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Japanese Chicken Curry with Rice

Japanese Chicken Curry with Rice is a hearty, mildly spiced comfort dish made with tender chicken, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered in a thick, savory curry sauce. Served over fluffy white rice, it’s a popular and satisfying meal loved across Japan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 3 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 100g Japanese curry roux (store-bought blocks)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
  • Cooked Japanese short-grain rice, for serving
  • Pickled red ginger or fukujinzuke (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add carrots and potatoes, stir to coat, then return the chicken to the pot.
  4. Pour in water or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  5. Break the curry roux into blocks and stir into the pot until fully dissolved. Simmer uncovered for another 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the curry thickens.
  6. Add soy sauce and grated ginger if using, and adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve hot over cooked rice, with optional pickled ginger or fukujinzuke on the side.

Notes

  • Japanese curry roux comes in mild, medium, and hot—choose based on your spice preference.
  • Stir frequently after adding the roux to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth sauce.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors develop.
  • Use pre-cut stew vegetables for quicker prep.

Nutrition

Keywords: Japanese curry, chicken curry rice, kare raisu, comfort food, Japanese dinner, halal curry