Golden Curry Chicken Recipe – The Best Homemade Version

Golden Curry Chicken is one of the most popular Japanese-style curry dishes, known for its rich, mildly spicy, and slightly sweet flavor. Unlike Indian or Thai curries, Japanese curry has a thick, gravy-like consistency that pairs perfectly with steamed rice. The key ingredient in this dish is S&B Golden Curry roux, a pre-made curry block that blends spices, flour, and oil to create a smooth and flavorful sauce.

This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Whether you’re using S&B Golden Curry roux blocks or the ready-made sauce pouch, this guide will walk you through everything—from choosing the right ingredients and cooking techniques to avoiding common mistakes and getting the perfect curry consistency.

By the end of this article, you’ll learn:
How to cook Golden Curry Chicken step by step
The perfect water-to-curry ratio for a thick and flavorful sauce
Common mistakes to avoid when making curry
Tips to enhance your curry with extra flavors

Let’s dive into this delicious and easy-to-make Golden Curry Chicken recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen!

What is Golden Curry Chicken?

Golden Curry Chicken is a Japanese-style curry dish featuring tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, flavorful curry sauce made with S&B Golden Curry roux. Unlike Indian or Thai curries, Japanese curry has a mild, slightly sweet taste and a thick, gravy-like consistency.

The dish gets its name from the golden hue of the curry sauce, which comes from a blend of spices, flour, and oils in the S&B Golden Curry roux blocks. This pre-made curry mix makes it easy to prepare an authentic Japanese curry at home, with a perfect balance of umami, spice, and sweetness.

If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals, you might also enjoy trying this Spicy Chicken Soup with Rice, which shares a similar depth of flavor.

Golden Curry Chicken is typically served over steamed rice, but it can also be enjoyed with udon noodles or crusty bread. It’s a comfort food favorite in Japan, often prepared in large batches because the flavors become even better the next day.

Ingredients for Golden Curry Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious and authentic Golden Curry Chicken at home:

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 large carrot, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cups (720ml) water
  • 1 pack (3.5 oz or 92g) S&B Golden Curry roux blocks
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (adds depth and umami)
  • 1 tsp honey (balances the spices with mild sweetness)
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk (makes the curry extra creamy)
  • 1 grated apple (adds natural sweetness and enhances the flavor)
  • 1/2 cup peas or corn (for extra texture and color)

Serving Suggestions

  • Steamed white rice or brown rice
  • Udon noodles
  • Naan bread or toasted baguette

For another easy and flavorful chicken recipe, check out this Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Recipe, which balances sweet and savory flavors beautifully.

Step-by-Step

Follow this easy, foolproof method to make a rich, flavorful Golden Curry Chicken at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Peel and chop the potatoes, carrots, and onion.
  3. Break the S&B Golden Curry roux blocks into smaller pieces for easier melting.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken

  1. Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté for 5 minutes until they turn soft and slightly golden.
  3. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides.
A pot of sautéed onions and chicken sizzling in a cast-iron pot, with steam rising.
Sautéing onions and chicken to bring out rich flavors for an authentic Golden Curry Chicken dish.

Step 3: Simmer the Vegetables

  1. Add carrots and potatoes to the pot.
  2. Pour in 3 cups (720ml) of water and stir to combine.
  3. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add the Golden Curry Roux

  1. Turn off the heat and gradually stir in the S&B Golden Curry roux blocks.
  2. Mix well until the roux is fully dissolved, forming a smooth, thick curry sauce.
  3. Turn the heat back to low and simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serving

  1. Taste and adjust the flavor:
    • Add 1 tbsp soy sauce for more umami.
    • Stir in 1 tsp honey for a hint of sweetness.
    • Mix in 1/2 cup coconut milk for a creamy texture.
  2. Serve the Golden Curry Chicken hot over steamed rice, udon noodles, or with bread.
  3. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.

If you’re looking for another way to cook chicken with bold flavors, try this How to Cook Ground Chicken guide!

 A plated dish of Golden Curry Chicken with thick curry sauce, served alongside rice and Japanese pickles.
Rich and flavorful Golden Curry Chicken, served hot with rice and a side of pickles for an authentic experience.

How to Use Golden Curry Ready-Made Sauce

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a rich and flavorful Golden Curry Chicken, S&B Golden Curry Ready-Made Sauce is a quick and convenient option. This pre-cooked curry pouch eliminates the need for roux blocks and long cooking times while still delivering an authentic taste.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Golden Curry Ready-Made Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Even though the sauce is pre-made, pairing it with fresh ingredients enhances the dish. You’ll need:

  • 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken (grilled, sautéed, or rotisserie)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas, or bell peppers)
  • 1 pack of S&B Golden Curry Ready-Made Sauce

Step 2: Heat the Sauce

You can heat the ready-made sauce in two ways:

1. Boiling Water Method (Recommended)

  • Place the unopened pouch in a pot of boiling water.
  • Heat for 3–5 minutes.
  • Carefully remove the pouch, cut it open, and pour over cooked chicken and vegetables.

