Want a dinner that feels like a million bucks but costs less than ten? This Slow Cooker Chicken Laksa is my secret weapon. It’s the ultimate lazy dinner that turns into a rich, aromatic feast. It combines the cozy comfort of a crockpot chicken stew with the exciting flavors of a coconut curry soup.
You don’t need expensive ingredients to eat well. This recipe proves it. I make this all the time when my budget is tight but my cravings are big.
Your kitchen will smell incredible, and your wallet will stay happy.
Recipe Overview
Here’s the quick snapshot of what you’re making. It’s one of those easy crockpot dinners you’ll come back to again and again.
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Category: Soup/Main Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on Low
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Why This Recipe Saves You Money
I built this recipe to be kind to your budget. Let’s break down why it works so well for cheap Aldi dinners or any grocery trip.
First, it uses affordable chicken thighs. They are cheaper and more flavorful than breasts. They also stay juicy during the long cook time.
The broth is a clever mix of water and pantry spices. You don’t need to buy expensive pre-made laksa paste or stock. We make our own rich base.
Finally, it stretches a small amount of protein with lots of broth and noodles. A little chicken goes a very long way here. It’s a masterclass in crock pot cooking on a dime.
Slow Cooker Chicken Laksa Recipe
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
Notes
Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Chicken Laksa Recipe!
Nutrition Information
My Tips for Smart Shopping on a Budget
Getting the best price is a skill. Here are my go-to strategies for making recipes like this even cheaper.
Buy your chicken thighs frozen in bulk. The price per pound is often much lower. Just thaw what you need in the fridge overnight.
Shop at stores like Aldi for your canned and dried goods. Their coconut milk and rice noodles are perfect for Aldi crockpot meals.
Grab ginger and garlic in their pureed paste forms. They live in a tube in the produce section. They last for months and prevent waste from fresh roots that can go bad.
For the veggies, use what’s on sale. Spinach, kale, or even frozen stir-fry blends work beautifully. Be flexible and save cash. This approach works for all sorts of dishes, from a tropical sweet and savory Hawaiian chicken to a simple stew.
The Budget-Friendly Ingredient List
Here is your shopping list. Every item is easy to find and won’t break the bank.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 4 cups water
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons red curry paste
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or paste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (or paste)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Juice of 1 lime
- 6 oz dried rice noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- For garnish: cilantro, sliced jalapeño, extra lime wedges
How to Make It (Step-by-Step)
This could not be simpler. Your slow cooker does almost all the work for you.
- Start by placing the chicken thighs and sliced onion in the bottom of your crockpot.
- In a bowl, whisk the coconut milk, water, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and turmeric. Pour this over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours. Do not overcook, or the chicken can become too soft.
- When the time is up, carefully remove the chicken to a plate. Shred it with two forks.
- Stir the lime juice into the hot broth in the crockpot. Then, add the shredded chicken back in.
- Add the dried rice noodles and fresh spinach. Push them down into the hot liquid. Put the lid back on and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The noodles will cook and the spinach will wilt.
- Give everything a good stir. Taste and add a pinch more fish sauce or lime juice if you like.
- Serve the laksa hot, topped with your favorite garnishes. Dinner is ready!
How to Use Up Every Last Bit (No Waste!)
I hate throwing food away. Here’s how to make sure every part of this meal gets used.
If you have leftover broth and chicken, it’s a perfect lunch for the next day. The flavors get even better. Just store the noodles separately so they don’t get too soft.
Got extra spinach? Toss it into morning eggs or a simple salad. You can also freeze it and add it directly to smoothies or future soups.
That half-can of coconut milk? Freeze it in an ice cube tray. Pop out a cube or two to add instant creaminess to your next curry, soup, or even your morning coffee.
This no-waste mindset is key to keeping your food costs low. Every bit you save is money in your pocket.
Nutrition Notes
This is a hearty, balanced meal. Here’s a simple look at what you’re getting per serving.
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 25g (Great for staying full!)
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- It’s a good source of iron from the spinach and chicken.
- Using light coconut milk can lower the fat content if you prefer.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Here are answers to the questions I get asked the most about this dish.
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
You can, but I don’t recommend it for the best result. Thighs are more forgiving and flavorful for slow cooking. If you use breasts, check them at 3 hours to prevent dryness.
My grocery store doesn’t have red curry paste. What can I use?
No problem! Use yellow or green curry paste instead. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. This is a great budget meal hack—use what you can find.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store the soup and noodles separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the broth mixture on the stove or in the microwave, then add the noodles. This keeps the noodles from becoming mushy.
This Slow Cooker Chicken Laksa is proof that you can eat incredibly well without spending a lot. It’s become one of my favorite comfort dishes for a crazy week. If you love these Asian-inspired flavors, you should definitely try my Slow Cooker Sesame Ginger Chicken next.
It’s flexible, forgiving, and packed with flavor. Once you see how easy it is, you’ll want to try all your favorite soups in the crockpot.
Let me know your own money-saving twists for this recipe in the comments below! Did you use a different veggie? Find a great deal on curry paste? Please leave a rating!
