Mouth-watering Chicken Curry Recipe: Spicy & Flavorful
Imagine a rich and flavorful chicken curry that’s also gluten-free. As a nutritionist cum food blogger, I am excited to share with you the recipe for the best chicken curry you’ve ever tasted. This dish is packed with healthy organic ingredients that will nourish your body and soul. Whether you’re a busy mom, a health enthusiast, or just someone who loves delicious food, this chicken curry recipe is perfect for you.
When it comes to cooking chicken curry, there are many variations and styles depending on the cultural background. However, this recipe is a fusion of Indian and Thai flavors with a twist of Chinese cuisine. It embodies the rich heritage of these cultures while still being gluten-free and dairy-free without compromising on taste.
In this article, I’ll provide an easy-to-follow recipe along with substitutions, variations, serving suggestions, and storing tips. So don’t worry if you’re new to cooking, follow my guidance step-by-step and voila! You’ll have made the best gluten-free chicken curry dish in no time.
Get ready to excite your taste buds with this easy-to-cook meal – let’s dive into some of the best chicken curry recipes out there together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken curry recipe is not your ordinary curry. It’s a delicious and healthy gluten-free option that is perfect for anyone who loves Indian food. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love this recipe:
First of all, it’s packed with flavor thanks to the combination of spices used in the curry mix. Each bite is an explosion of deliciousness and it will leave you craving for more.
Moreover, this chicken curry recipe uses boneless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1-inch cubes, which makes it much easier and quicker to cook than traditional curries that often require slow cooking.
Not only is this curry easy to prepare, but it’s also filled with healthy ingredients such as fresh ginger and turmeric. These spices offer powerful anti-inflammatory properties that will help you maintain good health while indulging in a delicious meal.
Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s completely customizable. If you prefer spicier food, add more chili powder and cayenne pepper. If you like your curry creamy, simply add some coconut milk or yogurt to the mix.
Last but not least, this chicken curry recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it perfect for those who suffer from allergies or intolerances. You won’t have to worry about any digestive problems or feeling bloated after enjoying this amazing dish.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a healthy and flavorful meal option that can be prepared quickly and easily without any fuss, look no further than this chicken curry recipe. It’s simply the best!
Ingredient List
- 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 tbsp coconut oil (1 tbsp for frying, 2 tbsp for curry)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 1 piece fresh ginger, peeled & grated (1-2 inches long)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Curry powder (1 teaspoon)
- Turmeric (1 teaspoon)
- Salt to taste
Make sure to use gluten-free curry powder and canned tomatoes to ensure that the curry is entirely gluten-free. If you’re trying to make it dairy-free too, use dairy-free yogurt in place of regular ones. Above all, use fresh ingredients whenever possible as it will enhance the dish even more.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Heat the oil
I start this recipe by heating up 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Alternatively, you can also use regular vegetable oil or olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the chicken
Once the oil is hot, I add in 2 pounds of boneless and skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks (you can also use chicken thighs cut into cubes if you prefer). Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, and salt to taste, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add in spices and aromatics
I add one roughly chopped large onion, 3 cloves garlic minced, and a piece of fresh ginger (about an inch) minced or grated. Mix these ingredients together with the chicken.
Step 4: Simmer and stir while adding liquids and tomatoes
Once the onion has started to soften, I pour in one can of diced tomatoes along with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about five minutes. After that, I add in enough water or chicken stock to just cover the chicken (it’s OK if you don’t need all of it). Next, I pour in one can (around two cups) of coconut milk making sure to scrape off any cream that might be stuck to the sides or bottom of the can.
Tip: Want a creamier curry? Swap coconut milk with plain Greek yogurt or peanut butter instead.
Step 5: Let it cook!
Keep everything on a low simmer for around twenty minutes stirring occasionally so that nothing sticks. This will give all those flavors plenty of time to blend together.
Note: If you’re using a slow cooker, transfer everything over to your slow cooker at this point and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, it’s time to serve! I usually top off my chicken curry with some chopped cilantro, coconut flakes, or sliced almonds for a touch of crunch.
And there you have it, folks! A delicious gluten-free and dairy-free chicken curry recipe that is perfect for any night of the week.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of this chicken curry recipe is that it’s easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
– Protein substitutions: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can use other protein sources like beef, lamb, shrimp or tofu. You can also use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless chicken breasts for a more succulent texture.
– Spice variations: This recipe uses curry powder as the main spice, but you can experiment with other spice blends like garam masala, paprika or cumin. You can also add additional herbs and spices like basil, cilantro or garlic for extra flavor.
– Vegetable additions: You can make this recipe even more nutritious by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots or sweet potatoes. Simply sauté them along with the onion and ginger at the beginning of the recipe.
– Coconut milk alternatives: If you don’t have coconut milk on hand or don’t like the taste, you can use other dairy-free milk alternatives like almond milk or cashew milk. For a lighter version, you can even use coconut water instead of coconut milk.
– Heat level adjustments: Adjust the heat level by adding or reducing the amount of curry powder, fresh chili peppers or hot sauce. Want it milder? Leave out the cayenne pepper.
Whether you want to make this recipe more spicy, creamy or vegetable-rich, don’t hesitate to make adjustments according to your liking. The result will still be a delicious and healthy meal that everyone will love!
Serving and Pairing
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Now that you’ve made the best chicken curry of your life, it’s time to serve it up! This flavorful dish is perfect over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, which helps absorb the creamy coconut milk and spicy sauce. If you’re looking for something healthier, try serving it with steamed quinoa or roasted cauliflower.
For a pop of color and freshness, garnish your chicken curry with chopped cilantro or basil. An extra squeeze of lime juice can add brightness to the flavors and cut through the richness of the sauce. If you want to add some crunch, top your curry with sliced almonds or crispy fried onions.
