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Kuku Paka

Kuku Paka: Enjoy a Creamy Coconut Chicken Delight

Kuku Paka is a delightful African-Indian coconut chicken curry that offers warmth and comfort with a luscious coconut sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: African, Indian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 500 grams Chicken Thigh Fillets Provides the juiciest and most flavorful base.
  • 500 grams Chicken Drumsticks Adds depth and texture; keep skin-on for flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil Feel free to swap with vegetable or canola oil.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely diced for even cooking.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Mince for better incorporation into the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Use fresh for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder Key spice for this dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Powder Brings earthiness to the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder Essential for color and bitterness.
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder or Cayenne Pepper Adjust spice level to your tolerance.
  • 1 can (400ml) Coconut Milk Full-fat enhances richness.
  • 400 grams Crushed Canned Tomato Choose finely crushed for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens flavors before serving.
  • 1/4 cup Coriander/Cilantro Leaves For fresh garnish; can substitute with parsley.
For Serving
  • 2 cups Basmati Rice or Flatbreads/Roti Perfect accompaniments to soak up the sauce.

Equipment

  • heavy pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Kuku Paka
  1. Pat the chicken thigh fillets and drumsticks dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat coconut oil in a heavy pot over medium-high heat, place chicken skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook for another minute, then add drumsticks and brown them.
  3. Reduce heat and add another tablespoon of coconut oil if needed. Sauté finely diced onion until softened, then add minced garlic and grated ginger.
  4. Stir in coriander, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in coconut milk and crushed canned tomatoes, stir well, and return the browned chicken to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, then remove the lid and simmer for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Stir in lemon juice and half of the chopped coriander leaves before serving over rice or flatbreads.
  8. Garnish with remaining coriander for a final touch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For maximum flavor, use bone-in pieces. Fresh garlic and ginger are recommended for better taste. Adjust chili powder as needed for spice level.

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