Indian chicken curry is one of my favourite recipes. I really love the Indian spice blend. The aroma, the flavor ohh my god!! It’s really amazing. Whenever I go to India, I definitely try this chicken curry. My aunt lives there, and I learned to make this dish from her only. This chicken curry is the perfect combination of marinated chicken, spice blends, and tangy yogurt. If you eat it once, you will never forget its taste and will try this recipe again and again.
“Authentic Chicken Curry Recipe for a Delicious Meal”
This curry recipe is perfect for anyone, whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen. I’ve made some alterations to make it more convenient for everyone, using the ingredients that are easily available in the USA. I’ve explained each and everything about the recipe; if you’ve any doubt or any suggestions or feedback, then feel free to connect with me.
Table of Contents
Healthy benefits of chicken curry:
High-quality protein: Chicken provides lean protein, which helps in muscle growth and also boosts your metabolism.
Spices: Many of the spices used in chicken curry, like turmeric and cumin, have anti- inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Ginger and garlic: These two ingredients not only add flavor but also have immune-boosting and digestive benefits. They can help to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, tomatoes contribute to heart health and skin health.
Essential Ingredients for a Flavorful Chicken Curry:
- Chicken: You’ve got to use boneless or bone-in chicken. Cut into medium pieces. If you used bone-in chicken, then keep an eye on cooking time. You can always add 5 minutes while cooking bone-in chicken.
- Yogurt: It helps to tenderize your chicken. And makes your gravy creamier. It gives a tangy flavor. Marinating chicken with yogurt helps to balance all the spices.
- Onions: onions are used in chicken curry because they add flavor, texture, and richness to the dish. When cooked, onions become soft and release natural sweetness, which balances the spices and enhances the overall taste. They also help thicken the curry sauce, making it more delicious and hearty.
- Tomato: You can use diced tomatoes or tomato puree as well. I’ve used fire-roasted tomatoes for extra flavor. If you want more heat, add chili with tomatoes.
- Ginger-garlic paste: It adds a deep aromatic base to the curry. It enhances the taste of spices and chicken. Ginger garlic paste helps to balance the richness of curry.
- Olive oil/ghee: When chicken is cooked in oil or ghee, it helps keep the meat tender and prevents it from drying out. You can use butter as well. Oil and ghee distribute heat evenly, ensuring that the chicken and spices cook properly without burning.
- Spices: I’ve used turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, ground spices, ground cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. You can use it according to your taste buds. These spices make your curry flavorful.
- Chicken Stock: Instead of water, you’ve got to use chicken stock to thicken the curry. If you want more creaminess, then use coconut milk to make thick consistency.
Variations of Chicken Curry You Can Try:
Coconut Chicken Curry: Add a cup of coconut milk toward the end of the cooking process for a creamy, rich curry with a tropical twist.
Spicy Chicken Curry: Increase the amount of red chili powder or add extra green chilies if you prefer a spicier version.
Chicken Curry with Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes along with the chicken to make the dish heartier.
Chicken Curry with Spinach: For a healthy twist, stir in a handful of fresh spinach leaves a few minutes before serving. They’ll wilt down into the sauce and add extra nutrition.
Perfect Dinner Recipes For You!!!
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Curry:
1) For a creamy, rich texture, you can add coconut milk, cream, or yogurt towards the end of the cooking process.
2) Always use fresh garlic and ginger paste instead of store-bought ones for a more authentic and vibrant flavor.
3) Marinating the chicken with spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and yogurt for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken Curry:
Prepare the Marinate:
This step is essential to making delicious chicken curry. Take a bowl and mix the yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly in this mixture. Marinate your chicken for atleast 30 minutes, or if you’ve got enough time, then marinate up to 1-2 hours. It helps to absorb more flavor.
Prepare the curry:
Heat the olive oil in a large pan, (you can used iron-cast skillet as well) over medium heat then add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 second. Add the chopped onions and cook them until it becomes golden brown. It takes about 7-8 minutes. Next, you’ve got to add the ginger-garlic paste to onions and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant.
Add the tomato puree or diced tomatoes, stir, and cook for at least 5-7 minutes until they soften. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts to separate from the tomatoes. It’s time to add the spices to your curry, you’ve to add the coriander powder, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, salt, green chilli and ground spices. Stir everything together to let the spices blend in, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Once your base is ready, place the marinated chicken into the pan. Stir well and make sure the chicken is coated with the tomato and spice mixture. Cook the chicken on medium heat for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, add the chicken stock and coconut milk to make a thick consistency. Cover the pan with a lid and let the curry simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Garnish your curry with chopped cilantro and serve to your guest!
