This spicy chicken curry is a flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich and aromatic sauce. With a blend of spices and coconut milk, it offers a delightful taste experience.
The recipe is straightforward and can be adjusted to suit your spice preference. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The foundation of this spicy chicken curry lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Tender chicken thighs are the star, providing a juicy and flavorful base for the dish.
Complementing the chicken are aromatic spices such as curry powder, cumin, and coriander. These spices work together to create a warm and inviting flavor profile, while turmeric adds a beautiful golden hue.
Fresh tomatoes and coconut milk contribute to the sauce’s richness, balancing the spices with a hint of sweetness. The addition of garlic and ginger enhances the overall aroma, making it irresistible.
Preparation Steps to Perfection
Preparing this dish is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Start by marinating the chicken with spices, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step is crucial for achieving a depth of flavor.
Next, sauté onions until golden brown, then add garlic and ginger for an aromatic base. Once the chicken is browned, tomatoes are stirred in, creating a savory mixture that simmers beautifully with coconut milk.
Cooking Time and Serving Suggestions
This spicy chicken curry takes about 50 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner.
Once cooked, the dish is garnished with fresh cilantro, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Serve it alongside fluffy white rice or warm naan bread to soak up the delicious sauce, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
Creating the Perfect Atmosphere
Presentation plays a significant role in enjoying this dish.
Serve the curry in a vibrant bowl, showcasing the rich, golden sauce and tender chicken pieces.
Pair it with a mound of fluffy rice and a side of naan on a rustic wooden table for a warm and inviting dining experience.
Health Benefits of Spicy Chicken Curry
This dish not only satisfies the palate but also offers nutritional benefits.
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
The spices used in the curry, such as turmeric and ginger, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, adding a healthful twist to the meal.
Variations to Try
While this recipe is delightful as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it.
For those who prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red chili powder.
Vegetarians can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, maintaining the essence of the dish while catering to different dietary preferences.
Easy Spicy Chicken Curry Recipe
This chicken curry features marinated chicken cooked with onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, creating a savory sauce. The dish takes about 50 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Simmer with Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy with rice or naan.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g