Chicken Curry in a Hurry
Chicken curry in a hurry is the dish that comes to the rescue on those busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful yet quick to prepare. It’s a one-pot meal bursting with warmth and comfort, perfect for families or anyone looking to whip up a satisfying dinner in no time. When you have a busy schedule but still want to enjoy a homemade curry, this recipe turns your kitchen into a cozy haven in just a few simple steps. Trust me, once you experience its delightful flavors, you’ll want to add it to your weekly rotation.
Reasons To Try It
Why choose this chicken curry over countless other recipes? First of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. It calls for everyday ingredients, making it budget-friendly and perfect for spontaneous cooking. Plus, the kids will love it! Serve it with crispy oven chips for a family-friendly twist or pair it with cauliflower rice for a healthier option, keeping everyone’s tastes in mind.
"I made this chicken curry on a whim, and it was a hit! Quick, easy, and so delicious — I couldn’t believe something so satisfying came together so fast!” — Sarah J.
Step-by-Step Overview
This dish comes together with minimal fuss. Here’s what you can expect: you’ll sauté onions, brown the bite-sized chicken pieces, and then kick things up a notch with robust curry powder. After simmering everything to perfection, you’ll toss in garden peas for a pop of color and flavor. Each step is straightforward, making it ideal for cooks of any skill level.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients before you start your cooking journey:
- 1 kg chicken breast (diced into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 100 g frozen garden peas
- 1/2 tub Mayflower curry powder
- 400 ml boiled water
- Oven chips (for a kid-friendly crunch)
- Cauliflower rice (for a healthy side)
Feel free to swap the chicken breast for thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or use vegetable protein for a vegetarian option!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s dive into how to bring this delightful curry to life:
- Sauté the onion: In a pot, chop and sauté the onion until it’s soft and translucent.
- Brown the chicken: Add your diced chicken to the pot and cook on medium heat until it’s browned all over.
- Add curry powder: Sprinkle the Mayflower curry powder over the chicken, stirring well to coat each piece evenly.
- Introduce water: Pour in the boiled water, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate peas: Toss in the frozen garden peas and allow everything to marinate in those flavors for an additional 15-20 minutes on low heat.
- Serve it up: Pair your delicious curry with crispy oven chips for the kids and serve cauliflower rice on the side for a healthy touch.
How to Plate and Pair
Presentation can elevate your meal! Serve this curry in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors. You can garnish it with fresh coriander or a sprinkle of extra curry powder for a pop of flavor. For a complete meal, offer a side of naan or poppadoms alongside the oven chips and cauliflower rice to soak up any leftover sauce!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storage is important for maintaining the quality and safety of your chicken curry. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers, where they’ll keep well for about three months. When reheating, make sure it’s heated through to an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to ensure food safety.
Pro Chef Tips
To enhance your chicken curry in a hurry, consider these helpful tips:
- Marinate the chicken: Letting your chicken sit with curry powder for even just 20 minutes before cooking can deepen the flavor.
- Custom spice levels: If you enjoy a bit of heat, throw in some chopped chilies or a dash of hot sauce when cooking.
- Creamy goodness: Stirring in a splash of coconut milk in the last five minutes can make your curry creamier and richer.
Creative Twists
Looking to switch things up with your chicken curry? Here are a few variations:
- Add veggies: Throw in chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and texture.
- Different proteins: Swap chicken for beef or even chickpeas for a vegetarian take on this dish.
- Flavor profiles: Try different curry powders or add a touch of ginger or garlic for a unique spin.
Your Questions Answered
How long does this take to make?
This recipe is a quick 30-minute endeavor, perfect for busy weeknights!
Can I substitute the chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs, turkey, or even plant-based proteins for a delicious alternative.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas can work beautifully. Just add them a few minutes earlier in the cooking process!
By following these straightforward steps, tips, and serving suggestions, you’ll have a delightful dish that satisfies the whole family while being a breeze to prepare. Enjoy your flavorful journey with this Chicken Curry in a Hurry!
Chicken Curry in a Hurry
Ingredients
Method
- In a pot, chop and sauté the onion until it's soft and translucent.
- Add your diced chicken to the pot and cook on medium heat until it’s browned all over.
- Sprinkle the Mayflower curry powder over the chicken, stirring well to coat each piece evenly.
- Pour in the boiled water, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Toss in the frozen garden peas and allow everything to marinate in those flavors for an additional 15-20 minutes on low heat.
- Pair your delicious curry with crispy oven chips for the kids and serve cauliflower rice on the side for a healthy touch.
