Slow Cooker Chicken Curry is a popular dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly flavorful and satisfying. This delicious recipe features tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a creamy coconut sauce that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. The best part? You can let your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. So, if you’re looking for a tasty and convenient meal that will warm you up from the inside out, give this Slow Cooker Chicken Curry a try. Trust us, your family will thank you for it!
Here is why you might love this Slow Cooker Chicken Curry Recipe
1. Easy to prepare: This recipe involves minimal preparation and can be made with ingredients found in most kitchens.
2. Bursting with flavor: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a mouth-watering curry that is packed with flavors.
3. Time-saving: Slow-cooking the chicken allows for a tender end result with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Slow Cooker Chicken Curry Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 1 large red onion chopped
- 6 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts, chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a slow cooker.
- In a small bowl, mix together curry powder, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk, and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water and stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
- Serve with chopped fresh cilantro sprinkled on top, if desired.
Notes
2. Use whole spices for tempering, like cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, etc., instead of powder to give a burst of flavor to the curry.
3. If using vegetables, choose hearty ones like potatoes or carrots that can withstand long hours of cooking in the slow cooker.
4. Don't forget to season the curry with salt and pepper, as this can make a big difference in the overall taste.
5. Use full-fat coconut milk or cream instead of light options to make the curry creamy and flavorful.
6. Add lime juice or vinegar at the end of cooking to brighten up the flavor of the curry.
7. Cook on low heat for a longer period for tender meat and well-developed flavors.
8. Serve the curry with steamed rice or naan bread.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness and flavor.
10. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
Nutrition
Data source: USDA
Main Ingredients Explained
| Main Ingredients | Brief Description | Possible Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Protein-rich meat that is slow-cooked to become tender and juicy. | Tofu, chickpeas, lentils, or beef. |
| Curry Powder | A blend of flavorful ground spices that give the dish its distinct taste and aroma. | Garam Masala, cumin, turmeric, or coriander. |
| Coconut Milk | A creamy and slightly sweet liquid extracted from grated coconut flesh. | Almond milk, cashew cream, or heavy cream (for non-vegan). |
Storage Tips
As a general rule, cooked curry dishes can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container. For longer storage, curry dishes can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Here are some guidelines for storing, freezing, and defrosting a chicken curry:
Storing: Allow the cooked chicken curry to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. Seal the container properly and place it in the refrigerator.
Freezing: Once the chicken curry has cooled completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag. Remove any excess air from the bag, seal it tightly, and label it with the date and the name of the dish.
Defrosting: To defrost chicken curry, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can defrost it in the microwave or by placing the sealed container in a bowl of cold water. Once defrosted, reheat the chicken curry thoroughly in a saucepan or microwave before serving.
Recipe Variations
1. Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with vegetables like cauliflower, sweet potato, or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian curry.
2. Thai style: Add coconut milk, lemongrass, and Thai red curry paste for a creamy and flavorful Thai chicken curry.
3. Indian style: Add garam masala, turmeric, and cumin for a more traditional Indian chicken curry.
4. Spicy option: Add red pepper flakes, chili powder or diced jalapeño peppers for an extra kick of spiciness.
5. Creamy version: Add heavy cream or Greek yogurt to the curry to make it creamier and richer in taste.
6. Mediterranean twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the curry for a Mediterranean flavor.
7. Healthy version: Replace the regular chicken with skinless and boneless chicken breasts, and add vegetables like kale or spinach for a healthier, low-calorie option.
8. Caribbean-style: Add jerk seasoning and pineapple for a sweet and spicy Caribbean twist on the dish.
9. Japanese style: Add soy sauce, mirin, and ginger for a Japanese inspired chicken curry.
10. North African variation: Add Ras el Hanout, a North African spice blend of warm spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, for a unique North African flavor.
What To Serve With
There are many options for serving with Slow Cooker Chicken Curry Recipe, here are few suggestions:
1. Steamed rice: Curry tastes best with a side of plain steamed rice.
2. Naan bread: Serve with some soft, buttery naan bread to soak up the curry sauce.
3. Roasted vegetables: Roast your favorite vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, or carrots, and serve them alongside the curry.
4. Cucumber Raita: Whip up some refreshing cucumber raita, a yogurt-based side dish perfect for balancing out the heat of the curry.
5. Salad: For a lighter option, serve with a fresh mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
6. Chutney: Add some tang and sweetness to the dish by serving with mango chutney, tamarind chutney, or any chutney of your choice.
7. Papadums: Add some crispy papadums on the side for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the curry.
8. Lime wedges: Add some fresh lime wedges to squeeze over the curry, for a zesty and citrusy flavor.
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