Effortless Chicken Curry for Busy Days

Effortless Chicken Curry for Busy Days

Nothing beats the comforting warmth of a homemade chicken curry, especially on a hectic weekday when time is of the essence. With this effortless recipe, you can enjoy the rich flavors of a traditional curry without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking method

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Spice It Up: Add the curry powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Stir well to coat the onions, allowing the spices to release their flavors for about 1 minute.

4. 

   Cook the Chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Simmer: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring in the tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to cook through.

6. Season and Serve: Taste the curry and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

Chicken curry is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The chicken provides a high-quality source of protein, while the spices offer anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion. Coconut milk adds healthy fats, which are essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.

For a well-rounded meal, pair your chicken curry with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. A crisp cucumber salad or a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans complements the richness of the curry. To round off your meal, consider serving a refreshing beverage like a mango lassi or a chilled glass of Riesling, which balances the spiciness with its sweetness.

With these simple steps and thoughtful pairings, you can enjoy a fulfilling and flavorful chicken curry, perfect for even the busiest of days.