Kuku Paka is a rich and flavorful African chicken curry with roots in East African and Indian cuisine. This dish combines creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender chicken, creating a deliciously comforting meal. Traditionally served with rice or chapati, Kuku Paka is perfect for those who love a mildly spiced and deeply satisfying curry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and aromatic: A blend of coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices creates a deliciously creamy curry.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients come together in just one pot.
- Customizable: Adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
- Perfect for meal prep: Reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
- Authentic flavors: A fusion of East African and Indian influences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken (bone-in or boneless)
- Coconut milk
- Tomatoes, diced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, grated
- Green chilies (optional, for heat)
- Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon juice
- Oil (vegetable or coconut)
Spices
- Turmeric
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Garam masala
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt. Coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot. Sauté onions until golden, then add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for another minute.
- Cook the Chicken: Add marinated chicken and sear until lightly browned.
- Add Spices & Tomatoes: Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, and garam masala. Cook for a minute, then add diced tomatoes.
- Simmer with Coconut Milk: Pour in coconut milk, reduce heat, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Finish & Serve: Adjust seasoning, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot with rice or chapati.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas.
- Spicier Kick: Add more green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Grilled Kuku Paka: Grill the marinated chicken before adding to the curry for a smoky flavor.
- Creamier Texture: Add extra coconut milk or a splash of heavy cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or coconut milk if needed.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken works well and reduces cooking time.
What is the best coconut milk for this recipe?
Full-fat coconut milk provides the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
What can I serve with Kuku Paka?
Rice, chapati, or naan complement this curry beautifully.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Kuku Paka is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this curry?
Yes! Bell peppers, potatoes, or spinach work well in this dish.
How do I thicken the curry?
Simmering longer or adding a small amount of coconut cream can help thicken the sauce.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes work fine, but fresh ones provide a brighter flavor.
Is this dish dairy-free?
Yes, it’s completely dairy-free due to the coconut milk base.
Can I substitute coconut milk?
You can use heavy cream or almond milk, but the traditional flavor comes from coconut milk.
Conclusion
Kuku Paka is a delightful African chicken curry that blends bold spices, creamy coconut milk, and tender chicken for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re new to African cuisine or a longtime fan, this dish is easy to make and full of incredible flavor. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Print- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: East African, Swahili
Description
Kuku Paka is a delicious East African coconut chicken curry with roots in Kenyan and Tanzanian Swahili cuisine. The dish features grilled or simmered chicken in a fragrant coconut milk sauce, infused with warm spices and a hint of lime. Serve it with rice, chapati, or naan for an irresistible meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs bone-in chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Curry Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust for spice)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 medium tomato, pureed or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 green chili, sliced (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
1. Marinate & Cook the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, turmeric, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub this marinade onto the chicken and let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
- Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown. (It will finish cooking in the curry.)
2. Make the Curry Sauce:
- Heat butter or oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onions until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in coriander, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add tomato puree and cook until slightly thickened (3-5 minutes).
3. Simmer the Chicken:
- Add coconut milk, chicken broth, and the grilled chicken to the pot.
- Let simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender.
- Stir in green chili, cilantro, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve warm with steamed rice, chapati, or naan.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
- Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or vegetables for a different version.
- Add potatoes or bell peppers for extra heartiness.
- For a smoky twist, grill the chicken before adding it to the sauce.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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