If you’re looking for a complete meal, pair this chicken curry with some naan bread or papadum for scooping up the extra sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.
This recipe also pairs well with a variety of drinks. A cold beer or refreshing iced tea can help balance out the heat from the spices. If you’re looking for something more sophisticated, try pairing this curry with a spicy red wine like Syrah or Zinfandel.
No matter how you choose to serve this dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to meal prep and planning, the make-ahead option is always a lifesaver. Luckily, this chicken curry recipe is perfect for making ahead of time!
To make things even easier, you can store the curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can freeze it instead. Just make sure to thaw the curry completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating this dish, I’ve found that using a microwave or stovetop work well. If you’re going with the microwave option, heat up small portions at a time and stop periodically to stir. Alternatively, if you opt to use stovetop, start by heating 1-2 tablespoons of water in a shallow saucepan or skillet. Add curry into the water and simmer until heated through.
One last thing – if you’re planning on adding any additional toppings or garnishes (such as greens or nuts), I recommend storing those separately so they don’t wilt or get soggy.
Overall, this make-ahead chicken curry is an absolute game-changer when it comes to meal planning and preparing ahead of time!
Tips for Perfect Results
To make the best chicken curry, there are a few tips that can guarantee perfect results. Here are some of my suggestions based on my experience and knowledge:
1. Use fresh ingredients – Freshness is key to any dish, and the same applies to chicken curry. Using fresh chicken, spices, vegetables and herbs will amplify the flavours and aromas.
2. Don’t skimp on spices – The key to a flavourful chicken curry is the mix of spices used. Turmeric, curry powder, fresh ginger and garlic are just some of the add-ons that give depth to the dish.
3. Let it simmer for long – Slow cooking brings out the best in chicken curry. Letting it simmer on low heat for an extended period (such as 30-40 minutes) allows the meat to absorb all the flavors and become tender.
4. Be creative with substitutions – This recipe calls for boneless chicken breasts or thighs, but you can switch it up with different cuts of meat or even use tofu for a vegan option.
5. Use coconut milk for creaminess – Coconut milk adds creaminess to the dish without adding dairy. It also enhances the flavour profile of the curry.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste – Some may like their curry spicier while others might want it milder. It’s important to adjust seasoning to your preference to achieve desired results.
7. Serve with the right sides – Pair your chicken curry with white rice or quinoa and a side of vegetables like roasted broccoli, cauliflower or green beans.
By following these tips, you are sure to create a perfect chicken curry dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
FAQ
As we approach the FAQ section, remember that cooking is an art and every chef’s experience will differ based on their location, knowledge and even equipment used. I will answer some of the most common questions asked about making this chicken curry recipe, but don’t hesitate to experiment or reach out with additional inquiries.
Is chicken curry usually gluten free?
Making a curry from scratch can be a great option if you’re looking for gluten-free ingredients. Most of the ingredients used in a curry, such as the oils, spices, meats, and fresh veggies, do not contain gluten. Moreover, you can use chopped tomatoes or coconut milk as a sauce for a richer and creamier flavor.
What curry is best for IBS?
For those who love Indian cuisine but want to avoid digestive issues, there are healthier alternatives to the traditional spicy dishes. Instead of opting for a curry, try a milder korma dish. Swap your chicken tikka masala for tandoori or butter chicken, and consider ordering a pasanda instead of a laal maas. With these simple substitutions, you can still enjoy the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine without upsetting your stomach.
Which curry is gluten free?
Indian cuisine offers a wide variety of dishes, from mild curries to spicy tandoori to creamy tikka masala. Fortunately, Indian food mostly consists of gluten-free ingredients such as rice, vegetables, meats, and legumes like chickpeas and lentils. Each region in India has its own distinct style of cooking, resulting in delightful variations in flavors and spices.
What is the secret to a good curry?
When it comes to preparing a flavourful Indian curry, the essential aromatic trio consists of fresh ginger, onion, and garlic. While some recipes may exclude garlic to maintain a subtle taste, in most cases, this trio is the foundation of curries.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this gluten-free chicken curry recipe is not only easy to follow, but is also full of wonderful flavors and spices that will leave you and your loved ones satisfied and feeling great. With healthy, organic, and dairy-free ingredients like boneless chicken breasts, tomatoes, turmeric, fresh ginger, and coconut oil, this dish is perfect for those who are health-conscious or have special dietary needs.
So next time you’re looking for a delicious meal that won’t break your diet or your budget, give this recipe a try! With its amazing taste and simple preparation, it’s sure to become one of your new favorite go-to chicken curry dishes.
Remember, cooking healthy doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By choosing wholesome ingredients and following these easy steps, you can enjoy a tasty gluten-free chicken curry in no time. So go ahead and get cooking – your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!
The Best Chicken Curry - Gluten Free Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts (you can use chicken tenders if easier)
- 1 tablespoon oil (olive, canola, grapeseed)
- 1 cup fried onions (I purchase them already made up, the brand is Chirag)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chicken marsala seasoning (may add more if you like it spicy)
- 1 tomatoes (diced) (optional)
- 3 cups water
Instructions
- Take the fried onions and 1 tablespoon of oil and fry them on medium heat for about 30 seconds. Add the turmeric and Chicken marsala seasoning. Stir for another minute. Add tomato to taste and stir for another minute. Add 1 cup of water and cook until onions are tender, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add chicken, stir on medium for several minutes. Add another 2 cups of water and let simmer (lowest heat) for 30 minutes.
- This will serve 4 people. I always double this recipe so that the kids have extra for lunch the next day.
- Also, I make my Lebanese rice to go with this. The kids LOVE it!