When you’re staring at leftover roast chicken and wondering what to do with it, this dish turns whatever’s in your fridge into a real dinner. It’s the kind of recipe that turns odds and ends from last night’s dinner into something you’ll actually crave again. Creamy, rich, and packed with warming spices, this easy leftover chicken curry recipe is full of comfort and flavour, without needing a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen.
It’s also surprisingly adaptable. Whether you’re using leftover roast chicken, turkey from Christmas dinner, or even switching in your favourite vegetables, it never disappoints. The best part? It all comes together in about 30 minutes.
If you have a container of cooked chicken in the fridge, you’re already halfway there. Here is what you will need to bring this vibrant curry to life.
10 minutes
25 - 30 minutes
35 - 40 minutes
4 people
Ingredients You’ll Need
This leftover chicken curry recipe keeps things simple but flavourful. Most of these are pantry staples, and you might be surprised at how they come together to form something so comforting.
- 1 tbsp oil (olive or vegetable)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 400g chopped tomatoes (1 tin)
- 200mL coconut milk
- 300–400g cooked chicken (leftover roast chicken or turkey)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh coriander, to garnish
You can add extras if you’d like, such as spinach, chickpeas, or peas, but the core recipe works beautifully as it is.
Get ingredients from Rhug Estate
Organic Whole Chicken
£20.89
Racalia Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Price range: £12.50 through £25.95
How to Make Leftover Chicken Curry
Start with simple aromatics and let the curry unfold from there. Sautéing the onions and garlic, then stirring in that rich coconut milk, each part builds a comforting, flavorful dish. If you have leftover cooked chicken, it’s ready to soak up those beautiful spices.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fibre: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
Helpful Tools for Easy Prep
You don’t need anything fancy to make a great chicken curry, but a few basics will make the cooking process smoother:
- Chopping board and sharp knife
- Medium saucepan or deep frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Garlic press (optional but helpful)
- Measuring spoons and cups
Having everything prepped and ready makes this a fuss-free, one-pan dish that’s ideal for weeknights.
Ways to Serve Leftover Chicken Curry
There’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious curry. Classic options include fluffy basmati rice, garlic naan, or even a warm roti. It also pairs well with:
- Steamed greens or roasted cauliflower
- A spoonful of yoghurt or a dollop of mango chutney
- Leftover roast potatoes… yes, really
If you’re making a big batch, this curry also keeps beautifully for lunch the next day. You can even stretch it further with an extra splash of coconut milk or some cooked lentils stirred through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw chicken in this curry recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Add the raw chicken pieces after adding the spices, but before stirring in the tomatoes. Brown them for 5–7 minutes until cooked through, then proceed with the recipe as normal. Using high-quality options, such as organic chicken breast or free-range chicken, really makes a difference in both flavour and texture.
How do I reheat leftover chicken curry?
Gently reheat the curry in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it if needed. Stir regularly and make sure it’s piping hot before serving.
Can I freeze leftover chicken curry?
Absolutely. Let the curry cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the hob until hot all the way through.
How to Make Leftovers Feel Like a Win?
When dinner needs to be quick, satisfying, and packed with flavour, this leftover chicken curry recipe is the answer. It’s adaptable, uses up what you already have, and delivers a comforting meal every time; no waste, no fuss, just really good food.
If you’re cooking with meat from trusted producers like Rhug Estate or shopping for premium options like organic chicken breast or free-range whole chicken, this curry brings those ingredients to life. Even leftover roast turkey or humble cooked chicken can be transformed with the right mix of spices and a splash of coconut milk.
If this kind of dinner’s your style, it helps to have good meat on hand. Stock up with organic meat online so you always have something easy to build from. Having reliable options in your freezer means easy dinners are always within reach.
If you’ve tried this leftover chicken curry, be sure to save the recipe, share it with friends, and leave your recipe ratings. We would love to see how it came out!
More from the Rhug Estate Farm Shop
Organic Whole Chicken
£20.89
Organic Beef