Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce is a delightful dish that blends savory and aromatic flavors for a comforting meal. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a rich tomato-curry sauce, creating a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. The use of common ingredients makes it accessible for home cooks, while the unique combination of spices offers an exotic flair that transports your taste buds straight to culinary paradise.
Why We Love This Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce Recipe
This Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce is a favorite for many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor. The rich combination of coconut milk and tomatoes creates a beautifully creamy base that complements the spices perfectly. Additionally, the recipe is versatile: you can adapt it to suit your dietary preferences or simply use ingredients you have on hand. Furthermore, it pairs wonderfully with rice or naan, making it a well-rounded meal for all occasions. With every bite, you experience a burst of flavors that feels both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients about Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce
- 2 pounds chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce Directions
To begin creating your Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce, heat olive oil in your preferred cooking vessel—this could be a slow cooker, stovetop pot, or Instant Pot. Start by adding the chopped onions to the pot, sautéing them until they turn translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. The aroma of the sautéing onions will fill your kitchen with a delicious fragrance.
Next, introduce the minced garlic and fresh ginger to the mix, letting them cook for another minute. This step is crucial, as the garlic and ginger bring a depth of flavor to your dish. Once you can smell their fragrant notes, it’s time to add the curry powder. Stir it in and cook for an additional minute to let the spices bloom and release their rich aroma.
Now, add your chicken pieces to the pot. Brown the chicken slightly on all sides, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step helps to seal in the moisture and adds a wonderful texture to the chicken. Once the chicken is lightly browned, pour in the canned tomatoes and coconut milk. These ingredients will form the base of your tomato-curry sauce. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference.
If you’re using a slow cooker, set it to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. If you’re using the stovetop, allow the mixture to simmer for about 30-40 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and tender. If you opt for the Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and then let the pressure release naturally for the best results.
Once cooked, your Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce will be a vibrant and comforting dish ready to be served. Pair it with steamed rice or warm naan for an unforgettable meal your family will love.
How to Serve Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce
When it comes to serving your Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce, you have a few delicious options. A classic way to serve this dish is over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice soaks up the rich curry sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something different, consider serving it with warm naan bread. This allows you to scoop up the curry sauce, making each bite more enjoyable.
You might also want to garnish your finished dish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley. This simple step adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that complements the dish perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lime or lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more.
Don’t forget to have plenty of napkins on hand because this dish is hearty and delicious, and you won’t want to waste a single drop of that tasty sauce!
Expert Tips: Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce
To make your Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce truly outstanding, consider these expert tips. First, if you have time, marinating the chicken pieces in the curry powder with some salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking can enhance the flavors significantly.
Another tip is to adjust the heat level according to your preference. If you like it spicy, feel free to add some chili powder or fresh chilies when adding the curry powder. You can also include vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.
Using bone-in chicken can also result in a more flavorful sauce, as the bones contribute to a richer broth. However, if you’re pressed for time, boneless chicken is just fine and will still yield a delicious outcome.
Lastly, for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the sauce. This will balance the acidity of the tomatoes and create a unique flavor profile.
How to Store Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce
Storing your Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce is simple and convenient. Once the dish has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days without losing flavor. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir gently and heat until warmed through.
If you prefer to keep it longer, consider freezing the dish. It can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, ensuring it’s piping hot before serving.
Variation of Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce
This Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce recipe is highly adaptable, giving you the freedom to make it your own. One popular variation is to add vegetables to the mix. Chopped carrots, bell peppers, or even peas can enhance the nutritional value while adding color to the dish. Simply add them when you add the chicken, allowing them to cook through.
For a richer flavor, you might swap the canned tomatoes for fresh, ripe tomatoes during the peak of the season. Alternatively, experimenting with different types of curry paste can yield different flavor profiles. Red curry paste or green curry paste can bring a new dimension to this recipe.
If you’re in the mood for a meatless meal, consider using chickpeas or tofu as your protein source. They soak up the flavors beautifully and provide a hearty texture similar to chicken.
Lastly, for something a bit different, you can use different protein options like shrimp or fish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
FAQ
What should I serve with Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce?
You can serve Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce with steamed rice, fluffy naan, or quinoa. For added freshness, consider garnishing with herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Can I make Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce in advance?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
How spicy is Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can make it mild by using less curry powder or by adding some dairy. For more heat, consider adding chili paste or fresh chilies.
Can I use different types of chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in or boneless chicken pieces. Bone-in will give you a richer flavor, but both options work well in this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish is excellent for meal prepping. Portion it out into containers for easy reheating throughout the week, making your lunches or dinners both delicious and convenient.
Chicken in Tomato-Curry Sauce
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless) Bone-in chicken adds more flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk Adds creaminess to the sauce.
- 1 large onion, chopped Provides the base flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances aroma and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced Brings warmth and depth of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons curry powder Adjust according to spice preference.
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in your cooking vessel (slow cooker, stovetop pot, or Instant Pot).
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Introduce minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Add curry powder and stir, cooking for an additional minute.
- Brown chicken pieces on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking
- Pour in diced tomatoes and coconut milk, season with salt and pepper.
- For slow cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- For stovetop: Simmer for 30-40 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- For Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and let pressure release naturally.
Serving
- Serve over steamed rice or with warm naan, garnished with fresh herbs.
- Optionally, add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!