Delicious and Easy Homemade Chicken Curry Recipe
Let me tell you a secret: there’s nothing quite like a delicious chicken curry to warm you up on a chilly evening. The rich, spicy flavors of this classic Indian dish are the perfect way to satisfy your taste buds and fill you up after a long day.
But what if you follow a gluten-free or dairy-free diet? Fear not! I’ve got you covered with this amazing recipe for the best chicken curry that is both gluten-free and dairy-free. With a few simple substitutions and creative ingredient choices, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of this dish without any unwanted components.
Plus, this curry is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile – it can be made with either chicken breasts or thighs, and you can adjust the spice level depending on your personal preferences. Whether you’re a fan of mild yellow curries or fiery red tikka masalas, this recipe will satisfy your cravings like nothing else.
So let’s get cooking! Follow my step-by-step instructions and you’ll be enjoying the most mouth-watering, gluten-free and dairy-free chicken curry in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a curry lover looking for a gluten-free, dairy-free and organic recipe, then my Best Chicken Curry Recipe ticks all the boxes. This dish is packed with flavors and spices that make it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
The combination of succulent chicken pieces, creamy coconut milk, fragrant ginger, onion, and garlic make this easy-to-follow recipe a true winner. It features a unique blend of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, bay leaves, paprika, and of course, curry powder. The curry powder gives this dish that perfect burst of heat without being overwhelming for your sinuses.
What’s more, if you have dietary restrictions or allergies to gluten or dairy products, this recipe caters to all of that. You can enjoy eating delicious curry without having to worry about stomach problems or food allergies.
This dish also pairs perfectly with some homemade basmati rice or warm naan bread. It’s a great shareable meal for dinner parties or even on those cozy nights in.
Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile as well. You can switch up the chicken pieces with another protein source like seafood or tofu if you’d like. You can even swap out some ingredients based on your preferences or improvisations.
In conclusion, my Best Chicken Curry Recipe is the perfect comfort food that is easy to prepare and always satisfies your palate. The delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen when you cook this will have everyone salivating before they even get their first bite!
Ingredient List
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken pieces (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2-inch piece of ginger, grated
For the Curry:
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1/2-inch piece of ginger, grated
- I can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 can (7 oz) coconut milk
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cloves
- Cinnamon stick
- Pinch of saffron strands
- Salt to taste
Optional:
- chopped coriander leaves for garnish.
Ingredient Notes:
This recipe uses chicken pieces which can be substituted for chicken breasts or chicken thighs. To keep this recipe gluten-free, make sure you use a gluten-free brand of curry powder. To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream; use coconut oil instead of butter.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s start cooking the best chicken curry recipe. This flavorful curry is perfect for those who love to enjoy a hearty meal with a little spicy kick.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
To start, place 2 pounds of chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl. You can use boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts depending on your preference. Make sure to remove any excess fat and cut them into bite-sized chunks.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or coconut oil. Once the pan is hot enough, add the chicken and cook until golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the same pan where you cooked the chicken. Continue cooking until caramelized and soft.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Add 2 tablespoons of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of saffron. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until fragrant.
Step 5: Add in Tomatoes
Add in 3 diced tomatoes and mix everything together. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and tender for about 8-10 minutes.
Step 6: Let it Simmer
Reduce heat to low and add in a can of coconut milk, making sure to stir well. Add in 1 tsp salt, followed by two bay leaves, a small stick of cinnamon (optional) and 1/2 inch fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for around 15 minutes. Make sure to check on it once in awhile as coconut milk has a tendency to splatter.
Step 7: Final Touch
Add in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, made from freshly squeezed lemons, and stir well. Then pour in a can of heavy cream or yoghurt to make the sauce creamy and delicious.
Stir everything together and continue to cook on low heat, making sure not let the sauce boil. Let it simmer for another 10-12 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once you’ve finished cooking, garnish the chicken curry with some freshly chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. You can serve it with rice, naan bread or even quinoa if you prefer a lighter option.
Now that you know how easy it is to cook this flavorful chicken curry recipe, be sure to give it a try on your next meal plan!
Substitutions and Variations
Let’s get creative with our chicken curry! This recipe is pretty versatile, so feel free to experiment with some substitutions and variations to make it your own.
