RecipesMyanmarBurmese Coconut Chicken Curry (Khaung Myit Chin)

Burmese Coconut Chicken Curry (Khaung Myit Chin)

A rich and aromatic Burmese chicken curry simmered in coconut milk with a blend of fragrant spices, ginger, garlic, and turmeric, offering a comforting and flavorful taste of Myanmar.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Burmese Coconut Chicken Curry (Khaung Myit Chin) - Myanmar traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 400 ml Coconut milk(full-fat)
  • 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
  • 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
  • 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
  • 1.5 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp Coriander powder
  • 0.5 tsp Cumin powder
  • 0.5 tsp Garam masala
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
  • 0.5 tsp Sugar(optional, to balance flavors)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
  • 1 optional Red chilies(dried, for garnish)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.

  3. 3

    Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring, until fragrant.

  4. 4

    Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes.

  5. 5

    Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally.

  6. 6

    Stir in the garam masala, salt, and sugar (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  7. 7

    Simmer uncovered for another 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

  8. 8

    Garnish with fresh cilantro and dried red chilies (if using) before serving.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a spicier curry, add a chopped green chili or a pinch of chili powder along with the other spices.
  • Ensure you use full-fat coconut milk for a richer and creamier curry.
  • This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

🔄 Variations

  • Add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers along with the chicken.
  • Use shrimp or firm tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.

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