We’ve always been fans of Chrissy Teigen’s bold flavors and her curry chicken recipe is no exception. It’s a vibrant twist on traditional comfort food that draws from her multicultural roots making it irresistibly tasty and approachable for home cooks.
This dish packs just the right punch of spices without overwhelming your kitchen so you’ll feel like a pro in no time. We’re excited to guide you through creating this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
In our take on Chrissy Teigen’s Curry Chicken recipe, we prioritize fresh, vibrant ingredients that blend bold spices with creamy textures for an irresistible dish. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’re used during preparation, including specific measurements and any prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (we recommend using thighs for their juicy tenderness, which holds up well in the curry).
- Aromatics: 1 large onion, finely chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; and 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (these form the flavorful base—prep them ahead for quick sautéing).
- Spices: 2 tablespoons curry powder (a mix of turmeric, cumin, and coriander for that signature depth); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; and 1 teaspoon paprika (adjust these for heat level to suit your palate).
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 2 medium carrots, diced; and 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (added later for crunch and nutrition, ensuring they retain their vibrant color and texture).
- Liquids and Creaminess: 1 can (14 ounces) full-fat coconut milk (this provides the creamy backbone); 1 cup chicken broth; and 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (stirred in at the end for a bright, tangy finish).
- Finishing Touches: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing the chicken); 1 tablespoon fish sauce (for umami depth); and fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (use about ¼ cup to add a burst of herbaceous freshness right before serving).
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing Chrissy Teigen’s Curry Chicken Recipe, we gather the essential tools to ensure smooth cooking and vibrant results. Transitioning from our ingredient list, these items help us handle the chopping, simmering, and stirring with ease.
We recommend the following key equipment for optimal preparation:
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A 12-inch non-stick skillet or heavy-bottomed Dutch oven is crucial for searing the chicken thighs and building flavors in the curry base. We use this to achieve even heat distribution and prevent sticking.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A sturdy bamboo cutting board paired with a sharp 8-inch chef’s knife allows us to efficiently chop onions, garlic, ginger, and vegetables like red bell pepper.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons Set: Accurate measurements are key for spices and liquids, so we rely on a standard set including 1-cup, ½-cup measures and a spoon set for precise additions of curry powder, paprika, and coconut milk.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the mixture without scratching surfaces, we opt for a heat-resistant wooden spoon to blend spices and incorporate ingredients like spinach and lime juice.
- Blender or Food Processor (Optional): If we want a smoother sauce, a high-speed blender comes in handy for pureeing aromatics or creating a quick paste from ginger and garlic.
This setup keeps our kitchen efficient and helps deliver the bold, creamy textures that make Chrissy Teigen’s Curry Chicken Recipe a standout dish.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment lined up, we guide you through preparing Chrissy Teigen’s Curry Chicken Recipe with simple steps to capture its bold spicy flavors and creamy textures.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s prep our ingredients for efficiency and flavor. Begin by cutting 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Next, dice 1 medium onion, mince 4 garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger for aromatic depth.
In a separate bowl, measure and mix the spices: 2 tablespoons of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to create a vibrant seasoning blend.
Then, slice 1 red bell pepper into strips and roughly chop 2 cups of fresh spinach for added crunch and color. Gather the liquids: 1 can (13.5 ounces) of full-fat coconut milk, 1 cup of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, and juice from 1 lime to balance the tanginess. Finally, set aside fresh cilantro for garnish ensuring everything is ready for seamless transition to cooking.
Cook the Curry
With ingredients prepped, we heat our large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to build rich flavors. Sear the chicken pieces in the hot oil for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and juices run clear, allowing the spices to lock in that irresistible savory aroma that fills the kitchen.
Once seared, remove the chicken and set aside then lower the heat to medium. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and ginger to the same pan, stirring with a wooden spoon for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in the spice mix and cook for 1 minute to release their warm earthy notes.
Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, and fish sauce then stir to combine creating a creamy base. Return the chicken to the pan along with the sliced red bell pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook covered for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency that coats each piece perfectly.
In the last 2 minutes, stir in the chopped spinach and lime juice to wilt the greens and add a bright zesty finish, enhancing the dish’s multicultural blend of creamy spice and fresh tang.
