Quick Chicken Curry Delight

This quick chicken curry recipe transforms rotisserie chicken into a flavorful Indian-inspired dish that comes together in just 35 minutes. The creamy curry sauce enriched with yogurt pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice for a satisfying weeknight dinner that tastes like it took hours.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic work week when I needed something impressive yet effortless. My family was shocked when I served this rich curry in under 40 minutes and now it's on regular rotation in our meal planning.

Ingredients

• White rice: Provides the perfect canvas for soaking up the flavorful curry sauce. Choose a good quality basmati for authentic flavor.
• Olive oil: For sautéing with a neutral flavor that won't compete with the curry spices.
• Yellow onion: Creates the aromatic base. Look for firm onions without soft spots for best flavor.
• Curry powder: Brings the signature warm flavor. Select a high quality blend or make your own for extra freshness.
• Plain yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess. Greek yogurt works best for its thickness.
• Heavy cream: Creates richness and balances the spices. Full fat provides the best texture.
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors. Sea salt works well too.
• Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Optional but recommended for acidity and texture. Choose fire roasted for extra flavor.
• Rotisserie chicken: Saves tremendous time while providing tender juicy meat. Dark meat portions add extra richness.
• Fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish with herbaceous notes. Look for vibrant green bunches without wilting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Rice:

Prepare rice according to package directions while working on the curry sauce. This perfect timing ensures everything finishes simultaneously. For extra flavor consider using chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice.

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium low heat until shimmering. Add thinly sliced onion and cook for a full 7 minutes stirring occasionally until they become translucent and slightly golden. This slow cooking develops sweet caramelized flavors that form the foundation of the curry.

Bloom the Spices:

Sprinkle curry powder over the softened onions and cook while stirring constantly for exactly 1 minute. This critical step wakes up the spices and releases their aromatic oils. You'll notice the fragrance intensifies dramatically during this process.

Create the Sauce:

Add yogurt and heavy cream to the spiced onions stirring gently to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer very gently for 3 minutes until slightly thickened watching carefully to prevent curdling. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.

Finalize the Curry:

Stir in salt pepper and drained diced tomatoes if using. Remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking. The residual heat will continue developing flavors while maintaining the creamy texture.

Assemble and Serve:

Divide the cooked rice among serving bowls creating a bed for the curry. Arrange sliced or shredded rotisserie chicken portions over the rice then generously spoon the fragrant sauce over everything. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for color and brightness.

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I particularly love how the yogurt creates tanginess while the heavy cream balances with richness. This combination reminds me of my first experience with authentic Indian curry at a small family restaurant years ago. The owner explained that the secret was always in balancing cream with acidic elements which this recipe captures perfectly.

Spice Level Customization

This curry recipe provides a mild to medium heat level that works well for most palates. For those seeking more intensity consider adding a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper when blooming the curry powder. Alternatively curry lovers who prefer gentler flavors can reduce the curry powder to one teaspoon and increase the cream slightly. Remember that curry powder varies significantly between brands so adjust accordingly after tasting.

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Make Ahead and Storage

This chicken curry recipe stores exceptionally well making it perfect for meal prep. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors actually intensify overnight as the spices continue to meld. When reheating add a splash of water or cream to restore the original consistency as the sauce tends to thicken when chilled. For longer storage freeze individual portions in freezer safe containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stovetop.

Exciting Variations

The beauty of this curry foundation lies in its versatility. Swap the chicken for one pound of peeled shrimp added during the last few minutes of cooking for an elegant seafood version. Vegetarians can replace the meat with roasted cauliflower florets and chickpeas for a hearty plant based alternative. For a more complex flavor profile add one tablespoon of grated fresh ginger and two minced garlic cloves when sautéing the onions. During special occasions stir in a quarter cup of golden raisins and toasted sliced almonds just before serving for a festive touch that impresses guests.

Authentic Serving Suggestions

Elevate this quick curry to restaurant quality status with thoughtful accompaniments. Warm store bought naan bread in the oven for two minutes then brush with melted butter and sprinkle with minced garlic. Prepare a simple cucumber raita by combining grated cucumber with yogurt mint and a pinch of cumin. Offer small bowls of traditional condiments like mango chutney chopped scallions and lemon wedges allowing everyone to customize their plate. For a complete Indian inspired feast include a simple side of steamed peas with cumin or spinach quickly sautéed with garlic.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use homemade cooked chicken. Simply shred or slice cooked chicken breasts or thighs as a substitute for rotisserie chicken.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a mixture of milk and butter for a similar texture and richness.

→ Is the diced tomato optional?

Yes, the diced tomato is optional. It adds depth to the sauce, but you can skip it if you prefer a simpler curry base.

→ Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili to the curry powder for extra heat.

→ What sides pair well with this meal?

This curry pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.