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Slow Cooker Chicken Curry Recipe

5 from 84 reviews

This Slow Cooker Chicken Curry is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for busy days. Tender chicken thighs simmer with aromatic spices, coconut milk, and vegetables to create a rich, creamy curry. Serve over rice with naan bread for a delicious, easy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped

Liquids

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Garnish & Serving

  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
  • Cooked rice, for serving
  • Naan bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces, chop the onion, mince garlic, grate ginger, and chop the red bell pepper.
  2. Combine in Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, place the chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, and bell pepper.
  3. Add Liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the coconut milk.
  4. Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in tomato paste, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper if using.
  5. Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste, then stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  7. Check Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  8. Shred Chicken (Optional): If preferred, shred the chicken with two forks to achieve a pulled texture.
  9. Serve: Serve the curry over cooked rice.
  10. Garnish and Extras: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve with naan bread, yogurt, or a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Notes

  • You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
  • Using chicken thighs keeps the curry tender and juicy during the long cooking time.
  • For a thicker curry, you can remove the lid and cook on high for 15-30 minutes at the end to reduce the sauce.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.
  • Serve with basmati or jasmine rice for an authentic taste.

Keywords: slow cooker chicken curry, easy chicken curry, crockpot curry recipe, Indian chicken curry, creamy chicken curry, weeknight dinner