Indulge in The Rich Flavors of Indian Chicken Curry (Murgh Kari)

Indulge in the rich flavors of Indian Chicken Curry (Murgh Kari). A delicious, aromatic dish with tender chicken and fragrant spices for a perfect meal. A curry is a thick, creamy sauce filled with layers of bold and aromatic spices. When chicken is added to this sauce, the combination creates an extraordinary depth of flavor that transports you straight into a state of food ecstasy. Lately, I have developed an undeniable love affair with Chicken Curry, and it’s been a challenge to stop craving it. This dish, a staple of Indian cuisine, has captivated my taste buds in such a way that I find myself craving it more often than not. I’ve been experimenting with different variations of Chicken Curry, trying to find the perfect recipe that suits my preferences, and it seems that the dish has become a beloved part of my culinary repertoire.

It wasn’t long ago when I first made a simple version of Chicken Curry, and since that time, the flavors of that dish have been haunting me, urging me to recreate it. The combination of spices in Chicken Curry is what gives it the iconic and authentic Indian flavor. There are endless recipes for Chicken Curry, each one boasting its own twist, but after much searching and experimenting, I settled on a version that I consider my favorite. However, I remain open to trying new recipes in hopes of finding one that might surpass this one. The beauty of Chicken Curry lies in its versatility, as the array of spices used can be adjusted to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and heat.

The blend of spices used in Chicken Curry is what makes this dish so unique. From the warmth of cumin and coriander to the complexity of garam masala and turmeric, each spice contributes its own distinct profile to the dish. The level of heat can be customized by adjusting the amount of chili powder or fresh chilies, depending on personal preference. For those who enjoy the full depth of a traditional curry, a generous amount of spices is essential, and it is this combination of heat and flavor that makes Indian curries so irresistible. The heat from the spices is never overwhelming; instead, it provides a tantalizing warmth that excites the taste buds and elevates the overall experience.

If you prefer a milder version of Chicken Curry, it is certainly possible to reduce the amount of spices used in the recipe. However, in my opinion, the magic of a good Chicken Curry lies in the intensity of its spices, and I would recommend keeping the original spice measurements to fully appreciate the dish. Cutting back on the spices may result in a curry that lacks the depth and authenticity that make this dish truly special. But if you do choose to adjust the spice levels, be mindful that the flavors of the curry may change, and you may lose some of the complexity that makes Chicken Curry such an exceptional dish.

One of the things I love most about Chicken Curry is that the flavors intensify the longer it sits. Leftovers are often even better the next day, as the spices have more time to meld together, and the sauce thickens to perfection. The richness of the curry is balanced by the tenderness of the chicken, and each bite is a comforting, satisfying experience. This dish has a way of warming you from the inside out, providing both nourishment and a sense of comfort that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy on a cozy night in, Chicken Curry is always a dish that delivers.

What I particularly enjoy about this curry is the way it brings people together. There’s something about sharing a dish like Chicken Curry that fosters a sense of togetherness. Whether it’s served at a family gathering, a dinner with friends, or a solo meal to unwind after a long day, Chicken Curry has the power to create lasting memories. It is the perfect dish for moments of connection, where the meal itself becomes a catalyst for conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.

Another reason I find Chicken Curry so appealing is its versatility in terms of pairing. While it’s fantastic on its own, served with a bowl of plain white rice, the addition of accompaniments such as naan bread or raita elevates the meal to a whole new level. Naan, with its soft, pillowy texture, makes the perfect vessel for scooping up the rich, flavorful curry sauce. The warm, slightly charred bread adds an element of texture and heartiness to the meal, making it even more enjoyable. Raita, a cooling yogurt-based side dish, offers a refreshing contrast to the heat of the curry, balancing the spices and adding a creamy, tangy note that complements the flavors perfectly.

For me, the balance between the heat of the curry and the cooling elements like raita and naan is what makes the dish so satisfying. It’s the perfect combination of flavors, textures, and temperatures that works harmoniously to create a fulfilling and delightful meal. Even if you don’t have all the traditional accompaniments on hand, Chicken Curry remains a flavorful and indulgent dish in its own right, and it’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

It’s easy to see why Chicken Curry is such a beloved dish in Indian cuisine and beyond. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, with countless variations to explore and enjoy. Whether you prefer it with a bit of heat or a milder version, Chicken Curry has something to offer everyone. As much as I love the version I’ve come to consider my favorite, I know there are always new ways to tweak the recipe and discover new flavors. It’s one of those dishes that can always be made your own, whether you stick to the classic method or get creative with your spice combinations.

In the end, the joy of making and eating Chicken Curry lies in its ability to transport you to a place of pure culinary satisfaction. The intoxicating aroma of the spices, the warmth of the sauce, and the richness of the chicken all combine to create a meal that’s comforting, exciting, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with loved ones, Chicken Curry is a dish that has the power to bring joy to every meal. And with so many variations to explore, it’s a dish that will continue to delight for years to come.