Looking for a dairy-free option? You can easily substitute the heavy cream in this recipe with coconut milk or yogurt. The coconut milk will add a subtle sweetness to the dish, while the yogurt will add a tangy kick. You can also opt for low FODMAP yogurt if you’re sensitive to lactose.
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, make sure your curry powder doesn’t contain any hidden gluten. You can try making your own homemade gluten-free curry powder by blending paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, and cinnamon.
Want to add some nuttiness to your chicken curry? Try adding some poppy seeds or peanut butter. The poppy seeds will give it a slightly nutty flavor and add a bit of texture to the dish. Meanwhile, the peanut butter will make it creamier and more indulgent.
Lemon juice and saffron are two key ingredients in this recipe that you can play around with. If you want a more citrusy dish, add extra lemon juice or swap it out for lime juice. Saffron is pretty expensive, so if you’re on a budget, you can skip it altogether or substitute it with turmeric for that signature yellow color.
For meat options, feel free to use boneless chicken thighs or breasts cut into cubes. If you’re looking for something more exotic, try using Thai Massaman curry paste instead of traditional Indian curry powder – this will give your chicken curry a sweet and spicy flavor.
Lastly, if you prefer cooking in a slow cooker instead of stovetop, go ahead and dump all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. Your kitchen will be filled with amazing aromas!
Remember, cooking is an art, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own.
Serving and Pairing
Once your delicious gluten-free chicken curry is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy it. Whether you’re having a quiet dinner at home or entertaining guests, there are a few different options for serving and pairing this dish.
Firstly, the chicken curry pairs really well with a serving of fluffy basmati rice. The rice can be cooked simply with water or you can add some spices like cardamom or cinnamon to give it some extra flavor. Brown rice or quinoa can also be used as an alternative to basmati rice for a healthier option.
If you wanted to make the meal more substantial, you could also serve the curry with some soft and delicious naan bread. Naan bread is an Indian-style bread that’s traditionally made with wheat flour but there are many gluten-free alternatives available now as well. Brushing a little garlic butter on top of the naan will give it an extra kick of flavor that perfectly complements the spicy chicken curry.
If you prefer something fresh and crunchy, you could serve the curry with a side of pappadums or poppadoms – thin, crispy Indian crackers that come in many different flavors. Alternatively, a simple green salad or sautéed vegetables will add texture and balance out the richness of the curry.
To round out the meal, you could also serve some chilled cucumber raita on the side. Raita is a cool and creamy yogurt-based dip that’s perfect for cutting through the spiciness of the curry. Simply mix together some yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, and salt to taste.
No matter how you decide to serve this amazing gluten-free chicken curry recipe, one thing is for sure: everyone at your table will be asking for seconds (and maybe thirds)!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you have a busy week ahead, consider making this chicken curry ahead of time to save yourself some stress. The great thing about this recipe is that it can be cooked in large batches and frozen for later use. To freeze, simply let the curry cool completely and place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months.
When ready to reheat, simply thaw the chicken curry overnight in the fridge or use the defrost function on your microwave. Once thawed, heat it up on low heat on the stovetop until hot all the way through. You can also reheat in the microwave but be sure to stir it periodically to ensure even heating.
If you have leftovers that you’d like to store in the fridge, they will keep for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
One important note is that if you plan on freezing or storing this curry, leave out any heavy cream or yoghurt until after reheating as these ingredients don’t freeze/thaw well and can become grainy or separated. Simply add them at the end before serving instead.
This versatile chicken curry can be enjoyed as leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week, taking you one step closer to gluten-free, dairy-free goodness with every bite.
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the perfect chicken curry, there are some tips and tricks that every cook should know. These simple strategies will help you achieve a rich, savory flavor with every batch. Here are my recommendations for how to achieve the best results when cooking gluten-free chicken curry.
First, always use the freshest ingredients possible. The quality of your ingredients can make a big difference in the final outcome of your dish. Choose high-quality chicken with no added hormones or antibiotics. Use fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables. Check expiration dates on packaged goods like canned tomatoes and coconut milk.
Second, don’t skimp on seasoning – a good curry should be packed with flavor. Experiment with different combinations of spices to find the perfect balance for your taste buds. Use generous amounts of ginger, garlic, and onion to add depth to your dish.
