Why You’ll Love this Indian-Style Chicken Curry
If you’re tired of the same old dinner routine, this Indian-Style Chicken Curry is about to become your new weeknight hero.
I’m obsessed with how the warm, aromatic spices transform simple chicken breast into something extraordinary without requiring a pantry overhaul.
What makes this curry special? It’s the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity.
The curry powder, ginger, and garlic create layers of complexity that taste like they’ve been simmering all day—though it’s ready in under an hour.
Plus, that velvety sauce, thickened just right with a cornstarch slurry, clings beautifully to rice or noodles.
What Ingredients are in Indian-Style Chicken Curry?
Creating this flavorful Indian-Style Chicken Curry doesn’t require a trip to a specialty store or an overwhelming list of spices. The beauty of this recipe lies in its accessibility—using simple ingredients that combine to create those distinctive curry flavors we all crave.
With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh chicken, you’ll have everything you need to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India.
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1-2 teaspoons curry powder (adjust based on your spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Cornstarch mixed with water to create a slurry (for thickening)
- Rice or egg noodles (for serving)
When shopping for these ingredients, quality matters, especially with the curry powder. Look for one that smells fragrant and hasn’t been sitting in your cabinet for years (we’ve all been guilty of that, right?).
While this recipe keeps things simple with dried spices, you could certainly substitute fresh ginger or garlic if you have them on hand. The chicken breast works perfectly here, but boneless thighs would add a richer flavor if you prefer dark meat.
And don’t forget to have your favorite rice or noodles ready—they’re essential for soaking up every last drop of that velvety curry sauce.
How to Make this Indian-Style Chicken Curry
Creating this curry is wonderfully straightforward, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Start by browning 1 pound of chicken breast cubes in a non-stick skillet. This initial searing creates a foundation of flavor that elevates the entire dish—don’t rush this step! You want those little golden edges that add texture and depth to your curry.
While the chicken browns, you can combine your aromatic spice mixture: 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, 1-2 teaspoons curry powder (depending on how spicy you like things), 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
Once your chicken has developed a nice color, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the meat and stir to coat each piece thoroughly. The kitchen will instantly fill with the most incredible aroma, transporting you straight to India without the airfare.
Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, bringing all those flavors together in a fragrant bath. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 45 minutes to an hour. This slow cooking process is where the magic happens—the chicken becomes tender, and the spices meld into a complex sauce that tastes like it took all day to prepare.
For the finishing touch, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a bit of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into your simmering curry, where it will work its thickening magic, transforming the thin broth into a velvety, cling-to-your-spoon gravy. The thickness is entirely up to you—add the slurry gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve your completed curry over fluffy white rice or tender egg noodles, creating the perfect vehicle for soaking up every last drop of that aromatic sauce. Could dinner possibly get any more comforting than this?
Indian-Style Chicken Curry Substitutions and Variations
This classic chicken curry recipe welcomes your personal touch—I’m a firm believer that recipes are just starting points for culinary creativity!
Don’t have chicken breast? Thighs work beautifully and often bring more flavor. Vegetarians can swap in firm tofu or chickpeas. For a creamier curry, try adding a splash of coconut milk during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
Want more heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. Love veggies? Potatoes, peas, or spinach blend perfectly with these aromatic spices. And if you’re spice-curious, try adding garam masala or turmeric for authentic Indian depth.
What to Serve with Indian-Style Chicken Curry
While the star of your meal is unquestionably this aromatic chicken curry, choosing the perfect accompaniments can elevate your dinner from delicious to memorable.
I always recommend serving this curry over steamed basmati rice, which catches every drop of that rich gravy. Naan bread is perfect for scooping up sauce—who doesn’t love that?
A cooling cucumber raita on the side balances the spice, while a simple tomato-onion salad adds freshness.
For drinks, skip the wine and try lassi or a cold beer instead. They complement those complex curry flavors beautifully.
And remember, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro just before serving? Non-negotiable in my book.
Final Thoughts
After making this Indian-style chicken curry a few times, you’ll find it becomes a staple in your cooking repertoire. The balance of warming spices with tender chicken creates comfort food that’s both satisfying and impressive to dinner guests. What I love most? How versatile it is—swap chicken thighs for breast, add vegetables, or adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
