Authentic Indian Chicken Curry Recipe – The Perfect Everyday Delight

Introduction

Indian chicken curry is a timeless, comforting dish that has been loved by families across India for generations. This Authentic Indian Chicken Curry Recipe brings together succulent chicken pieces, rich spices, and a creamy, flavorful gravy that pairs beautifully with steamed rice, naan, or roti.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional Indian chicken curry recipe, a simple chicken curry recipe for daily cooking, or the best chicken curry recipe for family meals, this guide has everything you need to create a delicious, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Easy Preparation: No fancy ingredients – just everyday Indian spices.
2. Quick & Flavorful: Ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners.
3. Healthy & Nutritious: Protein-packed chicken with immunity-boosting spices.
4. Versatile: Serve with rice, naan, chapati, or even pulao.

Ingredients – What You’ll Need:

For Marination:

1 kg chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless, preferably curry-cut)

1 cup plain yogurt (Dahi – adds tenderness and rich flavor)

1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste (essential for authentic Indian taste)

1 tsp turmeric powder (Haldi – provides color and health benefits)

1 tsp red chili powder (Adjust according to your spice tolerance)

Salt to taste

For Curry Base:

3 tbsp oil or ghee (Ghee provides richer flavor)

1 large onion, finely chopped (For thickness and flavor)

2 tomatoes, pureed (Or finely chopped for a rustic texture)

2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste (Freshly made for enhanced aroma)

1 tsp cumin seeds (Jeera – enhances the aroma)

1 tbsp coriander powder (Dhaniya powder – for earthy flavor)

1 tsp garam masala (Aromatic Indian spice blend)

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1/2 tsp red chili powder

2 green chilies, slit (Optional – for extra heat)

Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Salt to taste

Water (as needed for desired gravy consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Authentic Indian Chicken Curry

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Crucial Step for Flavorful Chicken Curry)

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
2. Add chicken pieces and coat them well with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight for deeper flavors).

Step 2: Prepare the Curry Base

1. Heat oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown (takes about 10-12 minutes).
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears (about 2 minutes).

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes and Spices

1. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate (about 8 minutes).
2. Stir in coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
3. Mix well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend all the spices.

Step 4: Cook the Marinated Chicken

1. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook on high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Once the chicken turns white, reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 10 minutes.

Step 5: Add Water and Simmer the Curry

1. Add water to achieve the desired gravy consistency (about 1.5 cups for a thicker curry).
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
3. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Final Touches & Garnish

1. Add garam masala and slit green chilies (if you prefer extra heat).
2. Cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
4. Serve hot with rice, naan, chapati, or pulao.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Curry Recipe:

Always marinate the chicken for at least an hour for juicy and flavorful pieces.

Using ghee instead of oil enhances the flavor and richness of the curry.

Adding kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) towards the end adds a delicious aroma.

If you prefer a creamy curry, add 2 tbsp of cream or coconut milk before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Best served with: Steamed rice, butter naan, jeera rice, paratha, or chapati.

Side dishes to consider: Raita, salad, or pickle.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 450 kcal

Protein: 35g

Carbohydrates: 12g

Fat: 28g

Cholesterol: 120mg

Sodium: 780mg

Fiber: 3g

Vitamin A: 15% of Daily Value (DV)

Vitamin C: 10% of DV

Calcium: 6% of DV

Iron: 15% of DV

FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About Indian Chicken Curry

Is this chicken curry recipe healthy?
Yes, this recipe uses natural spices and fresh ingredients that are not only flavorful but also nutritious. To make it healthier, you can use olive oil instead of ghee.

Can I make this Indian chicken curry recipe without yogurt?
Yes, you can replace yogurt with coconut milk or cream for a creamy texture or simply skip it for a lighter version.

How do I make the chicken curry spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more red chili powder, green chilies, or garam masala.

What can I serve with this chicken curry?
This curry pairs perfectly with steamed rice, naan, chapati, or even jeera rice.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes! This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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