Aromatic Indian Chicken Curry
A flavorful and creamy Indian chicken curry made with coconut milk and aromatic spices, perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
For the Curry Base
- 3 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing
- 1 small onion, finely chopped Lends sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For depth of flavor
- 3 tablespoons curry powder Warm, aromatic base
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth and sweetness
- 1 teaspoon paprika For color
- 1 leaf bay leaf Infuses subtle earthiness
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root For a punchy zing
- 1/2 teaspoon white sugar Balances the spices
- to taste Salt Brings flavors together
For the Chicken
- 2 pieces skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into bite-size pieces For tenderness
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste Enriches the sauce
- 1 cup plain yogurt Adds creaminess
- 3/4 cup coconut milk Adds tropical flair
- 1/2 lemon juiced Fresh burst of acidity
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper For extra kick
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer slightly.
- Add the chopped onion, sautéing it until it becomes translucent and lightly browned, which will take about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, curry powder, ground cinnamon, paprika, bay leaf, grated ginger, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Continue to stir for about 2 minutes.
Cooking
- Incorporate the chicken pieces into the skillet, tossing them until they are well-coated with the spice mixture and starting to brown; this will take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste, yogurt, and coconut milk to the chicken, stirring vigorously to create a creamy sauce. Let the mixture reach a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.
- After simmering, remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh lemon juice and cayenne pepper for an extra zing. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy the delightful burst of flavors.
Notes
For a thicker curry, simmer it longer. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for nutrition. Serve with basmati rice or naan for a complete meal.