This Savory Authentic Peanut Chicken Curry blends tender chicken with a creamy, spiced peanut sauce. Inspired by West African and Southeast Asian cuisines, it’s rich, comforting, and full of bold, nutty flavor—perfect for a one-pot meal.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Simmering
Cuisine:Fusion
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 cup crushed tomatoes or 2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
1 cup coconut milk or chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon lime or lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until golden and soft, about 5–7 minutes.
Add minced garlic and ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in coriander, cumin, paprika, and cayenne. Toast spices for 1 minute.
Add chicken and sear on all sides until lightly browned, about 5–6 minutes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes or tomato paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
Add peanut butter and mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
Pour in coconut milk or chicken broth. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and sauce is thick and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and lime or lemon juice, if using.
Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and serve hot with rice or flatbread.
Notes
Use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Chunky peanut butter adds texture if preferred.
Simmer uncovered to thicken the sauce naturally.
Adjust cayenne or chili flakes for preferred spice level.
This curry freezes well and tastes even better the next day.