Are you craving a delicious, creamy curry but following a ketogenic diet and avoiding dairy? This recipe is your answer! This dairy-free coconut curry chicken is packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and perfectly fits your low-carb, high-fat lifestyle. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious addition to your repertoire of healthy meals. Get ready for a taste explosion that's both satisfying and guilt-free!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos (or soy sauce for non-soy free)
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps develop a richer flavor.
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Simmer the Curry: Stir in the red bell pepper, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, coconut aminos, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This delicious dish pairs well with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete keto-friendly meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Adjust spices to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your preference. If you like a milder curry, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a spicier curry, add more.
- Simmer slowly: Allowing the curry to simmer gently helps the flavors meld together and develop a rich, creamy texture.
Delicious Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as broccoli florets, spinach, or cauliflower to make this a more substantial meal. Add them during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.
- Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu (for a vegetarian option), or chickpeas for a different twist. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Creamier Curry: For an even creamier curry, stir in a tablespoon or two of coconut cream at the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 25-30g
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g (net carbs)
This delicious and easy-to-follow recipe proves that healthy eating doesn't have to be boring! This no-dairy keto recipe is a testament to how flavorful and satisfying homemade cooking can be, especially when adhering to specific dietary needs. Enjoy this best recipe and its versatility!