Creamy Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk in 25 Mins

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

The moment I first tasted Filipino Style Chicken Curry with coconut milk, I was instantly transported to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and the enticing aroma of spices simmering away. The creaminess of the coconut milk beautifully envelops tender chicken, while hints of curry and a touch of spice create a symphony of flavors that linger on your palate. This dish isn t just dinner; it s a heartfelt experience that brings families together around the table.

Whether you re diving into a busy weeknight or looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a game changer. Ready in under 25 minutes, you can indulge in this delightful fusion of comfort and flavor without cluttering your mind with complicated techniques or lengthy prep times. Prepare to delight your taste buds and warm your heart with this quick and satisfying chicken curry that s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!

Why is Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk irresistible?

Rich, Creamy Goodness: The velvety coconut milk envelops tender chicken, creating a luxurious sauce that s hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 25 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight meal without sacrificing flavor.
Elevated Comfort Food: Each spoonful brings nostalgia, bringing family and friends together around the table.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily adjustable, you can customize spice levels or substitute veggies to suit your taste.
Healthy and Satisfying: High in protein and flavor, it fills you up without weighing you down, making it a perfect dinner choice.

Indulge your culinary senses and elevate your weeknight dinners with this delightful recipe!

Filipino Style Chicken Curry Ingredients

For the Curry Base
Vegetable Oil Essential for frying vegetables and chicken; use any neutral cooking oil.
Chicken (about 2 pounds) Main protein, preferably bone-in portions for enhanced flavor; breasts can be a leaner alternative.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) Provides aromatic flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Onion (1 small, chopped) Adds depth of flavor; shallots make a fine substitute.
Fish Sauce (2 tablespoons) Introduces umami and saltiness; replace with soy sauce if unavailable.
Curry Powder (2 tablespoons) Key seasoning that provides warmth and spice; customize the blend for preference.
Ground Black Pepper ( ½ teaspoon) For seasoning; adjust according to taste.

For the Vegetables
Potato Adds texture and heartiness; substitute with sweet potato for a sweeter flavor.
Carrot Offers sweetness and color; can be replaced with parsnips if desired.
Green Bell Pepper (1 medium, cut into squares) Introduces freshness and crunch; substitute with any colored pepper.
Fresh Chili Pepper (1 piece, cut into pieces) or dried chili flakes Adds heat; adjust based on spice tolerance.

For the Creamy Finish
Coconut Milk (1 can, 400mL) Adds creaminess and richness; coconut cream is a thicker alternative.
Paprika Powder (1 tablespoon, optional) Enhances color and taste; can omit if a milder flavor is preferred.

Embrace the heartwarming essence of Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk in this easy-to-follow recipe and let it deliver a delightful experience to your dining table!

How to Make Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk

1. Heat Oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up, creating a perfect base for your delicious curry.

2. Fry Vegetables: Add potato and carrot wedges to the pan, frying them until they are cooked through and lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes). Once done, remove them and set aside to keep warm.

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes). This will release enticing aromas that make your mouth water!

4. Sear Chicken: Add about 2 pounds of chicken pieces to the pan, searing both sides for approximately 1 minute each. The chicken should look golden and slightly crispy this enhances the flavor.

5. Season: Stir in 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, along with 2 tablespoons of curry powder, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and optional 1 tablespoon of paprika. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 5 minutes to develop rich flavors.

6. Add Coconut Milk: Lower the heat and pour in one 400mL can of coconut milk. Allow the mixture to simmer and thicken, cooking the chicken fully for about 15 minutes. The sauce will turn creamy and beautiful!

7. Combine Veggies: Finally, add back the fried potatoes, carrots, chopped green bell pepper, and pieces of fresh chili to the pan. Stir gently and cook everything together for another minute, allowing the colors and flavors to meld.

8. Serve: Dish out your flavorful Filipino Style Chicken Curry over a bed of steamed rice or your favorite side. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Filipino Style Chicken Curry

• Choose Bone-In Chicken: For the richest flavor, opt for bone-in chicken parts like thighs or drumsticks instead of leaner cuts.

• Control Spiciness: Adjust the heat by varying the amount of fresh chili or dried chili flakes. Start with less and add more to taste.

