Chicken Massaman Curry

Why You’ll Love Chicken Massaman Curry Recipe

• Rich and creamy with bold Thai-inspired flavors
• Perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy
• Loaded with tender chicken and hearty vegetables
• Easy to customize with your favorite spice level
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Comforting and filling while still feeling fresh

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 ounces Massaman curry paste
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cans (14 oz each) unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 onion
• 1 pound chicken
• 4 medium potatoes
• 2 carrots
• 1/2 cup peanuts
• Sriracha sauce, to taste
• Red pepper flakes, to taste
• Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Directions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the Massaman curry paste and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant.
3. Pour in one can of coconut milk and stir until smooth and fully blended with the curry paste.
4. Add the ginger, chopped cilantro, brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, peanut butter, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Thinly slice the onion and chicken. Add them to the sauce and reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
7. Pour in the second can of coconut milk and return the curry to a gentle boil.
8. Peel and dice the potatoes, then peel and slice the carrots.
9. Add the potatoes, carrots, peanuts, sriracha sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
10. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
11. Serve hot over cooked jasmine rice and garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 10

Variations

• Swap chicken for beef, shrimp, or tofu.
• Add bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or green beans for extra vegetables.
• Use crunchy peanut butter for additional texture.
• Make it milder by reducing the curry paste and omitting red pepper flakes.
• Add extra coconut milk for a creamier curry.
• Top with chopped green onions or crushed peanuts for extra flavor and crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, allow the curry to cool completely and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

What is Massaman curry?

Massaman curry is a Thai curry known for its rich, mildly spicy flavor with warm spices like cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom.

Is Massaman curry spicy?

Massaman curry is generally milder than many other Thai curries, but you can adjust the heat with sriracha or red pepper flakes.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay very tender in the curry.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are both excellent choices for this recipe.

Can I make this curry vegetarian?

Yes, substitute tofu for chicken and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce and Worcestershire sauce.

Do I have to use full-fat coconut milk?

Full-fat coconut milk provides the creamiest texture, but light coconut milk can also be used.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors become even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight.

What should I serve with Massaman curry?

Jasmine rice is the classic pairing, but naan or rice noodles also work well.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, peas, spinach, and green beans are all delicious additions.

How do I thicken the curry sauce?

Allow the curry to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or stir in a little extra peanut butter for a thicker texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Massaman Curry is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that combines creamy coconut milk, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables in one satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this curry delivers bold flavor and cozy comfort in every bite.