Easy Chicken Curry: A Simple and Flavorful Family Dinner

Chicken curry is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This Easy Chicken Curry recipe is designed to be simple yet flavorful, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. With minimal ingredients and the addition of creamy yogurt, this curry is both rich and satisfying. Let's dive into this quick and easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving

Directions:

1. Prepare the Aromatics:

   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the Spices:

   • Add the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and chili powder (if using) to the pan. Stir well to coat the onions, garlic, and ginger with the spices, cooking for 2-3 minutes to release their flavors.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides.

4. Simmer the Curry:

   • Pour in the diced tomatoes, including their juice. Stir well to combine.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

5. Add the Yogurt:

   • Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the plain yogurt until the curry is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the curry hot with cooked rice or naan bread.

Preparation Time:

• Active preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes

Servings:

This recipe serves 4 people.

FAQs:

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can become dry.

• Can I make this curry ahead of time? Absolutely! This curry can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

• Is there a dairy-free alternative to yogurt? You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative to keep the curry creamy without dairy.

• Can I add vegetables to this curry? Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

• How can I adjust the spiciness of the curry? Adjust the amount of chili powder or add fresh chili for more heat. For a milder curry, reduce or omit the chili powder.

Conclusion:

This Easy Chicken Curry is a fantastic recipe for family dinners, offering a delicious and comforting meal with minimal effort. The creamy yogurt enriches the curry, adding a delightful texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the aromatic spices and tender chicken. Whether you’re a curry enthusiast or new to making it at home, this recipe is a simple and rewarding choice. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this easy and flavorful chicken curry and make it a staple in your recipe collection. Happy cooking!