Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal: Crockpot Coconut Curry Chicken

A Stress-Free Dinner Solution for Busy Moms

As a busy mom, I know the struggle of juggling work, kids, errands, and everything in between.

By the time evening rolls around, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen, cooking a complicated meal.

Some nights, it feels like there’s barely enough time to breathe, let alone prepare a home-cooked dinner.

That’s exactly why I love slow cooker meals—they make life so much easier.

With this Crockpot Coconut Curry Chicken, you can toss everything into the slow cooker, go about your day, and come back to a warm, flavorful, and satisfying dinner.

This dish is creamy, rich, and packed with bold flavors from coconut milk, curry paste, and aromatic spices.

The best part?

It requires minimal prep—just a few simple ingredients, and the crockpot does all the work!

Whether you’re helping with homework, finishing up your work-from-home tasks, or simply need a break from the chaos, this easy weeknight meal has your back.

It’s family-friendly, customizable, and absolutely delicious.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

Hands-Free Cooking – Set it and forget it.
Rich & Flavorful – A perfect blend of coconut milk, curry, and spices.
Kid-Friendly – A mild, creamy curry the whole family will enjoy.
Pairs Well with Rice – Serve it over jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles.
Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or protein swaps.

Nutrition

Cuisine & Serving Size

Cuisine: Thai-inspired
Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1 cup of curry with rice)
Total Servings: 4-6

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate Values)

These are estimated values based on the ingredients used. Actual nutrition may vary depending on brands and portion sizes.

Calories: ~350-400 kcal
Protein: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~20g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~5g
Fat: ~22g
- Saturated Fat: ~14g (from coconut milk)
Cholesterol: ~90mg
Sodium: ~600mg (varies based on soy sauce and added salt)
Iron: ~3mg

Dietary Notes

✅ Gluten-Free Option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
✅ Dairy-Free: Naturally dairy-free!
✅ Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice.
✅ High-Protein: Great for a balanced meal with lean protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this quick and easy slow-cooker coconut curry chicken, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

✔️ 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
✔️ 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
✔️ 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
✔️ 1 red bell pepper, sliced
✔️ 2 medium carrots, sliced
✔️ 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Curry Sauce:

✔️ 2 tablespoons red curry paste
✔️ 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
✔️ 1 tablespoon brown sugar (balances the spice)
✔️ 1 tablespoon lime juice (for brightness)
✔️ 1 teaspoon ground ginger
✔️ Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving & Garnish:

✔️ Fresh cilantro, chopped
✔️ Cooked jasmine rice (or rice noodles)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of your crockpot. You can leave them whole, as they will naturally shred as they cook.

2️⃣ Make the Curry Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

Coconut milk
Red curry paste
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Lime juice
Ginger, salt, and pepper

3️⃣ Combine & Cook

Pour the curry sauce over the chicken, then add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution.

4️⃣ Set & Forget

Low Heat: Cook for 6-7 hours
High Heat: Cook for 3-4 hours

Once done, the chicken will be tender and infused with the delicious coconut curry flavors.

5️⃣ Final Touches & Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Shred the chicken using two forks for a shredded texture, or leave it in larger pieces.
Serve over warm jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips for Crockpot Coconut Curry Chicken

How to Store Leftovers

This Crockpot Coconut Curry Chicken is great for meal prep and storing leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Thawing: If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat Coconut Curry Chicken

Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.
Slow Cooker: Reheat on low for 1-2 hours if reheating a large batch.

Meal Prep Tips

Pre-Chop Ingredients: Slice onions, carrots, and bell peppers ahead of time and store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken with the sauce ingredients and let it marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
Make a Freezer Pack:
- Add all ingredients (except coconut milk) to a freezer bag and store it for later.
- When ready to cook, thaw overnight, dump into the crockpot, add coconut milk, and cook as directed.
Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for an easy dinner later.

The Recipe: Crockpot Coconut Curry Chicken

Credit: EvolvingTable

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Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Coconut Curry Chicken

Prefer a thicker sauce? Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water 30 minutes before the cooking time ends.
Want more spice? Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or an extra spoon of curry paste.
Need a dairy-free & gluten-free option? Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Want a veggie boost? Stir in spinach, peas, or zucchini in the last 30 minutes.

What to Serve with Coconut Curry Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with:

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
Roasted or steamed vegetables (broccoli, green beans, or bok choy)
Warm naan or flatbread (to scoop up that delicious sauce)

Serving Variations & Creative Ways to Enjoy This Dish

This Crockpot Coconut Curry Chicken is incredibly versatile! Here are some creative ways to switch it up and keep things exciting:

1️⃣ Turn It Into a Soup 🥣

Transform this curry into a hearty, comforting soup by:
✔️ Adding an extra cup of chicken broth or vegetable broth to thin the sauce.
✔️ Stirring in cooked rice or noodles at the end for added texture.
✔️ Adding extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

💡 Perfect for chilly nights when you need a cozy meal!

2️⃣ Serve It Over Different Bases 🍛

Instead of jasmine rice, try:
✔️ Basmati rice – Light, fragrant, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
✔️ Brown rice – A heartier, fiber-rich option.
✔️ Rice noodles – Adds a fun texture and absorbs the curry flavors beautifully.
✔️ Cauliflower rice – A great low-carb alternative.
✔️ Quinoa – High in protein and adds a nutty flavor.

3️⃣ Make It a Wrap or Taco 🌮

✔️ Shred the chicken and serve it in warm naan, tortillas, or lettuce wraps.
✔️ Top with cucumber slices, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
✔️ Drizzle with a little yogurt or spicy mayo for extra creaminess.

💡 Great for a fun, hands-on family dinner!

4️⃣ Create a Buddha Bowl 🥗

✔️ Serve the curry over a bowl of greens, grains, and roasted veggies.
✔️ Add avocado slices, pickled onions, or nuts for extra texture.
✔️ Drizzle with a tahini or yogurt-based dressing.

💡 A colorful, nutrient-packed meal that’s Instagram-worthy!

5️⃣ Make a Kid-Friendly Mild Curry 👶

If your kids are picky eaters, try:
✔️ Reducing the curry paste to 1 tablespoon for a milder taste.
✔️ Adding a spoonful of peanut butter to the sauce for extra creaminess.
✔️ Mixing in a little honey or coconut sugar for a slightly sweeter flavor.
✔️ Serving it with buttery naan or simple white rice to balance the spice.

💡 Perfect for little ones who aren’t used to bold spices yet!

6️⃣ Add More Protein or Make It Vegetarian 🌱

Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Add hard-boiled eggs for a traditional Thai curry twist.
Stir in cubed sweet potatoes or lentils for extra heartiness.

💡 A great way to make this dish work for different dietary needs!

FAQs About This Recipe

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts work just as well, but they can be slightly drier. If using chicken breasts, cook on low for 5-6 hours instead of 6-7 hours.

How Spicy Is This Dish?

This curry is mild because of the coconut milk, making it kid-friendly. If you like more heat, add an extra tablespoon of curry paste or a dash of chili flakes.

Can I Make This on the Stovetop Instead of a Crockpot?

Absolutely!

Sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots in a pan with oil.
Add the chicken, curry paste, and coconut milk and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Can I Store & Reheat This Dish?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Can I Freeze It?

Yes! Coconut curry chicken freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When life gets crazy busy, you deserve a delicious, effortless meal that keeps your family happy and satisfied. This Crockpot Coconut Curry Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that requires minimal prep and delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home.

So the next time you’re overwhelmed with work, kids, or errands, let your slow cooker do the cooking while you focus on what matters most.

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