Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A delightful and aromatic chicken curry that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, featuring a rich and creamy sauce.

Talia Preston

Created by

Talia Preston

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:19:11.164Z

This creamy slow cooker chicken curry is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of spices and coconut milk creates a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Luscious coconut cream balances the spices perfectly
  • Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
  • A comforting dish that warms the soul

The Magic of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is an art that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors. When you let this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry simmer, the spices meld beautifully with the chicken and coconut milk. The result is a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with an enticing aroma that will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner.

One of the best aspects of slow cooking is the convenience it offers. With just a little prep work, you can set your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. This recipe epitomizes that ease, making it perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when you want a hearty meal without the fuss.

Health Benefits of Chicken Curry

Chicken curry is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Chicken thighs are a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The addition of spices like turmeric and cumin not only enhances the flavor but also brings anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to the dish.

Furthermore, the inclusion of spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals. Spinach is rich in iron, which supports healthy blood circulation, and it's also a great source of vitamins A and C. By incorporating this green leafy vegetable, you're not just adding color but also enhancing the nutritional profile of your meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it's delicious on its own, pairing it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan elevates the experience. The rice absorbs the rich sauce, while naan is perfect for scooping up every last bit of chicken and sauce.

For a complete meal, consider serving a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad. The coolness of the raita complements the spices in the curry, balancing the heat and richness beautifully. This combination not only makes for a satisfying dinner but also impresses guests with its vibrant colors and flavors.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups spinach (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Serve with rice or naan to soak up the delicious sauce!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, coconut milk, chicken broth, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Curry

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Add Spinach

If using, add the spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Enjoy your creamy slow cooker chicken curry!

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, often tasting even better the next day. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve the texture of the chicken.

For longer storage, consider freezing the curry. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of this chicken curry recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper. Alternatively, for a milder curry, reduce the amount of curry powder or omit the turmeric.

You can also experiment with different vegetables. Bell peppers, carrots, or peas can be excellent additions that enhance both the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Adding a squeeze of lime juice just before serving can also brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be aware that chicken breasts can dry out more easily. Consider adjusting the cooking time.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

You can add more or less curry powder or include fresh chili peppers to your taste.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this curry freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry

A delightful and aromatic chicken curry that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, featuring a rich and creamy sauce.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration6 hours
Overall Time6 hours 15 minutes

Created by: Talia Preston

Recipe Type: Global Flavors

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  2. 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  3. 1 cup chicken broth
  4. 1 onion, diced
  5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  7. 2 tablespoons curry powder
  8. 1 teaspoon turmeric
  9. 1 teaspoon cumin
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. 2 cups spinach (optional)
  12. Fresh cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a slow cooker, combine the chicken thighs, coconut milk, chicken broth, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 02

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Step 03

If using, add the spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt.

Step 04

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 30g