Delicious Kerala Chicken Curry at Home Recipe
| | | |

Authentic Kerala Chicken Curry Recipe | A Spicy Coconut Delight from South India

ByFood & Recipes Channel

Welcome to the World of Kerala Chicken Curry

If you’ve ever dreamt of experiencing the bold, tropical flavors of South India, Kerala-style Chicken Curry is your golden ticket! This dish is not just food—it’s a cultural experience served on a plate. Rich with spices, creamy from coconut milk, and perfectly balanced with a hint of heat and tang, it’s comfort food that warms both the body and soul.

I grew up savoring this curry on Sundays, when the whole house smelled like cardamom, curry leaves, and roasting spices. And trust me, once you try this recipe, there’s no turning back.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4)

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 500g (approx. 1.1 lbs) chicken (preferably bone-in thighs or drumsticks)

  • ½ tsp turmeric powder

  • 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

  • Salt to taste

For the Curry Base:

  • 2 tbsp coconut oil (or use vegetable oil)

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped

  • 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to heat preference)

  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely chopped

  • 1 tbsp garlic, finely chopped

  • 1 medium tomato, chopped

  • ½ cup coconut milk (fresh or canned)

  • ½ cup water (add more if needed)

  • 1 sprig curry leaves (optional but authentic)

  • 1 tsp garam masala

  • 1 tbsp coriander powder

  • Salt to taste

  • Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Kerala Chicken Curry with:

  • Steamed basmati rice or traditional appams (soft rice pancakes)

  • Crunchy papad or tangy Indian pickles

  • Refreshing cucumber raita

  • A glass of chilled buttermilk or coconut water

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 350–400

  • Protein: 30g

  • Carbohydrates: 10g

  • Fats: 20g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Rich in: Iron, Vitamin C, and healthy fats

Fun Fact: Turmeric, a key spice in this curry, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Great taste + health? Yes, please!

How to Make Kerala Chicken Curry – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Marination is where the magic begins.

  1. In a bowl, combine the chicken, turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and ginger-garlic paste.

  2. Mix everything well so the chicken is nicely coated.

  3. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This short time helps the flavors seep into the meat.

💡 Pro Tip: Marinate it overnight in the fridge if you want deeper flavor!

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

  1. Heat coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.

  2. Add chopped onions. Sauté till golden brown—this adds natural sweetness to balance the spice.

  3. Stir in green chilies, ginger, and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.

  4. Toss in the chopped tomato and cook until mushy and blended. This creates the saucy base.

  5. Add the marinated chicken and stir well. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the chicken starts to brown.

  6. Sprinkle coriander powder, mix well, and season with salt if needed.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

  1. Pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir well to combine everything.

  2. Add curry leaves if using. They release a heavenly aroma when simmered.

  3. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is tender.

  4. Finally, sprinkle garam masala, give it a gentle stir, and simmer for 2–3 more minutes.

Your kitchen should now smell like a tropical spice bazaar! 🌴

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

  • Serve hot with your choice of rice, appam, or even warm chapatis.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Kerala Chicken Curry

Use Bone-In Chicken

It keeps the meat juicy and adds richness to the gravy.

Fresh Coconut Milk = More Flavor

If you can, use freshly extracted coconut milk. If not, go for good-quality canned milk and shake it well before use.

Make It Vegetarian

Replace chicken with boiled potatoes, chickpeas, or even tofu for a plant-based twist.

Spice Levels

This dish is meant to have a kick. But feel free to adjust the chilies and chili powder to your comfort level.

Meal Prep Friendly

The curry tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge and gently reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • Quick enough for weeknight dinners

  • Rich and deeply flavorful

  • Dairy-free and gluten-free

  • Perfect introduction to Kerala cuisine

  • Loved by both spice lovers and mild food fans

What Makes Kerala Chicken Curry Unique?

  • The use of coconut oil and coconut milk gives it a signature creamy texture and tropical flair.

  • Curry leaves, native to South India, add a distinctive peppery fragrance.

  • Unlike North Indian curries that often use heavy cream or yogurt, this curry is lighter and more aromatic.

Final Thoughts

Kerala Chicken Curry isn’t just a recipe—it’s a culinary journey. Whether you’re cooking this for your family or trying Indian cuisine for the first time, this dish is guaranteed to win hearts. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of love, you can recreate the authentic taste of Kerala right in your kitchen.

So go ahead—put on your apron, gather those spices, and let the aroma of Kerala fill your home!

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out:

Save & Share

💾 Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe for later.
📢 Share it with your foodie friends who love Indian cuisine.
📩 Got questions or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments or contact us!

Similar Posts