Easy Chicken Curry Recipe with Garam Masala and Fresh Coriander

Easy Chicken Curry Recipe

Chicken curry, also known as chicken masala, is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the bold, aromatic flavors of Indian spices to your plate. With a blend of turmeric, garam masala, and a hint of heat from green chilies, this easy-to-make chicken curry is perfect for those who enjoy a medium spice level. Quick to prepare, yet rich in taste, it makes for a satisfying meal served with plain rice or roti.

Ingredients:

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Dietary Information:

• Dairy-Free

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Onions:
   Begin by blending the onions in a food processor until they form a smooth paste. This will serve as the base for the curry.

2. Sauté the Onion Paste:
   Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion paste to the pan and sauté. If the paste starts to stick to the pan, add a small amount of water and stir to loosen.

3. Season the Onions:
   Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the onions to help them soften and cook more evenly. Stir occasionally to ensure the onions cook without burning.

4. Blend Ginger, Garlic, and Chilies:
   In a blender, combine the garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Add a small amount of water if necessary and blend to form a smooth paste.

5. Add the Ginger-Garlic-Chili Paste:
   After the onions have browned a little (about 10 minutes of cooking), stir in the ginger, garlic, and chili paste. Continue cooking for a few minutes until the paste becomes aromatic.

6. Add Pureed Tomatoes:
   Stir in the pureed plum tomatoes. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until the tomatoes break down and the oil begins to separate from the masala.

7. Spice it Up:
   Lower the heat and add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir well to combine all the spices. Allow the masala to cook together for a few minutes until it thickens and becomes paste-like.

8. Add Chicken:
   Add the chopped chicken thigh fillets to the masala. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spicy sauce. Let it cook for a few minutes, then cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let the curry simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring intermittently, until the chicken is fully cooked.

9. Adjust the Consistency:
   If you prefer a bit more gravy in your curry, pour in some hot water and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

10. Season and Finish:
    Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once satisfied, sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped coriander into the curry and give it a final stir.

11. Serve:
    Serve this hearty chicken curry hot with plain rice or roti for a complete meal.

Allergen Information:

• This recipe is dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a dairy-free diet. It contains no dairy ingredients like butter, cream, or milk.

Dietary Preferences:

• Dairy-Free: The curry is made without any dairy products, offering a flavorful option for those avoiding dairy.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free rice or roti for a fully gluten-free meal.
• Low-Carb Option: If you are following a low-carb diet, you can skip the rice and serve the curry with a side of steamed vegetables or a cauliflower-based flatbread.

Tips and Advice:

• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder curry, use only 1 green chili or remove the seeds to reduce the heat. For a spicier version, you can add extra chili powder or fresh chilies.
• Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: While chicken thighs provide more flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken breasts cook faster.
• Make it Ahead: This chicken curry can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The flavors develop even further after sitting for a while, making it a great dish for meal prep.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze the curry, ensure it has cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion:

This Easy Chicken Curry recipe is a quick and flavorful way to bring the richness of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. With its aromatic spices and tender chicken, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and adaptable. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. The simple ingredients and straightforward method make it perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal in under an hour. Enjoy with your choice of rice or roti, and savor the bold flavors of this delicious curry!