Chicken curry is a staple in Indian cuisine known for its rich, spicy and aromatic flavors. This dish combines tender boneless chicken thighs with a blend of spices, tomatoes and yogurt creating a mouthwatering curry that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and will bring a taste of soul to your kitchen.

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Chicken Curry Recipe Ingredients

The heart of any curry lies in its ingredients, and this chicken curry is no exception. Each element brings its own unique flavor to the dish, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

Oil or Ghee: You’ll need 1/3 cup of oil or ghee as the base for cooking. Ghee is a clarified butter that adds a rich and nutty flavor but you can use oil if you prefer a lighter option.

Onion: A single onion, diced, forms the foundation of the curry, providing a sweet and savory depth.

Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons of ginger-garlic paste infuse the dish with warmth and spice. This paste is a blend of fresh ginger and garlic which is essential in Indian cooking.

Green Chilies (Optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, add 2 green chilies. They provide a spicy kick without overwhelming the dish.

Boneless Chicken Thighs: 1 kg of boneless chicken thighs is the protein of choice for this curry. Thighs are preferred for their tenderness and ability to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Crushed Tomatoes: 1 cup of crushed tomatoes forms the base of the curry sauce, adding a tangy sweetness.

Yogurt: 1 cup of yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang to the dish which balances the spices.

Water: 1 cup of water helps to adjust the consistency of the curry, ensuring it’s not too thick or too thin.

Spices: The spices are the soul of this dish. You’ll need:

• 1.5 teaspoons of Kashmiri chili powder or paprika for color and mild heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder for additional spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric for its earthy flavor and vibrant color.
• 1 teaspoon of cumin for a warm flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of coriander powder for a citrusy undertone.
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper for a sharp-spicy bite.
• 1/4 bunch of fresh coriander for garnish

Step by step preparation

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation process. This chicken curry is straightforward to make and with a little patience, you’ll be rewarded with a dish bursting with flavor.

1. Sautéing the Onions: Begin by heating 1/3 cup of oil or ghee in a large pot over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Cook the onion until it turns translucent which should take about 5 minutes. The onions provide the base of the curry, contributing sweetness and depth to the dish.

2. Adding the Aromatics: Next, add 2 tablespoons of ginger-garlic paste and the optional 2 crushed green chilies to the pot. Sauté this mixture until the ginger and garlic become fragrant and soft, which will take another 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the flavor profile of the curry by infusing it with the warm, spicy notes of ginger and garlic.

3. Cooking the Spices: Add the spices to the pot: 1.5 teaspoons of Kashmiri chili powder or paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook the spices for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is crucial as it allows the spices to release their essential oils, intensifying their flavors and coating the onions and aromatics.

4. Creating the Sauce: Add 1 cup of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of yogurt to the pot. Stir well to combine everything. Let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce comes together and thickens slightly. This forms the rich and flavorful base of the curry.

5. Simmering the Chicken: Add the 1 kg of boneless chicken thighs to the pot, making sure they are fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low-medium. Let the curry simmer for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. During this time, the chicken will absorb all the flavors of the sauce. You’ll know it’s done when the oil separates from the sauce, indicating that the flavors have melded together beautifully.

6. Garnishing and Serving: Once the curry is ready, garnish it with freshly chopped coriander leaves. The vibrant green color of the coriander adds a beautiful contrast to the rich, red curry, while also providing a fresh, herbaceous note. Serve the curry hot with steamed rice or naan bread.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Best practices for cooking chicken: For maximum flavor, use boneless chicken thighs as they remain tender and juicy throughout the cooking process.

Adjusting spice levels: If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder or skip the green chilies. For a spicier dish, you can increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Substitute for yogurt: If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option, you can replace the yogurt with coconut milk. This will add a slight sweetness to the curry while keeping it creamy.

Making ahead and storage: This chicken curry can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and improve with time. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness. If using breast, be mindful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.

How can I make the sauce smoother? For a smoother sauce, you can blend the onion, ginger-garlic paste and tomatoes before adding them to the pot. This will create a silkier texture.

What can I use as a substitute for ghee? Butter or vegetable oil works well as a substitute for ghee. However, ghee adds a distinct richness that is hard to replicate.

What should I do if the curry is too thick? If your curry becomes too thick, you can add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This chicken curry pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish that can be customized to your preferences.

Rice: Steamed basmati or jasmine rice is a classic choice. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, providing a perfect balance of textures.

Naan or Roti: Indian flatbreads like naan or roti are excellent for scooping up the curry. The soft texture of naan complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Vegetable Sides: For a balanced meal, serve the curry with a side of sautéed or roasted vegetables, such as spinach, green beans, or cauliflower.

Salad: A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a squeeze of lemon can add a refreshing contrast to the rich and spicy curry.

Beverages: To balance the heat, serve the curry with a cooling beverage like mango lassi

Garnishing and Presentation Ideas

Elevate your chicken curry with thoughtful garnishing and presentation. A beautifully garnished dish not only looks appealing but also enhances the dining experience.

Fresh Coriander: Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves over the curry just before serving. The vibrant green color and fresh flavor make the dish visually appealing and add a burst of freshness.

Yogurt Swirl: For an elegant touch, drizzle a swirl of yogurt on top of the curry. This not only looks attractive but also adds a cooling element to balance the spices.

Green Chilies: If you like it spicy, garnish the dish with finely chopped green chilies. They add a vibrant pop of color and a fiery kick.

Paprika Dusting: A light dusting of paprika or Kashmiri chili powder on top of the curry can enhance the visual appeal and provide a hint of extra flavor.

Serving Dish: Present the curry in a decorative serving bowl to make it the centerpiece of your meal. Pair it with neatly arranged rice or naan on the side for a complete and beautiful presentation.

This chicken curry recipe is a celebration of flavors, bringing together a symphony of spices, tender chicken and a rich creamy sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just for yourself, this dish is sure to impress with its complexity and depth of flavor.

So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try. Share it with your loved ones, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow. Happy cooking!