Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a delicious blend of spices and creamy coconut milk that will warm your soul.

Harriet Collins

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:22:10.456Z

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry is a perfect blend of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and rich coconut milk. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and aromatic flavors that tantalize your taste buds
  • Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
  • Perfectly tender chicken that falls apart with a fork
  • A creamy sauce that's perfect for dipping or serving over rice

The Magic of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a culinary technique that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. By allowing flavors to meld over hours, your dish reaches an unparalleled depth of taste. With the Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry, you’ll discover how time can turn tender chicken and aromatic spices into a comforting, soul-warming delight. This method is not only convenient but also ensures that every bite is infused with the rich essence of the spices and coconut milk.

One of the greatest benefits of using a slow cooker is the ability to set it and forget it. As you go about your day, the cooker works its magic, melding flavors without requiring your constant attention. This makes it an ideal solution for busy families or professionals who want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the minimal cleanup means you can focus on what really matters—enjoying time with family and friends.

Coconut Milk: The Creamy Secret

Coconut milk is a key ingredient in this recipe, providing a creamy texture that elevates the dish to new heights. Its natural sweetness balances the spices, creating a harmonious flavor profile that appeals to everyone. Not only does it enhance the dish’s richness, but it also adds a subtle tropical flair that transports your taste buds to far-off lands.

Additionally, coconut milk is a great alternative for those looking for dairy-free options. It offers a luscious creaminess without the lactose, making it accessible for individuals with dietary restrictions. This means everyone at the table can enjoy the sumptuous flavors of this chicken curry, making it a perfect dish for gatherings and family dinners.

Customizing Your Curry

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry is its versatility. While the recipe calls for chicken thighs, feel free to substitute with chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and add more texture to the dish.

Spice enthusiasts can adjust the heat level by adding chili powder or fresh chilies. For a unique twist, consider incorporating different spices like garam masala or coriander to tailor the flavor to your liking. The beauty of cooking is that you can experiment and make the recipe your own, ensuring it’s a delightful experience every time you prepare it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious meal!

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting your slow cooker!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious curry!

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Add Aromatics

Layer the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger on top of the chicken.

Mix the Spices

In a bowl, combine curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken and onions.

Add Liquids

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is covered.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Add Peas

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas.

Serve

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

Enjoy your hearty and creamy chicken curry!

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. The creamy sauce is perfect for soaking up with rice, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. For a fresh twist, consider serving it alongside a simple cucumber salad or a side of roasted vegetables. These accompaniments not only enhance the meal but also add a refreshing contrast to the rich curry.

For those looking to elevate their presentation, garnish the finished dish with freshly chopped cilantro and slices of lime. The vibrant colors and zesty notes will not only please the eye but also add a burst of flavor that complements the curry perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in for a treat! This chicken curry stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. To reheat, simply place it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if necessary to loosen the sauce.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the curry. It can be stored in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it easy to have a homemade meal ready to go on busy days without any fuss.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein and essential nutrients, contributing to muscle growth and repair. The addition of spices such as turmeric and cumin not only adds flavor but also brings anti-inflammatory properties to the dish, promoting overall health.

Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats and can support heart health while providing energy. Plus, the inclusion of peas adds a pop of color and boosts the dish's fiber content, aiding digestion. This recipe is a perfect example of how you can enjoy a comforting meal while still nourishing your body.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this curry?

Serve with rice, naan, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Curry. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is a delicious blend of spices and creamy coconut milk that will warm your soul.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration6 hours
Overall Time6 hours 15 minutes

Created by: Harriet Collins

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  2. 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  3. 1 onion, diced
  4. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  6. 2 tbsp curry powder
  7. 1 tsp turmeric
  8. 1 tsp cumin
  9. 1 tsp salt
  10. 1/2 tsp black pepper
  11. 1 cup chicken broth
  12. 1 cup frozen peas
  13. Fresh cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 02

Layer the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger on top of the chicken.

Step 03

In a bowl, combine curry powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken and onions.

Step 04

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is covered.

Step 05

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

Step 06

In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas.

Step 07

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

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 30g