coconut chicken curry

How To Prepare/Cook Kenyan Kuku Paka (Coconut Chicken Curry)

by
Africa CuisineDinnerRecipesWorld Cuisines

Origin:
Kuku Paka is a flavorful coastal dish from Kenya, influenced by Indian and Swahili culinary traditions. Traditionally prepared on the Kenyan coast, this coconut chicken curry reflects the region’s love for aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk. It evolved as a fusion dish that marries local ingredients with spices introduced by traders from India, symbolizing cultural exchange along the Swahili coast.

Ingredients

  • Servings: 4
    Preparation Time: 1 hour

    • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in (or boneless, cut into chunks)
    • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tbsp grated ginger
    • 2 tomatoes, diced
    • 1 cup coconut milk
    • ½ cup chicken broth
    • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
    • 1 tsp ground turmeric
    • 1 tsp ground coriander
    • ½ tsp cumin
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Fresh cilantro for garnish
    • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Marinate & Sauté:
    • Season chicken with salt, pepper, turmeric, coriander, and cumin. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chicken pieces until lightly browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  2. Develop the Base:
    • In the same pot, add the sliced onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until soft and translucent (≈5 minutes). Stir in diced tomatoes and green chili; cook until tomatoes break down, about 3 minutes.
  3. Simmer:
    • Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is tender and flavors meld.
  4. Finish & Serve:
    • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges. Enjoy with steamed rice or flatbread.
  5.  

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~520 kcal
  • Protein: ~32g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Fats: ~22g
  • Fiber: ~4g

Benefits

  • High in lean protein and anti-inflammatory spices.
  • Coconut milk offers healthy fats and a creamy texture without dairy.
  • Provides a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals from fresh ingredients.

Tips

  • For extra depth, marinate the chicken in the spices for 1–2 hours before cooking.
  • Serve with a side of mango salsa to enhance the tropical flavors.
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