Simple Spicy Chicken Curry Recipe

Introduction

This simple chicken curry is the perfect cozy meal with a spicy kick. The rich, creamy sauce complements tender chicken thighs that practically fall apart, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs
• 2 cans coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups rice

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and brown the chicken thighs on all sides until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and ginger-garlic paste until soft and golden.
3. Step 3: Add the curry powder to the pan and cook for 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.
4. Step 4: Stir in the tomato paste, then pour in the coconut milk. Mix well.
5. Step 5: Return the chicken to the pan, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Step 6: While the curry simmers, cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy.
7. Step 7: Serve the chicken curry hot over the cooked rice.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs for deeper flavor and tenderness.
• Swap out coconut milk for yogurt for a different creamy texture.

Storage

Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily. Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid overcooking.

How do I make this curry less spicy?

Reduce the amount of curry powder or omit any additional chili peppers. The dish will still be flavorful and creamy without too much heat.

Simple Spicy Chicken Curry Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 92 reviews

A simple and flavorful chicken curry recipe that combines tender, fall-apart chicken thighs with a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices. This comforting curry is perfect for a cozy meal and pairs beautifully with fluffy rice.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Curry

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 cans coconut milk (approximately 13.5 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• Salt to taste

To Serve

• 2 cups uncooked white rice
• Water for cooking rice

Instructions

1. Brown Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and brown on all sides until they have a golden crust, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Spices: Stir in the curry powder and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes to bloom the spices and combine the flavors well.
4. Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine everything into a creamy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer the Chicken: Return the browned chicken to the pan. Cover partially and let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Season with salt to taste.
6. Cook Rice: While the curry simmers, cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy.
7. Serve: Spoon the creamy chicken curry over the fluffy rice and enjoy your cozy, spicy meal.

Notes

• You can use chicken breasts as a leaner alternative but cooking time may vary.
• Adjust the amount of curry powder based on your spice preference.
• For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green chilies for extra flavor.

Keywords: chicken curry, coconut milk curry, easy chicken recipe, Indian chicken curry, stovetop chicken curry