2. Microwave Method

  • Empty the sauce into a microwave-safe bowl.
  • Cover loosely and heat for 1 minute on high.
  • Stir and heat for another 30 seconds if needed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

  1. Heat cooked chicken and vegetables in a pan for 2 minutes until warm.
  2. Pour the heated Golden Curry Ready-Made Sauce over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
  3. Simmer for 2 minutes, then serve over steamed rice, udon noodles, or toasted bread.

Tips to Elevate Your Golden Curry Chicken with Ready-Made Sauce

Add depth of flavor – Stir in 1 tsp soy sauce or a pinch of chili flakes.
Make it creamier – Mix in 1/4 cup coconut milk for a richer texture.
Enhance sweetness – Grate a small apple or add 1 tsp honey for a balanced taste.

With S&B Golden Curry Ready-Made Sauce, you can enjoy a delicious Japanese curry in under 10 minutes, making it the perfect meal for busy days!

S&B Golden Curry Ready-Made Sauce being poured over cooked chicken and vegetables in a bowl.
Make delicious Golden Curry Chicken in minutes using S&B Ready-Made Sauce for a hassle-free meal.

Common Mistakes When Making Curry Chicken

Even though making Golden Curry Chicken is simple, small mistakes can affect the flavor, texture, and overall quality of the dish. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcooking the Chicken

  • Why it’s a mistake: Cooking chicken for too long can make it tough and dry, especially if using chicken breast.
  • How to fix it: Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture and only simmer until tender.

2. Not Stirring the Roux Properly

  • Why it’s a mistake: If the S&B Golden Curry roux blocks are not fully dissolved, you’ll get clumps of curry instead of a smooth sauce.
  • How to fix it: Turn off the heat before adding the roux, stir gradually, and mix well until fully melted.

3. Adding Too Much Water

  • Why it’s a mistake: Too much water makes the curry thin and watery, losing its signature thick consistency.
  • How to fix it: Follow the correct S&B Golden Curry roux-to-water ratio:
    • 1/4 pack (2 blocks) → 1 cup water
    • 1/2 pack (4 blocks) → 2 cups water
    • Full pack (8 blocks) → 4 cups water

4. Skipping the Sautéing Step

  • Why it’s a mistake: Adding everything to the pot without sautéing the onions and chicken first results in a bland curry.
  • How to fix it: Sauté onions for at least 5 minutes until golden brown before adding the chicken and vegetables.

5. Rushing the Simmering Process

  • Why it’s a mistake: Not allowing the curry to simmer long enough prevents the flavors from developing fully.
  • How to fix it: Let the curry simmer for at least 20 minutes to allow the ingredients to absorb the spices.

6. Not Adjusting the Flavor

  • Why it’s a mistake: Curry can sometimes be too mild or too salty if not properly balanced.
  • How to fix it:
    • For extra depth: Add 1 tbsp soy sauce.
    • For natural sweetness: Grate a small apple or add 1 tsp honey.
    • For a creamier texture: Stir in 1/2 cup coconut milk.

7. Reheating the Wrong Way

  • Why it’s a mistake: Reheating curry on high heat can make the sauce separate or thicken too much.
  • How to fix it: Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain consistency.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced, rich, and flavorful Golden Curry Chicken every time!

Perfect Water-to-Curry Ratio for S&B Golden Curry

Getting the right water-to-curry ratio is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency in your Golden Curry Chicken. Too much water will make the curry thin and runny, while too little can make it too thick and overpowering. Follow this guide to ensure a well-balanced, rich, and flavorful Japanese curry every time.

Recommended Water-to-Curry Ratio

S&B Golden Curry BlocksWater NeededServingsIdeal Consistency
1/4 pack (2 blocks)1 cup (240ml)2 servingsThick & creamy
1/2 pack (4 blocks)2 cups (480ml)4 servingsPerfect balance
Full pack (8 blocks)4 cups (960ml)8 servingsTraditional consistency

How to Achieve the Best Consistency

For a thicker curry – Reduce water by ¼ cup (60ml) or let the curry simmer longer.
For a lighter curry – Add an extra ½ cup (120ml) of water to thin it out slightly.
For a creamier texture – Substitute ½ cup (120ml) of water with coconut milk or heavy cream.

Pro Tip:

Always turn off the heat before adding the curry roux to allow it to melt smoothly and avoid lumps. Then stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

By following this water-to-curry ratio, you’ll create a rich, smooth, and flavorful Golden Curry Chicken that’s perfectly balanced and delicious!

