If you’re looking to add some spice to your dinner routine, this easy chicken curry recipe is just what you need. Perfectly balanced with aromatic spices, tender chicken, and rich flavors, this dish can transport you straight to the heart of India. Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying your hand at Indian cuisine for the first time, this recipe is accessible and delicious. Using quality ingredients is essential for a great curry.
Making Chicken Curry Recipe
Ingredients
To make this chicken curry recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound chicken pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp minced ginger
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
3 medium fresh blended tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp cilantro for garnish
1 tbsp lemon juice
Spice Mix
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp chilli
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar
Step by Step Instructions To Make This Chicken Curry
Start by adding the spice mix in a bowl and setting it aside. Next, in a medium bowl, combine the chicken, spices, and some oil, and marinate the chicken for about 30 minutes then air-fry at 400 degrees for 30 minutes. Alternatively, add the oil to a large skillet over medium heat then add the chicken and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Next, add the chopped onion to the same skillet and sauté until it turns golden brown, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Add the ginger and garlic and saute for another 2 minutes. The caramelized onions will add depth to your curry. If the pan is a bit dry, add water to prevent sticking.
Next, stir in the tomatoes and cook until the liquid evaporates. This combination creates a beautiful aromatic base for your dish. Now add the chicken pieces to the skillet, mixing everything so the chicken is well coated with the spices. Then, pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
As the curry simmers, you can prepare your side dishes. Basmati rice is a classic pairing that complements the spices wonderfully. You can also serve it with naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For an extra touch, drizzle the lemon juice and stir well to combine. Garnish your curry with fresh cilantro before serving.
One of the great things about this Indian chicken curry is its versatility. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less cayenne pepper or even incorporating chili peppers if you like it spicy. You can also experiment with vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
This dish is not only simple but also a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. Plus, doubling the recipe is easy if you’re feeding a larger group.
Easy Chicken Curry Recipe
Discover the best chicken curry recipe with our easy and authentic Indian-inspired dish. Made with tender chicken, flavourful spices, and creamy suce
2tsp minced garliccan sub for 2 tsp garlic/ginger paste then skip ginger below
1tspminced gingercan sub for 2 tsp garlic/ginger paste then skip garlic above
3medium ripe tomatoesblended
1mediumred onionchopped into small cubes
2tbspolive oil
1 cup coconut milk
1tbsp cilantro chopped to garnish (optional)
Spice Mix
1/2 tsp black pepper
1tsp garam masala
1/2tsp turmeric
1/2tsp cumin
1tspchilli
1tsp paprika
1/2tsp cayenne pepperoptional
1tbsp curry powder
1/2tsp sugaror monkfruit/erythritol
1tspsalt
1tbsplemon juice
Instructions
Add the spice mix to a bowl and set aside
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, spice mix, and some oil, and marinate the chicken for about 30 minutes then air-fry at 400 degrees for 30 minutes.
Next, add the chopped onion to a skillet and sauté until it turns golden brown, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Add the ginger and garlic and saute for another 2 minutes. The caramelized onions will add depth to your curry. If the pan is a bit dry, add water to prevent sticking.
Next, stir in the tomatoes and cook until the liquid evaporates. This combination creates a beautiful aromatic base for your dish.
Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
Now add the chicken pieces to the skillet, mixing everything so the chicken is well coated with the sauce
Stir and cover the skillet then simmer for about 10 min or until it cooks to a thick consistency. Drizzle the lemon juice and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust salt as needed
Garnish with the cilantro and serve hot!
Notes
Please note that the nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary significantly based on the products used in the recipe
For those who avoid vegetables, you can sneak in bell peppers, or carrots by blending until smooth and adding them together with the tomatoes.
You can serve this dish with cauliflower rice for those on a low-carb diet.
If no fresh tomatoes, you can use 1 cup of canned tomatoes or marinara sauce. Just make sure you throw it in the blender as well to remove any chunky parts
Store and Freeze
This dish can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, I recommend freezing for up to 3 months. It’ll still taste good.
