Quick Chicken Curry Recipe
This Quick Chicken Curry is a flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich blend of spices, tomato paste, and coconut milk. Enhanced with cauliflower and peas, and finished with Greek yogurt for a tangy touch, this curry is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that comes together in just 40 minutes.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into about 1-inch cubes
- 1 16-ounce bag of frozen cauliflower
- ½ cup frozen peas
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Oils and Fats
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or another neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 teaspoons curry powder
- 3 teaspoons garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Liquids and Dairy
- 6 ounces can of tomato paste
- 13.5 ounces can of light coconut milk
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- ½ cup whole milk plain Greek yogurt
Serving
- Brown the Chicken: In a Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat, heat the avocado oil. Add the cubed chicken and brown each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden. Remove the chicken and transfer it to a plate.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add grated ginger and minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toast Spices: Sprinkle the curry powder, garam masala, and cayenne pepper over the onions and cook for 1-2 minutes to release their aromas and flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned chicken and any collected juices back to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, light coconut milk, and chicken broth or water. Mix everything well to combine.
- Add Vegetables and Simmer: Add the frozen cauliflower and peas. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are heated through and chicken is cooked completely.
- Finish with Yogurt: Just before serving, stir in the whole milk plain Greek yogurt to add creaminess and a slight tang to the curry.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with minced fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the curry hot over cooked rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with water if preferred, but broth adds more flavor.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your taste.
- For a dairy-free variation, omit the Greek yogurt or use a coconut milk yogurt alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot such as a Dutch oven to prevent burning and allow even cooking.
Keywords: chicken curry, quick curry recipe, stovetop curry, Indian chicken recipe, creamy chicken curry, easy dinner, weeknight meal