Simple Chicken Curry for Beginners

Indulge in the rich and aromatic world of Indian cuisine with this classic Chicken Curry recipe. A staple in many households, this dish is a symphony of flavors, combining tender chicken pieces with a medley of spices that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the warmth of garam masala to the tang of yogurt, creating a harmony that is both comforting and exotic.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to Indian cooking, this recipe offers a straightforward path to a deliciously spicy and savory meal that embodies the essence of Indian culinary tradition. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this Chicken Curry will transport you to the vibrant streets of India with every bite.

Whether you’ve made Indian food before or this is your first time, this recipe is pretty straight to the point. You’ll need some basic ingredients like chicken, onions, tomatoes, and a few spices to get the flavor just right. It’s a great dish for dinner and goes well with rice or bread. So, if you’re looking to try making some Indian chicken curry at home, this recipe should help you get a tasty meal on the table without too much fuss.

Simple Chicken Curry

Yogesh Khatri

Here's a simple Chicken Curry recipe that's a favorite in many homes. It's all about mixing chicken with a bunch of spices and letting it all cook together until it's just right. Whether you've made Indian food before or this is your first time, this recipe is pretty straight to the point.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 1 Kg Chicken drumsticks and thighs
• 4 Onions (medium size)
• 2 tsp Ginger (crushed)
• 2 tsp Garlic (crushed)
• 3 Tomatoes (roughly chopped)
• 3 Nos. Green Chillies (chopped)
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1.5 tsp Red Chilli Powder
• 1 tbsp Chicken Masala (see link to the recipe below)
• 2 tsp Coriander Powder
• 1.5 tsp Salt
• 5 tbsp Vegetable Oil

Instructions

 

• Clean & wash the chicken pieces and keep it to drain.
• Roughly chop the onions, tomatoes and green chillies.
• Peel and crush the ginger and garlic cloves.
• Heat oil in a pressure cooker (or pan if you don't have a pressure cooker)
• Add the spices for tempering and give a stir.
• Add the crushed ginger and garlic and fry on medium heat for 2 mins.
• Add the chopped tomatoes and green chillies and fry on medium heat for 2 mins.
• Add the turmeric powder and mix & fry on medium heat for around 3 mins till tomatoes are soft.
• Now add the chicken pieces and fry on high heat for 2-3 mins till the chicken pieces are browned.
• Add the readymade chicken masala, red Chilli powder and salt, mix and bhunno on high heat for 5 mins. Continue to fry on medium heat for another 5 mins.
• Now add 200 ml water and cook on low heat for around 20 mins till the chicken pieces are tender and oil separates.

Notes

1. Marination Time: Marinating the chicken is crucial as it helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavors. Although a minimum of 30 minutes is suggested, marinating it overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the taste and texture of the chicken.
2. Heat Levels: The amount of green chilies and red chili powder can significantly affect the spiciness of the curry. Adjust these ingredients according to your preference for heat.
3. Cooking the Onions: Taking the time to cook the onions until golden brown is key for a rich base. This process, known as caramelizing, adds sweetness and depth to the curry.
4. Preventing Yogurt from Curdling: When adding yogurt, ensure the heat is low, and stir continuously. Using room temperature yogurt and beating it well before adding can also help prevent curdling.
5. Simmering the Curry: Letting the curry simmer gently after adding all the ingredients allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender. Avoid rushing this step.
6. Adjusting the Consistency: The amount of water added can be adjusted based on how thick or thin you prefer the curry. Start with a little and add more as needed.
7. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ginger, garlic, and cilantro will make a significant difference in the flavor profile of the curry compared to using pre-ground or dried versions.
8. Resting Time: Allowing the curry to sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving can help the flavors to settle and integrate better.
9. Serving Suggestions: This curry pairs beautifully with basmati rice or Indian breads like naan or roti. Consider serving it with a side of cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance the flavors.
10. Storage: Leftover curry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It can also be frozen for up to a month.

Keyword bachelor chicken curry, chicken curry, chicken curry for beginners, quick chicken curry

How to Serve Chicken Curry

Serve the Simple Chicken Curry hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan bread for a comforting and hearty meal. The flavors of the curry are robust and versatile, making it a perfect companion to both rice and bread.

Simple Chicken Curry is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. It brings together the warmth of spices, the tenderness of chicken, and the heartiness of a homemade curry in a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re sitting down to a family dinner or looking for a touch of home in your meal, this chicken curry is sure to hit the spot. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most memorable, offering a taste of love and comfort in every bite.

CLICK HERE for some more delicious Indian Chicken Recipes.