Conclusion
This easy chicken curry recipe is perfect for anyone looking to dive into the world of Indian cooking. With its straightforward steps and comforting flavors, it’s an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner.
So, why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and enjoy the fragrant aromas of your kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you for this delightful chicken curry experience. Happy cooking!
Is it possible to prepare this curry without using coconut milk?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream or plain yogurt for a similar creaminess, though the flavor will be less rich. Light coconut milk also works if you want a lower-fat version.
What can I serve with coconut chicken curry?
Basmati rice and naan bread are the classic pairings, as they soak up the sauce well. Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative.
How long does this curry last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs rather than chicken breast?
Absolutely, boneless thighs work well and tend to stay juicier during cooking. Just adjust cooking time slightly since thigh meat may cook a bit faster.
How do I make this curry spicier or milder?
Increase the cayenne pepper or add fresh chili peppers for more heat. To tone it down, simply reduce or omit the cayenne and chili from the spice mix.
About Devine Dishes
A lifelong love of cooking, one delicious recipe at a time.
Welcome to Devine Dishes! I'm so glad you're here.
I'm the cook, recipe creator, and food lover behind this little corner of the internet. Born and raised in Kenya, my love for cooking started when I was very young. Even as a child, I would happily volunteer to cook for the family, leaving the dishes and laundry for my siblings. Looking back, I think I had already discovered my passion and a clever way to avoid some chores! 😜
Where My Love for Cooking Began
In high school, I chose Home Science and quickly discovered that baking was something I truly enjoyed. I went on to win awards in provincial school baking competitions for three consecutive years. Those were incredibly proud moments for me, and I loved the feeling of creating something delicious with my own hands.
But not everyone saw cooking the way I did.
I still remember the day my chemistry teacher laughed out loud in class after I received one of my baking medals. He told me I was wasting my time with cooking and that I should focus on the sciences, which would give me a better future than cookies and cakes.
It was an embarrassing moment, especially as a student who was proud of something she had worked hard to achieve. But I didn't stop cooking.
That experience stayed with me, not because it changed my passion, but because it reminded me that sometimes you have to believe in yourself even when others don't understand your dreams.
From Cooking for Family to Building a Food Business
Over the years, my love for cooking has taken me on quite a journey.
I've explored different food business ideas, from cooking and selling chapatis and mandazis to catering, meal preparation, and delivery. Each experience taught me something new about food, business, and the joy of sharing a good meal with others.
Today, I'm excited to bring that passion to food blogging.
Devine Dishes is a place where I share the recipes I love, the ones I'm learning, and the ones I can't wait for you to try. You'll find African and Kenyan favorites, comforting family meals, delicious baking recipes, and practical dishes that make cooking at home enjoyable.
My goal is simple: to help you discover recipes that are delicious, approachable, and worth making again.
More Than Just Recipes
For me, food has always been about more than feeding people. It's about family, memories, creativity, and bringing people together.
When I'm not working, you'll often find me trying out new recipes, creating and editing content, or spending time with family. Sometimes we're swimming, watching TV, or simply chatting over a good meal. Those ordinary moments are some of my favorite moments.
I also love traveling and discovering new places, cultures, and foods. I'm hoping to do much more of it in the near future, and I'm excited about the inspiration those experiences will bring to my cooking and future recipes.
Thank You for Being Here
Whether you're visiting Devine Dishes for a Kenyan recipe, looking for something delicious to bake, or simply exploring new meals to try, thank you for being part of this journey.
Every recipe shared here is a little piece of my love for cooking, my experiences, and the belief that it's never too late to pursue something you're passionate about.
I hope you find something delicious, make wonderful memories around your table, and come back often.
Happy cooking!
With love,
Milli
The heart behind Devine Dishes
🥥🍗 Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor! The coconut sauce was incredibly delicious, and the recipe was simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Will definitely make it again!
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🥥🍗 Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor! The coconut sauce was incredibly delicious, and the recipe was simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Will definitely make it again!