Classic Curry Chicken and Rice

Name: Classic Curry Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Caribbean/Indian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 tbsp curry powder; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

Published: January 5, 2026

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Classic Curry Chicken and Rice

This incredible Classic Curry Chicken and Rice transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Classic Curry Chicken and Rice:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the dish; yellow onions work perfectly.
Curry Powder: Use your favorite blend; a good quality curry powder makes all the difference!
Coconut Milk: This gives a creamy texture and adds richness — light coconut milk works too if you prefer it less creamy.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness.
Chicken Broth: Homemade or store-bought broth enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Classic Curry Chicken and Rice:

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Start by chopping your onion and mincing your garlic. The fresher they are, the more flavorful your dish will become!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil. Once hot, toss in your chopped onion and sauté until translucent — about 5 minutes should do! Then add your minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook until browned on each side — roughly 6-8 minutes per side. You’re looking for that beautiful golden color!

Step 4: Add Spices

Sprinkle in your curry powder (don’t be shy; this is where the magic happens!) along with any other spices you love. Stir everything together to coat those chicken pieces in all that flavor.

Step 5: Create Sauce

Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth while scraping up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom of your skillet—this is flavor gold! Let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until everything melds together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Over Rice

While your chicken simmers away in its glorious sauce, cook some rice according to package instructions. Once done, serve your aromatic curry over a fluffy bed of rice for perfect harmony on a plate.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every last morsel!

You Must Know About Classic Curry Chicken and Rice

This showstopping Classic Curry Chicken and Rice delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results for Classic Curry Chicken and Rice, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While it cooks, prepare your rice according to package instructions, and then whip up your sauce to maximize flavor infusion.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Classic Curry Chicken and Rice! Swap in coconut milk for creaminess or add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition. Experiment with spices to cater to your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

To maintain the quality of your Classic Curry Chicken and Rice, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Classic Curry Chicken and Rice

This professional-quality Classic Curry Chicken and Rice relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember the first time I served Classic Curry Chicken and Rice at a family gathering; my cousin couldn’t stop raving about how it tasted just like his favorite restaurant’s version!

FAQs

What is Classic Curry Chicken and Rice?

Classic Curry Chicken and Rice is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken pieces simmered in aromatic curry spices, served over a bed of fluffy rice. This dish is popular in many cultures, particularly in Caribbean and Indian cuisines. The curry sauce typically includes ingredients like garlic, ginger, onions, and various spices, creating a rich and savory profile. The rice acts as a perfect base, absorbing the delicious flavors from the curry. It’s not only a comforting meal but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

How long does it take to prepare Classic Curry Chicken and Rice?

Preparing Classic Curry Chicken and Rice usually takes about 30 minutes of active cooking time, plus an additional 20 to 30 minutes for simmering the curry. If you include marinating the chicken, you might want to add another 30 minutes for that step. Overall, you can expect to serve this hearty dish in under an hour. This quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying.

What are some variations of Classic Curry Chicken and Rice?

There are many delicious variations of Classic Curry Chicken and Rice that you can explore. For instance, you can use different types of meat like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, you can adjust the spice level by adding more chilies or using milder curry powders. Some recipes incorporate coconut milk for a creamy texture while others may include vegetables such as peas or bell peppers for added nutrition. These variations allow you to personalize the dish according to your taste preferences.

Can I make Classic Curry Chicken and Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Classic Curry Chicken and Rice ahead of time! In fact, preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Cooked curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s piping hot. For best results with leftovers, store rice separately to maintain its texture; combine just before serving.

Conclusion

Classic Curry Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor together in one meal. With its aromatic spices and tender chicken served over fluffy rice, it’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to suit different tastes with various ingredient options. Whether you’re enjoying this dish on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, Classic Curry Chicken and Rice will surely impress your family and friends with its rich flavors.

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