This Curry Chicken recipe is your ticket to a flavorful dinner that's both comforting and exciting. With a rich blend of spices and creamy coconut milk, it's a dish that warms you from the inside out.
The star of this dish, of course, is the chicken thighs. Why thighs? They stay moist and tender, even after simmering for a while. Vegetable oil is used to sauté the base ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld. The onion, garlic, and ginger create a fragrant foundation, essential for any good curry. Our spice mix — curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper — is where the magic happens, offering layers of warmth and complexity. The coconut milk adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness, while chicken broth enhances the savory notes. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top brings a fresh, herbal finish.
This curry pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. For a fresher touch, serve alongside a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
Start by heating up a couple of tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's hot, toss in your chopped onion. You want to cook it until it turns translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add in the minced garlic and grated ginger, giving it all a good stir. Let these cook for about a minute until they're fragrant, but keep an eye on them so they don't burn.
Now, it's time to add the spices: curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Stir them into the onion mixture, cooking for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the spices to release their oils and become aromatic.
With the spices nicely toasted, add in the chicken thighs. Cook them until they're browned on all sides, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Once the chicken is browned, pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring the whole thing to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes. This is where the chicken will become tender and absorb all those incredible flavors.
When your curry is ready, season it with salt to taste. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.