Chicken Curry



 Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Chicken Curry, a classic and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Chicken Curry Recipe

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken Marinade:

    • 1 lb (450 g) chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon turmeric
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
    • Salt to taste
  • For the Curry:

    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    • 2 onions, finely chopped
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1-inch piece ginger, minced
    • 2 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomato sauce)
    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
    • 1 teaspoon turmeric
    • 1 teaspoon garam masala
    • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
    • 1 cup water or chicken broth
    • 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional, for a richer curry)
    • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
    • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken:

    • In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
  2. Prepare the Curry Base:

    • Heat oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Stir in minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Spices:

    • Add chopped tomatoes (or tomato sauce) to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes break down and become a thick paste, about 5 minutes.
    • Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
  4. Cook the Chicken:

    • Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
    • Pour in water or chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Finish the Curry:

    • Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream (if using) and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust salt to taste.
  6. Garnish and Serve:

    • Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
    • Serve hot with rice, naan, or other Indian bread.

Tips:

  • Marinate Well: Marinating the chicken not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.
  • Adjust Heat: Modify the amount of chili powder based on your preference for spiciness.
  • Make It Creamier: For a richer curry, you can add more cream or coconut milk.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Curry! It’s a versatile dish that you can customize to suit your taste preferences.