Simply Scrumptious Chicken Curry
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a Chicken Curry , love? Oh my gosh, you're in for a treat! This isn't just any chicken curry recipe , it's the one.
I reckon it's like getting a big hug in a bowl, perfect for a chilly evening. Think tender chicken, rich spices, and a creamy sauce.
Honestly, you'll lick the bowl clean!
Quick Hook
Ever craved a flavour bomb that's also comforting? You've found it with this easy chicken curry recipe . It’s brimming with warm spices and a touch of creaminess.
This recipe is also super easy to make.
Brief Overview
This homemade chicken curry is my take on a classic Indian dish, tweaked for the British palate. It's not too difficult, taking around an hour from start to finish.
This curry chicken recipes serving size is made for 4-6 hungry people, so great for the whole family or a cozy night in with mates!
Main Benefits
Did you know turmeric, a key ingredient, is great for boosting your immune system? This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner when you're feeling a bit under the weather.
What makes this dish really special is the balance of flavours. It's not too spicy, not too bland, just right .
Now, let's get down to the chicken curry ingredients , shall we?
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Curry Cookin'!
Right then, before we dive headfirst into this simply scrumptious chicken curry , let's sort out what we need. Honestly, you probably have most of this stuff already knocking about.
No need for fancy pants gadgets, just good old-fashioned basics.
Main Chicken Curry Ingredients
Okay, pay attention. It's all about the measurements here, yeah? Get these right, and you're halfway to a stellar easy chicken curry recipe .
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 inch pieces. Pro Tip: Chicken thighs are more forgiving. They don't dry out like breasts do.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp (15ml) . Freshly squeezed is always best. It just zings the flavors.
- Ground Turmeric: 1 tsp (5g) . Look for a vibrant yellow color. Dull turmeric is past its prime.
- Garam Masala: 1 tsp (3g) . This is the heart of the homemade chicken curry . Get a good one, or make your own for extra credit.
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (2.5g) .
- Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp (1.25g) .
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life!
Spices are the key to a Curry Chicken Recipes . This is where the magic happens. Don't be afraid to experiment a little. Taste as you go.
- Essential Combo: Coriander, cumin, and turmeric. These are your base notes.
- Flavor Enhancers: Ginger and garlic are non-negotiable. Green chilies if you want a kick.
- Quick Swaps: Out of coriander? Use a bit more cumin. No fresh ginger? Ground ginger works in a pinch ( 1/2 tsp ).
- Coconut Milk Curry is not only a curry but it´s also a healthy alternative.
- For an Easy Chicken Curry Recipe , you can adjust the flavour profile by changing the amount of spice of your preference.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Silly!
No need to raid a professional kitchen. We're making a weeknight chicken curry here, not opening a restaurant.
- Large Bowl: For marinating the chicken. A big mixing bowl will do.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: A decent size so nothing is cramped together.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Eye-balling doesn't cut it here.
- Cutting Board and Chef's Knife: For chopping veggies and chicken.
- Grater: For the ginger. A microplane is your friend.
Right, that's the gear sorted. Let's get this chicken curry with rice on the go, shall we? Trust me, even if you've never made a curry before, you'll nail this.
Let's Get Curry ing: A Simple Method
Honestly, who doesn't love a good chicken curry ? It's proper comfort food. It warms you up from the inside.
I'm going to tell you how to make this easy chicken curry recipe
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential Mise en Place: First things first, chop your 1 large onion. Mince 2 cloves of garlic. Grate 1 inch of ginger. Dice 1.5 lbs of chicken. Get all your spices out. Trust me, it makes life easier.
- Time Saving Tips: Marinate the chicken in advance. Combine chicken with 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. You know, do it the night before or in the morning. It will make the flavours pop
- Safety Reminders: When dealing with chillies, be careful. Wash your hands thoroughly after chopping them. You don't want to accidentally rub your eyes later!
step-by-step for Curry Perfection
- Marinate the chicken, let it chill for at least 15 minutes .
- Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tbsp of oil. Add onions and soften. Add garlic and ginger. Cook until fragrant.
- Bloom the spices: Add 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp coriander, 1 tsp cumin, and 1/2 tsp chili powder if using. Stir until fragrant.
- Simmer the Curry: Add the 14.5oz diced tomatoes and 1 cup chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pan to get all the good bits.
- Add the chicken: Stir to combine with all the other ingredients.
- Cook the Chicken: Reduce heat to low, cover. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through. It should take roughly 20- 25 minutes .
- Finish: Stir in 1/2 cup of cream and simmer for a few minutes more.
- Garnish and serve: Chop 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro and sprinkle on top. Serve hot and enjoy.
Pro Tips for a BANGING Chicken Curry
- Flavour Shortcut: If you're in a real hurry (we've all been there), use a pre-made curry paste. Just adjust the amount to your liking. And if you like coconut, try this coconut milk curry
- Avoid Overcooking: The chicken will dry out and get rubbery. Cook it until just cooked through.
- make-ahead Option: This curry tastes even better the next day! The flavours meld together beautifully in the fridge.
So, there you have it. A simple yet scrumptious chicken curry . Perfect with basmati rice, and makes for a proper weeknight chicken curry meal.
Give it a go, and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to check the chicken curry ingredients before you start.
There are a lot of curry chicken recipes out there but, let me tell you, this is one of the curry recipes easy to prepare!
Recipe Notes: Elevate Your Simply Scrumptious Chicken Curry !
Right then, let's talk about some bits and bobs to make your easy chicken curry recipe even more amazing. Honestly, a little planning goes a long way.
I've made my fair share of curries, and these are the tricks I've picked up along the way.
Ace Plating and Perfect Pairings
Think about how you want your curry to look . A nice pile of fluffy basmati rice next to a generous helping of curry, sprinkled with fresh cilantro, looks fantastic.
I sometimes add a swirl of cream, just for the effect, you know?
For sides, naan bread is a must. A cooling raita (cucumber and yogurt dip) balances the spice perfectly. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch.
As for drinks, a light beer or even a chilled glass of white wine complements the curry without overpowering it.
Storage Secrets: Keeping the Curry Love Alive
If you've got leftovers, you're in luck! Store your homemade chicken curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
It actually tastes even better the next day because the flavours have had a chance to meld.
Fancy making a big batch? This curry chicken recipes freezes brilliantly. Portion it out into freezer safe containers and it'll keep for up to 3 months.
To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge and then gently warm it through on the hob or in the microwave.
Spice It Up (or Tone It Down): Curry Variations for Everyone
Fancy a bit of a twist? If you're after a milder coconut milk curry , swap the heavy cream for coconut milk it's also great if you're dairy-free.
For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas or roasted vegetables.
Seasonal swaps are fun too. In the autumn, add butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness. Oh my gosh! It turns into a brilliant, cozy autumn dinner.
Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in Every Bite
Each serving of this simply scrumptous chicken curry has approximately 450 calories, packing a punch with 35g of protein to keep you full, and important vitamins and minerals from all those spices.
Key health benefits include the anti inflammatory properties of turmeric and ginger. I often try to incorporate Curry recipes easy like this one to my diet at least once a week.
So there you have it! A few extra tips to make your chicken curry with rice truly special. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my chicken curry recipe even more flavourful?
Flavour is king! Don't rush the sautéing of the onions, garlic, and ginger this is where the base flavour is built. Also, try blooming your spices by cooking them in the hot oil for a minute or two before adding the tomatoes; this really unlocks their aroma.
For a deeper richness, use ghee instead of vegetable oil.
Can I freeze this chicken curry recipe for later?
Absolutely! Chicken curry freezes brilliantly. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
You might want to add a splash of water or broth if it seems a little dry after thawing.
What's the best way to adjust the spice level in this chicken curry?
Spice is personal! Start with a small amount of chili powder or green chillies, and taste as you go. Remember, you can always add more heat, but it's difficult to take it away. If you accidentally make it too spicy, a dollop of yogurt or cream can help to cool things down. Serve with a cooling raita alongside!
I'm dairy-free. Can I still enjoy this chicken curry?
Of course! Simply substitute the heavy cream with full fat coconut milk. It adds a lovely richness and a subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. It’s a fantastic way to make the dish dairy-free without sacrificing flavour or creaminess.
What kind of rice goes best with this scrumptious chicken curry?
While any rice works, basmati rice is the classic choice, as its long grains and slightly nutty flavour pair perfectly with the creamy, spiced curry sauce. Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and get those grains fluffy. Serve with a sprinkling of fresh cilantro for that extra oomph!
Simply Scrumptious Chicken Curry
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |