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African Chicken Curry – Kuku Paka

African Chicken Curry – Kuku Paka

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A rich, creamy African chicken curry simmered in coconut milk, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Kuku Paka is a comforting one-pot dish bursting with bold, layered flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds bone-in chicken (legs or thighs)
  • 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 large red onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut)

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Add tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the oil separates.
  4. Add chicken pieces and sear on all sides.
  5. Pour in coconut milk, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes until chicken is tender.
  6. Stir in lemon juice and top with chopped cilantro.
  7. Serve hot with rice or flatbread.

Notes

  • Sear chicken for extra flavor before simmering.
  • Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer sauce.
  • Let curry rest before serving to thicken naturally.