Simple Chicken Curry for One: A Delicious and Healthy Weeknight Dine-In

Are you tired of cooking the same dishes over and over, especially when you only have to feed yourself? Look no further! This simple and delicious chicken curry recipe is perfect for a solo diner. It's quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it the ideal weeknight meal. With minimal ingredients and time, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying dish that's both healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients

200g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 tablespoon vegetable or coconut oil 1 small finely chopped onion 1 clove minced garlic 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 small chopped tomato or 1/2 cup canned tomatoes 1 tablespoon curry powder (adjust to taste) 1/2 cup coconut milk or water/stock for a lighter option Salt and pepper to taste Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Heat Oil: In a small pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, cooking until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Add Tomato and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomato and curry powder. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomato softens. Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk or water/stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your chicken curry, serve it with rice, naan, or even a piece of crusty bread. The combination of flavors created in this curry is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different spices and ingredients to find your perfect balance of flavors!

Making Curry a Simplified Concept

A simple chicken curry can be made using basic whole spices, onions, tomatoes, and dry powdered spices. However, understanding the diverse elements that go into making curry can open up a world of possibilities for your culinary explorations. Let's break down the components of a traditional curry:

1. Base Ingredients

Onions Tomatoes Spinach Pumpkin Etc.

2. Spices

Endless combinations of spices can be used to flavor your curry. Here are some common ones:

Garam masala Red chili powder Turmeric Coriander powder Jeera (cumin) powder Pepper

3. Fat

Oil Butter Cream

4. Acid

Yogurt Lime juice Nuts

5. Heat

Chili peppers Ginger Garlic Onion

6. Protein

Meat (chicken, beef, fish) Paneer (Indian cheese) Lentils Pulses Veggies

By combining these elements, you can create numerous permutations and combinations. Starting from the basic "Butter Chicken" recipe, you can experiment with different base ingredients, spices, and techniques to create a curry that suits your taste. This approach makes curry a versatile and exciting addition to any meal, whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen.

Feel free to adjust the spices and ingredients according to your taste preferences. Don't be afraid to explore and try new combinations. The key is to enjoy the process and the end result!

Conclusion

With this simple chicken curry recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal any night of the week. It's not just a recipe; it's a gateway to exploring the wonderfully diverse world of curry. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner or a way to entertain friends, this recipe is sure to become your go-to dish. Happy cooking!