Chicken curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish that has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. This version blends tender chicken pieces with a rich and creamy sauce, infused with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, for a warming meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The use of coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness, balancing the heat from the spices, while fresh cilantro provides a refreshing finish. Whether served over rice or with naan bread, this chicken curry is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds (about 700 g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Add the onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Spices: Add the ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder to the pan. Stir well to coat the onions in the spices, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, coconut milk, and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Add Final Touches: Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Enjoy your homemade chicken curry, rich in flavors and comforting warmth!