Ingredients

2 Pounds Skinless, Boneless Chicken breast halves
2 Teaspoons Salt
1/2 Cup Cooking Oil
1 1/2 Cups Chopped Onion
1 Tablespoon Minced Garlic
1 1/2 Teaspoons Minced Fresh Ginger root
1 Tablespoon Curry Powder
1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
1 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric
1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
1 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
1 Tablespoon Water
1 (15 ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes
1 Cup Plain Yogurt
1 Tablespoon Chopped Fresh Cilantro
1 Teaspoon Salt
1/2 Cup Water
1 Teaspoon Garam Masala
1 Tablespoon Chopped Fresh Cilantro
1 Tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice

Method

-Sprinkle the chicken breasts with 2 teaspoons salt
-Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat; partially cook the chicken in the hot oil in batches until completely browned
-Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a plate and set aside
-Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium-high; add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the oil remaining in the skillet and cook and stir until the onion turns translucent, about 8 minutes
-Stir the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, coriander, cayenne, and 1 tablespoon of water into the onion mixture; allow to heat together for about 1 minute while stirring
-Mix the tomatoes, yogurt, 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, and 1 teaspoon salt into the mixture
-Return the chicken breast to the skillet along with any juices on the plate
-Pour 1/2 cup water into the mixture; bring to a boil, turning the chicken to coat with the sauce
-Sprinkle the garam masala and 1 tablespoon cilantro over the chicken
-Cover the skillet and simmer until the chicken breasts are no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 20 minutes
- Sprinkle with lemon juice to serve over Rice, Naan, Chapati

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INDIAN CHICKEN CURRY (MURGH KARI)

by Mulunga Alukwe August-17-2017

Ingredients

• 2 Pounds Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breast Halves
• 2 Teaspoons Salt
• 1/2 Cup Cooking Oil
• 1 1/2 Cups Onion
• 1 Tablespoon Garlic
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons Ginger
• 1 Tablespoon Curry Powder
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric
• 1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
• 1 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
• 1 Tablespoon Water
• 1 Can Crushed Tomatoes
• 1 Cup Plain Yogurt
• 1 Tablespoon Chopped Cilantro
• 1 Teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 Cup Water
• 1 Teaspoon Garam Marsala
• 1 Tablespoon Chopped Cilantro for garnish
• 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice

Instructions

-Sprinkle the chicken breasts with 2 teaspoons salt-Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat; partially cook the chicken in the hot oil in batches until completely browned. Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a plate and set aside-Reduce the heat under the skillet to medium-high; add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the oil remaining in the skillet and cook and stir until the onion turns translucent, about 8 minutes-Stir the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, coriander, cayenne, and 1 tablespoon of water into the onion mixture; allow to heat together for about 1 minute while stirring-Mix the tomatoes, yogurt, 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, and 1 teaspoon salt into the mixture-Return the chicken breast to the skillet along with any juices on the plate-Pour 1/2 cup water into the mixture; bring to a boil, turning the chicken to coat with the sauce-Sprinkle the Garam Marsala and 1 tablespoon cilantro over the chicken-Cover the skillet and simmer until the chicken breasts are no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, about 20 minutes- Sprinkle with lemon juice to serve over Rice, Naan, Chapati

Details

Prep time: 20 mins Cook time: 40 mins Total time: 1 hour Yield: 6 Servings

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Indian Chicken Curry (Murgh Kari)

A Classic North Indian Curry with Tender Chicken in a Fragrant Tomato-Based Gravy

📝 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is Murgh Kari?
A: "Murgh Kari" translates to chicken curry. It's a traditional Indian dish featuring chicken simmered in a thick, spiced gravy made from onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and a blend of aromatic Indian spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala.

Q2: Is Indian Chicken Curry spicy?
A: It can be mildly to moderately spicy depending on the amount of chili used. You can easily adjust the spice level by modifying chili powder or green chilies.

Q3: What type of chicken is best?
A: Bone-in chicken (like drumsticks or thighs) provides richer flavor, but boneless chicken breast or thighs can also be used for convenience.

Q4: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes. If the recipe uses yogurt or cream, substitute with coconut milk or dairy-free yogurt alternatives.

Q5: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, roti, or chapati. A cooling side of cucumber raita or sliced onions and lemon is traditional.

Q6: How long does it last?
A: It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. It also freezes well.

Q7: Can I make it vegetarian or vegan?
A: While Murgh Kari is specifically a chicken curry, the base gravy can be adapted to make versions with paneer, tofu, or vegetables for a vegetarian or vegan dish.

📊 Nutrition Card – Per 1 serving (1 cup, ~250g)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	~290 kcal	Can vary based on oil and chicken cuts used
Protein	24 g	From chicken
Total Fat	16 g	Includes oil used in tempering
Saturated Fat	4 g	May increase with cream or ghee use
Carbohydrates	9 g	From onions and tomatoes
Sugars	4 g	Natural sugars from ingredients
Dietary Fiber	2 g	Supports digestion
Sodium	430 mg	Depends on salt and stock used
Iron	10% DV	From spices and meat
Vitamin A	15% DV	From tomatoes and turmeric
Vitamin C	18% DV	From tomatoes and fresh garnishes like coriander

Dietary Labels

Category	Status	Notes
Vegetarian	✘ No	Contains chicken
Vegan	✘ No	Animal protein base
Gluten-Free	✔ Yes*	Naturally gluten-free if no thickening flour is added
Dairy-Free	✔ Yes*	If yogurt/cream is omitted or replaced
Nut-Free	✔ Yes	Traditional versions do not use nuts

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For precise nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with exact ingredient measurements.