Name: Easy Chicken Laksa Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Malaysian
Ingredients: Whole dried red chilies; Dried shrimps; Macadamia nuts; Coriander seeds; Cumin seeds; Curry powder; Turmeric powder; Shrimp paste; Galangal; Garlic; Onion; Lemongrass; Vegetable oil; Boneless skinless chicken thighs; Chicken stock; Coconut milk; Tofu puffs; Rice noodles; Salt; Fish sauce; Sugar; Lime juice; Sambal Oelek (optional); Chopped cilantro; Thai red chilies (optional, for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: Bold spices, herbs, and creamy coconut milk create an unforgettable taste.
Quick Cooking: Ready in about 30 minutes for a satisfying meal without the wait.
One-Pot Meal: Fewer dishes and easy cleanup.
Authentic Taste: Made with traditional laksa paste ingredients.
Customizable: Adjust spice levels and toppings easily.
Hearty and Filling: Includes chicken, tofu puffs, and rice noodles for a full meal.
Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy nights or cold weather.
Healthy Option: Can be made lighter with extra veggies and lean proteins.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be prepped ahead for quick assembly.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impressive enough for guests and family gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Whole dried red chilies
Dried shrimps
Macadamia nuts
Coriander seeds
Cumin seeds
Curry powder
Turmeric powder
Shrimp paste
Galangal
Garlic
Onion
Lemongrass
Vegetable oil
Boneless skinless chicken thighs
Chicken stock
Coconut milk
Tofu puffs
Rice noodles
Salt
Fish sauce
Sugar
Lime juice
Sambal Oelek (optional for extra spice)
Chopped cilantro
Thai red chilies (optional for garnish)

directions

Make the laksa paste: Blend dried chilies, dried shrimp, macadamia nuts, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, curry powder, turmeric powder, shrimp paste, galangal, garlic, onion, and lemongrass until smooth.
Cook the paste: Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the laksa paste and cook until fragrant.
Prepare the broth: Add chicken stock and coconut milk to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
Add the chicken: Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add to the pot. Cook until done.
Prepare the noodles: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the bowls: Add cooked noodles to bowls. Ladle the curry broth and chicken over the noodles.
Top and serve: Add tofu puffs, a splash of fish sauce, a sprinkle of sugar, and a squeeze of lime. Garnish with chopped cilantro and optional Thai red chilies.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Seafood Laksa: Add shrimp, mussels, or squid instead of or along with chicken.
Vegetarian Version: Skip the shrimp and chicken; use tofu, mushrooms, and extra vegetables.
Spicy Laksa: Add extra sambal oelek or Thai red chilies.
Low-Carb: Swap rice noodles for spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.
Different Proteins: Try beef or even tempeh for a unique twist.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store broth, noodles, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the broth gently on the stove until simmering. Reheat noodles quickly in hot water or the microwave before assembling.

FAQs

What is the difference between laksa and curry laksa?

Laksa is a Malaysian noodle soup; curry laksa specifically features a coconut milk-based spicy broth.

Can I buy laksa paste instead of making it?

Yes, pre-made laksa paste is available at many Asian grocery stores and online.

Is chicken laksa curry spicy?

It has a medium spice level, but you can adjust it by using more or fewer chilies.

Can I freeze chicken laksa curry?

It’s best not to freeze fully assembled laksa; however, you can freeze the broth separately.

What type of noodles should I use for laksa?

Thick rice vermicelli noodles are traditional, but any rice noodles will work.

Can I substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breast?

Yes, but thighs are preferred for juiciness and flavor.

How do I make laksa less spicy?

Reduce the number of chilies or use a milder chili paste.

Is laksa gluten-free?

It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are safe.

What can I use instead of tofu puffs?

Regular fried tofu cubes or even cooked chickpeas can be a great alternative.

How long does homemade laksa paste last?

It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Chicken Laksa Curry is the ultimate bowl of comfort packed with aromatic spices, creamy coconut broth, tender chicken, and slurp-worthy noodles. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this laksa will quickly become a favorite in your home. Try it today for an unforgettable taste of Malaysian cuisine!

Easy Chicken Laksa Curry

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Chicken Laksa Curry is a quick and comforting Malaysian-inspired noodle soup made with tender chicken, rice noodles, tofu puffs, and a bold coconut curry broth. This easy 30-minute chicken laksa is packed with authentic flavors, perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests.

Instructions

Blend dried chilies, dried shrimp, macadamia nuts, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, curry powder, turmeric powder, shrimp paste, galangal, garlic, onion, and lemongrass into a smooth laksa paste.
Heat vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat. Add laksa paste; cook until fragrant.
Pour in chicken stock and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
Add bite-sized chicken thighs. Cook until tender and fully cooked through.
Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Divide noodles into bowls. Ladle curry broth and chicken over noodles.
Top with tofu puffs, fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, cilantro, and optional Thai chilies. Serve hot.