added kick that ignites your taste buds.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips for a delightful low-carb twist that still satisfies.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end for an aromatic finish that brightens the dish beautifully.
Expert Tips for Filipino Style Chicken Curry
- Simmer for Depth: Allow the curry to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just be cautious not to overcook, or the coconut milk may separate.
- Adjust Fish Sauce: Fish sauce is salty, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Versatile Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies like eggplant or butternut squash to enhance the nutrition and flavor profile of your Filipino Style Chicken Curry.
- Choose Chicken Wisely: Skin-on chicken parts add flavor, while skinless options are healthier but may need longer cooking to fully develop flavors.
- Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro just before serving brightens the dish, adding freshness that complements the rich curry.
What to Serve with Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
Imagine a cozy dinner table filled with vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas that perfectly complement your creamy curry.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy staple is crucial for soaking up the rich curry sauce, providing a comforting and filling base.
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Crusty Bread: A crusty baguette or rustic loaf is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that delightful sauce, enhancing the overall experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Bright and caramelized veggies add contrasting textures and flavors, creating a wholesome balance to the dish.
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Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing salad featuring cucumbers and a dash of vinegar provides a crisp contrast that’s both palate-cleansing and delightful.
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Fruit Shakes: Tropical fruit shakes—like mango or pineapple—offer a sweet, refreshing drink that can cool the palate and round out the meal beautifully.
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Eggplant Ensalada: This Filipino-style eggplant salad, with its smoky flavor and tangy dressing, perfectly complements the richness of the curry and adds complexity.
Add these delightful pairings to elevate your dinner experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Filipino Style Chicken Curry components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can marinate the chicken with the fish sauce and spices and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the aromatics, add the marinated chicken, and follow the rest of the recipe steps. This approach ensures that the flavors are rich and all you’ll need is about 15-20 minutes to finish your delightful dish, delivering just as delicious results!
Storage Tips for Filipino Style Chicken Curry
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture of the coconut milk while keeping flavors fresh.
Freezer: You can freeze the curry for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or coconut milk to restore the creamy consistency after freezing.
Serving: For the best experience, enjoy your Filipino Style Chicken Curry with freshly steamed rice or crusty bread, bringing back that comforting feel each time!
Filipino Style Chicken Curry Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the curry?
I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for their creamy texture. If you want a different flavor or a lower-carb option, sweet potatoes are a fantastic substitute!
How long can I store leftovers of Filipino Style Chicken Curry in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture of the coconut milk.
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Can I freeze Filipino Style Chicken Curry?
Yes, you can freeze this curry! For best results, transfer it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for the expansion as it freezes. It can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
What should I do if the coconut milk separates in the curry?
Don’t worry! If the coconut milk starts to separate, it means the heat might be too high or the cooking time was too prolonged. To fix this, reduce the heat and stir the curry gently until it combines again. For best results, keep the heat low and slow; a longer simmer can deepen the flavors!
Is this dish suitable for people with gluten sensitivities?
Very! If you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of fish sauce, this Filipino Style Chicken Curry can be a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Always double-check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
Filipino Style Chicken Curry That Comforts and Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped potato and carrot, frying until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pan, searing both sides for about one minute until they start to brown.
- Pour in the fish sauce, curry powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to combine, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the coconut milk. Simmer until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked, typically about 10-15 minutes.
- Gently stir in the previously cooked carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper along with the fresh chili peppers. Cook for an additional minute.
- Ladle the curry over jasmine rice or with crusty bread, and enjoy!
