Description
A flavorful and quick chicken curry made with tender chicken breasts simmered in a fragrant blend of curry powder, garam masala, and coconut milk, combined with fresh vegetables and finished with creamy Greek yogurt. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal and serves six people.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Protein
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into about 1-inch cubes
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 16–ounce bag of frozen cauliflower
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Oils & Fats
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk plain Greek yogurt
Spices
- 3 teaspoons curry powder
- 3 teaspoons garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Liquids
- 6 ounces can of tomato paste
- 13.5 ounces can of light coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
Serving
- Rice for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: In a Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat, warm the avocado oil. Add the cubed chicken and brown each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on 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. Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Toast the Spices: Sprinkle curry powder, garam masala, and cayenne pepper over the onion mixture. Fry the spices for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Combine Chicken and Sauces: Return the browned chicken and any accumulated juices back into the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, light coconut milk, and chicken broth or water. Mix everything well to create a smooth sauce.
- Add Vegetables and Simmer: Add the frozen cauliflower and peas to the pot. Cover and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Finish with Yogurt: Just before serving, gently fold in the plain Greek yogurt to add creaminess and balance the spices.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle minced fresh cilantro on top if desired. Serve the chicken curry hot over a bed of rice.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with water if desired, though broth adds more flavor.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder curry.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Greek yogurt or replace with a coconut milk yogurt.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with naan bread or quinoa as an alternative to rice.
