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Butternut Chicken Coconut Curry

Butternut Chicken Coconut Curry: A Cozy, Healthy Delight

Enjoy a comforting and healthy Butternut Chicken Coconut Curry that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Curry Base
  • 1 medium Red Onion Adds sharpness and depth; shallots can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Provides acidity; always opt for fresh lime.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Used for sautéing; replace with olive oil for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 medium Yellow/Orange Bell Pepper Introduces sweetness; any bell pepper will work.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh cloves deliver the best taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Adds warmth; ground ginger can be a quick alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Yellow Curry Powder No substitutes; different brands can vary the taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup Adds sweetness; honey or agave syrup can work.
  • 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Butternut Squash Star ingredient; sweet potatoes can be swapped.
  • 2 medium Carrots Contributes color and sweetness; replace with zucchini or parsnips.
  • 1 medium Apple Choose a tart variety like Granny Smith.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Adds herbal notes; omit if you don’t have it.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Garlic Paste Adjust to taste for spice lovers.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Sea salt can be an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Can be omitted if preferred.
For the Chicken and Creaminess
  • 1 can Light Coconut Milk Full-fat gives a luxurious feel.
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Tofu can substitute for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 large Egg White Aids in tenderizing the chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon Corn Starch Replace with arrowroot starch for gluten-free needs.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Apple cider vinegar works in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon Oil Any neutral oil will do.
For Garnishing
  • 1 cup Pickled Red Onions (Optional) Other pickled veggies can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Peanuts (Salted/Honey-Roasted) Cashews can be an alternative or skip for nut-free diets.
  • 1 medium Ripe Mango Diced avocado can add creaminess.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Herb Leaves (Mint/Basil/Cilantro) Choose based on preference.
  • 2 wedge Lime Wedges Enhances freshness when served.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • immersion blender
  • medium bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pickle the Onions (Optional): In a medium bowl, combine sliced red onion, fresh lime juice, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Toss well and allow to sit for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced red onion and chopped yellow bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, yellow curry powder, and maple syrup. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Build Broth Base: Pour in chicken broth and add butternut squash, carrots, apple, bay leaf, chili garlic paste, kosher salt, and cinnamon. Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  5. Blend the Sauce: Remove the bay leaf and stir in coconut milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  6. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk egg white, cornstarch, rice vinegar, and oil. Add chicken pieces and let sit for 15 minutes.
  7. Add Chicken: Return to blended sauce, bring to simmer, add chicken pieces, and let cook for 1 minute.
  8. Let Rest: Remove from heat and cover, allowing to rest for 10 minutes. Adjust consistency with more broth or coconut milk if necessary.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Ladle into bowls, top with pickled onions, peanuts, mango, herb leaves. Serve with lime wedges and rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and marinate the chicken to ensure tenderness. Adjust spices to your preference and enjoy with rice for a complete meal.

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