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+ servings

Slow Cooker Coconut Curry Chicken

A comforting and flavorful slow cooker meal featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in creamy coconut milk with aromatic spices, perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Serving Size 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless and skinless chicken thighs Thighs stay juicier than breasts.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated Fresh is best.
  • 1 can coconut milk (14 oz) Use light coconut milk to reduce calories, but full-fat gives a richer sauce.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Can substitute with water and a bouillon cube.

Spices

  • 2 tablespoons curry powder Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as needed.

Vegetables

  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, peas) Use frozen for convenience.

Garnish

  • to taste Fresh cilantro For garnish.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pat them dry if you want a slightly thicker sauce.
  • Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger on top of the chicken.
  • Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Sprinkle the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper over everything.
  • Gently stir once or twice to distribute the spices while keeping the chicken mostly in place.
  • Arrange the vegetables on top of the mixture, adding quick-cooking items like peas in the last 30–60 minutes.

Cooking

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
  • Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to combine and let sit on warm for 10 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Notes

For a slightly different flavor, add a splash of lime at the end or a teaspoon of brown sugar if the curry tastes too bitter. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.