Assemble and Serve
To finish, we transfer the cooked curry to a serving dish and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and herbal freshness that elevates the overall presentation. Stir gently to distribute the garnishes ensuring each serving showcases the vibrant red peppers and tender chicken in the golden sauce.
Serve immediately over steamed rice or with warm naan to soak up the flavorful juices, letting the bold spices and creamy elements shine through in every bite for a crowd-pleasing meal that highlights Chrissy Teigen’s signature twist.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify our Chrissy Teigen Curry Chicken recipe and fit it into busy schedules, we recommend preparing components in advance without compromising the dish’s bold flavors and creamy textures. This approach allows us to maintain freshness while saving time on the day of serving.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We can start by prepping key ingredients up to 24 hours in advance to enhance efficiency:
- Cut and marinate the chicken: Dice 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and coat them in a mixture of 2 tablespoons curry powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, and 2 tablespoons lime juice. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Chop aromatics and vegetables: Finely chop 1 onion, 4 garlic cloves, and a 2-inch piece of ginger. Slice 1 red bell pepper and wash 2 cups of spinach. Place these in separate sealed bags or containers in the fridge to preserve their vibrant crunch and aroma.
- Mix spices: Combine dry spices like 1 teaspoon ground cumin and 1 teaspoon turmeric in a small bowl or jar for quick access.
Cooking and Storing the Dish
For longer make-ahead options, we can partially cook the recipe up to 2 days ahead:
- Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil over medium-high heat and sear the marinated chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until browned. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Prepare the sauce base: Sauté the chopped aromatics in the same skillet for 3-4 minutes until fragrant. Add the seared chicken along with 1 can (13.5 ounces) full-fat coconut milk and 1 cup chicken broth. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop the creamy sauce, then cool and store in the refrigerator.
- Assemble fully cooked portions: If making the entire dish, cook through all steps including adding vegetables and spinach. Once cooled, portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months or refrigerate for up to 2 days.
| Make-Ahead Step | Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepped ingredients | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 24 hours | Use directly in recipe |
| Partially cooked chicken | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 2 days | Reheat in skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes |
| Fully cooked dish | Airtight container in fridge or freezer | Fridge: 2 days; Freezer: 3 months | Thaw overnight in fridge if frozen, then reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess |
When reheating, we advise warming the dish over low heat in a skillet to preserve the spices’ vibrant kick and the sauce’s silky consistency. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety, and garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving to keep the flavors bold and inviting.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing Chrissy Teigen’s curry chicken recipe with you, as it’s a fantastic way to bring bold flavors into your kitchen. It’s not just a meal—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients turning into something truly special.
Try tweaking it to suit your tastes, and you’ll find it’s perfect for any occasion. We’re confident this dish will become a staple in your home, offering that perfect balance of comfort and excitement every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients in Chrissy Teigen’s curry chicken recipe?
The main ingredients include 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs, aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger, spices such as curry powder and paprika, vegetables like red bell pepper and spinach, full-fat coconut milk for creaminess, chicken broth, lime juice for tang, vegetable oil, fish sauce, and fresh cilantro for garnish. These create a flavorful, balanced dish.
What equipment is needed to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven for cooking, a cutting board and chef’s knife for prep, measuring cups for accurate portions, and a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring. These tools ensure even searing and easy mixing without hassle.
How do I make Chrissy Teigen’s curry chicken step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: cut chicken into pieces and mix spices. Sear the chicken in a skillet, then sauté aromatics. Add spices, vegetables, coconut milk, and broth to create a creamy sauce. Simmer until done, finish with lime juice, and garnish with cilantro. Serve over rice or with naan for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients like marinating chicken and chopping veggies up to 24 hours in advance. For longer, sear chicken and make the sauce base up to 2 days ahead. Store in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove to preserve flavors and texture, adding fresh cilantro before serving.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving to prevent the sauce from separating.
Is Chrissy Teigen’s curry chicken recipe spicy?
It’s moderately spicy due to spices like curry powder and paprika, but adjustable to your taste. Start with the recommended amounts and add more if desired, or reduce for a milder version. The creamy coconut milk balances the heat, making it accessible for most palates.
What can I serve this dish with?
Pair it with rice, naan, or quinoa to soak up the sauce. For a fresh twist, add a side of salad or steamed veggies. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, highlighting the bold flavors and creamy texture of the curry.