How to Serve Chicken Curry: Best Sides and Pairings:
Your delicious chicken curry is now ready! This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides.
Steamed Rice: Chicken curry with plain steamed rice is a classic combination. The mild flavor of rice allows the curry to shine.
Basmati Rice: For a fragrant touch, serve the curry with basmati rice, which has a delicate aroma and fluffy texture. I especially prefer this one.
Naan or Roti: For those who love bread, naan or roti is perfect for soaking up the curry sauce.
Paratha: A flaky Indian bread that adds richness to the meal.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Curry: What You Need to Know:
- Store your leftover curry in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2–3 days. Make sure to cool the curry at room temperature.
- Chicken curry can be frozen for up to 3 months, but it cools completely before freezing. You’ll need to freeze them in a freezer-safe container.
- When you are ready to eat, reheat the curry on the stovetop or microwave. If you found it too thick, then add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it up.
Chicken Curry Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Pan / Iron-Cast Skillet
- 1 Shallow Bowl
Ingredients
- 1.5 Ibs Chicken ( Bone-in or Boneless, Cut into Bite-sized Pieces )
- 2 Tbsp Vegetable Oil / Clarified
- 1 Large Onion Finely Chopped
- 2 Tbsp ginger-Garlic Paste
- 2 Medium Tomatoes Finely Chopped Or Puree
- 14 oz Coconut Milk
- 1 Cup Chicken Broth
- 1 Cup Cilantro
- 2 Tsp Ground Coriander
- 1 Tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 Tsp Indian Spice Blend Ground Spice
- 1 Tsp cumin Powder
- 1/2 Tsp Red Chili Powder
- 1/2 Tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1/2 Green Chilies
- 2 Tsp Salt To Taste
- 2-3 Piece Green Cardamom Pods
- 1 Cinnamon Stick
- 3-4 Cloves
- 1 Bay Leaf
Instructions
- Wash your chicken properly and marinate with yogurt, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. You can add ground spices as well it enhance overall flavour. Coat each piece thoroughly and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Take a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat, and add cumin seeds and chopped onions until it becomes golden brown or softens. Then add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the tomato puree and cook for at least 6-7 minutes. Next, you've got to add your spices, like ground cinnamon, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt, and cook for another 5 minutes. Make sure your spices will be well blended in tomato puree.
- Place your marinated chicken into the pan. Stir well and cook for at least 10 minutes. Then you'll need to add coconut milk and chicken stock to make it slightly thicker and more flavorful. Close the lid and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, and garnish with chopped cilantro. Your spicy, delicious chicken curry is ready to serve!!
Notes
FAQs:-
1) What makes chicken curry taste better?
Ans: Marinate your chicken with Yogurt, Ginger, garlic and spices to make the chicken tender and flavourful. fresh whole spices like cinnamon, cumin, and coriander and make sure to toast them before adding to curry. And let the curry simmer to allow the flavors to blend and deepen.
2) Can you add milk to a curry?
Ans: Yes, you can add milk to a curry. Almond milk and coconut milk are best. It helps to thicken the curry and makes them milder and creamier. Most of the Indians used cow’s milk, but if you want a vegan option, then feel free to add coconut milk.
3) What vegetables go well in a curry?
Ans: Potatoes, carrots, peas, cauliflower, spinach, bell peppers, green peas, and eggplant go well in a curry. You can experiment with chickpeas, sweet potatoes, zucchini, and brocolli as well. This vegetable adds a perfect texture and balance to the curry.
4) Why is my chicken curry not tasty?
Ans: Not using enough salt and fresh spices can make a curry taste bland. Another reason is that if your spices are not cooked long enough, they may taste raw or harsh. Try frying your spices in oil for a few minutes to release their full aroma and flavor. Make sure to use fresh spices and high-quality chicken.
Conclusion:
Making Indian chicken curry at home is easier than you might think! With a few simple ingredients and spices, you can create a meal that is full of flavor, comfort, and warmth. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this chicken curry recipe is sure to impress. And the best part? It’s totally customizable—so feel free to make it your own. Now that you have this simple recipe, give it a try and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade chicken curry. Once you make it, you’ll likely want to make it again and again.
