Aromatic Chicken Curry
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Aromatic spices dancing in your kitchen, tender chicken swimming in silky coconut milk - this is curry at its finest. Our version features a quick yogurt marinade for tender chicken, the essential technique of dry-toasting spices to unlock their full potential, and a finish that balances heat with creamy richness perfectly.
Time & Quantities
Method & Ingredients
Required Equipment: Large skillet or Dutch oven, mixing bowl, measuring spoons, wooden spoon
Cooking Method: Stovetop - Sauteing
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (cut into pieces)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 inches fresh ginger (minced)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons
- fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, marinate chicken pieces in Greek yogurt for 15-20 minutes - this tenderizes beautifully!
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onions until golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Here comes the magic - add cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne. Toast for 30 seconds until aromatic and your kitchen smells incredible!
- Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Return chicken to pan, add coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice - prepare for compliments!
Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage Advice: Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Flavors actually improve overnight, making this perfect for meal prep.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating gently on stovetop.
Nutritional & Dietary Information
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 22g (Saturated: 12g)
- Carbohydrates: 18g (Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 12g)
- Vitamin A: 25% DV
- Vitamin C: 35% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
- Iron: 20% DV
Allergen Information: Contains dairy (yogurt)
Dietary Information: Gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by substituting coconut yogurt for Greek yogurt.
Serving & Variations
Serving Suggestions: Serve over basmati rice or with naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of yogurt, and lime wedges. Present in colorful bowls for vibrant appeal.
Wine or Drink Pairing: Pair with off-dry Riesling from Alsace, France or Gewürztraminer from Germany. Lassi, mango juice, or chai tea provide authentic non-alcoholic pairings.
Possible Recipe Variations: Add vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes, substitute lamb or beef, or make it vegetarian with chickpeas or paneer. Adjust spice levels to preference.
Additional Notes: Toasting the spices dry before adding liquid intensifies their flavors dramatically. Don't skip this step! Adjust cayenne to taste preference.