Curry Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics

1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Chop the onion finely. Mince the garlic and grate the fresh ginger.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Bloom Spices

1. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or deep pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the curry powder, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, and chili powder/cayenne (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, allowing the spices to become fragrant (this is called "blooming" and enhances their flavor).

Step 3: Sear Chicken and Build the Sauce

1. Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Increase heat to medium-high and sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides. It doesn't need to be cooked through at this stage.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes (or tomato paste). If using tomato paste, cook for 1 minute before adding broth.
3. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish the Curry

1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the curry simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
2. Stir in the full-fat coconut milk (or heavy cream).
3. Add the garam masala.
4. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly to your desired consistency and the flavors have melded.
5. Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat.
2. Ladle the Creamy & Flavorful Chicken Curry over hot, fluffy Basmati rice.
3. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

Extra Tips for a Perfect Curry Chicken 

• Don't Overcook Chicken: Especially if using chicken breast, be mindful not to overcook it, as it can become dry. Thighs are more forgiving.
• Good Quality Spices: Fresh, good quality spices make a big difference in the flavor of your curry.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder or cayenne to suit your heat preference.
• Make Ahead: Chicken curry often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. It stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Serving Suggestions: Beyond rice, this curry is also delicious with naan bread, roti, or alongside steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Value 

(per serving, based on 4 servings, without rice)

Benefits 

• ✅ Protein-Rich & Satisfying: Chicken provides lean, filling protein to fuel your day.
• ✅ Boosts Immunity: Traditional spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic offer powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.
• ✅ Naturally Gluten-Free: A great choice for gluten-sensitive diets when served with rice or gluten-free bread.
• ✅ Versatile & Adjustable Heat Levels: You can control the spice level to suit your taste—mild, medium, or hot.
• ✅ Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or weekly meal planning.

Curry Chicken is more than just a meal—it's an explosion of flavor that brings warmth, comfort, and satisfaction to every bite. Whether you're new to cooking with spices or a seasoned curry lover, this easy and adaptable dish is sure to become a regular favorite on your table.

Discover more flavorful curry recipes, easy weeknight meals, and spice-filled dishes on our site. With just a few simple steps, you can serve a hearty, aromatic Curry Chicken that the whole family will love.