Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Marinate the chicken (optional): If you have time, marinate the chicken with a little salt, turmeric, and yogurt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil over medium heat.
Add whole spices: Add the bay leaf, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
Add onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the pan. Sauté them until they are golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This step is crucial as it forms the base of the curry.
Add ginger and garlic: Stir in the minced ginger and garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes
Add tomatoes: Add the tomato puree or finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
Add spices: Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook the spices with the tomato-onion mixture for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice mixture.
Cook the chicken: Cook the chicken on medium heat for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken changes color and starts to cook through.
Add yogurt: Lower the heat and stir in the whisked yogurt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent the yogurt from curdling.
Add water: Pour in 1 cup of water, or enough to create a gravy. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the curry simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Step 5: Finish the Curry
Add garam masala: Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the garam masala over the curry and mix well.
Add fenugreek leaves: If using, add the crushed fenugreek leaves at this stage. It adds a subtle earthy flavor to the curry.
Check seasoning: Taste the curry and adjust the salt or spice levels if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish: Garnish the chicken curry with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Serve hot: Serve the chicken curry hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, roti, or any bread of your choice.
Tips and Variations
Creamy curry: For a richer curry, add a splash of cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
Spice level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your heat preference.
Slow cooking: If you have time, slow-cooking the chicken curry enhances the flavors and makes the chicken more tender.
Vegetable addition: Add vegetables like potatoes or peas to the curry for extra nutrition and texture.
Conclusion
Chicken Curry is a timeless dish that’s packed with flavor and warmth. It’s versatile, comforting, and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple dinner, this chicken curry recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Enjoy your cooking, and relish the rich, aromatic flavors of this homemade chicken curry!
