Sri Lankan Chicken Curry — Most Popular Dish in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan Chicken Curry is a staple across homes and restaurants, celebrated for its aromatic spices, rich coconut flavor, and vibrant color.

Ingredients for Sri Lankan Chicken Curry

(Serves 4)

For the Chicken

  • 1 kg chicken (bone-in or boneless, cut into pieces)

  • 1 tsp turmeric powder

  • 1 tsp salt

For the Curry

  • 3 tbsp olive oil or ghee

  • 1 large onion, finely sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 inch ginger, minced

  • 2–3 green chilies, slit

  • 1 sprig curry leaves (optional but authentic)

  • 2 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp coriander powder

  • ½ tsp cumin powder

  • 1 tsp fennel seeds (optional)

  • 1 cup coconut milk

  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • Fresh coriander for garnish

How to Make Sri Lankan Chicken Curry

1. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Rub chicken with turmeric and salt. Set aside for 10–15 minutes.

2. Cook the Aromatics

  1. Heat olive oil or ghee in a pan.

  2. Sauté onions, garlic, ginger, green chilies, and curry leaves until fragrant.

3. Add Spices and Chicken

  1. Add chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and fennel seeds.

  2. Stir for 1–2 minutes.

  3. Add chicken pieces and sear lightly on all sides.

4. Simmer the Curry

  1. Add chopped tomatoes and coconut milk.

  2. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked and tender.

  3. Adjust salt and squeeze in lime juice.

5. Serve

Garnish with fresh coriander. Serve with:

  • Steamed rice

  • Coconut roti or bread

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