Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that's bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Curry Leaves Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of aromatic spices and tender chicken, ready in under 30 minutes. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable and healthy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons curry leaves, fresh or frozen
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better!). This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors and become incredibly tender.
Cook the chicken:
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Heat the oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. This process adds a lovely sweetness and depth to the dish.
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Add the green chilies, grated ginger, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will affect the overall taste.
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Stir in the curry leaves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma alone is worth it!
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Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until it's browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to break up any clumps of chicken for even cooking.
Finishing touches:
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Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened. This slow simmering develops the flavors beautifully.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Add a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, potatoes, or peas. Add them along with the onions.
- If you don't have fresh curry leaves, you can use dried curry leaves. Just remember that the flavor might be slightly different.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your spice preference.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Curry Leaves Chicken recipe is a perfect example of healthy and delicious homemade cooking. It’s a quick dinner idea that’s full of flavor and easy to customize. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe incredibly satisfying. Serve it with fluffy rice or warm naan bread for a complete and unforgettable meal. Enjoy!