Third, let your flavors meld together by simmering your curry for at least 30 minutes. This will allow all the ingredients to blend together and produce a more complex flavor profile.
Fourth, consider using a slow cooker to cook your chicken curry. This gentle cooking method will allow all the flavors to fully develop over time until they are perfectly balanced.
Fifth, add acidity in small amounts during the cooking process using lemon juice or vinegar can help brighten up the flavors of your curry without overpowering it.
Sixth, add salt gradually throughout the cooking process so you won’t overdo it, salt can enhance flavors but it can also ruin others if not added in moderation.
Seventh, Make sure to serve it hot with rice or naan bread for a comforting gluten-free meal that’s perfect any time of day!
By following these tips, you’ll be able to prepare delicious gluten-free chicken curry that is sure to wow your friends and family!
FAQ
Before we wrap up this recipe article, I want to address some common questions and concerns that you may have regarding this authentic and flavorful gluten-free chicken curry recipe. In this FAQ section, I will clear up any confusion and provide some helpful answers to ensure that you achieve the best results possible! So keep reading if you want to learn about substitutions, storage options or dietary requirements.
Is chicken curry usually gluten free?
When preparing a homemade curry, it is important to note that most of the ingredients utilized in it are naturally gluten-free. This includes the spices and oil used for the base, the meat and vegetables, and the sauce, whether it’s made from chopped tomatoes or coconut milk for added creaminess.
What curry is best for IBS?
If you struggle with Irritable Bowel Syndrome but still crave the bold flavors of Indian cuisine, there are some easy swaps you can make to avoid painful symptoms. Opt for the milder and creamier korma instead of traditional curry dishes. Savor a satisfying butter chicken or tandoori chicken as an alternative to the spicier chicken tikka masala. And when ordering a meat dish, choose the subtle and creamy pasanda instead of the heavily seasoned laal maas. These simple modifications allow you to still enjoy the tantalizing tastes of Indian food without sacrificing your digestive comfort.
Can curry be gluten free?
Indian cuisine offers a plethora of delightful dishes, ranging from curries to tandoori and tikka masala. It’s worth noting that many of these dishes already cater to those who require a gluten-free diet. This is because most of the primary ingredients used in Indian cooking comprise rice, vegetables, meats, and legumes such as chickpeas and lentils. Additionally, Indian cuisine differences can vary from one region to another.
Is Trader Joe’s curry chicken gluten free?
The Chicken Tikka Masala by Trader Joe’s is a flavourful curry dish that comes with tender chicken, bathed in a thick and spicy sauce made with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and aromatic spices. The mixture of organic and gluten-free spices used in the recipe does not contain any additives, preservatives, MSG, or sugars. Therefore, it is suitable for consumption by all, including those on a plant-based diet.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this gluten-free chicken curry recipe is an absolute must-try for all curry lovers out there. With a perfect blend of spices and ingredients to give that authentic Indian taste, this recipe is easy enough to make at home without compromising on flavor. Moreover, this recipe offers great versatility with options to substitute ingredients to make dairy-free or low FODMAP variations.
Plus, it can easily be stored in the fridge or freezer and reheated for later meals, making it a convenient option for meal prep. So why not channel your inner chef and recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen today? Trust me; once you try it, you’ll never go back to the store-bought version!
Best Chicken Curry (Gluten Free) Recipe
Ingredients
- 100 g butter
- 3 onions (chopped)
- 4 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 cloves
- 2 kg chicken pieces
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon salt (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 500 ml coconut milk
- 100 g yoghurt
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- 2 teaspoons ginger (grated)
- 350 ml heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon saffron
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Fry onions and garlic in butter till golden brown.
- add bay leaves,cinnamon,cloves and simmer for 5 minutes.
- add chicken pieces and cook for 10 minutes.
- in a bowl mix together the cut tomatoes,salt,curry powder,paprika,coconut milk,yoghurt,ginger,poppy seeds and then add the mix to the chicken and cook till tender (on a medium to low heat).
- stir in the cream and saffron and heat thoroughly.
- last of all try to add lemon juice just before serving and stir.
- serve with rice (basmati).