Chicken Curry Recipe
As a housewife and a passionate cook, I am always on the lookout for new recipes to try out in the kitchen. One dish that holds a special place in my heart is the Chicken Curry. The aromatic blend of spices, tender chicken, and rich creamy sauce is a combination that can never go wrong. This dish takes me back to my childhood when my mother would prepare it on special occasions, and the aroma would fill the entire house. I remember the first time I cooked this dish, the flavors were perfect, and the texture was so tender that it melted in my mouth. Since then, I have been experimenting with different variations of this dish, and it has become a staple in my family’s weekly meal plan.
What is Chicken Curry?
Chicken curry is a flavorful dish made by simmering chicken in a spicy sauce consisting of a blend of aromatic spices, onions, tomatoes, and yogurt or coconut milk. The dish is a popular staple in Indian cuisine but has now gained popularity worldwide. The preparation of chicken curry varies from region to region, and each variation brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Variations of Chicken Curry Recipe
- Indian Chicken Curry – This is the most popular variation of chicken curry, and it is what most people think of when they hear the name. It is made with a blend of spices, including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The dish is typically served with steamed rice or Indian bread such as naan or roti.
- Thai Chicken Curry – Thai chicken curry is a spicy and tangy dish that is made with Thai red or green curry paste, coconut milk, and fish sauce. The dish is flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai basil. It is usually served with steamed rice or noodles.
- Malaysian Chicken Curry – Malaysian chicken curry is a rich and flavorful dish made with a blend of spices such as coriander, cumin, and fennel seeds. It is typically made with coconut milk, potatoes, and lemongrass. The dish is usually served with steamed rice or Malaysian flatbread known as roti canai.
- Jamaican Chicken Curry – Jamaican chicken curry is a spicy and aromatic dish that is made with a blend of spices such as allspice, ginger, and thyme. The dish is usually made with coconut milk, sweet potatoes, and scallions. It is typically served with rice and peas or Jamaican dumplings known as festivals.
- South African Chicken Curry – South African chicken curry is a mild and fragrant dish that is made with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. It is usually made with apricots, raisins, and almonds, which give the dish a sweet and nutty flavor. It is typically served with rice or South African bread known as roti.
Nutrition – Chicken Curry
Chicken curry is a dish that is not only delicious but also provides a range of health benefits. Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. The spices used in chicken curry such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These spices can help reduce inflammation in the body and protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
The addition of vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and potatoes in the dish provides essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Potassium. Coconut milk used in some variations of the dish is a great source of healthy fats that can help improve cholesterol levels and provide energy.
Step by step Chicken Curry Recipe
Chicken Curry Recipe
Ingredients
For Marination
- 400 grams Chicken Breast / boneless chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
- 1.5 tsp Chicken Breast / boneless chicken
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
For Curry/ Gravy
- 2 tbsp oil
- 3 cloves garlic chopped or 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 inch ginger chopped or 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 ½ cup onion paste
- ½ cup tomato puree
- ¼ tsp Cumin (Jeera)
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 2 cups water
- 1 tbsp kasuri methi / dry fenugreek leaves
- ½ tsp garam masala
- coriander leaves / cilantro for garnishing
Instructions
Preparation
- Assemble all ingredients together to avoid last minute rush.
- Clean and chop the chicken into small pieces first, then add all the ingredients mentioned in the marination to a Mixing Bowl along with the chicken pieces.
- Mix everything very well and leave for marination in fridge for atleast 1 ½ -2 hours.
Cooking
- Heat 2 tbsp oil in a Kadai or Pan over medium flame and add 3 chopped garlic cloves and ginger paste. I like this combination, you can choose any ginger garlic combination as per your liking. Saute well till raw aroma of ginger goes away.
- Then, add onion paste or grated onion. Saute the paste with ginger and garlic until golden brown.
- Add ½ cup tomato puree to the kadai or pan and mix well.
- Then, add cumin seeds, salt and coriander powder.
- Saute the spices with the masala until oil separates from the sides of the Kadai or Pan. This means, masala is well sautéed.
- Now, add marinated chicken pieces in the masala and mix well.
- Cover with the lid and cook for 10 mins until chicken is half cooked.
- Add 2 cups of water to the chicken and mix thoroughly.
- Cook for another 10 mins.
- Add kasoori methi and garam masala. Simmer for 2 more mins.
- Serve Chicken Curry hot with steamed rice or naan or chapati and onion rings.
Equipment Used for This Recipe
Step by Step Video of Recipe
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
FAQs – Chicken Curry Recipe
What is the best cut of chicken to use for chicken curry?
The best cut of chicken to use for chicken curry is bone-in chicken. The bone adds extra flavor to the dish, and the meat stays juicy and tender during the cooking process. I personally like using chicken thighs as they have a higher fat content, making them more flavorful than chicken breasts.
What spices are typically used in chicken curry?
Spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder are commonly used in chicken curry recipes. The combination of these spices gives the dish a unique flavor profile that is both savory and spicy. Additionally, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves can be added to give the dish a sweet and warm taste.
What vegetables can I add to my chicken curry?
You can add a variety of vegetables to your chicken curry, such as potatoes, carrots, onions, and bell peppers. These vegetables add texture, color, and flavor to the dish. Some recipes also call for the addition of spinach or peas, which give the curry a fresh and vibrant taste.
How long does it take to cook chicken curry?
The cooking time for chicken curry can vary depending on the recipe and cooking method. In general, it takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to cook chicken curry on the stove. However, using a slow cooker or pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time.
Can I make chicken curry in advance?
Yes, chicken curry can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld together over time, making it even more delicious. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
How can I make my chicken curry less spicy?
If you want to make your chicken curry less spicy, reduce the amount of chili powder or red pepper flakes used in the recipe. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or sour cream to the dish to cool down the heat. Another option is to add more coconut milk or cream, which will give the curry a creamier texture and milder taste.
Can I make chicken curry without coconut milk?
Yes, you can make chicken curry without coconut milk. Instead, you can use heavy cream, yogurt, or cashew cream to give the curry a creamy texture. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile of the dish, and it may not taste like traditional chicken curry.
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