• Simmer for Thickness: Allow the curry to simmer longer if you prefer a thicker sauce. Just keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it stays tender.

• Fish Sauce Alternatives: If fresh fish sauce is unavailable, soy sauce is a great substitute; start with a smaller amount to avoid overpowering flavor.

• Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and measure out spices ahead of time for an even quicker cooking experience when you re ready to make the Filipino Style Chicken Curry.

Filipino Style Chicken Curry Variations

Feel free to spice things up and personalize your dish with these fun twists and swaps!

• Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based version that s just as creamy and delicious.
• Sweet Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness and added nutrition.
• Dairy-Free: Opt for coconut cream instead of coconut milk for an ultra-rich and decadent sauce that s completely dairy-free.
• Protein Variety: Try using other proteins like pork, beef, or shrimp; each brings its unique flavor and texture to the curry.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in more veggies like spinach, green beans, or peas for added nutrition and a pop of color.
• Heat It Up: For those who crave heat, add more fresh chili peppers or use a spicier curry powder to elevate the spice level.
• Flavor Fusion: Include freshly grated ginger or a splash of lime juice for an aromatic kick and a refreshing twist in flavor.
• Nutty Touch: Finish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an exciting texture and a burst of coconut flavor on top.

With these variations, you can keep your meals exciting while staying true to the heartwarming spirit of Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk!

What to Serve with Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk?

Get ready to create a delightful family meal bursting with flavors that complement each other beautifully!

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice soaks up the creamy curry sauce, making every bite a comforting experience.
• Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed bok choy or spinach add a fresh, vibrant element to your plate, balancing the dish s richness. A sprinkle of garlic elevates the greens further.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar and a hint of sugar brings a delightful crunch and coolness that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the curry.
• Garlic Naan: Soft and chewy naan bread is perfect for scooping up the flavorful curry, adding an irresistible twist to your meal.
• Pickled Vegetables: Serve a small bowl of quick-pickled radishes or carrots for a zesty bite that enhances the curry s savory depth.
• Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled drink like lemonade or sweetened iced tea makes a perfect accompaniment, balancing the dish s spiciness with a refreshing sweetness.

Together, these pairings will elevate your dining experience, making your Filipino Style Chicken Curry a memorable family favorite!

Storage Tips for Filipino Style Chicken Curry

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish has cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
• Freezer: You can freeze the Filipino Style Chicken Curry for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
• Avoid Repeated Refreezing: Try not to refreeze once thawed, as this can affect the texture and flavor of your creamy curry.

Make Ahead Options

These Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking time-saving solutions! You can chop the vegetables (potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, marinade the chicken with garlic, fish sauce, and curry powder up to 3 days ahead, which will enhance flavors while saving precious time during busy weeknights. When you re ready to cook, simply sauté the prepared ingredients, add the coconut milk, and follow the remaining steps. This way, you ll enjoy the same rich, creamy goodness, just as delicious but with minimal effort!

Filipino Style Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, I recommend using bone-in chicken parts like thighs or drumsticks. The bones provide depth and moisture, ensuring your curry is deliciously comforting. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts can be used but may require more careful cooking to avoid dryness.

What s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Filipino Style Chicken Curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled down a bit before sealing it to help maintain its freshness. When you re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat thoroughly!

Can I freeze this chicken curry?
Definitely! To freeze, let the Filipino Style Chicken Curry cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

What if my curry sauce is too thin?
No worries at all! If you find that your curry sauce has turned out too thin, you can either let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken it up or make a slurry with a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed in water and stir that in, allowing it to simmer until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very much! While this recipe is generally well-balanced and not overly heavy, if you re cooking for someone with a fish allergy, you can substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or a homemade vegan substitute for added flavor without the fishy undertones. Always check the labels of your ingredients for potential allergens.

How can I customize the spice level in this dish?
The more the merrier! To customize the spiciness of your Filipino Style Chicken Curry, start with less fresh chili or dried chili flakes and taste as you go. If you love heat, add more until it reaches your preferred spice level. It s all about creating a comforting bowl that s just right for you!