Mild Curry Chicken Pasta

This creamy coconut curry chicken pasta brings together gentle Indian curry flavors and classic comfort food pasta for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special but comes together in just thirty minutes. The velvety coconut sauce pairs perfectly with sweet peas and tender chicken, creating a dish the whole family will enjoy even if they are new to curry.

The first time I made this, I used up random leftover chicken from Sunday’s roast and could not believe how quickly it vanished. Now it is my favorite trick for turning weekday odds and ends into something genuinely craveable.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: the tube shape holds creamy sauces well and cooks up attractively avoid brittle or too soft brands for best results
• Cooked chicken diced: tender chicken leftovers or rotisserie work wonderfully or poach skinless breasts for milder flavor
• Coconut milk: full fat for richness make sure to give the can a good shake and buy one with minimal additives for pure coconut flavor
• Mild curry paste: choose your favorite brand with a gentle warmth check the ingredient list for freshness and color a brick red paste is a sign of vibrant spices
• Frozen peas: sweet and bright do not thaw just toss straight into the pan for convenience look for petite peas for best texture

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Fill a large pot with plenty of water and a generous pinch of salt bring it to a rolling boil then add penne and stir once or twice to prevent sticking let cook uncovered until just barely al dente tasting for the ideal bite strain pasta and set aside reserving a splash of the simmering water for later

Simmer the Sauce:

Set a deep saucepan over medium heat pour in the coconut milk and spoon in mild curry paste stir gently until the paste dissolves completely and the sauce is smooth watch for a light simmer and do not let it rapidly boil as this can split the coconut

Add Chicken and Peas:

Tip the diced chicken into the warm coconut curry sauce and add frozen peas stir well and let everything simmer very gently for about four minutes until chicken is warmed through and peas are vibrantly green

Combine and Finish:

Add drained pasta straight into the pan with sauce toss firmly yet gently to coat every piece if sauce seems too thick loosen with reserved pasta water simmer for a minute or two more so the flavors meld taste for seasoning before serving

The coconut milk is my absolute favorite part with its natural sweetness and gentle creaminess it makes the dish feel creamy yet fresh all at once My little one once licked the spoon after dinner and now insists we always save a bit of the sauce for her

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep nicely in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days The sauce may thicken overnight just add a splash of water or coconut milk before reheating gently on the stovetop for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap penne for rotini shells or even spaghetti for a fun twist Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for something different If curry paste is not on hand try a blend of ground curry powder with a dash of cumin and garlic for homemade flavor

Serving Suggestions

Brighten up each plate with a sprinkle of chopped fresh coriander or a little lime zest For extra crunch and color toss in a handful of toasted cashews or slivered almonds Serve with warm naan or a crisp cucumber salad to round out the meal

Cultural and Historical Notes

This dish is a playful nod to classic British and Indian fusion cuisine which has long celebrated the gentle flavor of curries alongside familiar comfort food elements like creamy sauces and pasta The coconut milk echoes South Indian cooking while the mild curry paste keeps it all accessible

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in chopped spinach or snap peas for a springtime touch Toss in roasted cubes of butternut squash during autumn Make it a summertime picnic dish served cold as a pasta salad

Success Stories

Friends have texted me photos of their finished bowls with the message new favorite dinner on weeknights When I first brought this to a potluck several people quietly asked for the recipe and now it is in their regular rotation too

Freezer Meal Conversion

Let everything cool completely then portion into freezer safe containers Freeze for up to two months Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the sauce

Try this creamy curry chicken pasta tonight for a meal that is both exciting and comforting. It may just become your new family favorite.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How can I make the sauce even creamier?

Use full-fat coconut milk and simmer the sauce gently to thicken before combining with pasta.

→ What pasta shape pairs well with this dish?

Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well, allowing the sauce to cling to the pasta for each bite.

→ Can I add extra vegetables?

Yes, try adding bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli during simmering for added nutrition and color.

→ What garnishes enhance flavor?

Fresh coriander, lime zest, or a squeeze of lime juice add brightness and aroma to the final dish.

→ How do I keep the dish dairy-free?

Ensure the curry paste is dairy-free and stick with coconut milk instead of dairy cream or cheese.

→ Can this dish be made ahead?

Yes, prepare all components and combine before serving. Reheat gently, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed.