Save Warm your soul with a bowl of this Easy Chicken Curry, a dish that balances rich, creamy textures with the vibrant kick of traditional Indian spices. This recipe transforms humble pantry staples into a gourmet meal that feels like a warm embrace, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight escape into global flavors.
Save Beyond its incredible taste, this curry is designed for efficiency. By using chicken thighs, you ensure the meat stays juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. The tangy yogurt finish adds a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness of the cream, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 medium onion (finely chopped), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 inch ginger (grated), 2 medium tomatoes (finely chopped)
- Dairy: 1/2 cup (120 g) plain whole-milk yogurt, 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
- Spices: 2 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Other: 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee, 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Step 4
- Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
- Step 5
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and break down.
- Step 6
- Lower the heat and stir in the yogurt, mixing well. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7
- Pour in the water and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer gently for another 5–10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
- Step 9
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra layer of depth and authentic aroma, sprinkle a pinch of garam masala over the dish just before serving. If you prefer using chicken breast, keep a close eye on the simmering time in the final steps to ensure the meat remains moist and doesn't become dry.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. To make a dairy-free or vegan-friendly version of the sauce, simply substitute the yogurt and heavy cream with an equal amount of full-fat coconut milk. This swap adds a lovely tropical sweetness while maintaining the desired creaminess.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this golden curry piping hot over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or with warm, buttery naan bread to soak up every drop of the rich sauce. A final garnish of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that rounds out the dish perfectly.
Save Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Easy Chicken Curry provides a reliable and delicious way to bring the essence of Indian cuisine to your table. With its balanced nutrition and comforting warmth, it's a recipe you'll return to time and time again.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs. However, reduce the simmering time slightly to prevent the meat from becoming dry, as breast meat cooks faster and has less fat.
- → How can I make this curry dairy-free?
Replace the yogurt and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. This will give you a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile with a creamy consistency.
- → What can I serve with this chicken curry?
This curry pairs perfectly with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or quinoa for added protein.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. The chili powder is optional and controls the heat level. Start with less or omit it entirely for a milder curry, or add more for extra spice. You can also add fresh chili peppers if desired.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
- → What is the purpose of blooming the spices?
Cooking the spices for a minute after adding them to the chicken helps release their essential oils and intensifies their flavors. This technique, called blooming, creates a more aromatic and flavorful curry.