Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that practically cooks itself, then this Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those meals that warms your heart and fills your home with amazing aromas. The combination of tender chicken simmered in creamy coconut milk and fragrant spices makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

This recipe is special to me because it strikes the perfect balance between being easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. You can simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning and come back to a delicious meal that’s ready to be enjoyed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: Just sear the chicken, mix your ingredients, and let the slow cooker do all the work!
• Family-Friendly: With its mild taste and hearty ingredients, this coconut curry is loved by both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time for those hectic days.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of coconut milk, spices, and fresh herbs creates a dish full of vibrant flavors that will make everyone smile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have on hand. They come together beautifully in the slow cooker for an unforgettable meal!

For the Chicken

• 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (skin removed; about 2 and 1/2 pounds)
• Salt and pepper
• 1 teaspoon oil

For the Sauce

• 2 13.5-oz cans coconut milk (lite coconut milk works great too)
• 2 tablespoons dried basil leaves
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 & 1/2 tablespoons yellow curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (or 3/4 teaspoon for more heat)
• 1 large red onion (chopped)
• 8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 jalapenos (seeded and finely chopped)

For Thickening

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water

For Finishing Touches

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated or minced)
• 1/3 to 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about this Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: You can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs instead of bone-in cuts for quicker cooking.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the spice: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some Thai red curry paste for an extra kick.
• Make it vegan: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a delicious plant-based version.

How to Make Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by removing the skin from each chicken thigh using your fingers and a serrated knife. This step helps reduce excess fat while still keeping that juicy flavor. Once cleaned, season each thigh generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your teaspoon of oil. When it’s hot, add three chicken thighs at a time—be careful not to overcrowd them! Searing them for about 2 minutes on each side gives them a lovely golden color and locks in those juices.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In your crock pot, pour in both cans of coconut milk along with dried basil, salt, pepper, yellow curry powder, and chili powder to taste. Stir these ingredients together so they’re well mixed before adding your chopped red onion, minced garlic, diced jalapenos, and that beautifully browned chicken.

Step 4: Let It Cook

Set your slow cooker on high for 4-5 hours or low for 6-8 hours. This long cooking time allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully while making the chicken incredibly tender.

Step 5: Finish Up

Once cooked through, carefully remove the chicken from your slow cooker and let it cool slightly. Meanwhile, add in freshly grated ginger. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth—this will help thicken your sauce! Stir this mixture back into the crock pot along with shredded chicken after removing bones.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Give everything a good stir before tasting; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. Finally, mix in that bright cilantro just before serving. This dish is perfect over rice or cauliflower rice or even served alongside naan bread!

And there you have it—a warm Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot

Creating the perfect Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot is all about those little details that can elevate your dish! Here are some tips to ensure your slow-cooked masterpiece turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right chicken: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can always remove the skin after cooking.

• Sear for flavor: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker creates a richer flavor in your curry. This step enhances the overall taste and gives a nice depth to the sauce!

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less chili powder and taste as you go. You can always add more later if you want an extra kick!

• Let it rest: Allowing the shredded chicken to sit in the sauce for a few minutes after cooking helps it absorb all those wonderful flavors, making every bite simply irresistible.

• Fresh herbs make a difference: Adding fresh cilantro at the end brightens up the dish and gives it a pop of freshness that complements the coconut curry beautifully.

How to Serve Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot

When it comes to serving your Coconut Curry Chicken, presentation is key! Here are some delightful ways to make this dish shine on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich curry.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving adds brightness and acidity, which balances out the creaminess of the coconut milk.
• Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkling these on top offers a nutty flavor and a lovely crunch, enhancing both texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Steamed basmati rice: The fluffy texture of basmati rice pairs perfectly with coconut curry, soaking up all that fragrant sauce.
• Cauliflower rice: A great low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice provides a nice base for this flavorful dish without overpowering it.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini add color and nutrition while complementing the curry’s spices.
• Naan bread: Warm naan is perfect for scooping up curry; its soft texture makes it an irresistible sidekick to this comforting meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken is perfect for meal prepping, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare this dish in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover curry in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• When ready to eat, check the smell and appearance before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the curry to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot recipe.

Can I use boneless chicken in this Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot recipe?

Yes, you can substitute bone-in chicken thighs with boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out.

How spicy is this Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot dish?

This recipe is not very spicy but has great flavor from the yellow curry powder and jalapenos. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or omitting the jalapenos entirely.

What can I serve with Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, cauliflower rice, or naan bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Coconut Curry Chicken Crock Pot recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. The blend of flavors will surely delight your taste buds and those of your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your creations or ask any questions. Happy cooking!