Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs, though the nutritional values will differ slightly. Thighs contain more fat but are very forgiving in slow cookers and will become incredibly tender. The cooking time remains the same

How do I adjust the spice level?

The cayenne pepper and 5 spice are your main heat adjusters. For milder curry, reduce or omit the cayenne and use the lower amount of 5 spice (1 tsp). For more heat, add an extra 0.5 tsp of cayenne. Taste as you cook and adjust to your preference

What if I don't have coconut milk?

Reduced-fat natural yoghurt can work as a substitute, though it will create a different flavour profile. Add it in the final 30 minutes of cooking to prevent curdling, and reduce the quantity slightly as yoghurt is thinner than coconut milk. Cream can also work but adds more calories

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This curry stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days in airtight containers, making it ideal for meal prep. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave before serving

Chinese Takeaway Style Chicken Curry | High Protein Meal Prep Slow Cooker Recipe

by What's For Tea?

Chicken

Published 4 May 2026Original video

Bring authentic Chinese takeaway flavours to your slow cooker with this delicious chicken curry. This high-protein recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a richly spiced coconut sauce, delivering the classic takeaway experience in your own kitchen. With over 43g of protein per serving and just 332 calories, it's ideal for those watching their nutrition whilst craving satisfying, flavour-packed meals. Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or simply on its own, this curry is a real crowd-pleaser that's perfect for meal prepping throughout the week

Video thumbnail: Chinese Takeaway Style Chicken Curry | High Protein Meal Prep Slow Cooker Recipe

Watch: Chinese Takeaway Style Chicken Curry | High Protein Meal Prep Slow Cooker Recipe

Original recipe video — click to play

Original video by What's For Tea?2k likes on YouTube

15 mins

Prep time

6 hrs

Slow cook (Low)

4 hrs

Slow cook (High)

Serves

6 hrs 15 mins

Total (Low)

Slow cooker setting:Low 6 hours or High 4 hours

Ingredients

Servings:

Units:

Main

4 breasts Large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
approximately 160g (5.6 oz) each

Aromatics & Flavourings

1 onion Large onion, diced
approximately 160g (5.6 oz)
4 cloves Garlic cloves
, chopped

Sauce Base

400 ml Reduced fat coconut milk
1 can
2 tbsp Tomato puree
tomato paste

Spices

3 tbsp Chinese style curry powder
hot curry powder recommended
1 tsp Ground coriander
1 tsp Ground turmeric
1 tsp Ground ginger
1 ½ tsp Chinese 5 spice
adjust to taste; use 1-2 tsp
1 tsp Cayenne pepper
adjust for heat preference

Vegetables

200 g Frozen peas
Add in final 20 minutes of cooking

Seasoning

to taste Salt and black pepper

Method

1
Prepare your ingredients: dice the onion, chop the garlic, and cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks.
~10 mins
2
Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides for about 3-4 minutes total. This step adds depth of flavour and is recommended even though you're using a slow cooker.
~5 mins
Tip: Don't cook through; just brown the outside
3
Transfer the browned chicken to your slow cooker.
~2 mins
4
Add the diced onion and chopped garlic to the slow cooker.
~2 mins
5
In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato puree, reduced fat coconut milk, and all the spices (curry powder, ground coriander, turmeric, ginger, 5 spice, and cayenne pepper). Stir well to combine.
~3 mins
Tip: Ensure spices are evenly distributed
6
Pour the curry sauce over the chicken and onions in the slow cooker. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated.
~2 mins
7
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
~6 hrs
Tip: Slow cooker times may vary; adjust if needed
8
In the final 20 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas.
~20 mins
Tip: This keeps the peas bright and slightly firm
9
Taste and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
~2 mins
10
Serve hot with rice, noodles, vegetables, or enjoy on its own.
Tip: Perfect for meal prep; stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days

Nutrition

Detailed nutritional information is coming soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

: Yes, you can use chicken thighs, though the nutritional values will differ slightly. Thighs contain more fat but are very forgiving in slow cookers and will become incredibly tender. The cooking time remains the same

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