Weeknight Chicken Curry Dinner with Rice

Here's a delightful recipe for a Weeknight Chicken Curry Dinner, perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something flavorful yet straightforward. This dish is a testament to the magic of spices and simple techniques coming together to create a meal that's both comforting and exciting. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and the warmth of the curry makes it a perfect match with rice or roti. The best part? It's easy to whip up, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This chicken curry is not just a dish; it's a journey of flavors that promises to make your weeknights special. Enjoy the heartwarming blend of spices and the joy of a homemade meal that's both satisfying and simple to prepare. Bon appétit!

Ingredients

• For Onion Mixture:

  • Water: ¾ cup

  • Onion, cubed: 1 large (1 cup)

  • Garlic cloves: 5 large

  • Ginger, thick slices: 3½

  • Green chilies: 4

• For Chicken Marinade:

  • Chicken breast or thighs, boneless: 750 g

  • Salt: 1 tsp (to taste)

  • Turmeric powder: ½ tsp

  • Paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder: 1 tsp

  • Hung plain yogurt: ¼ cup

  • Black pepper: ¼ tsp

  • Oil: 1 tsp

• For Curry:

  • Neutral oil: 2 tbsp

  • Cumin seeds: ½ tsp

  • Bay leaf: 1

  • Mace blade: ½

  • Cardamom, bruised: 4

  • Cinnamon sticks, small: 2

  • Cloves: 4-5

  • Tomato puree: ½ cup minus 1 tbsp

  • Coriander powder: 1½ tsp

  • Garam masala: ½ tsp

  • Kashmiri red chili powder: ½ tsp

  • Roasted cumin powder: ½ tsp

  • Water: 1 cup

• For Garnish:

  • Ghee: 1 tsp

  • Green chili, chopped: 1

  • Sugar: ¼ tsp

  • Fresh coriander, chopped: 1 tbsp

  • Ginger, thinly sliced: 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Prepare Onion Mixture:
   

   • In a small saucepot, add ¾ cup water, cubed onion, garlic cloves, ginger slices, and green chilies.

   • Cook over high heat for 5-6 minutes.

   • Once cooked, blend into a smooth paste and set aside.

1. Marinate Chicken:
   

   • In a bowl, combine chicken with salt, turmeric, paprika or Kashmiri red chili, yogurt, black pepper, and 1 tsp oil.

   • Mix well and marinate for 10-30 minutes.

1. Cooking the Curry:
   

   • Heat 2 tbsp neutral oil in a frying pan.

   • Add cumin seeds and sauté for 10-20 seconds.

   • Add the cooked onion mixture and a pinch of salt, sauté for 5-6 minutes over medium heat.

   • Add bay leaf, mace blade, cardamom, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Sauté for a minute.

   • Stir in tomato puree, coriander powder, and garam masala. Continue sautéing until oil separates (about 2-3 minutes), adding a bit of water if it sticks.

   • Add the marinated chicken and ½ tsp Kashmiri red chili. Sauté for 10 minutes over high heat.

   • Stir in roasted cumin and add 1 cup of water. Cover and cook for 5-6 minutes on low heat.

1. Garnish and Serve:
   

   • Once done, garnish with ghee, chopped green chili, sugar, chopped coriander, and sliced ginger.

   • Serve hot with rice or roti and enjoy a flavorful meal!

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 kcal per serving.

• Protein: High (from chicken).

• Carbohydrates: Moderate.

• Fats: Moderate.

• Fiber: Low to moderate.

• Vitamins and Minerals: Good source of vitamins from spices and herbs.

This recipe is a perfect blend of nutrition and taste, making it an ideal choice for a hearty weeknight dinner!