Fiji By Food Enthusiasts · 6 min read

National Dish Fiji: Chicken and Breadfruit Curry (Recipe)

Fijian chicken and breadfruit curry in coconut sauce, garnished with coriander

In this article

Say bula to Chicken and Breadfruit Curry, a true taste of the South Pacific straight from the tropical heart of Fiji. Tender pieces of chicken simmer alongside creamy chunks of breadfruit in a fragrant, lightly spiced coconut sauce that captures the wild flavours of the islands. It is a generous, sociable dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends, and it brings a little of Fiji’s warmth and culture to your table.

About Chicken and Breadfruit Curry

Chicken and Breadfruit Curry is a real feast from the tropical landscapes of Fiji. It pairs tender, juicy chicken with the unique, creamy texture of breadfruit, which gives the dish its distinctive character. Everything is cooked together in a spiced and aromatic coconut milk sauce that captures the untamed flavour of the Pacific. Ideal for a shared meal, it puts Fijian culture on the table and never fails to delight everyone around it.

Ingredients (serves 1–2)

2 chicken breast fillets (approx. 300 g)
1 medium breadfruit (approx. 200 g)
400 ml coconut milk
1 onion
2 cloves garlic
1 red chilli (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons curry powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh coriander leaves, to garnish

Shopping for the ingredients

To make Chicken and Breadfruit Curry, you will need fresh ingredients that are available in most supermarkets or at farmers’ markets. Make sure the breadfruit is ripe and firm so that it reaches the desired creamy consistency during cooking. Chicken breast is an ideal lean meat that comes in many varieties, including organic and free-range. Fresh herbs such as coriander also make a big difference to the flavour and are best bought fresh on the day.

Preparing the dish

Preparing Chicken and Breadfruit Curry is simple and takes only a few steps, though each one matters for the final flavour. Start by peeling the breadfruit and cutting it into cubes. The chicken breast fillets should be cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Be sure to finely chop the onion and garlic too, so the flavours blend well together. A little ginger lends the dish a pleasant warmth and adds extra depth to the taste.

Step-by-step instructions

Heat a little oil in a large pot and sauté the onion, garlic and ginger until softened and glossy.
Add the chicken pieces and fry until lightly browned on all sides.
Sprinkle the curry powder over the meat and stir well so the spices are evenly distributed.
Pour in the coconut milk and bring everything to the boil.
Add the diced breadfruit, reduce the heat and let the curry simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the breadfruit is tender.
Season to taste with salt, pepper and red chilli to your liking.
Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Gluten-free / lactose-free version

Chicken and Breadfruit Curry is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, since neither the chicken nor the coconut milk contains either of these. When choosing your stock or spices, however, do check the ingredient list to avoid any unexpected additives. To make absolutely sure the dish stays gluten-free, use spices processed in a gluten-free environment. That way you can enjoy the dish with complete peace of mind, whether you have an intolerance or simply prefer to eat gluten-free.

Tips for vegans and vegetarians

For anyone who would like to enjoy Chicken and Breadfruit Curry in a vegan or vegetarian version, there are some excellent alternatives. Instead of chicken you can use tofu or seitan, plant-based proteins that soak up the flavours of the coconut milk and spices especially well. Make sure the tofu is well drained and cut into cubes before adding it to the curry. Adding extra vegetables, such as carrots or peppers, makes the dish even more nourishing and varied, much as in a hearty Vegetable Curry.

More tips and tricks

A few tips can make preparing Chicken and Breadfruit Curry much easier and improve the flavour. Use fresh spices for a more intense aroma, and let the curry simmer a little longer so the flavours seep deep into the ingredients. If the curry becomes too thick, simply add a splash of water or vegetable stock to adjust the consistency. Remember to taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning so it suits your palate exactly.

Adapting the recipe to your taste

Chicken and Breadfruit Curry lends itself wonderfully to personal preference. If you like it hotter, add extra chillies or a little chilli powder. You can also experiment with different aromatic herbs, such as basil or thyme, to give the dish a personal touch. Consider folding in other vegetables you may already have at home, such as broccoli or courgette, to boost the nutritional value. For an all-vegetable take on the idea, a Coconut Eggplant Curry is well worth a try.

Ingredient substitutions

For Chicken and Breadfruit Curry there are plenty of substitutions that can enrich the flavour just as well. Instead of breadfruit you can also use sweet potatoes or plantains, which fit beautifully into the overall taste. If coconut milk is not available, a mix of almond milk and a little coconut oil makes a good option too. These alternatives ensure the dish stays creamy and delicious without losing its original character — a quality it shares with a classic Chicken Curry.

Drink pairing ideas

To accompany Chicken and Breadfruit Curry perfectly, several drinks complement the flavours of the dish beautifully. A refreshing Fijian Mango Lassi can balance the warmth of the curry while adding an exotic note. Alternatively, a cold, lightly bitter IPA supports the aromas well. If you would rather skip the alcohol, a coconut-based refresher picks up on the tropical mood of the meal.

Serving and presentation ideas

An attractive presentation can lift the whole Chicken and Breadfruit Curry experience. Serve the curry in a lovely, wide bowl and garnish it with fresh coriander leaves or even edible flowers for a splash of colour. You can also plate the dish over fragrant basmati rice or a vegetable couscous to create an appealing composition. Don’t forget to keep the colours harmonious so the dish looks appetising and tempts everyone from the very first glance.

A bit of history

The roots of Chicken and Breadfruit Curry run deep in Fijian culture and tradition. While breadfruit has been a staple in many Pacific cultures for centuries, the dish was shaped by the influence of Indian cuisine in the way curries are prepared. This makes the curry a symbol of the region’s cultural blend. The combination of local ingredients and spices has helped make it one of the most popular dishes in Fijian cuisine today, now winning admirers around the world.

More recipe ideas

Summary: Chicken and Breadfruit Curry

Chicken and Breadfruit Curry is a delicious union of tender chicken and the creamy texture of breadfruit. This traditional Fijian dish brings the tropical flair of the islands straight to your table and makes for happy moments with family and friends. The variety of spices and ingredients, along with the many ways it can be adapted to personal taste, make this dish a genuine treat. Discover its harmonious flavours and let the cuisine of Fiji cast its spell on you.