Javanese Chicken Curry (Opor Ayam) Recipe

Name: Javanese Chicken Curry (Opor Ayam)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon coriander seeds; 1 fresh red Holland or Fresno chili, stemmed and cut into chunks; 6 shallots, peeled and cut into chunks; 2 cloves garlic, peeled; 1 piece galangal, about 1 1/2 inches long, peeled and roughly sliced (optional); 1 piece ginger, 2 inches long, peeled and roughly sliced; 3 tablespoons peanut oil; 1 thick stalk lemon grass, stem end and brittle top cut off; 2 pieces cinnamon stick; 5 kaffir lime leaves; 2 1/2 to 3 pounds skin-on chicken legs, thighs or both (if possible, have thighs cut in half and knuckle cut off legs), patted dry; 2 cups unsweetened coconut milk; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste

Servings: persons

1 tablespoon coriander seeds
1 fresh red Holland or Fresno chili, stemmed and cut into chunks
6 shallots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1 piece galangal, about 1 1/2 inches long, peeled and roughly sliced (optional)
1 piece ginger, 2 inches long, peeled and roughly sliced
3 tablespoons peanut oil
1 thick stalk lemon grass, stem end and brittle top cut off
2 pieces cinnamon stick
5 kaffir lime leaves
2 1/2 to 3 pounds skin-on chicken legs, thighs or both (if possible, have thighs cut in half and knuckle cut off legs), patted dry
2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste

1
In a small food processor, whirl coriander seeds until finely ground.
2
Add chili, shallots, garlic, galangal and ginger and process to a smooth paste, adding a tablespoon or so of water if needed.
3
(Ingredients can also be chopped finely, then pounded together in mortar and pestle.)
4
Heat oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat.
5
When oil is hot enough to gently sizzle a pinch of paste, add all the paste and cook, stirring often, until golden, 5 to 7 minutes.
6
Reduce heat as needed to prevent browning.
7
Using a heavy object like a glass measuring cup, smash lemon grass stalk, crushing lightly just until bendable.
8
Tie in a knot, pulling gently on both ends.
9
Add to pot with cinnamon and lime leaves.
10
Cook 1 minute more, until cinnamon is fragrant.
11
Scrape paste to one side and add chicken to pot.
12
Raise heat and brown chicken lightly on both sides, about 10 minutes total.
13
Add 1 cup coconut milk, 1 1/4 cups water and salt, stirring well and scraping up browned bits from bottom of pot.
14
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered 40 to 50 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and sauce is thickened.
15
Do not boil.
16
Add remaining coconut milk and heat through.
17
Taste for salt.
18
Let cool slightly and serve.

432

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, 1 fresh red Holland or Fresno chili, stemmed and cut into chunks, 6 shallots, peeled and cut into chunks, 2 cloves garlic, peeled, and more.

Yes, Javanese Chicken Curry (Opor Ayam) falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Javanese Chicken Curry (Opor Ayam)

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions