Craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Yogurt Curry Chicken recipe delivers a burst of aromatic spices and creamy texture, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. It's a healthy meal packed with protein and flavor, showcasing the magic of homemade cooking. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended for richness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tbsp curry powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Instructions:
-
Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken with half of the Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp curry powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better for deeper flavor). This simple step elevates the chicken's tenderness and flavor.
-
Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Add the chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step develops a wonderful crust on the chicken pieces.
-
Simmer the curry: Stir in the remaining yogurt, diced tomatoes (undrained), bell peppers, remaining curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
-
Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked rice or with naan bread. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will make this a delicious and healthy meal.
Tips for the Best Yogurt Curry Chicken:
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat Greek yogurt.
- Adjust the amount of curry powder and cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spice.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as peas, carrots, or spinach.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Coconut Curry Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of coconut milk for a creamier, richer curry.
- Vegetable Curry: Omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian version. Potatoes, cauliflower, and chickpeas work particularly well.
- Spicy Curry: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few slices of fresh chili for extra heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Yogurt Curry Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food that's easy to make. It’s a perfect quick dinner idea, brimming with flavor and ready in a flash. Enjoy!