Save Bring the vibrant flavors of India into your kitchen with this Easy Chicken Curry. This comforting, creamy dish features tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce made with tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a blend of warm spices. It is a perfect weeknight dinner that balances the zing of yogurt with the smoothness of heavy cream, making it a guaranteed family favorite.
Pin it This recipe is designed for simplicity without sacrificing depth. By blooming the spices in oil and allowing the tomatoes to break down into a thick base, you create a restaurant-quality curry with minimal effort. It is soul-warming, nutritious, and naturally gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch (2.5 cm) ginger, grated
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup (120 g) plain whole-milk yogurt
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Step 4
- Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
- Step 5
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and break down.
- Step 6
- Lower the heat and stir in the yogurt, mixing well. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7
- Pour in the water and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer gently for another 5–10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is creamy and slightly thickened.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
- Step 9
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of garam masala at the very end of the cooking process. Using whole-milk yogurt is recommended to ensure the sauce remains stable and rich.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute chicken breast if preferred, but be sure to reduce the simmering time to avoid dryness. For a completely dairy-free version, replace the yogurt and heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this flavorful curry piping hot over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or with warm, buttery naan bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A side of cucumber raita also pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
Pin it Whether you are looking for a reliable weeknight staple or a dish to impress guests, this Easy Chicken Curry delivers on every front. Its harmonious blend of heat, tang, and creaminess ensures a satisfying meal every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works well but requires shorter cooking time to prevent dryness. Reduce the simmering time by 5 minutes and check for doneness earlier.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Replace the yogurt and heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free version. The flavor profile will shift slightly with a tropical note, but it remains delicious.
- → What can I serve with chicken curry?
Basmati rice and warm naan bread are traditional accompaniments. You can also serve it with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables for variety.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Omit the chili powder for a mild version, or increase it for more heat. You can also add fresh green chilies or red pepper flakes to taste.
- → How do I store leftover chicken curry?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
- → What is the purpose of blooming the spices?
Cooking the spices briefly in oil releases their essential oils and deepens their flavors, creating a more aromatic and complex curry base.