Simple Chicken Curry Recipe

Simple Chicken Curry is a keeper you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s rich, deeply aromatic, and ultra-comforting – with silky-tender chicken pieces gently simmered in a spiced tomato-onion gravy. Whether you’re after quick weeknight coziness or a dish to impress at a casual gathering, this flavor-packed curry never fails to warm hearts and satisfy cravings.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need a mile-long shopping list for this one—just a handful of vibrant ingredients. Each staple here brings its own depth and magic, so don’t skip the basics! They layer together to create a curry that’s aromatic, colorful, and irresistible.

• Vegetable oil: The foundation that helps brown the onions and bloom the spices, ensuring each bite is infused with flavor.
• Onion: When finely chopped and sautéed, onions melt into the sauce for sweetness and body.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings classic curry aroma and punch.
• Fresh ginger: Grating it releases intense, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
• Ground cumin: Warm and earthy, cumin gives the curry depth.
• Ground coriander: Adds subtle citrusy notes that brighten the whole dish.
• Turmeric powder: The secret to that golden glow and mild, balancing bitterness.
• Chili powder: Gives your Simple Chicken Curry its gentle heat—add more if you like it spicy!
• Garam masala: Essential for that unmistakable Indian warmth and fragrance at the heart of the curry.
• Salt: Brings all the flavors together; adjust to suit your taste.
• Tomatoes: Chopped tomatoes add tanginess, color, and just the right amount of acidity.
• Chicken pieces (bone-in): Thighs or drumsticks yield unmatched tenderness and deeper flavor than boneless cuts.
• Water: Adjusts the gravy’s consistency to your liking—more for a soupy curry, less for thickness.
• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkled on at the end for a hit of freshness and a burst of color.
• Steamed basmati rice: The perfect fluffy canvas for soaking up all that glorious curry sauce.

How to Make Simple Chicken Curry

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat your vegetable oil in a large pan over medium flame. Toss in the finely chopped onions and let them cook, stirring often, until they turn a beautiful deep golden brown. Don’t rush this part—the slow browning builds up a rich, sweet base that sets your Simple Chicken Curry apart.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Once your onions are just right, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Let them sizzle until fragrant—about one minute. You’ll smell that uplifting, irresistible aroma signaling it’s time to move on.

Step 3: Toast the Spices

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala. Give everything a quick stir, letting the spices toast gently for about a minute. This helps release their oils and magic, so your Simple Chicken Curry tastes bold and aromatic.

Step 4: Cook the Tomatoes

Add the chopped tomatoes to your pan. Allow them to soften and mingle with the onion-spice mixture, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the oil beginning to separate from the sauce after 5–7 minutes—this is your cue that the base is ready.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Water

Nestle the chicken pieces into the masala, coating each piece well. Let them sauté for about 5 minutes, so they start to soak in those lovely flavors. Pour in water to bring the sauce together, adjusting the amount for your preferred consistency.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the pan, turn the heat down, and let the curry gently bubble away for 30–35 minutes. The chicken will become meltingly tender, and the sauce will develop even more depth. Don’t forget to adjust the salt and consistency as needed before serving.

How to Serve Simple Chicken Curry

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro is all you need to give this dish a pop of color and herbaceous brightness. For extra charm, add a few thinly sliced onions or a wedge of lime—both are perfect finishing touches.

Side Dishes

Simple Chicken Curry begs for a heap of fluffy steamed basmati rice, which soaks up every last drop of that incredible sauce. You can also offer warm naan or roti on the side, and maybe a cool cucumber raita to balance the spice.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your curry family-style in a big, inviting bowl for everyone to dig in, or plate individual portions over rice with a flourish of cilantro. Or go bistro-style: offer curry in smaller bowls alongside little rice mounds for a cozy, elegant touch at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Simple Chicken Curry tasting its best, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making those next-day lunches a real treat.

Freezing

This curry freezes exceptionally well! Let it cool completely, then portion into freezable containers. It’ll keep for up to three months; just be sure the chicken is well covered with gravy to prevent dryness.

Reheating

For best results, thaw your curry in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work well and will cook a bit faster. But for that extra depth and tenderness, I highly recommend bone-in pieces if you have them.

How can I make Simple Chicken Curry less spicy?

Simply reduce the amount of chili powder or choose a mild variety. You can even skip it altogether for a gentle, warming curry that still bursts with flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this curry?

Definitely! Potatoes, peas, or diced bell peppers are classic additions. Drop them in with the chicken so they soak up the same delicious flavors.

Is it possible to make this curry in advance?

Yes, in fact, Simple Chicken Curry tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead for stress-free entertaining or meal prep, and it’s ready to reheat whenever you need a comforting meal.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing a pinch each of ground cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and cardamom. It won’t be quite the same, but it does the trick in a pinch!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite so satisfying as a homemade batch of Simple Chicken Curry. Whether you’re new to curries or a seasoned fan, this recipe is pure comfort in a bowl—easy, vibrant, and destined to become a household classic. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself returning to this recipe every time the craving strikes!

Print