Whether you are new to cooking Indian food or already comfortable working with a Basic Curry Sauce, this chicken curry is a dependable and satisfying recipe. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a flavorful homemade curry that tastes like it has simmered all day.
Servings 4portions
Course Entree
Cuisine Indian
Ingredients
Curry Sauce (Masala)
3cupsOnionspureed, grated or finely diced
1.5cupTomatoescrushed or finely chopped
1tbspGinger-garlic paste
2Green Chiliesfinely chopped, adjust to taste
3tbspOil1 tbsp per cup of Onions
1/2tspCumin Seeds
1.5tspKashmiri Red Chili Powder
1/2tspTurmeric Powder
2tspCoriander Powder
1/4tspDried Fenugreek leavesKasuri Methi, optional but recommended
1tspGaram Masala
1tbspCilantrofinely chopped
Chicken Curry
2poundsChickenfor the best curry flavor use bone-in chicken drumsticks and thighs.
2cupsChicken Brothcan substitute with water
Method
Prepare the chicken
Clean and wash the chicken and remove its skin. Make 2-3 cuts with a sharp knife on the chicken thighs and drumsticks.
Make the Basic Curry Sauce (Masala)
Heat the oil in a pan on medium heat and add the Cumin Seeds.
When the Cumin Seeds start to crackle add the Ginger-Garlic paste and fry it until it turns golden brown (about 1 minute).
Add the onions and fry on medium-low until golden brown stirring frequently (about 15-20 minutes). If the pot gets too dry, add some water so that the masala doesn't burn.
Add the tomatoes and also Kashmiri Red Chili Powder, Turmeric Powder and Coriander Powder; mix well and cook on medium heat, stirring frequently, until the oil starts to separate out (about 15 minutes).
The curry sauce is ready and you can add any protein or vegetable to make it a substantial dish.
Add Chicken
Add the chicken pieces. Stir fry the chicken in the sauce for about 5 minutes on medium heat.
Add 2 cups of hot water or chicken broth, bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes stirring every few minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
Finishing the Dish
Add the Garam Masala and Kasuri Methi and stir them in.
Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves and serve hot with rice or bread.
If you’re using chicken broth, taste it first and adjust the salt in the recipe as needed.