My Mom's Chicken Curry: A Taste of Home

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There's something incredibly comforting about a dish that has been passed down through generations. My mom's chicken curry is more than just a meal; it's a heartwarming connection to my family's culinary roots. This recipe isn't just savored on the dining table—it's cherished through its flavors, aromas, and the love that goes into preparing it..

This chicken curry recipe has its origins in the bustling kitchens of my grandparents in South Asia, where spices are treated not just as ingredients but as the essence of cooking. Over the years, my mom has adapted the recipe, perfecting it with her personal touch, and now, I'm thrilled to share it with you.

To make this delightful curry, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 3 tomatoes, pureed
  • 2 tablespoons garlic paste
  • 2 tablespoons ginger paste
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust according to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Water as needed

How do you make this?

  1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  2. Add the garlic and ginger paste to the onions, and cook for another two minutes until the mixture emits a fragrant aroma.
  3. Introduce the chicken pieces to the pot. Stir well to ensure the chicken is coated with the onion mixture. Cook until the chicken turns slightly golden.
  4. Sprinkle the turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala over the chicken. Mix thoroughly to combine all the spices with the chicken.
  5. Pour in the tomato puree and mix well. Allow the mixture to simmer for about five minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Add enough water to cover the chicken and bring the curry to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
  7. Stir in the coconut milk and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This curry is best served hot and goes wonderfully with steamed rice or naan. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a perfect dish for a family dinner or a festive occasion.

My mom's chicken curry is more than just food; it’s a story of tradition, love, and memories shared across the dining table. Every bite offers not only a burst of delectable flavors but also a slice of my heritage. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine.

More indian inspired dishes to check out:

Mom’s One- Pot Chicken Roast

Very few ingredients , but flavorful & delicious , make this chicken roast a must-try! Tried and tested recipe , having you come for seconds!
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Total Time 1 hr 45 mins
Course Main Course, Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Indian
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lb Bone-in Chicken
  • 2 Red Onions , sliced
  • 1 inch Ginger, chopped
  • 4 Garlic cloves, chopped
  • 3-4 Green Chillies , slit lengthwise
  • 1 sprig Curry Leaves available at Indian grocery stores
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 2 tbsp Coriander Powder
  • 1.5 tbsp Kashmiri Chilli Powder check notes
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala
  • 1 Juice of Lemon
  • 2-3 tbsp Coconut Oil, or any neutral oil of your choice
  • A handful of cilantro, chopped.

Instructions
 

  • Clean and wash the chicken thoroughly, set aside. Prep the ingredients; slice the onions, coarsely chop the ginger and garlic. Slit green chilies lengthwise.
  • Move the chicken with all the above-listed ingredients in a deep pot. Cover with a lid or cling film/ plastic wrap and refrigerate for an hour minimum.
  • After an hour, return the pot to the stove on medium heat. Add a 1/4 to a half cup of water. Stir it and let cook covered.
  • After 15 – 20 minutes, take the lid off, and continue cooking till the chicken has cooked all the way. Check for seasoning.
  • At this point, there might be a little gravy in the chicken. Continue cooking on medium to low flame , till the sauce has reduced well. If you prefer a good amount of gravy, turn off gas at this point and garnish.
  • Once the gravy has reduced and it has a thick consistency, turn off the heat. Serve warm with some Brown Rice or Bread, Roti.

Notes

Spice:
Alter the spice level of the dish to your preference. Reduce the number of green chilies or the quantity of Kashmiri chili powder accordingly.
Chicken:
I’ve used bone-in chicken which is available as the whole cut-up chicken in stores. If using Boneless breasts, reduce the cooking time.
Keyword one pot dish, chicken, chicken roast, easy
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