Gordon Ramsay’s Malaysian Chicken Curry is a vibrant and aromatic dish that transports your taste buds straight to Southeast Asia. This recipe is a beautiful blend of spices, tender chicken, and a luscious coconut milk sauce that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. With its rich flavors and inviting aromas, it’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, showcasing the best of Malaysian cuisine.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe not just for its incredible taste, but also for the journey it takes you on. I remember the first time I tried a Malaysian Chicken Curry; the explosion of flavors was nothing short of magical. And this recipe, adapted from the masterful Gordon Ramsay, captures that essence perfectly. The combination of spices, fresh herbs, and creamy coconut milk creates a dish that feels both exotic and heartwarming. It’s a great way to introduce your family to new cuisines while still feeling cozy and familiar.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate for Flavor: For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least an hour or even overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, enhancing the flavor.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the level of heat based on your preference by altering the amount of chili paste used.
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs like cilantro and lemongrass for the most vibrant flavor.
- Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk but be aware it may affect the richness of the dish.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can prepare the spice paste and marinate the chicken a day ahead. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also chop your vegetables in advance and store them in airtight containers. The curry itself can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the flavors will deepen as it sits.

Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version. Ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Different Proteins: You can also use shrimp or beef if you prefer a different protein.
- Cooking Methods: If you’re short on time, try making this curry in a pressure cooker for a quicker meal.
How to Serve
Serve your Malaysian Chicken Curry over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or alongside warm naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and thinly sliced red chilies for an added pop of color and flavor. Present it in a beautiful bowl, allowing the rich colors of the curry to shine through.

Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Malaysian Chicken Curry with a chilled glass of Riesling or a fruity white wine that complements the spice. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a refreshing iced tea or coconut water. As for side dishes, consider a simple cucumber salad to balance the heat, or finish off your meal with a light mango sorbet for dessert.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the curry in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to restore creaminess.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven for this recipe. A good chef’s knife is essential for chopping your ingredients, and a mortar and pestle or food processor is helpful for making the spice paste. If you don’t have a mortar and pestle, a blender works well too.

Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, replace the chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. For a nut-free version, ensure that your curry paste does not contain any nuts, and opt for coconut milk that is free from cross-contamination. Always check labels for allergens if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a brighter flavor. In the fall and winter, consider adding root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes to the curry for heartiness. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can also be swapped in seasonally for a refreshing twist.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish.
Can I substitute the coconut milk? While coconut milk is traditional, you can use heavy cream or a dairy alternative if you prefer.
How long does it take to cook? The total cooking time is about 45 minutes, including preparation and simmering time.
Gordon Ramsays Malaysian Chicken Curry

Gordon Ramsay’s Malaysian Chicken Curry is a vibrant and aromatic dish that transports your taste buds straight to Southeast Asia.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tbsp chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, curry powder, and chili paste. Mix well and marinate for at least an hour.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add the smashed lemongrass and sugar.
- Reduce the heat and let the curry simmer for about 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the coconut milk and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove the lemongrass stalk before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 569Total Fat: 33gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 24gCholesterol: 226mgSodium: 798mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 2gSugar: 12gProtein: 46g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Gordon Ramsay’s Malaysian Chicken Curry is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to unfold in your kitchen. With its bold flavors and inviting aroma, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in. Don’t shy away from trying this dish, as it encapsulates the essence of Malaysian cuisine beautifully. Happy cooking!