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savory white chicken curry

White Chicken Curry

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This elegant white chicken curry combines creamy coconut milk with aromatic whole spices for a sophisticated yet approachable dish. The delicate balance of cashews, fresh ginger strips, and bright lime zest creates a curry that's rich in flavor without overwhelming heat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 425

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil plus 2 teaspoons for the paste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 star anise
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 1 inch cinnamon stick
  • 2 onions halved and thinly sliced
  • 1 large onion for paste
  • 150 g green beans or Indian beans
  • 450-500 ml coconut milk
  • 20 g fresh ginger cut into very fine strips
  • 20 g fresh ginger chopped, for paste
  • 2-5 tablespoons fresh coriander optional, plus extra for garnish
  • 1 lime juice and zest, plus extra slices for garnish
  • 10 garlic cloves chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 2 green cardamom pods
  • 4-8 green chilies depending on heat preference
  • 30 g cashew nuts
  • 100 g natural yogurt

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Prepare the curry paste by heating 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the large sliced onion, chopped ginger, garlic cloves, cinnamon stick, cloves, fennel seeds, coriander seeds, cardamom pods, and green chilies to the skillet.
  3. Cook until fragrant and the onions have softened, then add the cashew nuts and continue cooking for another minute.
  4. Stir in the natural yogurt to create a smooth paste. Set aside.
  5. In a separate large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and add the bay leaf, star anise, remaining cloves, and cinnamon stick. Allow to infuse the oil for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the 2 thinly sliced onions and cook until translucent and starting to turn golden.
  7. Add the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink on the outside.
  8. Pour in the curry paste and stir well to coat the chicken.
  9. Add the green beans and pour in the coconut milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  10. Let the curry simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
  11. During the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fine ginger strips, lime zest, and lime juice.
  12. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  13. Just before serving, fold in the fresh coriander if using.
  14. Serve garnished with additional coriander leaves and lime slices.

Nutrition

Calories: 425kcal

Notes

For the best flavor, don't rush the cooking of the aromatics when making the curry paste - this builds the foundation of your dish. The cashews might seem unusual, but they add wonderful texture and a subtle nutty flavor that complements the coconut milk beautifully.
This curry can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days - the flavors actually improve overnight. For a milder version, reduce the number of green chilies. You can also substitute chicken thighs for a juicier result, or use firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Serve with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread for a complete meal.

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