Pollo al Curry: A Flavorful Chicken Curry Recipe
Are you in the mood for a comforting, aromatic dish that combines tender chicken with the rich flavors of spices and yogurt? This Pollo al Curry, or Chicken Curry, is a vibrant and hearty meal that will transport you straight to the heart of Indian-inspired cuisine. The dish is packed with warm spices like turmeric, cumin, and smoked paprika, paired with tangy Greek yogurt to create a luscious, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the succulent chicken. To complement the dish, a fragrant side of basmati rice, delicately seasoned with cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise, brings the meal to new heights of flavor.
This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a special occasion, and it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. With a prep time of just under an hour, you’ll have a meal that’s both satisfying and full of character. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this Pollo al Curry will surely impress.
Ingredients
(For 4 servings)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 800g |
| Greek yogurt | 250g |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Cayenne pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground turmeric | 2 teaspoons |
| Smoked paprika | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons |
| Coriander seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh ginger | To taste |
| Fresh chili pepper | 1 |
| White onions | 1 |
| Fresh coriander (for garnish) | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 10g |
| Basmati rice | 400g |
| Water | 600g |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 |
| Cardamom pods | 3 |
| Star anise | 1 |
| Coarse salt | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Start by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine all the dry spices: cayenne pepper, ground turmeric, smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, ground cumin, and coriander seeds. Add a pinch of black pepper and salt. Then, stir in the Greek yogurt until the spices are well incorporated into the yogurt. This will form a fragrant and creamy marinade.
Take the chicken breasts and cut them into small cubes, about 1.5 cm in size. Add the chicken pieces to the yogurt mixture and make sure each piece is well coated with the marinade. Once the chicken is fully coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, allow it to marinate for up to an hour or longer if you have the time.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the chicken marinates, prepare the basmati rice. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, which will help the rice cook up light and fluffy. Once rinsed, place the rice in a saucepan. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and star anise to the rice for a subtle but aromatic flavor.
Pour in the water (600g), and add a pinch of coarse salt to the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let the rice cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the grains are tender and the water has been absorbed. Remove the rice from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork. The warm spices will infuse the rice, adding an aromatic fragrance that perfectly complements the chicken curry.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Cook the Chicken
Now it’s time to cook the chicken. Peel and thinly slice the white onion. Set it aside. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic clove and gently crush it with the side of a knife. Add the garlic to the pan, letting it infuse the oil with its aroma for about 30 seconds.
Next, add the sliced onions to the pan. Sauté the onions for about 3-4 minutes, until they become translucent and soft. As the onions cook, grate the fresh ginger and finely chop the fresh chili pepper. Add these to the pan, stirring to combine.
Once the onions are soft, add the marinated chicken along with all the yogurt mixture into the pan. Stir the chicken to coat it in the onions and spices. Allow the chicken to cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that it cooks evenly. The yogurt will thicken into a creamy sauce, and the spices will release their deep, warm flavors.
Step 4: Final Touches and Garnish
Once the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 75°C), taste the curry and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a little extra salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper for more heat if desired. Stir in a handful of fresh chopped coriander to add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
Serve the Pollo al Curry hot with the fragrant basmati rice on the side. Garnish with additional fresh coriander and a slice of chili if you like an extra kick of spice. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 42g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
Pro Tips for Success
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Customize the Spices: This recipe uses a variety of spices, but feel free to adjust them to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the cayenne pepper or chili.
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Yogurt Consistency: Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture to the curry. For a lighter version, you can use plain yogurt or a non-dairy alternative, though the consistency may vary.
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Make Ahead: The chicken curry can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors only improve as they meld together, making it a great dish for meal prep.
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Vegetarian Option: You can make this dish vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or paneer, which will absorb the spices beautifully.
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Adjust the Heat: If you like more heat, feel free to add extra fresh chili peppers or a bit of chili powder to the curry. For a more subdued flavor, use milder spices like sweet paprika.
Conclusion
Pollo al Curry is a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With its creamy yogurt base and fragrant spices, this curry is sure to become a household favorite. Pair it with aromatic basmati rice and a sprinkle of fresh coriander to complete the meal and enjoy a taste of comfort with every bite. Enjoy the rich flavors, the perfect balance of spices, and the tenderness of the chicken, all in one satisfying dish.