Tips for Enhancing Golden Curry Chicken

Want to take your Golden Curry Chicken to the next level? These expert tips will help you enhance the flavor, texture, and overall richness of your curry for a truly authentic and restaurant-quality experience.

1. Add Depth of Flavor

Soy Sauce or Miso Paste – Stir in 1 tbsp of soy sauce or 1 tsp of miso paste to enhance umami.
Fish Sauce – A small dash of fish sauce deepens the flavor without overpowering the curry.

2. Balance Sweetness & Spice

Grated Apple or Honey – Add ½ grated apple or 1 tsp of honey for natural sweetness.
A Pinch of Chili Powder or Cayenne Pepper – If you prefer a spicy kick, add ½ tsp of chili powder.

3. Make It Extra Creamy

Coconut Milk – Replace ½ cup of water with coconut milk for a creamier, tropical twist.
Heavy Cream or Butter – Stir in 1 tbsp of heavy cream or butter at the end for extra richness.

4. Improve Texture with Extra Ingredients

Peas, Corn, or Bell Peppers – Add ½ cup of vegetables for added color and crunch.
Mushrooms or Eggplant – These soak up curry flavors and add a meaty texture.

5. Use the Right Cooking Technique

Sauté the Onions Well – Cook onions until golden brown to bring out their natural sweetness.
Simmer Slowly – Let the curry simmer for at least 20 minutes to fully develop its flavors.

6. Store & Reheat Like a Pro

Curry Tastes Better the Next Day – Make extra and store it overnight to allow the flavors to deepen.
Reheat on Low Heat – Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to maintain consistency.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you’ll elevate your Golden Curry Chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness!

FAQs

Why is my S&B Golden Curry not thickening?

If your Golden Curry Chicken is too thin, it could be due to:
Too much water – Stick to the recommended water-to-roux ratio (e.g., 2 cups of water for 4 curry blocks).
Not simmering long enough – Let the curry cook for at least 5-10 minutes after adding the roux to allow thickening.
Heat too high – Cooking on high heat may break down the roux before it fully dissolves. Always stir on low heat for a smooth consistency.
Adding roux too early – Turn off the heat before adding the curry roux, then stir until fully melted.

What is the secret to a good curry?

Sauté onions until golden brown – This enhances the depth of flavor.
Use fresh ingredients – High-quality chicken, vegetables, and spices make a difference.
Balance flavors – Add a little honey, soy sauce, or grated apple for sweetness and umami.
Let it simmer – A slow simmer (at least 20 minutes) helps blend the flavors perfectly.

Do you simmer curry with the lid on or off?

Simmer with the lid off if you want a thicker, more concentrated sauce. This allows excess moisture to evaporate.
Simmer with the lid on if you prefer a milder, thinner curry or if the curry is cooking too quickly.

When to add garam masala to chicken curry?

Add garam masala at the end of cooking (about 5 minutes before serving). This preserves its aromatic flavor without overpowering the dish.
✔ If adding early, use a small amount (½ tsp) to let it blend with the Golden Curry Chicken sauce.

Conclusion

Golden Curry Chicken is a rich, flavorful, and comforting Japanese dish that’s easy to make at home. Whether you use S&B Golden Curry roux blocks or the ready-made sauce, following the right water-to-curry ratio, proper cooking techniques, and expert tips ensures a thick, well-balanced, and delicious curry every time.

By avoiding common mistakes, experimenting with flavor enhancers like soy sauce, honey, or coconut milk, and allowing the curry to simmer properly, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. Plus, curry always tastes better the next day, making it a perfect dish for meal prep!

Now that you’ve mastered the ultimate Golden Curry Chicken recipe, it’s time to bring this iconic Japanese comfort food to your table. Try it today and enjoy every bite!

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A steaming bowl of Golden Curry Chicken served over fluffy white rice, garnished with fresh cilantro, with a rich golden-colored sauce covering tender chicken and vegetables.

Golden Curry Chicken Recipe


  • Author: Mr.Chef
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 1 pot (serves 4) 1x

Description

Golden Curry Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy, spiced curry sauce. This dish gets its signature golden hue from a blend of turmeric and curry powder, resulting in a warm, aromatic meal perfect for cozy dinners. Serve it over steamed rice or with naan for a complete, satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
  • 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • 2 medium carrots (sliced)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream)
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons water, for thickening)
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
  4. Add Vegetables & Spices: Stir in the potatoes and carrots. Add curry powder, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
  5. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Add Coconut Milk & Thicken: Stir in the coconut milk and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Mix cornstarch with water, then add it to the curry to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  7. Serve & Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with steamed rice or naan.

Notes

  • Spiciness: Adjust the chili powder for more or less heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a meatless version.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing & Simmering
  • Cuisine: Asian-Japanese-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 servings
  • Calories: ~450 kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 30g

Keywords: Golden Curry Chicken


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